October 30, 2005
Po'olenalena Beach, South Maui.

Today, we decided to visit this beach, which we had not had the chance to explore yet. Po'olenalena Beach is in Wailea with beach access just south of the intersection of Makena Alanui and Old Makena Road.

This beach runs north-south and is about half a mile long. It is bracketed by lava points at each end. The beach is also divided into north and south sections by a smaller lava point near the center (See photo). The north end is smaller and more secluded because public parking is by the south section and access to the north section requires walking down a short, narrow trail and climbing over the rocks on the center lava point.

We decided to go to this north section because according to our guide, the lava point at the north end (a.k.a. "White Rock") offered great snorkeling. But what our guide book did not say was that due to the secluded nature of this beach, it is also a popular destination for those who like sun-bathe and swim in the nude! Oh, well!

Anyway, imagine our surprise when we got there! Yes, it was difficult not to look, but then again, after a few minutes we felt it was no big deal. Although the water was crystal clear, the sea was somewhat choppy, and the swim to white rock looked a little long. In the end we did not go any snorkeling because of the high surf near the rocks. We did take advantage of the waves by the sandy shore and spent about an hour surfing on our boogie boards. It was a great time.

This beach is very good. The views are great. No, I don't mean the naked people! (Not necessarily, at least!) I mean the views of Molokini, Kaho'olawe and Pu'u Ola'i (See photo). Though we did not stay that late, this west-facing beach should be a great place to watch the sunset.

Those who are willing to put up with naked people walking around, should check the north section of the beach. (We hope to go back there someday to actually do some snorkeling.) For those who want a normal, nudity-free beach experience, the south side of Po'olenalena beach will be just fine.

Aloha.