What to expect for water quality, rainfall, and ocean conditions
Even during Hawaii's wet season, Makena Beach benefits from its extremely dry microclimate on south Maui. No streams discharge near the beach. Bacteria risk is minimal year-round. The primary hazard is powerful shore break, not water quality.
Makena on Maui's driest coast receives under 0.5 inches of rain in January. Even during the wet season, this leeward South Maui coastline stays remarkably dry. No streams discharge near the beach, so bacteria risk is minimal year-round.
Winter brings some north swell energy wrapping to the south coast, but shore break is less intense than summer. The steep beach face still produces pounding waves. Water temperature is 75-77°F. Never turn your back on the ocean here.
Extremely high. December through February is peak tourist season driven by holiday travel and mainland winter escapes. Book accommodations and tours well in advance.
The Hawaii Department of Health recommends staying out of the ocean for at least 72 hours after heavy rain. In january, this is especially important as wet-season storms can produce heavy rainfall and significant runoff.
When conditions are clear, Makena Beach has excellent ocean activities. Check the water quality above, then book with confidence.
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Safe to Swim Hawaii provides water quality information based on publicly available DOH data and seasonal patterns. This is not medical or safety advice. Always check current conditions, obey posted signs, and use your own judgment before entering the ocean. Privacy Policy
⚠️ 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.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙