Little Beach nestles behind Big Beach at Makena State Park where a 0.3-mile trail over the Puu Olai cinder cone leads to Mauis unofficial clothing-optional beach, creating the islands premier destination for naturists and visitors seeking the alternative beach experience where public nudity, though technically illegal under Hawaii law, remains largely unenforced except on weekend afternoons when park officials occasionally issue citations, making weekday visits the safer choice for those wishing to enjoy the clothing-optional atmosphere without legal complications. Also known as Puu Olai Beach after the 360-foot volcanic cinder cone that shelters this small cove from view, the golden sand beach curves along turquoise waters where the protected position creates calmer conditions than exposed Big Beach while the dramatic setting backed by red-hued volcanic cliffs, views of Kahoolawe and Molokini offshore, and the bohemian atmosphere complete with Sunday drum circles that have become legendary among Maui regulars combine to make Little Beach a unique destination offering experiences unavailable at conventional resort beaches where clothing remains mandatory and commercial development dominates the coastal character. Located accessible only via the moderately strenuous trail from Big Beach's south end requiring scrambling over lava rocks and navigating uneven terrain, the limited access naturally restricts crowds while creating the sense of discovery and adventure that enhances the alternative beach experience for those willing to make the effort reaching this hidden cove where clothing becomes optional and conventional beach rules give way to the relaxed, accepting atmosphere that defines Little Beach culture.
Swimming and snorkeling conditions at Little Beach generally match Big Beach patterns with calm summer months delivering gentle surf suitable for swimming and body boarding while winter swells create shore break and currents requiring increased caution, though the smaller cove size and protected position from Puu Olai cinder cone provide some shelter from the strongest wave action that pounds Big Beach during high surf events. Body boarding attracts enthusiasts who ride the moderate shore break when conditions cooperate, creating exciting wave sessions without the powerful conditions that make Big Beach hazardous during large swells, while swimmers enjoy the clear turquoise water and sandy bottom that invite ocean play in the protected zones near shore where parents can supervise children though most Little Beach visitors are adults seeking the clothing-optional experience rather than families with young children who typically prefer the more conventional atmosphere at nearby beaches. Snorkeling opportunities exist around the rocky points flanking the cove where lava formations support small coral colonies and tropical fish, though the exposure to open ocean swells and limited reef development mean snorkeling quality rarely matches the exceptional sites at South Mauis protected bays like Molokini Crater or the reef systems at Wailea and Makena Landing. The clothing-optional nature means visitors should expect to encounter nude sunbathers and swimmers, requiring comfort with naturist environments and understanding that photography policies prohibit taking pictures of nude individuals without explicit permission, maintaining the respectful atmosphere that allows the clothing-optional tradition to continue despite the technically illegal status under Hawaii law.
No dining options exist at Little Beach itself, with the remote location and complete absence of facilities requiring visitors to bring all food and beverages or return to Big Beach parking area where Jawz Fish Tacos and occasional additional food trucks provide the nearest meal options without leaving Makena State Park. The trail access from Big Beach means Little Beach visitors typically provision at the same locations serving Big Beach crowds, with Wailea resort area approximately three miles north offering upscale dining including Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman, Ko Restaurant at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Ferraros Bar e Ristorante serving Italian cuisine, and Grand Wailea resort restaurants including Humuhumunukunukuapuaa and Nobu, while Kihei town 15 minutes north provides casual dining at South Shore Tiki Lounge, food truck parks at South Maui Gardens and Azeka Shopping Center, plate lunch restaurants, and grocery stores for beach picnic provisions. The Sunday drum circles that begin mid-afternoon attract musicians, dancers, and spectators who gather for the spontaneous performances that have become Little Beach tradition, creating festive atmospheres where rhythms echo off the volcanic cliffs and participants celebrate sunset with music, dance, and community bonding that defines the bohemian character distinguishing Little Beach from conventional tourist beaches where such informal gatherings rarely occur.
Parking for Little Beach uses Big Beach parking lots requiring seven-dollar vehicle fees for non-residents with gates closing at 7pm or 7:45pm, making late afternoon timing crucial for Sunday drum circle participants who must exit before closure or face being locked in overnight, while the 0.3-mile trail over Puu Olai cinder cone requires sturdy footwear for navigating sharp lava rocks, reasonable mobility for scrambling over uneven terrain, and caution on the steep sections where loose rock and gravity create slip hazards particularly when descending the ocean side where footing becomes tricky on the volcanic rubble. No facilities exist at Little Beach including no restrooms, showers, drinking water, shade structures, lifeguards, or any infrastructure, requiring complete self-sufficiency and reliance on Big Beach facilities for restrooms and other services, while the lack of lifeguards means ocean safety becomes entirely the responsibility of individual swimmers who must assess conditions, recognize hazards, and make informed decisions without professional supervision. The clothing-optional status attracts visitors seeking naturist experiences and creates the accepting atmosphere where body positivity, individual freedom, and non-judgmental attitudes prevail, though enforcement patterns show park officials may issue citations for public nudity particularly on weekend afternoons when family crowds at adjacent Big Beach create visibility concerns, making weekday visits safer for those wishing to enjoy the clothing-optional tradition without legal complications. The bohemian character, Sunday drum circles creating legendary musical gatherings, spectacular natural setting with volcanic cliffs and offshore island views, and the clothing-optional atmosphere offering experiences unavailable at conventional beaches make Little Beach a unique Maui destination for visitors seeking alternative beach culture beyond the resort environments, though the technically illegal status of public nudity, limited access via the moderately challenging trail, complete absence of facilities, and the adults-oriented atmosphere mean this beach suits specific audiences rather than mainstream family beach users who find Big Beach and resort beaches better matching traditional expectations and comfort levels regarding beach etiquette and available infrastructure.
