The Mauna Lani Beach Club, set within the serene Makaiwa Bay, is a premier destination on the Kohala Coast known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and vibrant coral gardens. Unlike more commercialized areas, Mauna Lani Resort evokes a relaxed and private atmosphere that feels deeply connected to the surrounding landscape. Both a secluded retreat and gateway to world-class snorkeling, Mauna Lani Beach Club is an unassuming jewel of the big island—and this guide covers everything you need to experience it.
How to Access the Beach Club
Let’s not bury the lead here—how to break stride onto the beach is the first thing you need to know.
The Beach Club is a private amenity to those staying within Mauna Lani.
Resort Guests and Owners: Those staying at CoralTree Residence Collection properties receive complimentary access cards to get through the security gates. Guests have access to the private gated parking lot near the beach.
Snorkeling and Water Adventures
Now that you’re in, there’s so many ways to level-up your experience! Makaiwa Bay is famous for its protected cove and traditionally gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for families and beginner snorkelers. A labyrinth of coral reefs teems with marine life, including Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, parrotfish, and butterflyfish, with some guests comparing the experience to scenes from "Finding Nemo".
Oceanside Dining at Napua
At the end of the day, or even in the middle, the beachside fair of Napua is one not to be missed.
Located just 100 yards above the sand is Napua, a Hawaiian-owned restaurant dedicated to sustainability and locally sourced ingredients.
The Vibe | Casual and breezy for lunch, transitioning to a more refined atmosphere for sunset and dinner. Most nights will find live music outside the bar section of the restaurant.
Hours | Open 7 days a week; Lunch from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm and Dinner from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm.
Menu Highlights:
Lunch: Fresh Ahi Poke Bowls, BBQ Pork Sandwiches, and local Fish Tacos.
Dinner: Calamari Katsu, Fresh Market Catch, and 14oz Ribeye Steaks.
Keiki (Kids) Menu: Well-priced options like burgers and fish.
Pro Tip: Reservations are highly recommended for dinner, to ensure you get a table with a prime ocean view.
A Sanctuary of Balance and Royalty
Yes, this is a beach guide, but the beach isn’t the only aspect of what you’ll experience on your visit to Mauna Lani.
Stepping onto the sands of Mauna Lani beach is said to be a transformative experience. The area is steeped in cultural heritage and is said to project a “healing energy”, which may be the reason it was a sanctuary once reserved for Hawaiian royalty.
The Kalahuipua'a Fishponds: Located adjacent to the beach club, these ancient ponds represent a legacy of balance and abundance. They were central to the traditional ahapua'a system—a highly efficient and 100% sustainable land division where mountain dwellers traded hardwoods and other products with coastal residents who managed aquaculture. These ponds rose and fell with the tides, providing the sustenance that allowed ancient Hawaiian society to flourish.
Historic Lineage: The land was famously owned by Francis H. I'i Brown, a legendary figure in Hawaiian cultural history as a politician and golfer, until he sold it to the resort in 1972. Today, the resort honors this history through activities like the Holo Waʻa, where guests can paddle a traditional outrigger canoe with a cultural guide to explore the same waters once enjoyed by Hawaiian kings. Don’t miss out on playing 18 (or 36) holes on the namesake Mauna Lani Resort Francis H. Ii Brown Golf Courses, featuring a North, South, and Wikiwiki (par 3) course.
K'i'i Pohaku (Images in Stone): The nearby Puako Petroglyph Archaeological District contains one of the largest concentrations of petroglyphs in the Pacific, with over 3,000 carvings dating back to 1200 AD. These carvings of humans, canoes, and turtles are believed to document significant life events and serve as a "historical playground" that shines a light on early Hawaiian culture and communication.
The living history of the area provides the most discerning of travelers, a unique opportunity to both witness and participate in the ongoing story of Mauna Lani and Hawaiian culture.
Important Facilities and Policies
Sometimes it’s worth reading the fine print, and we’ve made it normal sized so you don’t miss out on these know-before-you-go items:
Restrooms and Showers: A critical detail for visitors — restrooms and outdoor showers are both located steps from the beach.
Beach Furniture: Guests at Mauna Lani have access to beach chairs and cabanas on a first-come, first-served basis. You are also welcome to bring your own chairs and umbrellas and many rental units have these available for guest use.
Safety: While the bay is generally calm, there is also a lifeguard on duty at the Beach Club from 8am-6pm.
Why Mauna Lani?
If you’re looking for a world class family friendly experience—from snorkeling in the protected turquoise cove to making your own journey through living history—the Mauna Lani Beach Club offers a rare blend of luxury, adventure and authentic Hawaiian heritage. It serves as a true sanctuary where days start with a sunrise over the volcanic landscape and end with a sunset dinner at the one of the last true Hawaiian-owned restaurants on the coast. For those staying in Mauna Lani, this experience is an unforgettable journey of discovery. We invite you to pack your bags, embrace the laid-back island lifestyle, and prepare to leave with a heart full of aloha.
