Beach Guide

What’s On

This week on the beach

Something
every night

8 AM

Ahihi-Kinau Snorkel

Ahihi-Kinau Reserve · Active

A 20-minute drive south, the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve has world-class snorkeling over ancient lava flows. Self-guided, free, early morning is calmest.

9 AM

Pu'u Olai Hike

North parking lot · Active

Scramble up the red cinder cone between Big Beach and Little Beach for a panoramic 360-degree view of South Maui, Kahoolawe and the surrounding ocean.

10 AM

Bodysurf at Big Beach

Makena Big Beach · Active

Makena's shorebreak is one of Hawaii's best bodysurfing spots when swells are running. Powerful waves — bodyboard recommended; strong current awareness essential.

11 AM

Kayak to Sea Caves

Makena Launch (south lot) · Active

Paddle south from Makena's south lot into the lava-arch sea caves and the Ahihi-Kinau reserve's turtle cleaning stations. Guided and self-guided tours available.

Big Days

annual
March

Maui Whale Festival

Annual celebration of the humpback whale season across South Maui, with naturalist talks, snorkel tours and beach events at Makena and Wailea.

August

Maui Onion Festival

Annual celebration of the famous Kula sweet onion at Whalers Village in nearby Ka'anapali, with cooking demos and island chefs.

October

Aloha Festivals South Maui

Week-long cultural events including hula performances, lei-making, canoe racing and Hawaiian arts in the Kihei and Wailea corridor.

see you out there

Real recurring local happenings — schedules can change, so check the venue. Sun-timed events track each day’s real sunset and the countdown runs on the live local clock.