Known for its seclusion and beauty, Makalawena Bay is one of the prettiest beaches on the big island. With about a mile of white beach and no crowds, you won't be dissappointed. To get to Makalawena Bay, you will have to hike about 30 minutes on a trail that starts from the parking lot at Kona Coast State Park. Brings water, sunscreen, a hat and some good hiking shoes....the trail gets pretty rough. When you get there, you will find three very secluded, and perfect, crescent shaped white sand beaches. Because of all the sand, visibility isn't great. But, when conditions are calm, snorkel out to the center of the bay where it is a little deeper and you may luck out and see a green sea turtle.

Watch for sea turtles!

Because of Makalawena Bay's seclusion, there are only portapotties and picnic tables here.

Head north on highway 19 from Kona. A few miles past the Kona airport, mile marker 89, turn left onto the gravel road. This road is very rough and bumpy, so it is recommended to just walk this access road. Pass through the locked gate and watch for the sand dunes on your right. When you see the dunes, you are there. The total hike is about a mile.