Makua Beach Photos
You might also consider
More like Makua Beach
Recommended Reviews - Makua Beach
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos - Makua Beach
Such a beautiful beach. Gorgeous views from the beach shore. It's such a relaxing beach spot away from the overcrowded Waikiki beach area. So serene and relaxing here. It's like a private beach with nice waves and plenty of natural shade from the surrounding trees along the beach shore. This will be my go to spot from now on.
Beach day and my husband and I were looking for a calm beach (think calm like ala Moana it ko'olina lol). After reading yelp, we decided to come here. Unfortunately, the closer parking lot was fenced so we had to park in the dirt lot by the main road and had to walk inside and climb down a little bit (not a problem .. but being pregnant and in my third trimester, I wasn't too thrilled lol) When we got down to the beach, I loved the view and how sandy it was. We set up our stuff to the far left of the beach by the small cave and rock people jump off of. I'm not sure if we went at a bad time, but the water was not calm and there were waves where my friends got knocked over, so I chose not to go in (I'm not a strong swimmer). I do like how near the big rock, there are little tide pools (of which some are deep), and a calmer area near the rock where the waves aren't as rough. Also, inside the water, it was pleasantly sandy in the bottom and not rocky. Despite not being calm like I anticipated, it was still a beautiful beach and not too crowded. FYI though, there's no bathrooms.
Very exclusive beach experience. Not crowded at all. Beautiful blue water and sand for days! Enter at your own risk as the waves are intense and get pretty high. You have to look for a calm location to enter at or know how to swim and ride the waves with your body without getting seriously injured. Large rocks and small boulders are in the water and some the rocks become dislodged and toss back and forth in the waves. Not for small kids at all. Do not leave valuables in your cars as it is a high theft area. Absolutely beautiful, and scenic tour but not for small children. A portion of Jurassic Park was taped along this coastal beach.
AKA pray for sets/sex. I love this beach, the water is always nice and it's never too crowded. There is a rock you can snorkel and swim around, and a cool little cave to explore (on low tide). To the left of the parking and rock there are also cool tide pools you can lounge in. These pictures are during high tide. I wouldn't recommend this beach for kids unless they are strong swimmers. During the morning a lot of tour boats anchor off this beach (very close to shore) to snorkel and bother dolphins. The ocean here is very pristine and beautiful. Please take your trash when you leave. I always park where I can see my car and I would never come here alone. Just be respectful and cautious when exploring. It's beautiful!
This is one of my favorite beaches on the island. There is a large gravel lot, so parking has always been easy. Closest to the parking lot there are beautiful little tide pools and a great area for snorkeling (when the water is calm). There are often large waves here, but when there aren't, it's a real treat to snorkel here. There are often turtles and you can hear the whales and dolphins as you swim around. Lots of big, colorful fish. There is tons of room on this beach and it tends to be less crowded, because it isn't known to be a tourist spot. Usually lots of people that live on island. You also get wonderful views of the mountains on the far side of the beach.
Not the best beach to go to if you're on the island, but definitely something worth checking out. Came here because one of my friends who visited Hawaii before said they liked it. I will say it is a bit scary just because it can get wavy and I'm not one to swim in beaches like that. However, it is pretty nice once you get in the water. There was a lot of kids with their boogie boards so that's something to consider when coming here. Next time I'd definitely bring mine just to float around or catch some mini waves and wash up on shore. Parking can be a little tricky. We had to wait a little bit just because there was none. Also, it's off road parking but is designated like if you know it's for that beach then you'd know to park there. But if you didn't, you wouldn't think that's what it's for. After we parked, you can enter this gate area to walk down to the beach but you'd have to walk down the rock wall. There's a walkway so no climbing. But still, be careful. Bring slippers or something lol. I like these west side beaches! They're really pretty and with good company, it's worth the drive.
There is shade at the very back. You can find shade underneath a few trees but be careful because there are thorns in this area. There is a little cave beside the ocean you can go into to explore, A tide pool area for the little ones so that they can be enclosed safely, and a small cliff to dive off of. The currents are not calm, so if you're not a strong swimmer, going deeper into the water is not recommended. Great beach!
Aka Pray for Sex Beach I like how yelp doesn't map it to the correct location. Good, keep the real Makua Beach a hidden gem. But if you read this your gonna pass through Waianae, pass the tent camp communities, and your gonna question "I don't think I should be here" because if you aren't a local you probably shouldn't. But if you can go through all that you will find beautiful beaches in under developed areas. Explore HI and discover humble beauty. Enough adventures... time to get lei'd.
***Pre/During COVID-19 Visit*** BEAUTIFUL beach!!!!! You gotta drive all the way to the other side of the island to Waianae to experience this place. It is totally worth it though. I've gone three times and a had a good time all three times. I definitely can't wait to go again. Parking can be a challenge here. There isn't necessarily a designated parking spot as you just park right on the side of the road. Please make sure you lock your vehicle and take your valuables. High theft area. Also, there are no restrooms here and no shower facilities. Handle your business before you go. The beach is nice and the waters are so calm. I love being here, especially during a super HOT day! The water will cool you off for sure. BEST part, not a lot of people go here and know about this place. It's really a hidden gem IMO. Sometimes you'll even see turtles swimming. The next time you come here or if you're planning on visiting, bring your cooler!!! You'll get thirsty no doubt. Mahalo!!!
Secluded, uncrowded, and beautiful, Makua is a peaceful spot to park yourself, picnic, and splash in the water. Because there is no shade, I highly recommend a chair and umbrella. For snorkeling, today was a bust due to the rough water which includes poor visibility and rocks that you cannot see. Ironically, all the beaches leading to Makua have a restroom, but not this one which is why I docked a star. read more
1 month ago
So quiet and serene. It's a little walk to get to it but well worth it. Tied for my favorite beach. Pray for sets! Prey for S... read more
10 months ago
This beach connects tunnels/ Hā'ena beach park and makua altogether. Use Makua Beach /hAena state beach park to park is the access you can use to get to tunnels beach! Tunnels is great for snorkeling Once you get there it's super gorgeous! Definitely worth the 1 hour drive from lihue for a sunrise/sunset in Kauai! read more
Such a beautiful beach. Gorgeous views from the beach shore. It's such a relaxing beach spot away from the overcrowded Waikiki beach area. So serene and relaxing here. It's like a private beach with nice waves and plenty of natural shade from the surrounding trees along the beach shore. This will be my go to spot from now on. read more
What a hidden gem, away from all the tourist! Although there are no public restrooms (do be prepared to change in your car), there were so many tide pools to explore, a cave and a little sea cliff to jump off of. Pro tip: Bring water shoes if you have them to protect your feet! read more
Beach day and my husband and I were looking for a calm beach (think calm like ala Moana it ko'olina lol). After reading yelp, we decided to come here. Unfortunately, the closer parking lot was fenced so we had to park in the dirt lot by the main road and had to walk inside and climb down a little bit (not a problem .. but being pregnant and in my third trimester, I wasn't too thrilled lol) When we got down to the beach, I loved the view and how sandy it was. We set up our stuff to the far left of the beach by the small cave and rock people jump off of. I'm not sure if we went at a bad time, but the water was not calm and there were waves where my friends got knocked over, so I chose not to go in (I'm not a strong swimmer). I do like how near the big rock, there are little tide pools (of which some are deep), and a calmer area near the rock where the waves aren't as rough. Also, inside the water, it was pleasantly sandy in the bottom and not rocky. Despite not being calm like I anticipated, it was still a beautiful beach and not too crowded. FYI though, there's no bathrooms. read more
4 years ago
Very exclusive beach experience. Not crowded at all. Beautiful blue water and sand for days! Enter at your own risk as the waves are intense and get pretty high. You have to look for a calm location to enter at or know how to swim and ride the waves with your body without getting seriously injured. Large rocks and small boulders are in the water and some the rocks become dislodged and toss back and forth in the waves. Not for small kids at all. Do not leave valuables in your cars as it is a high theft area. Absolutely beautiful, and scenic tour but not for small children. A portion of Jurassic Park was taped along this coastal beach. read more
AKA pray for sets/sex. I love this beach, the water is always nice and it's never too crowded. There is a rock you can snorkel and swim around, and a cool little cave to explore (on low tide). To the left of the parking and rock there are also cool tide pools you can lounge in. These pictures are during high tide. I wouldn't recommend this beach for kids unless they are strong swimmers. During the morning a lot of tour boats anchor off this beach (very close to shore) to snorkel and bother dolphins. The ocean here is very pristine and beautiful. Please take your trash when you leave. I always park where I can see my car and I would never come here alone. Just be respectful and cautious when exploring. It's beautiful! read more
This is one of my favorite beaches on the island. There is a large gravel lot, so parking has always been easy. Closest to the parking lot there are beautiful little tide pools and a great area for snorkeling (when the water is calm). There are often large waves here, but when there aren't, it's a real treat to snorkel here. There are often turtles and you can hear the whales and dolphins as you swim around. Lots of big, colorful fish. There is tons of room on this beach and it tends to be less crowded, because it isn't known to be a tourist spot. Usually lots of people that live on island. You also get wonderful views of the mountains on the far side of the beach. read more
Soooo beautiful!!! Sometimes the spinner dolphins are here. Great snorkeling, and today I happen to see a sting ray and get pictures. The water was perfect today, so clear with mild rolling waves. Came here with my family and the neighbors, 4 adults and 3 kids. Everyone had a great time. read more
6 years ago
A beautiful beach that doesn't seem to get as polluted with tourists as others. We came mid afternoon and we had a wonderful time. We saw dolphins in the distance while we were here. The waves are great for surfing and boogie boarding. Bring snacks and an umbrella and enjoy the beach. read more
Not the best beach to go to if you're on the island, but definitely something worth checking out. Came here because one of my friends who visited Hawaii before said they liked it. I will say it is a bit scary just because it can get wavy and I'm not one to swim in beaches like that. However, it is pretty nice once you get in the water. There was a lot of kids with their boogie boards so that's something to consider when coming here. Next time I'd definitely bring mine just to float around or catch some mini waves and wash up on shore. Parking can be a little tricky. We had to wait a little bit just because there was none. Also, it's off road parking but is designated like if you know it's for that beach then you'd know to park there. But if you didn't, you wouldn't think that's what it's for. After we parked, you can enter this gate area to walk down to the beach but you'd have to walk down the rock wall. There's a walkway so no climbing. But still, be careful. Bring slippers or something lol. I like these west side beaches! They're really pretty and with good company, it's worth the drive. read more
There is shade at the very back. You can find shade underneath a few trees but be careful because there are thorns in this area. There is a little cave beside the ocean you can go into to explore, A tide pool area for the little ones so that they can be enclosed safely, and a small cliff to dive off of. The currents are not calm, so if you're not a strong swimmer, going deeper into the water is not recommended. Great beach! read more
Aka Pray for Sex Beach I like how yelp doesn't map it to the correct location. Good, keep the real Makua Beach a hidden gem. But if you read this your gonna pass through Waianae, pass the tent camp communities, and your gonna question "I don't think I should be here" because if you aren't a local you probably shouldn't. But if you can go through all that you will find beautiful beaches in under developed areas. Explore HI and discover humble beauty. Enough adventures... time to get lei'd. read more
Used to be I was scared to come out this way, but I hang with my friends now and all is solid. Quite a few tourists these days here. Mostly sand beach way toward the end the military reservation. Good vibes today! Caught a few small barrels. read more
***Pre/During COVID-19 Visit*** BEAUTIFUL beach!!!!! You gotta drive all the way to the other side of the island to Waianae to experience this place. It is totally worth it though. I've gone three times and a had a good time all three times. I definitely can't wait to go again. Parking can be a challenge here. There isn't necessarily a designated parking spot as you just park right on the side of the road. Please make sure you lock your vehicle and take your valuables. High theft area. Also, there are no restrooms here and no shower facilities. Handle your business before you go. The beach is nice and the waters are so calm. I love being here, especially during a super HOT day! The water will cool you off for sure. BEST part, not a lot of people go here and know about this place. It's really a hidden gem IMO. Sometimes you'll even see turtles swimming. The next time you come here or if you're planning on visiting, bring your cooler!!! You'll get thirsty no doubt. Mahalo!!! read more
This beach is absolutely stunning and great for and adult chill sesh or bringing the kids to play in the tide pools . There are also dolphin sighting on most days. There seems to be on most days only a couple people on the beach that stretches for miles. Some days are good for paddle boarding and snorkeling too. My 6 year old however loves to play in the shore breaks... truth be told I do too read more
This place is a nice change of pace from Waikiki another busy beaches. Mostly locals here with a few tourists but when I saw the most was families getting together pitching tents and having big family barbecues. It seems to be OK for novice surfers of these small wave seem to come in providing some action. There's also some nice scenery as the immediate backdrop of the beach are the hills and mountains with an Air Force satellite station up top. For those looking for a cheap vacation property, a little bit down the street and up the hill are some condos and town houses that are extremely reasonably price so makes for an interesting vacation option. However realize you are about a 35 to 40 minute ride to the Waikiki area. And perhaps a 30 minute ride to downtown without traffic. Overall if you're looking for a change of pace and seems to do the trick. Clean beach is plenty of parking, with no fee to park. read more
This beach has beautiful view, strong riptide, strong waves. I suggest you not to swim if you don't swim often due to the strong waves. There are no trees or shade at all here. I came here for the views on local's recommendation. It's not crowded at all when we went. It's also a great place for photo shooting as the water is clear. read more
4 years ago
This beach is a hidden gem. It's a little hard to find and can easily be overlooked. When you find the entrance, take it slow, as boulders are protruding from the earth and can really jack up your car. If you stay to the left, as you pull in, the path is somewhat clear of obstruction. Beautiful views, tide pools, caves, cliff diving, this location has a little bit of everything you need to enjoy a nice day on the west-side. During the summer, the tide pools are usually available to dip in and the water is calm. The winter calls for nice waves with body boarders riding them and a strong pull as you go in for a swim. Be careful if you are not a strong swimmer. If you plan on jumping from the rock, jump out not straight down or expect to visit the hospital if you survive. Bring yourself a nice little picnic basket and make a day of this with someone you're into. There are no bathrooms there, so come prepared to pee in the beach, c'mon stop acting like you all don't do it. If you have to drop a deuce, well there is some vegetation behind the beach. I have never had a problem with my vehicle as I park it where I can see it from the beach. Have fun as this is a nice, clean, pretty well kept beach. read more
6 years ago
Great beach. Water so clear, and the waves are almost non-existent. Which will make this perfect for kids. Great place for snorkeling. Not populated at all, a thought I did go on a Wednesday! read more
5 years ago
15 years ago
PLEASE NOTE: The business and website above is for Hawai'i Vacation Blog - the first website found on Google. The blog discusses about the person who spray-painted the name and a little more information. Authenticity of history is unknown, however, I needed to provide some kind of information in order to post the review on here. IT'S REALLY BEAUTIFUL! I haven't been here in two years. For good reason: When I came here (two years ago) the beach was TRASHED. Diapers in the water, water all BROWN like DOODOO! "Pray for Sex" not even visible.... Trash on the sand... water pools clogged with sand! People that live in the "Ice Fields" of Waianae moved here..... Upon my return, I spoke to someone who frequents here weekly stating that people came to clean the beach. YEAAAA!!!! NOW IT'S BEAUTIFUL! This beach is by far my most favoritedess BEACH EVVVAAAA! Originally named Pray for Set, it was changed to Pray for Sex because someone spray-painted on the rock "Pray for Sex." It seems traditional to go there now and see the name written. WHERE ARE YOU: This place is a HOLE in the wall - like literally. It is sooo easy to miss it on the road, on your way to Yokohama. The location is right after the small Hawaiian cave and sign "Ka'ena Point." Pass there you will see some off-roading. If you're lucky, from afar you will see trucks and fisherman. While driving through, I highly, highly recommend that you have a truck, or a car that is not dropped low, or you don't have A HEAVY LOAD... due to possible scratching of your car's body-kit. ENVIRONMENT: The beach is see-through, literally. The reef on the outskirts is perfect for snorkeling and doing underwater adventures! (Tyler Shortt, we should go here)!! There are about 4 pools with 1 bigger pool that allows you to swim in. Just beware of wana pwease! Lastly, the best feature is the small beach cave. You can jump inside, and enjoy the waves that lift you up and down. It's awesome! You can finish a hot date with a sun-set, followed by star-gazing. I miss it, just typing this out. Mmm....I'm going to bring my other friends here..... or a hot date...maybe DATES! Hehehe read more
5 years ago
7 years ago
A very nice and quiet beach. The beach is really clean and calm. It's a nice beach to have just relax and a very nice place to watch the sunset. read more
6 years ago
7 years ago
Great beach, spent the morning here. Very few people. We didn't feel comfortable getting in the water as the waves were very strong. We're pretty easygoing beach goers and just needed sand to lay on. But if you're all about getting in the water, this beach at this time wouldn't have been for you, unless you're a strong swimmer. There were some boogy boarders in the water. I'm sure other days find the water calmer. read more
9 years ago
4 years ago
12 years ago
7 years ago
5 years ago
7 years ago
9 years ago
9 years ago
This is a gorgeous beach with a kid friendly area to swim that's naturally blocked off by rocks even when the waves are big! read more
More info about Makua Beach
Makua Beach Reviews in Other Languages
Ask the Community - Makua Beach
Review Highlights - Makua Beach
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
3 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
8 years ago
10 years ago
7 years ago
Makua Beach - beaches - Updated July 2026
Best of Waianae
People found Makua Beach by searching for…
Trending Searches in Waianae, HI
Beach Chair Rentals near Makua Beach
Blueberry Picking near Makua Beach
Cliff Jumping near Makua Beach
Crabbing Location near Makua Beach
Dog Friendly Beaches near Makua Beach
Jet Ski Rental near Makua Beach
Places To Swim near Makua Beach
Pool Day Pass near Makua Beach
Public Beaches near Makua Beach
River Swimming near Makua Beach
Salt Water Pool near Makua Beach
Swimming Holes near Makua Beach
Browse Articles
Browse Nearby
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Restaurants near Makua Beach
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Coffee near Makua Beach
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Things to Do near Makua Beach
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Tide Pools near Makua Beach
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Breakfast near Makua Beach
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Parks near Makua Beach
BEST of Waianae, Hawaii Campgrounds near Makua Beach
Browse Brands
Related Searches in Waianae, HI
Affordable Paddle Board Rental in Waianae, Hawaii
Affordable Snorkel Rental Services in Waianae, Hawaii
Best Off Leash Dog Parks in Waianae, Hawaii
Best Parks for Parties and Events in Waianae, Hawaii
Best Waterfalls and Swimming Holes in Waianae, Hawaii
Book a Snorkeling Tour in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Dog Friendly Beaches Near Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Kid Friendly Beaches to Visit in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Public Beaches to Visit in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Scenic Beach Camping Sites in Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Sea Shell Beaches Near Waianae, Hawaii
Discover Top Nature Parks to Visit in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy Kayaking Adventures in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy Surfing Adventures in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy a Dog Beach Day in Waianae, Hawaii
Enjoy the Best Walking Trails in Waianae, Hawaii
Experience Stunning Sunset Views in Waianae, Hawaii
Experience Thrilling Parasailing Adventures in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Beautiful Parks and Green Spaces in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Easy Hikes Perfect for All in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Off Leash Dog Beaches in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Popular Campgrounds Near Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Popular Picnic Areas Around Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Secluded Beaches to Relax in Waianae, Hawaii
Explore Top Dog Parks in Waianae, Hawaii Near You
Explore Top Water Parks in Waianae, Hawaii Today
Explore the Best Swimming Holes Around Waianae, Hawaii
Find Free Beach Parking Options in Waianae, Hawaii
Find Public Beach Access Points in Waianae, Hawaii
Find Reliable Beach Chair Rentals in Waianae, Hawaii
Find Surf Lessons Near You in Waianae, Hawaii
Find Top Dog Friendly Parks to Visit in Waianae, Hawaii
Find Top-Rated Waterfalls in Waianae, Hawaii Now
Find the Best Playgrounds to Visit in Waianae, Hawaii
Great Places to Swim in Waianae, Hawaii
Join a Memorable Beach Bonfire Gathering in Waianae, Hawaii
Picnic Areas With BBQ Pits Available in Waianae, Hawaii
Popular Picnic Spots to Visit in Waianae, Hawaii
Relax at Popular Beach Parks in Waianae, Hawaii
Safe Beaches for Kids in Waianae, Hawaii
Safe and Fun Parks for Kids in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Hiking Trails to Explore in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Paddleboarding Activities in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Places for Snorkeling in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Playgrounds for Kids to Enjoy in Waianae, Hawaii
Top Swimming Lakes to Enjoy in Waianae, Hawaii
Top-Rated Camping Sites in Waianae, Hawaii
Top-Rated Hikes in Waianae, Hawaii to Explore
