Makalawena Beach (In Kekaha Kai State Park) is one of the Big Island’s hidden treasures — a quiet stretch of white sand tucked within the rugged lava landscape of Kekaha Kai State Park. Reaching the beach takes a little extra effort, but for many Hale Mele guests, that’s exactly what makes it so special. With uncrowded shoreline, turquoise water, tide pools, and a peaceful atmosphere far from the busier resort beaches, Makalawena feels like a true escape into the natural beauty of Hawaiʻi.
Located along the Kona Coast between Mahaiʻula Beach and Kua Bay, Makalawena sits within the remote northern section of Kekaha Kai State Park. Guests visiting the beach should expect a more adventurous outing than many of the easier-access beaches along the Kohala Coast.
The journey begins with a rough dirt road followed by a walk across lava fields and sandy trails before reaching the shoreline. Once you arrive, though, the reward is unforgettable — long stretches of soft white sand, calm coves, lava rock formations, tide pools, and clear blue water framed by native coastal landscape.
Because the beach cannot be reached directly by car, it often feels remarkably peaceful and uncrowded. Many guests simply settle into the sand, listen to the waves, and enjoy the feeling of being surrounded by untouched island scenery.
During humpback whale season from roughly November through March, the shoreline can also become a beautiful place for spotting whales offshore while relaxing along the beach.
Makalawena Beach is the kind of place that many guests remember long after their trip ends — not because it’s the easiest beach to reach, but because of how peaceful and untouched it feels once you arrive. After a beautiful day exploring lava trails, tide pools, and quiet stretches of sand, returning to the comfort and calm of Hale Mele feels especially rewarding — the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation on the Big Island.
