Hike to Makalawena Beach

From the parking area at Kekaha Kai State Park, it's about a 20-30 minute walk to the beach. The walk is through black lava fields and is very exposed. Depending on how much gear you're carrying, it could seem like an eternity by the time you hit the beach. If you have a 4-wheel drive car with good clearance, you can actually drive up to the beach by taking highway 19 and turning off between mile markers 88 and 89. The drive can get pretty tough and actually takes about the same amount of time as walking, so it's your call. Once you get to the beach, there's a little shade from the trees, picnic tables and a pristine beach. Drop your gear and head to the water!