Makaiwa Bay Beach - Beaches On Maui Waikoloa, Hawaii

Makaiwa Bay is located close to the Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection. If the ocean is calm and the water is clear, this can be a great spot for snorkeling. The beach itself is tucked into a cove like area and, while not fully protected from the open ocean, does get some protection from ocean waves. Behind you are several multi-million dollar homes with the same gorgeous views you can enjoy for free!

Lovely calm waters.

Getting here isn't exactly straightforward, though we've pinpointed the actual beach on our map for you. If you're coming from the nearby Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, you'll simply enjoy a short walk to the beach. Some people suggest parking at the Mauna Lani Spa parking lot, but that technically isn't the proper place to park so do so at your own risk!

Beach access path.

Instead, use the actual beach access and parking area which is a 15 minute walk away from the actual beach. To find the lot, turn onto Mauna Lani Drive from Ka'ahumanu Highway (Hwy 19). Take the second exit at the roundabout to stay on Mauna Lani Drive. You'll pass The Shops at Mauna Lani on your right, then make the first left onto Pauoa Road. Shortly after you do, you'll make a right into the parking lot. You'll see a sign that reads "Historic Park Shoreline Access". This lot is also where the bathroom is for the beach. Though this isn't a heavily used beach, there are around 20 parking spots here so go early for best luck in getting a spot.

Now, if you were simply dropping guests off who want to avoid (or can't physically handle) the 15 minute walk you should be able to drop them off closer. To do that, turn onto Mauna Lani Drive off of the Ka'ahumanu Highway, just like I mentioned before. This time, at the roundabout take the third exit (as if making a left turn) onto South Kaniuk Drive. Drive until you reach a roundabout with no exits (they'll all be gated, forcing you to turn around).

On the right side you'll see a small area where you can unload your guests (but can't park here). It will be next to the Mauna Lani Beach Club gate. Let them out and they can use the ungated sidewalk to the right of the Beach Club gate. It's an easy and short walk down to the beach from here. Then use my directions above to go park and take the longer walk.