The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Makena

Makena offers a wonderful selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 35 routes suitable for families, with nearly 30 of them rated as easy, making them perfect for all ages and skill levels.

While many trails in Makena traverse natural, uneven terrain like lava fields, the Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk loop from Makena is an excellent option. This paved coastal path offers stunning Pacific views and is generally suitable for strollers, providing an easy and scenic experience for families.

Makena's family hikes offer a diverse range of natural attractions. You can explore dramatic volcanic coastlines and recent lava flows, especially around La Perouse Bay. Many trails lead to pristine beaches like Big Beach and Little Beach, known for their soft sand and snorkeling opportunities. You might also encounter the unique black sand of Oneʻuli Beach or the rugged beauty of the Lava Fields at King's Trailhead. The coastal waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life, including green sea turtles.

Yes, there are circular routes designed for families. For example, the Hiking loop from Mākena State Park offers an easy, contained experience. Another option is the Hoapili Trail (King's Highway) – Nice Beach at Perouse Bay loop, which provides a taste of the historic trail and coastal views.

For families with young children, trails that are shorter and have minimal elevation gain are ideal. The Hiking loop from Mākena State Park is a great choice, being relatively short and easy. The initial sections of the Hoapili Trail near La Perouse Bay are also generally flat and offer interesting lava landscapes without being too strenuous.

Makena enjoys pleasant weather year-round, making it suitable for family hikes almost any time. However, the dry season from April to October generally offers sunnier days and less humidity, which can be more comfortable for hiking with children. Always check the local forecast before heading out.

To find more solitude, consider exploring trails slightly off the main beach areas. Portions of the historic Hoapili Trail, especially further south from La Perouse Bay, can offer a quieter experience amidst lava fields and secluded beaches like Keawanaku Beach. Early mornings or late afternoons also tend to be less crowded on popular routes.

Given Makena's sunny climate and volcanic terrain, it's essential to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses), and sturdy closed-toe shoes, even for easy trails. Snacks, a first-aid kit, and swimwear if you plan to visit the beaches are also recommended. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best.

Absolutely! Many trails in Makena offer breathtaking ocean views. The Viewpoint near Mākena State Park provides panoramic vistas. Hiking the slopes of Puʻu Olai, while more challenging, rewards with incredible views of the coastline and neighboring islands. The Hoapili Trail also features sweeping ocean views that can include Molokini Crater and Kahoʻolawe island.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Makena, with an average score of 4.49 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the unique volcanic landscapes, and the opportunities to combine hiking with beach visits and snorkeling. The accessibility of many trails for various age groups is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, parking is generally available near the trailheads for family hikes. For instance, there is parking at Mākena State Park for trails in that area, and designated parking lots near La Perouse Bay for accessing the Hoapili Trail. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, as popular spots can fill up quickly.