With approximately 750 miles of stunning coastline and hundreds of breathtaking beaches, it’s hard to argue that the Hawaiian Islands aren’t home to some of the country’s — and the world’s — best beaches. And while we love the Aloha State’s most popular beaches, we absolutely love our little-known stretches of sand like this one. Tucked away on the southwestern shore of Maui, one of our favorite pieces of Hawaii coastline, is Po’olenalena Beach, a hidden gem we can’t wait to share with you.
It’s rare to find an unoccupied beach in south Maui, but Po’olenalena is one of them. Stretching approximately two-thirds of a mile from end to end, this golden crescent of sand sure is pretty.
dronepicr/Flickr
A beach that goes by many names — including Po’olenalena Beach, Paipu Beach, Pepeiaolepo Beach, Keauhou Beach, Love Beach, and Makena Surf Beach — this spot is a haven for local families, snorkelers, and anyone who loves a sunset stroll.
Jim Bahn/Flickr
Po’olenalena’s sandy shore slopes gently into the water and offers excellent swimming conditions and lava rocks positioned at either end of the beach make for epic snorkeling.
Heber Farnsworth/Flickr
Ranging in depth from 5 to 25 feet in depth, the snorkeling here can’t be beat. From extensive coral reef systems and sea urchins to sea turtles and a wide variety of colorful, tropical fish, you never know what sort of sights you’ll see as you experience the underwater world at Po’olena.
Jim/Flickr
When the surf picks up, young and beginner bodyboarders flock to the south end of the beach, but typically, you’ll find that families love making a splash at Po’olenalena on the weekends. If you seek solitude, visit on a weekday morning.
Heber Farnsworth/Flickr
Two entrances — each with paved parking lots — can be found at Po’olenalena. The first is found on Makena Alanui just past Wailea Golf Culb Drive and the second is less than a mile down the road (it’s much smaller, but does have showers.)
Heber Farnsworth/Flickr Please note that you won’t find lifeguards on duty here.
If you love discovering Hawaii’s best hidden beaches for yourself, you’ll want to make it a point to visit Po’olenalena Beach for yourself. Whether you visit for a morning snorkel session or a sunset stroll, you won’t be disappointed.
W. Tipton/Flickr
Have you ever been to Po’olenalena Beach before? What did you think? Did it live up to your expectations? Would you recommend we include it on a Hawaiian Islands beach bucket list? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below.
dronepicr/Flickr
Jim Bahn/Flickr
Heber Farnsworth/Flickr
Jim/Flickr
Please note that you won’t find lifeguards on duty here.
W. Tipton/Flickr
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Address: Po‘Olenalena Beach, Wailea-Makena, HI 96753, USA
