Makalawena Beach Drive and Hike

[@melmel4943]

Thanks for sharing this. I was wondering if our rental chevy Malibu is going to make it to the parking lot. we are going in August . I noticed there were some non 4 wheel vehicles in the lot so I guess we can make it? finger's crossed

[@letstraveltogether8747]

Just be careful and go really slow, there are some ground clearance issues in some areas and the road is pretty rough

[@Osaka40510]

We went in a Dodge Caravan. It was rough lol. Just need to go slow. It was worth it though. The beach was beautiful and we saw a turtle and 2 Hawaiian Monk seals. Wear sneakers or proper walking shoes for walking on the lava rocks. Also bring a lot of water and an umbrella maybe. We got lucky and found a spot under a tree but there are only a few shady spots.

[@melmel4943]

I’m planning on renting a wrangler from turo just for this beach. Would you consider this way off roading? Also, do you know of any other beaches that are hidden gems?

[@letstraveltogether8747]

This is not truly off road by Big Island standards as a mini van and cars are able to make it down there, just go slow and be careful as it is a little rough, a wrangler should be fine, just go slow as there are some rough spots. The only other beach we like is Kukio beach (The guard gate will give you a pass to get down as you go through a private community to get to it), and that is only because the snorkeling there is usually pretty good and there is a paved parking lot with bathrooms in the parking area. Have fun on your vacation.

[@FishAnotherDay]

We just did this drive in a Chevy Spark... That was an adventure lol. We were the smallest car in the lot

[@jaydeeahr5842]

Can a nissan versa survive this road?

[@letstraveltogether8747]

Yes, it can make it, I have seen rental mustangs get down there, but it is slow and rough with a car that small. Just be very careful and gentle on the drive there and back.

[@rickwindham2888]

up a couple miles you can take four wheel drive all the to Makalawena. No need for the long walk.

[@JavierMartinezIII]

Hi Rick, got any more information on this?? I’d like to do this if possible. Is there a sign, or telling landmarks?

[@ryanhori6954]

Sounds like you were driving a ranger

[@johnstribling20]

You guys were Lucky, been down there like 4 times. It wasn't graded off like that...just driving over straight up Lava bed. Only thing graded off was the entrance, and wasn't much lol !! Glad to see it's easy now, be there in September:)

[@johnstribling20]

My favorite beach ⛱