Drive times and historical water-quality risk levels for beaches near Makawao, Maui Upcountry. Risk ratings are based on long-term DOH bacteria testing data and geography, not current measurements. General beach descriptions do not establish today's water quality or swimming conditions. Always
check current Maui advisories before swimming — conditions change after rain.
About Makawao
Makawao is a small upcountry town on the slopes of Haleakalā at about 1,500 feet elevation, known for its paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage and eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and bakeries. The town sits well above the coast, so reaching any beach requires a 20-to-35-minute drive downhill. The good news is that you have two distinct coastlines to choose from: the north shore beaches along the Hana Highway corridor, or the south shore resort beaches around Wailea and Kīhei. North shore beaches like Baldwin and Hoʻokipa receive more rain and swell, while the south shore stays drier and calmer for most of the year.
Nearby Beaches — Ranked by Proximity
Baldwin Beach is the quickest sand you can reach from upcountry Makawao, sitting at the bottom of the Haleakalā slopes where Baldwin Avenue meets the coast. The long, wide beach has a mix of sand and rocky sections, with a protected area called Baby Beach on the far west end that is popular with families. A stream runs through the middle of the park, which contributes to moderate bacteria readings after heavy rain.
Hoʻokipa is one of the world's most famous windsurfing and kitesurfing beaches, drawing professional athletes when the trade winds blow strong. In the late afternoon, Hawaiian green sea turtles haul out on the sand near the lower lookout point. The rocky shoreline and powerful currents make this primarily a spectator beach for most visitors rather than a swimming destination.
Kanaha Beach is a wide, flat stretch of sand near Kahului Airport that has become central Maui's main kiteboarding and windsurfing launch point. The shallow water extends far offshore, which makes conditions manageable for intermediate water sport enthusiasts. Swimming is possible but the wind-blown chop and proximity to the harbor affect water clarity.
Wailea Beach fronts the Grand Wailea and Four Seasons resorts on Maui's dry south shore, with golden sand sloping gently into calm, clear water. Geography and historical patterns cannot establish current water quality or swimming conditions; check the notices above, posted signs and lifeguard guidance. A paved coastal path connects it to four other south Maui beaches for an easy walking tour.
Kamaole III ("Kam 3") is the southernmost of three Kamaole beach parks in Kīhei, separated from Kam II by a small rocky point. A large grassy lawn with picnic tables sits above the sand, making it one of Maui's best beaches for families who want shade and space. Geography and historical patterns cannot establish current water quality or swimming conditions; check the notices above, posted signs and lifeguard guidance.
Getting Around
Makawao sits at the junction of Baldwin Avenue (heading north to the coast) and Makawao Avenue. All beach trips from here go downhill — the drive back up takes slightly longer.
- To North Shore beaches: Take Baldwin Avenue straight down to Pāʻia, then turn onto Hana Highway — about 20 minutes to Baldwin Beach or Hoʻokipa
- To South Shore beaches: Take Haleakalā Highway down to the Hana Highway junction, then follow signs to Kīhei or Wailea — about 30-35 minutes
- Parking: Beach parking lots fill quickly on weekends, especially at Baldwin Beach and Kamaole parks — arrive before 10 AM for a spot
- Tip: Pack a cooler from the Makawao general stores before heading down — beachside food options are limited on the north shore
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 Makawao, Maui Upcountry:
- 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: Wailea Beach (South) — generally clearer after rain due to geography
- Check the Maui 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. 🤙