Maluaka Beach
Kihei, HI
Maluaka Beach fronts a low key resort at the southern end of Makena, better known to snorkelers by its nickname Turtle Town for the green sea turtles that graze the reef just offshore. The sand is soft and the water usually calm, making it one of the more approachable snorkel spots along this otherwise rugged coast.
Reliable turtle sightings close to shore make this a genuine standout, though the boat traffic offshore chasing the same turtles can crowd the water on a busy day.
How we score beachesSnorkel boats crowd the water further offshore chasing the same turtles visible from shore. Wade out from the beach itself instead and let the crowd stay out past the reef.
A small public lot sits off Makena Road near the resort, limited but generally workable outside of midday.
A short, paved path from the lot leads to soft sand and a gradual entry into the water, manageable for most visitors.
Calm most of the year, with summer offering the clearest water for spotting turtles on the reef.
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