Where is Makena State Park,Kihei, Hawaii?

Written by | Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:28 PM ET

Makena State Park is located in Maui, Hawaii, USA. It lies between Wailea and South Maui and is situated along the Pacific Ocean coast. It is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and great spots for swimming and snorkeling.

Makena State Park Location Map,Kihei, Hawaii

Top Attractions Inside Makena State Park

  • Big Beach (Oneloa) – Expansive sandy beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports.
  • Little Beach – Secluded cove known for stunning sunsets and occasional drumming circles.
  • Makena Landing – Boat launch area for fishing, snorkeling, and diving excursions.
  • Molokini Views – Scenic lookout offering panoramic ocean vistas and views of Molokini Crater.
  • Snorkeling & Diving Spots – Clear waters with vibrant marine life near the shoreline.
  • Coastal Hiking – Trails along the coastline providing dramatic lava rock formations and ocean views.
  • Picnic Areas – Shaded areas with tables for families and group gatherings.

Makena State Park Facts

Official NameMakena State Park
LocationKihei, Maui, Hawaii, USA
Latitude & Longitude20.6785° N, 156.4392° W (approx.)
Total Area~1,500 acres (607 hectares)
EstablishedHawaii State Parks (date unspecified)
FounderHawaii State Government
Managed ByHawaii Division of State Parks
RegionSouth Maui Coast
AddressMakena State Park, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
Zip Code96753
Area Code808
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneHawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST) – UTC−10 (no Daylight Saving)
Theme / ConceptCoastal Beaches, Scenic Landscapes, Outdoor Recreation, Snorkeling, Hiking
Sections (Areas)Big Beach (Oneloa Beach) - Little Beach (Puʻu Olaʻi) - Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve - Coastal Trails
Famous AttractionsBig Beach - Little Beach - Snorkeling at Molokini & Ahihi Bay - Coastal Hiking - Sunset Viewing
Annual VisitorsApprox. 500,000–700,000
Entry Fee TypeFree Park Entry; Parking fees may apply
Ticket Price RangeParking: ~$5–$10; Guided Snorkeling or Tours: ~$50–$100 per person
Ticket OptionsSelf-Guided Beach Access - Guided Snorkeling Tours - Kayak Rentals - Hiking Trails
Best Time to VisitApril–October (dry season, ideal for beach and water activities)
Nearby AirportKahului Airport (OGG) – ~20 miles (32 km)
TransportationCar access via HI-31 / Piilani Hwy - Parking areas - Hiking & Coastal Trails - Boat & Snorkeling Tours
Official Websitehttps://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/maui/makena-state-park/

Distances from Makena State Park to Nearby Landmarks

  • Big Beach (Makena Beach) – 0.2 km (0.1 mi)
  • Little Beach – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Makena Landing – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Molokini Crater – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Wailea Beach – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Makena Golf & Beach Club – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Keawalai Church – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • La Perouse Bay – 7 km (4.3 mi)
  • Makena Landing Boat Ramp – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Ahihi Bay Snorkeling Area – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Po’olenalena Beach – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Wailea Golf Club – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Makena Cove – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
  • Ulua Beach – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Polo Beach – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Molokini Lookout – 8 km (5 mi)
  • Makena Landing Park – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Big Beach Trailhead – 0.3 km (0.2 mi)
  • South Maui Coastal Trail – 7 km (4.3 mi)