Water quality status and bacteria risk rating
Also known as: Big Beach, Oneloa Beach
📍 In South Maui, about 20 minutes south of the Wailea resorts
Makena Beach (Big Beach) is one of the cleanest beaches on Maui from a water quality standpoint. It faces the open ocean with strong wave action that constantly flushes the water. There are no streams, storm drains, or significant development uphill to generate runoff.
South Maui is the driest part of the island, meaning rain-driven contamination is rare. Hui O Ka Wai Ola coastal water quality monitoring (2016–2021) confirms that turbidity and nutrient levels drop significantly south of Kihei, with the Wailea-to-Makena corridor showing the cleanest readings in South Maui.
Based on: Geographic assessment, Hui O Ka Wai Ola Coastal Water Quality Report 2016-2021, open-ocean exposure
The bacteria risk at Makena is very low, but the physical danger is real. Big Beach is known for powerful shore break that slams directly onto the sand, causing frequent spinal injuries, broken bones, and near-drownings. This is one of the most dangerous beaches on Maui for wave injuries. There are no lifeguards. If the surf looks big, stay on the sand.
Even at low-risk beaches, it's wise to wait 48–72 hours after heavy rain before swimming. Makena rarely gets heavy rain, but regional storms can still produce brown water conditions along the coast. If the water looks discolored, wait for it to clear.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — it is not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings on this site are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions. “No DOH Alerts” means no advisory is currently posted — it does not mean the water was tested and found safe. DOH only monitors a fraction of Hawaii’s beaches, and some areas have no regular testing at all.
Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch before entering the water. This site is for informational purposes only and should not be the sole basis for any swimming decisions.
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When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙