Drive times and water quality risk levels for beaches near Makaha, Oʻahu West Side. Risk ratings are based on long-term DOH bacteria testing data and geography. Always
check current Oʻahu advisories before swimming — conditions change after rain.
About Mākaha
Mākaha is a tight-knit local community on Oʻahu's Leeward (West) Coast, about 35 miles from Waikīkī. The valley behind town funnels trade winds downslope, creating reliably dry and sunny weather even when the rest of Oʻahu is cloudy. Mākaha was the birthplace of modern big-wave surfing in the 1950s, and its beach break still produces some of the best waves on the island during winter swells. This stretch of coast sees very few tourists compared to the south and north shores, giving it an authentic, unhurried feel that rewards visitors willing to make the drive.
Nearby Beaches — Ranked by Proximity
A wide, sandy beach at the base of Mākaha Valley with powerful surf in winter and calm swimming conditions in summer. The break here is legendary among longboarders and bodysurfers. Dolphins occasionally enter the bay during calm periods, and Hawaiian monk seals haul out on the sand from time to time. Facilities include restrooms and outdoor showers, and a lifeguard tower operates daily.
The last beach before Farrington Highway dead-ends at Kaʻena Point, Yokohama Bay (Keawāula) is a wide, remote stretch of sand backed by dry, scrubby hills. Its isolation from development and stream runoff means water quality tends to test well. Strong currents and shore break can be hazardous, especially in winter — there are no lifeguards here.
A concrete breakwater shelters Pokāʻī Bay from the open ocean, creating one of the calmest swimming spots on the Leeward Coast. Local families use it for teaching children to swim, and the bay is culturally significant as the site of Kūʻīlioloa Heiau, a sacred voyaging temple on the north point. Water quality runs moderate due to limited flushing inside the breakwater.
Maili Beach
Moderate ●
Māʻili Beach runs for nearly a mile along the Leeward Coast with fine white sand and very few visitors compared to the south shore. It is a residential beach used primarily by the local community. Shore break can be strong and there are no lifeguards, but on calm days the wide sand and open space make it a peaceful alternative to more crowded spots.
Four engineered lagoons at the Ko Olina resort complex offer the calmest ocean swimming on the Leeward Coast. Each lagoon has a crescent of imported sand and gentle, wave-free water. Free public parking is available but limited, and the resort atmosphere is a sharp contrast to the more local feel of Mākaha. Worth the drive if you want guaranteed calm conditions for small children.
Getting Around
Mākaha is at the end of Farrington Highway (Route 93), which runs along the Leeward Coast from Ko Olina. There is only one road in and out — the highway dead-ends past Yokohama Bay at Kaʻena Point.
- Rental car: Essential — there is no practical public transit to Mākaha and beaches are spread along the highway
- From Waikīkī: Take H-1 West, which becomes H-201 and then Farrington Highway — about 35 miles, roughly 50 minutes without traffic
- Parking: Free at all Leeward Coast beaches — Mākaha and Pokāʻī Bay have small lots that rarely fill
- Tip: Do not leave valuables visible in your car — break-ins at remote beach parking lots on this coast are an ongoing issue
If Brown Water Is Active
After heavy rain, bacteria levels spike at beaches near streams and river mouths. If a brown water advisory is active near Makaha, Oʻahu West Side:
- Wait 72 hours after rain stops before entering the water
- Avoid brown or murky water regardless of whether an advisory is posted
- Best rain-resistant option: Yokohama Bay (North) — generally clearer after rain due to geography
- Check the Oʻahu live advisories page for current conditions
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions.
Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
This site does not recommend or advise anyone to swim at any beach. We share government data and geographic analysis so you can make your own informed decisions. By using this site you accept full responsibility for your own safety. See our Terms of Use for full details.
When in doubt, don’t go out. 🤙