Kekaha Kai State Park, Hwy 19, Kona, HI 96740

Weather: 9

Makalawena Beach is North of the Kona Airport and located on the dry side of the island. This makes for not only tropical warm weather that the islands are known for, but mostly blue skies. 

Acceptance/Legality: 5

No beach in Hawaii is technically legally nude. But like all nude beaches, they are difficult or a long walk to get to, so it's just accepted because of it's remote location. This beach was full of people and NONE were nude. My partner did take all his clothes off, and no one said a word or gave us dirty looks, so go at your own risk on this beach. There are lots of kids.

Trail/access: 5

Use the Southern Rd. You need a 4x4 to do the Northern one. To be honest they are both rough, but what isn't on this island?! Park before you hit the main beach parking at the sand. There are a series of 3 beaches here. They are all lovely and white sand. This island doesn't have many so this is one of the best places to be if you are a beach goer! The hike to the last beach is where you are headed and that's about 1.25miles, so pack a lunch and bring gear in a backpack. The hike is easy and flat, but sharp lava and hot. I don't suggest flip flops. 
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Privacy: 8

There are many little coves and trees to make your little space, but this is a popular beach -I think, due to the lack of beaches. So  it's a give and take. 

Nude Etiquette: 9

The atmosphere in Hawaii islands is really so different than on the main land. We found people cordial, polite and considerate in giving space. In other words, there weren't any creeps.  Mostly families on this beach

"Creeps or Pervs" are the guys that stare or position themselves to to another person to get a good view. They also may touch themselves inappropriately. They can give a vibe even if they are doing nothing observably pervy. ​

Sand: 8

This is the softest, whitest sand I've ever seen, particularly on the islands. Beautiful and nice to hang out on. Just be mindful when walking on any Hawaiian beach, lava (possibly sharp) can be just below the surface. 

Water Temp: 9

Hawaii is known for its consistent warm waters. You can enjoy 75-80+ degree water depending on the time of the year. This trip we went in March. The water was a lovely temp.

Shade Option: 8

Shade is an option, but it's back a ways from the surf. There are a few trees up close, but they either drop spiky cones and the sand under them is inhospitable, or they are right on the hard sharp lava. When we wanted to nap and be in the shade, we just moved to the back.

Family Friendly Waves: 9

The grade to get into the water is long and flat. The surf tends to break on some lava a bit further out, so getting in and playing in the surf is pretty easy. There are even some coves a little more protected that are perfect for little ones. 

Amenities: 1

This beach starts from a parking lot at a state beach. There are some trash cans and bathrooms there, but the beach you are going to is a long walk away through rough lava. For that it's like you have no amenities. 

Pack it in, pack it out. 

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Extra Reviews:

Snorkling: 7

The surf was a little up the day we were here and so not super clear, but I'm pretty sure it's better other days. There is definitely snorkeling to be had, but it's not the best on the island. We strongly suggest Captain Cook Monument or our favorite, The Place of Refuge! 

Wild Life Saftey: 8

No real dangers beyond the normal mosquitos and always a possibility of sharks. But one thing to note, is there were strong currents this day. Please always be safe and swim with a buddy. Go in when you feel the ocean is taking you. 

Sunset location: 7.5

Not facing due West, but there are definitely some lovely views depending on where you sit.