Oneuli Beach
Kihei, HI
Oneuli Beach, also called Black Sand Beach, sits just north of Big Beach on the Makena coast, its dark, gray volcanic sand a sharp contrast to the golden stretches nearby. Fewer visitors make the turn down its rougher access road, which keeps this a genuinely quieter option for anyone who wants Makena's scenery without Big Beach's crowd.
A genuinely uncrowded alternative to Big Beach with real scenic value, though the bumpy access road and coarser volcanic sand aren't for everyone.
How we score beachesThe unpaved access road has some real potholes. A regular sedan can usually make it, just take it slow and don't expect a smooth ride.
A dirt lot at the end of the unpaved access road off Makena Alanui holds a moderate number of cars, rarely full given how many people skip this beach for Big Beach next door.
A short, sandy walk from the dirt lot to the beach, uneven underfoot with volcanic gravel mixed into the sand.
Generally calm, with summer bringing the best visibility for snorkeling the rockier south end near Puu Olai cinder cone.
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