Water quality status & access guide — Big Island hidden gem
📍 Kohala Coast, Big Island · 20-min hike from Kua Bay
Makalawena Beach is one of the cleanest beaches on the Big Island. Its remote location, accessible only by hike, means no road runoff, no parking lot drainage, and minimal human contamination. The dry Kohala Coast receives very little rainfall, and there are no streams nearby. The beach sits directly on the open Pacific Ocean with excellent water flushing.
The DOH does not regularly monitor Makalawena due to its remote location, so there is limited historical testing data. However, geographic factors (dry climate, no streams, open ocean exposure, no nearby development) indicate consistently excellent water quality.
Based on: Geographic analysis, dry Kohala Coast climate, no stream inputs, open ocean exposure
The DOH recommends staying out for at least 72 hours after heavy rain. Makalawena's dry location makes rain events rare, but when they do occur anywhere on the Kohala Coast, exercise caution.
Makalawena Beach requires a hike from the Kua Bay (Maniniowali Beach Park) parking area. From Highway 19 (Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway), look for the Kua Bay State Recreation Area sign approximately 2 miles north of the Keʻahole Airport turnoff.
From the Kua Bay parking lot, follow the coastline heading north. The trail passes over lava fields and through a small grove of trees. Look for worn footpaths in the lava. Bring plenty of water — the lava radiates intense heat and there is no shade on the trail.
Arrive at Kua Bay before 9am to get parking and to hike to Makalawena before the midday heat makes the lava trail uncomfortable. The beach rarely gets crowded but can have several dozen visitors on busy days.
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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 data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements.
Always verify with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙