Makena Landing Makena
Makena Landing: Maui's hidden gem for snorkeling, diving, and sea turtle encounters in crystal-clear waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best visibility for snorkeling
Makena Landing Makena
Best Time
Best visibility for snorkeling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Makena Landing: Maui's hidden gem for snorkeling, diving, and sea turtle encounters in crystal-clear waters.
"A casual, local spot to snorkel and chill, with turtles everywhere and crystal clear water!"
🐢 Turtle Spotting Success
Visit in the morning for the best chance to see sea turtles in clear waters. They love to hang out near the lava rocks!
🌊 Heed Lifeguard Warnings
Dangerous shore breaks can occur. Always listen to lifeguards, especially if you're an inexperienced beachgoer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Turtle Encounters
Offshore lava rock formations
Witness Hawaiian green sea turtles gracefully swimming among vibrant coral and lava arches. A truly magical experience!
Snorkeling & Diving Paradise
Crystal-clear waters
Explore underwater lava formations, colorful reef fish, and abundant marine life in exceptionally clear waters.
Sunset Views
Beachfront
Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the ocean, perfect for a relaxed evening picnic or quiet contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Clear Waters
Respect the Ocean & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 Turtle Spotting Success
Visit in the morning for the best chance to see sea turtles in clear waters. They love to hang out near the lava rocks! 
🌊 Heed Lifeguard Warnings
Dangerous shore breaks can occur. Always listen to lifeguards, especially if you're an inexperienced beachgoer.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
🤿 Gear Up for Adventure
Rent snorkel gear and consider a life jacket if you're not a strong swimmer for a safer experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 Turtle Spotting Success
Visit in the morning for the best chance to see sea turtles in clear waters. They love to hang out near the lava rocks!
🌊 Heed Lifeguard Warnings
Dangerous shore breaks can occur. Always listen to lifeguards, especially if you're an inexperienced beachgoer.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.
🤿 Gear Up for Adventure
Rent snorkel gear and consider a life jacket if you're not a strong swimmer for a safer experience.
🌅 Sunset Picnic Spot
Bring your own food for a memorable sunset picnic. It's a great chill spot. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Makena Landing is highly praised for its incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities, especially for spotting sea turtles in clear waters. Visitors also appreciate its beauty as a sunset viewing spot and its casual, local vibe. Some note that parking can be limited and caution is advised due to potential shore breaks.
"Did a kayaking excursion with the family to snorkel with sea turtles. We went on a beautiful day. The turtles were everywhere and the whole thing was very fun. Highly recommend scuba or snorkeling out here to see some marine life in crystal clear water."
Olliver Teston
"Great spot for sunset as well as the other activities. Bring your take out or cook out here for sunset. Good chill spot."
Carlos Archuleta
"Accidentally came across this place during my one day quick south island , and was amazed by how casual and local spot it is to snorkel and chill. It was a Sunday afternoon and parking is not crowded, I was looking for a safe and local spot for a quick snorkeling, here it is! I came across a turtle and several groups of scuba divers. Definitely a great shore diving spot worth exploring more if time allows."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Makena Landing is located in South Maui, a short drive from Kihei. You can reach it by car, and it's often mentioned alongside other South Maui attractions like Wailea and La Perouse Bay.
Parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak times or weekends. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
While specific public transport routes might vary, driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Makena Landing. Check local Maui bus schedules for potential options.
Makena Landing is often described as a 'hidden gem' or found behind trees, so keep an eye out for signs. It's located in the Makena area of South Maui.
Exploring South Maui, including Kihei, Wailea, and Makena, is best done by car to easily access various beaches and points of interest.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Makena Landing is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. You can enjoy the beach and snorkeling without purchasing tickets.
As a public park, Makena Landing is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's a popular spot for both morning snorkeling and evening sunsets. [^Review]
Parking at Makena Landing is typically free, though it can be limited. There are no specific entry or parking fees mentioned by visitors.
Yes, many kayaking and snorkeling tours in Maui include Makena Landing as a stop, especially for turtle watching. [^Review]
The main consideration is respecting the ocean conditions and wildlife. Lifeguards are present to ensure safety.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The primary activities are snorkeling, diving, and kayaking, with a high chance of seeing sea turtles and abundant marine life. It's also a great spot for relaxing and enjoying sunsets.
Yes, Makena Landing is often recommended for beginners due to its calm, clear waters and accessible entry points, though conditions can vary.
You can expect to see Hawaiian green sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and various coral formations. It's a vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Yes, lifeguards are present at Makena Landing to ensure visitor safety, especially given the potential for strong waves.
Visitors have mentioned clean restrooms and showers, which are useful for rinsing off sand after a day at the beach. [^Review]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Makena Landing itself does not have on-site restaurants. It's recommended to bring your own food or dine in nearby Kihei or Wailea. [^Review]
Nearby Kihei offers a variety of food trucks and casual dining options, perfect for grabbing a bite before or after visiting Makena Landing.
Absolutely! Makena Landing is a great spot for a picnic, especially to enjoy the sunset. [^Review]
You'll find grocery stores in the nearby towns of Kihei and Wailea where you can purchase picnic supplies.
The Makena area is more residential and resort-focused, with dining options primarily within luxury resorts. For more casual eats, head to Kihei.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning underwater shots of marine life, dramatic lava rock formations, and breathtaking sunsets over the ocean.
Yes, Makena Landing is a fantastic location for sunset photography, offering beautiful ocean views and vibrant colors. [^Review]
Early mornings offer clear water for underwater photography, while late afternoons provide golden hour light for scenic shots and sunsets.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check current FAA and local Maui regulations regarding drone usage in public parks and coastal areas.
For underwater shots, a waterproof camera or action camera is ideal. For landscapes and sunsets, a wide-angle lens and a tripod can be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't playgrounds or extensive facilities, the natural beauty and the thrill of seeing sea turtles can be incredibly engaging for kids. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The clean restrooms and showers are a bonus for rinsing off sandy little ones after a fun-filled day. [^Review]
🐠 Budget Travelers
Instead of booking expensive boat tours, consider renting gear from a local shop and exploring Makena Landing on your own. This allows for flexibility and a more intimate experience with the marine life. Packing your own picnic lunch or dinner is also a great way to save money and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. [^Review]
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
+1Beyond turtles, the diverse underwater ecosystem offers opportunities to spot various tropical fish and explore coral reefs. Early morning visits are highly recommended for the best chances of observing wildlife in their natural environment with minimal disturbance. Remember to observe from a distance and practice ethical wildlife viewing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Snorkeling and Diving Adventures
+2Divers will appreciate the interesting lava rock formations that create natural arches and crevices, providing habitats for various sea creatures. It's a popular shore diving location, with groups of divers often seen exploring the underwater landscape. For those new to snorkeling or diving, it's advised to wear a life jacket and be mindful of the ocean conditions, as dangerous shore breaks can occur.
Remember to always practice responsible tourism by not touching the coral or disturbing the marine life. Maintaining a respectful distance from sea turtles is crucial for their well-being and ensures they continue to thrive in this beautiful natural environment.
The Magic of Makena's Marine Life
+3Beyond the turtles, the waters are teeming with a variety of reef fish, adding to the vibrant underwater spectacle. The coral gardens are also a significant draw, showcasing the health and beauty of the local marine ecosystem. Scuba divers and snorkelers alike can spend hours exploring the diverse underwater world that Makena Landing offers. [^Review]
It's important to remember that these creatures are wild and deserve our respect. Never touch or feed the sea turtles, and always maintain a safe distance. This ensures their continued safety and allows future visitors to enjoy these incredible encounters.
Sunset Spectacles and Relaxed Vibes
The atmosphere at Makena Landing is often characterized as casual and local, providing a more laid-back experience compared to some of Maui's more tourist-heavy beaches. Even on a Sunday afternoon, parking was manageable for some, suggesting that timing can significantly impact the crowd levels. [^Review]
For those seeking a tranquil end to their day, Makena Landing provides a beautiful backdrop. The sound of the waves, the warm evening air, and the stunning sunset create a perfect environment for relaxation and reflection after a day of exploring. [^Review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit