Last Updated October 1, 2025
Maluaka Beach—often called Turtle Town—is one of South Maui’s most reliable shore spots for calm morning snorkeling and honu sightings. Use this guide for parking, best entry points, safety, and turtle etiquette before you go!
Forget crowded beaches and tourist traps. If you want a taste of real Hawaiian paradise, this is the beach for you! The water sparkles like turquoise, and you might see sea turtles swimming below the surface. Nestled on the sun-drenched shores of Makena, South Maui, this hidden gem is affectionately known as “Turtle Town,” and for good reason!
Maluaka Beach (mah‑loo‑AH‑kah) has something for everyone. You can find a relaxing place to unwind or enjoy a fun day of snorkeling. Let’s dive into what makes this beach so special and why it deserves a spot on your Maui itinerary.
Quick Facts: Maluaka Beach, Maui (Turtle Town)
- Location: Makena, South Maui
- Also Known As: “Turtle Town Maui”
- Parking (North Lot): This is a public lot across from Keawala’i Church. Restrooms and showers are nearby. (Get directions).
- Parking (South Lot): This is a big lot at the end of Makena Keonoio Rd. There are stairs down to the beach and easy access to the south-end reef. (Get directions).
- Lifeguards: No. Always check current ocean conditions before entering.
- Best Time To Visit/Snorkel: Early mornings have calmer winds and better visibility.
- Best Entry For Snorkeling: The south end near the rocky point is best. Enter on sand and follow the fringe reef. Conditions vary—skip if surf is up.
- Wildlife Etiquette: Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu) are protected. Stay at least 10 ft away and never touch or chase them.
Snorkeling Maui
Crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and encounters with graceful sea turtles await. Snorkel with colorful fish and discover the magic of Maui beneath the surface.
Book your snorkeling adventure today and experience the unforgettable!
Where is Maluaka Beach, Maui?
Maluaka Beach sits in Makena (South Maui), just south of Wailea. You’ll find it near the former Maui Prince Hotel / Makena Beach & Golf Resort site. The hotel closed in 2016 and was demolished in 2018; the area is now the private Mākena Golf & Beach Club.
Getting to Maluaka is easy! From Wailea, it’s just a short 10-minute drive. Simply head south along Wailea Alanui Drive until it becomes Makena Road. There’s a small parking lot at the north end of the beach, and street parking is nearby. Beach access is easy to spot with signs, and the north parking lot has showers and restrooms for cleaning up after your visit.
Maluaka Beach map courtesy of Google
Why You Should Visit
Maluaka Beach is perfect for snorkelers as it’s often called “Turtle Town, Maui.” When you look underwater, you’ll see why. The underwater world just offshore is a lively paradise with colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish. If you’re lucky, you might see graceful Hawaiian green sea turtles, which locals call honu. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to snorkel alongside these graceful creatures? This makes Maluaka one of the best snorkeling spots on the island.
On calm days, you can see very clearly and quickly spot sea turtles swimming in the clear water. Don’t forget to bring your snorkeling gear or rent some nearby. Swim out to the south end of the beach where the reef is full of marine life.
Pro Tip: It’s essential to give the turtles space and admire them from a distance. Hawaiian green sea turtles are a protected species, and you must not disturb their natural habitat.
Perfect for Families
If you’re traveling with kids, this beach is ideal. The gentle waves and soft sandy bottom make it perfect for swimming and wading. You won’t find the big waves that some other Maui beaches have. This makes it safer for young kids or people new to the ocean. Build sandcastles, splash in the shallows, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
There’s a big grassy area behind the beach, shaded by trees, where families can spread out blankets, have a picnic, or play games. This area is also perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the beach without getting sandy!
A Great Spot for Sunbathing
This beach is an excellent choice for those who simply want to relax and soak up the Hawaiian sunshine. It is long and wide, offering plenty of room to lay out your towel without feeling cramped. The golden sand is soft, and the views of the surrounding coastline and nearby Molokini Crater are simply stunning.
The beach’s southern-facing position also makes it an ideal spot to catch the sunset. Imagine finishing your day with a tropical drink in hand. Watch the sun set below the horizon, coloring the sky orange and pink.
A Quieter Alternative to Other Beaches
While other Maui beaches like Kaanapali and Wailea are more famous, they can get crowded. This is especially true during peak tourist season. The beach offers a quieter, more intimate experience. It’s common to share the beach with just a few other visitors. This is especially true in the early morning or late afternoon.
If you want a peaceful beach experience, Maluaka is a great place to escape. It’s away from the busy areas of Maui.
Molokini Snorkeling
Snorkel in calm waters of Molokini Crater, a submerged volcanic caldera teeming with marine life. Encounter vibrant coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even graceful sea turtles.
Book your Molokini snorkeling tour today and experience this unforgettable underwater adventure!
Parking, Restrooms, & Amenities
Maluaka offers two primary public parking areas. The north lot, across from the historic Keawala‘i Church, has restrooms and outdoor showers for rinsing off after the beach. The south lot, at the end of Makena Keonoio Road, is larger and has stairs that lead down to the sand. It also offers easier access to the reef on the southern end. Note that amenities (restrooms/showers) are closest to the church/north lot — plan accordingly if parking in the south lot.
Snorkeling and Diving
As mentioned earlier, this beach is a great place for snorkeling. This is especially true at the southern end, where the coral reef thrives. Maluaka also offers some excellent offshore dive sites if you’re into scuba diving. Many local dive companies offer tours to explore the underwater world. Divers often praise the many types of marine life.
If you like staying above water, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. This is a fun way to explore the coastline. During the winter months, you’ll have a good chance of spotting turtles, dolphins, and even whales.
Snorkeling: Best Entry Points
The best snorkeling at Maluaka is on the south end of the beach, close to the rocky point. This is where the reef starts and where you’ll see the most fish and coral. Enter the water from the sandy stretch, then follow the reef as it curves out.
Mornings are usually the clearest, with calmer water and better visibility. As the day goes on, wind and waves can stir things up and make it harder to see. If the ocean looks rough, skip snorkeling and enjoy the beach from shore instead. Your safety should always come first.
Safety & Ocean Conditions
There is no lifeguard here. Always check real‑time conditions via Hawai‘i Ocean Safety and HawaiiBeachSafety before you go.
Turtle Etiquette (Read Before You Go)
The Hawaiian green sea turtles (honū) you may encounter are protected, and it’s essential to respect their space. Always keep at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from turtles, whether you see them in the water or on the sand. Never touch, chase, feed, or block their path. For official guidelines, see NOAA / DLNR’s turtle-interaction rules and enforcement.
Beach Picnics and BBQs
The beach has picnic tables and BBQ grills, making it a great place for a beach cookout. Pack local favorites like poke bowls, fresh fruits, and shave ice, and enjoy a laid-back meal with an unbeatable view.
If you don’t feel like bringing your own food, you’re not far from some fantastic dining options in Wailea and Kihei. Grab a delicious meal to-go and enjoy it on the beach for the perfect Maui experience.
Photography and Wildlife Watching
The beach is also a photographer’s dream. The lush greenery, pristine sand, and vibrant turquoise waters create the perfect backdrop for stunning photos. Whether you are a professional photographer or just taking pictures for Instagram, you will capture some great images here!
Beyond its beauty, it’s also a great place for wildlife enthusiasts. Watch for seabirds and dolphins. If you visit from December to April, you might see humpback whales jumping in the distance.
What to Bring
• Snorkeling Gear: If you plan on exploring the underwater world, don’t forget your mask, snorkel, and fins.
• Sunscreen: Maui’s sun can be intense, so protect your skin with reef-safe sunscreen.
• Beach Chairs and Umbrella: If you’re planning on spending the day, bring some chairs and an umbrella for shade.
• Picnic Supplies: Enjoy a meal or snacks on this family-friendly beach
• Camera: You’ll want to capture the beauty of this beach.
Tips for Visiting
• Arrive Early: Maluaka is quieter than other beaches, but it’s still smart to arrive early. This way, you can get a good parking spot and a nice place on the sand.
• Respect the Wildlife: Remember, you’re sharing this beautiful space with local wildlife. Always admire from a distance and avoid feeding the fish or disturbing any sea creatures.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially if you plan to be out in the sun for long periods.
• Check the Weather and Ocean Conditions: Before heading out, check the daily weather report and ocean conditions. While Maluaka is usually calm, occasional strong currents or swells can affect swimming and snorkeling conditions.
Beyond the Beach
• Explore Makena: The beach is located in the beautiful Makena region, which offers a variety of other attractions. Hike the scenic trails of Makena State Park or visit the historic Keawala’i Church.
• Indulge in Local Flavors: After a day at the beach, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the nearby restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning ocean views or savor authentic Hawaiian cuisine.
• Catch a Maui Sunset: The beach is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. Find a comfortable spot on the sand, sip a tropical drink, and watch as the sky explodes in a symphony of colors.
Nearby Alternatives
If the water at Maluaka is rough or cloudy, you can try two nearby spots: Makena Landing and Po‘olenalena Beach. Both give you easy reef access and may be calmer when the waves are high. They’re close by, so you can switch beaches without going far.
Maui Snorkeling Tours Goes To Turtle Town Maui
If you want to go snorkeling in Turtle Town Maui, you can join our Maui Snorkeling Morning Tour. This tour will take you to the famous Molokini Crater and Turtle Town. First, explore Molokini Crater, a submerged volcanic caldera teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs.
Next, we will go to Turtle Town Maui. There, you can swim with beautiful Hawaiian green sea turtles in their home. 🐢
And that’s not all! Keep your eyes peeled for majestic humpback whales migrating through Hawaiian waters during the winter months. 🐋
Tour Details:
- Time: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Days: Monday – Sunday
- Destinations: Molokini Crater & Turtle Town
Don’t miss this unforgettable Maui snorkeling experience!
FAQs
Where is Maluaka Beach?
Maluaka Beach is in Makena (South Maui), just south of Wailea. Use the public access from Makena Road for the north lot or Makena Keonoio Road for the south lot.
Is Maluaka Beach the same as Turtle Town?
Turtle Town is a nickname for a stretch of South Maui reef known for frequent green sea turtle sightings. This beach is the most popular shore access to this area.
Where do I park, and are there restrooms or showers?
There are two public lots. The north lot by Keawalaʻi Church has restrooms and showers. The south lot at the end of Makena Keonoio Road has stairs to the beach. Arrive early; spaces can fill.
Are there lifeguards?
No. Always check current ocean conditions before you go at Hawaii Beach Safety and choose lifeguarded beaches if you are unsure.
When is the best time to snorkel at Maluaka Beach?
Morning is usually best for calmer winds and clearer visibility. Skip snorkeling if there is surf, surge, or strong current.
What is the best entry point for snorkeling?
The south end near the rocky point typically offers the most consistent snorkeling. Enter on sand and follow the fringing reef. Never stand on coral.
How close can I get to sea turtles?
Follow NOAA/DLNR guidance: view turtles from at least 10 feet (3 meters) away—on land and in the water. Never touch, chase, or feed wildlife.
Is this beach good for kids and beginners?
Yes—when conditions are calm. The entries are sandy, but there is no lifeguard. Always check conditions and consider lifeguarded options if you’re unsure.
Is there an accessibility tip?
The south entrance includes stairs. For easier access and a closer drop-off, use the north side near Keawalaʻi Church.
What are nearby alternatives?
Try Makena Landing (often calmer and turtle-friendly) or Poʻolenalena Beach (a wide sandy beach with snorkeling near the rocky ends when the seas are calm).
Conclusion
Maluaka Beach is the perfect mix of peace and beauty. You can snorkel with sea turtles in colorful reefs or relax on the soft sand. It’s a great spot for everyone—whether you’re alone, with a partner, or with family.
When planning your Maui trip, make sure to include Maluaka on your list. Trust us—it’s a beach you’ll remember long after your vacation ends!
