Big Beach (Makena) Hazards

Big Beach (Oneloa Beach) in Makena State Park is one of the largest undeveloped beaches on Maui, stretching roughly a third of a mile with sand 100+ feet wide. The beach faces west-southwest, directly exposed to south swells and the afternoon sun. A cinder cone (Puʻu Olaʻi) separates Big Beach from Little Beach to the north.

There is no protective reef. Open ocean swell reaches the shore at full strength. The sand is coarse and golden, and the beach profile is among the steepest in Hawaiʻi. The bottom drops from ankle-deep to chest-deep in just two or three steps, and this steep gradient is what creates the dangerous shore break. Waves that look moderate from the beach hit with amplified force because of the compressed impact zone.

Parking is at two lots within Makena State Park. The park has restrooms and lifeguards but no concessions, shade structures, or equipment rentals. Bring everything you need, including water and a shade structure if you plan to stay more than an hour.

Winter (November – March)

South swells generated by distant storms push directly into Big Beach, creating massive shore break and the highest injury rates of the year. The beach can be closed for days at a time during the largest events. Wrap-around north swell occasionally adds to the mix. Water temperatures drop to 75–76°F. This is when Big Beach is at its most dangerous, and entering the water carries significant risk of serious injury.

Summer (April – October)

The shore break moderates but never disappears. Even 2–3 foot waves produce a dumping break on this steep beach. Water temperatures reach 79–81°F. The heat and lack of shade become the dominant concern in summer, with ground temperatures exceeding 130°F on the exposed sand. Bring a beach umbrella, plenty of water, and sunscreen. The beach is busiest on weekends, and parking fills by mid-morning.

Body surfers and boogie boarders: The shore break at Big Beach has caused spinal injuries that resulted in permanent paralysis. Keep your arms extended in front of you when riding waves. Never dive headfirst into the break. If you are tumbled, protect your neck by keeping your chin tucked and arms covering your head.

Children and elderly visitors: The steep drop-off and powerful backwash make the waterline hazardous for small children and elderly adults. Even ankle-deep wading can result in being knocked down by backwash or an unexpected wave. Keep children on the dry sand well above the waterline.

Fair-skinned visitors without shade: Bring your own shade. There is none on this beach. A full day of exposure to the unfiltered tropical sun on reflective sand will cause severe sunburn. Apply reef-safe sunscreen liberally and reapply every hour after swimming.

What are the biggest dangers at Big Beach (Makena)?

Extremely powerful shore break — spine injuries. Strong backwash pulls swimmers out. No shade. Beach can be closed during high surf.

Does Big Beach (Makena) have lifeguards?

Yes. Nearest hospital: Maui Memorial Medical Center (16 mi). Cell phone coverage: Moderate.

What are conditions like at Big Beach (Makena) in winter vs summer?

Winter: South swells create massive shore break, frequent injuries and rescues. Summer: Still has powerful shore break, but slightly smaller. Heat exposure is a major concern — no shade.

Who should be cautious at Big Beach (Makena)?

Children, elderly, and anyone unfamiliar with shore break. This beach has one of the highest rescue rates on Maui. The backwash alone can knock adults off their feet.