Makena

(pronounced: mah KEN nuh)

Where the manicured green lawns of Wailea give way to the dark black lava you will find Makena, one of Maui’s best kept secrets. Largely undeveloped, Makena is home to some of the most gorgeous multi-million dollars homes and some of the most beautiful coastline on the island. Roughly translating to Land of Abundance, Makena is rich with historical significance and mystique. Remnants of the old Ali’i (King’s) Highway, South Maui’s only black sand beach, and Ahihi-Kinau Natural Land and Marine Preserve are just a few of the treasures you will find at the south most tip of the island. At the end of the paved road turn your eyes towards Haleakala and you will find Pu’u Ola’I a large cinder cone with a black stream from the last lava flow on the island of Maui.

Makena boasts two golf courses designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and two of Maui’s most popular beaches – Big Beach and Little Beach. Big Beach, named for it’s 3,000+ feet of perfect white sand beach, turquoise water and enough space to make even the busiest weekend day feel like you are removed from it all, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Just on the other side of a small volcanic rock wall you will find Little Beach. Equally famous, but for another reason altogether. You may want to keep the kiddos away from this beach, because although illegal, here you may often find several sunbathers baring it all.

You won’t find any fancy restaurants out here in Makena, but what you will find is a plethora of roadside venders and a couple really great food trucks. Make sure to set aside a full day to enjoy and explore this magnificent part of the Valley Isle.