The Makena shoreline distinct and varies in flavor from one cove to the next, thanks in part to its proximity to the most recent lava flow out of Haleakala to Le Perouse some 400 years ago. The open ocean swells have produced drastic pockets amongst the virgin lava rocks, creating dramatic enclaves with perhaps the best snorkeling, diving and fishing found directly offshore of Maui.

One of our favorite of these zones is Pa’ako Cove, affectionately known as “Moonsurfaces.” A secluded and truly out of this world pocket of a’a that epitomizes the stunning beauty and privacy of Makena. The beaches around here are just as remarkable, highlighted by the namesake Makena State Park, or Big Beach.

On the list of everyone’s favorites, Oneloa (its proper Hawaiian nomenclature) is over 1.5 miles long and 100 feet wide of powder soft sand. Just north of the pu’u (hill) that separates Big and Little Beach is Oneuli, South Maui’s most accessible black sand beach.