Water quality, swim conditions & which to visit at Makena
📍 Makena State Park, South Maui
For swimming: Little Beach wins — calmer cove, less shorebreak risk.
For scenery: Big Beach wins — one of the most dramatic beaches in Hawaii.
Water quality: Both are similar — low bacteria risk at the remote Makena location.
The classic move: Park at Big Beach, walk up to Little Beach, then come back down.
Both Big Beach and Little Beach sit in the remote Makena area with no adjacent hotels, restaurants, or heavy development. Bacteria risk is low at both beaches under normal conditions. The open Pacific exposure at Big Beach provides excellent flushing. Little Beach's enclosed cove has slightly less water exchange.
The DOH monitors nearby Makena Beach (Big Beach) as part of its South Maui monitoring program. Historical data shows good bacteria levels. After heavy rain on Upcountry Maui, agricultural runoff can reach the coast — follow the 72-hour rule regardless of which beach you choose.
Both rated: Low bacteria risk (1-2 out of 5) — remote Makena location, minimal development
Oneloa (Big Beach) is one of the most photographed beaches in Maui — a sweeping arc of golden sand backed by the Puʻu Olāʻi cinder cone. It's truly spectacular. But it's also one of Maui's most dangerous beaches for shorebreak injuries.
The powerful plunging shorebreak drops directly onto a shallow, steep sand bottom with tremendous force. Multiple spinal injuries, broken bones, and drownings have occurred here. Even experienced swimmers can be caught off-guard by a larger-than-average set. Observe several wave cycles before entering, and consider whether the conditions are truly manageable for your skill level.
Lifeguards are on duty. Heed all warnings. The beach is most dangerous during south swell season (summer) and when surf is above 3 feet.
Puʻu Olāʻi (Little Beach) sits in a protected cove on the north side of the Puʻu Olāʻi cinder cone. Access requires a 5-10 minute scramble over lava rocks at the northern end of Big Beach. The cove is smaller and more intimate, with calmer water on most days.
Little Beach has been a clothing-optional beach by local tradition for decades. It also hosts a famous Sunday sunset drum circle that draws hundreds of people. Even on weekdays, the beach has a laid-back, community atmosphere.
Snorkeling can be good at the rocky ends of the cove. Turtles are frequently spotted. The water is generally calmer than Big Beach, but still check conditions before entering — swell can wrap around the point.
The Department of Health recommends 72 hours after heavy rain before ocean entry at any Hawaii beach. Agricultural runoff from Upcountry Maui can reach the South Maui coast after storms.
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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. Ratings are estimates, not real-time measurements.
Always verify with the Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙