Makaha vacation rentals

Ride the waves in Makaha

Famous as the birthplace of big wave surfing, Makaha has quite the reputation. In Hawaiian, its name translates to "ferocious" which is a nod to its rugged seascapes and monster waves. As well as luring the world's top surfers, Makaha is a haven for sunseekers and snowbirds. From lazy days at Makaha Beach Park to wild adventures in Kualoa Ranch, Makaha vacation rentals unlock access to Oahu's most iconic experiences.

Go wild at Kualoa Ranch

Dreaming of lush, jungle-clad mountains, rolling valleys, and the kind of scenery that made Jurassic Park film scouts go weak at the knees? Don't miss the chance to day trip east to the natural wonderland of Kualoa Ranch. Covering a 4,000 acre footprint, it offers everything from horseback rides and movie set tours to ziplining and ATV adventures. Makaha vacation rentals are a great base for exploring the ranch, with the drive across Oahu taking around 1 hour.

Discover Makaha's big wave surfing legacy

While beginners probably won't want to take on Makaha's mammoth waves, the region is still a great place to try your hand at surfing. With its golden sand and gentle surf, Pokai Bay Beach Park is ideal for lessons. If you want to watch the big guns, head to Makaha Beach Park, where winter swells can reach up to 30 feet. Feel like stretching your legs? Why not throw on your runners and hike to Kaena PointÊState Park? The epic trail will take you to Oahu's western tip via secluded sandy coves, rugged cliffs, and tidal pools.

Winter waves at Makaha Beach Park

Makaha serves up some seriously big swells, especially in winter. Whether you want to watch surfers from the shore or take on the waves yourself, Makaha vacation rentals put you just steps from one of the most iconic surf beaches on the planet. If swimming and snorkeling are on your agenda, it's best to visit in the summer, when the ocean is calm and the sea breeze is mild. Fall is also a fantastic time to enjoy an Oahu vacation, with sultry temperatures, irresistible airfares, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Scenery of Jurassic proportions

It may be just 35 miles northwest of Honolulu, but Makaha feels worlds away from the glitzy Hawaiian capital. It sits on Oahu's west coast and is flanked by a handful of national forest reserves and a string of gorgeous beaches. And, of course, it's also an easy drive to the impossibly beautiful Kualoa Ranch. In summer, snorkeling at Makaha Beach is a guaranteed way to spot colorful corals and cruising sea turtles. On top of all that, Makaha also serves as a gateway to iconic natural wonders like the Diamond Head State Monument.

Traveling to and around Makaha

The nearest airport is in Daniel K. Inouye Intl. Airport (HNL), located 21.4 mi (34.4 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you might consider flying into Kapolei, HI (JRF-Kalaeloa), which is 14.3 mi (22.9 km) away.