Panoramic view of Big Beach and Puʻu Ōlaʻi cinder cone

Big Beach & Little Beach

The tale of two beaches separated by an ancient cinder cone

Written by a Local Expert

The Tale of Two Beaches: Big Beach vs Little Beach

Mākena showcases incredible contrasts nowhere more evident than in its two famous beaches. The imposing Puʻu Ōlaʻi cinder cone separates them. They share the same sun and sky but offer completely different experiences.

Oneloa (Big Beach): Nature's Grand Amphitheater

Oneloa means "long sand" in Hawaiian, and the name fits perfectly. Big Beach is an awesome natural spectacle. Its golden-white sands stretch over two-thirds of a mile, some say as long as 1.5 miles. It's over 100 feet wide in many places.

Because of its immense scale, it never feels truly crowded, even on busy days. There's always space to find your own patch of paradise.

The scenery takes your breath away. To the north, the 360-foot Puʻu Ōlaʻi cinder cone dominates the landscape. Black lava rock outcroppings frame the beach. Looking seaward, you have uninterrupted views of crescent-shaped Molokini Crater and the island of Kahoʻolawe.

The vibe here is pure awe and respect for nature's grandeur. It's perfect for long walks along the water's edge, picnics under the few kiawe trees, or simply sitting on your towel watching expert local bodysurfers and boogie boarders who've mastered the powerful shorebreak.

Due to rough conditions and lack of reef protection, snorkeling isn't recommended here. There are far better and safer spots nearby.

Puʻu Ōlaʻi (Little Beach): The Bohemian Sanctuary

To reach Little Beach, you must start at Big Beach. Head to the northern end where you'll find a trail leading up and over the lava rock outcropping separating the two coves. It's a short but steep scramble. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking sandals, not flimsy flip-flops. If you plan to stay for the famous Sunday sunset, bring a flashlight or headlamp for the return journey in darkness.

Once you crest the hill and descend into the small, protected cove, you enter a different world. Little Beach feels more intimate, with calmer waters generally better for swimming and snorkeling on calm days.

The Clothing-Optional Tradition

But Little Beach's main cultural distinction is its long-standing tradition as a clothing-optional beach.

Let's be clear about this. While technically Little Beach is part of a state park where public nudity is illegal, for over 50 years it has served as Maui's unofficial clothing-optional sanctuary. This tradition emerged from the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s and has endured since.

The "rule" here is less about what you're wearing and more about how you act.

The spirit of this place centers on freedom, acceptance, and body positivity. The cardinal sin at Little Beach is making others uncomfortable. That means no staring, no gawking, no judging, and absolutely no cameras or photos. Respect is the only thing you're required to wear.

The Famous Sunday Drum Circle

This unique culture peaks every Sunday evening with the famous drum circle. As the sun begins setting, a crowd gathers for informal celebration of drumming, dancing, and often mesmerizing fire performances. It's vibrant, energetic, and uniquely Maui.

Be aware it gets very crowded, and since the path gate closes at 4 pm on weekends, you need to be mindful of timing and access.