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How to find Little Beach in Maui

I’ve seen a lot of confusion lately on how to get to Little Beach in Maui. I thought I’d write this guide on how to find Little Beach in Maui as well as go over some details on just what “Little Beach” is.

Please note that since the re-opening of Hawaii, Little Beach has been more difficult to access. Although locals are trying to bring back the weekly drum circles, there has been some resistance by local authorities. Keep in mind that you may or may not be able to access Little Beach on your Maui vacation. 

Where is Little Beach?

Makena State Park is where you’ll find both Big Beach and Little Beach. When you hear “Makena Beach,” someone is most likely referring to Big Beach.

Big Beach (or officially Oneloa Beach) is one of the most popular beaches in Maui for sunbathing and bodyboarding. 

Makena State Park is on 165-acres south of Wailea. The easiest way to get to Makena State Park is by rental car.

Big Beach at Makena State Park.

Rental cars are scarce in 2021, so I recommend reserving a car as early as possible. You’ll find the best prices anywhere at Discount Hawaii Car Rental. 

Once you have your car, 4670 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI will take you right to Makena State Park, where you can access “Little Beach.” Makena State Park is currently open from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM on weekdays, and 5:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekends.

What is Little Beach?

“Little Beach” in Maui is unofficially a clothing-optional beach and the site of frequent drum circles and fire dancing. Some might refer to it as a “hippy beach.”  

The Drum Circle typically takes place on Sunday night after sunset. A crowd will gather to watch the sunset (and hope for a “green flash”), and then the party begins.

Every Sunday is different, but there is always a drum circle, fire dancers, and a large crowd. Since the re-opening of Hawaii, there has been some conflict regarding these drum circles and parties, but locals are trying to bring them back. 

How to get to Little Beach on Maui

The best way to get to Little Beach is to enter the first entrance at Big Beach. You do have to pay to park in Makena State Park. As of the writing of this article, parking is $10.

Once you hit the sand, you’ll want to walk to your right. Little Beach is just North of Big Beach.

At the north end of Big Beach, you’ll find a red-rock cliff that has a path. You’ll climb up the rock and then walk back down to the beach on the other side.

It’s a bit of a climb to access Little Beach, but it’s not too bad. If you enjoy hiking, you might want to check out the best hikes in Maui.

Are nude beaches legal in Hawaii?

Technically, no, nude beaches are not legal in Hawaii. However, it is not usually enforced at Little Beach.

If you’re uncomfortable with the idea that some people may be nude, stay away from Little Beach! The ratio of nude to clothed beachgoers varies but can be around 50-50.

Big Beach is a “regular” beach if you’re just looking for a nice beach to visit in Maui.

What is the big deal about Little Beach?

Some are drawn to Little Beach because it’s one of the few “clothing optional” beaches in Hawaii. 

However, it’s also a beautiful beach with the famous bright-white sand of Maui and turquoise waters. Little Beach is also more secluded than other Maui beaches.

This is one reason why it works as a clothing-optional beach, but you’re welcome to enjoy the beautiful beach with clothes or swimwear too.

If a nude beach isn’t for you, you might enjoy some of the black sand beaches in Maui.

Planning a Maui vacation? Check out the ultimate guide to the Road to Hana.

How to find Little Beach in Maui

I hope you enjoyed this post on how to find Little Beach in Maui. Do you plan to visit Little Beach? Have you been there? Let me know your plans or what you thought about this Beach in the comments.

What is your favorite beach in Maui? Let me know about that too. 

Maui Travel Ideas

If you’re planning a Maui vacation, it’s harder to plan now than ever. Make sure to make the most of your Maui trip with some of my Maui travel guides:

• Snorkeling Molokini Crater, is it worth it?
• The 10 best honeymoon hotels in Maui
• 50 things to do in Maui
• 7-day Maui Itinerary

Although I am a Hawaii Travel Agent, I am only taking on a few clients for 2021. You can contact me if you’d like more information. I would recommend starting with my Hawaii travel guide if you plan to DIY your vacation!

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