Introduction: Discover the Untouched Luxury of Makena, Maui
Makena is Maui’s crown jewel of tranquility and exclusivity. Nestled just south of Wailea, Makena real estate offers a rare and prestigious blend of natural beauty, seclusion, and ultra-luxury living. With its limited number of homes, protected coastlines, and unobstructed views of Molokini and Kahoʻolawe, Makena is more than a market—it’s a legacy.
In this comprehensive 2025 guide to Makena real estate, you’ll find everything you need to know about the local market, neighborhoods, property types, and what makes Makena one of Hawaii’s most coveted addresses. Whether you’re seeking a beachfront estate, a private hillside home, or investment-grade land, this is your definitive resource.
Where Is Makena?
Makena is located on Maui’s South Shore, directly south of Wailea, about 35 minutes from Kahului Airport (OGG). The region includes:
- Big Beach (Oneloa Beach) – One of Maui’s largest and most pristine beaches
- Little Beach – Secluded and locally famous
- Makena Landing – A scenic launch point for kayaks and paddleboards
- Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve – A marine sanctuary offering world-class snorkeling
Unlike bustling areas like Kihei or Lahaina, Makena remains low-density and ultra-private, making it a haven for those seeking exclusivity and serenity.
2025 Makena Real Estate Market Snapshot
🏡 Market Overview:
- Median Single-Family Home Price: $8.2 million
- Available Land Parcels: Rare, often starting at $3 million+
- Condo Inventory: Extremely limited (most options are in nearby Wailea)
- Average Days on Market: 72 days
- Buyer Profile: Ultra-high-net-worth individuals, luxury investors, celebrities, and legacy estate buyers
Source: RAM MLS + Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Data, Q1–Q2 2025
What Makes Makena Real Estate So Unique?
✅ 1. Ultra-Low Density
Makena has a limited number of homes and lots, many with large acreage. Zoning restrictions and conservation efforts ensure that it remains quiet and uncrowded.
✅ 2. Oceanfront and Oceanview Exclusivity
Few places in the world offer direct beachfront access with no resort crowds or public commercial space nearby.
✅ 3. Custom Estates & Rare Land
Most properties are custom-designed and sit on half-acre to multi-acre lots, with architecture that maximizes privacy and views.
✅ 4. Natural Beauty
Makena is surrounded by lava fields, marine preserves, ancient Hawaiian cultural sites, and dramatic coastline—offering a raw, stunning contrast to Wailea’s manicured elegance.
✅ 5. Privacy & Security
Makena is not touristy—there are no large hotels or commercial resorts. Residents enjoy a quieter lifestyle that prioritizes seclusion and natural connection.
Best Areas to Buy in Makena
While Makena has a smaller number of neighborhoods compared to Kihei or Wailea, each offers distinct advantages:
1. Makena Place
- Type: Gated beachfront community
- Price Range: $8M – $20M+
- Perks: Direct beach access, privacy, and rarely available homes
This intimate, exclusive neighborhood features a small number of luxury homes, all with direct access to the sand or oceanfront views. Resales are rare, making this a legacy-level opportunity.
2. One Palauea Bay (OPB)
- Type: Gated subdivision with large custom estates
- Price Range: $7M – $15M
- Perks: Elevated ocean views, large lots, walking distance to Polo Beach
Located just on the border of Wailea and Makena, OPB offers the best of both worlds—resort proximity and secluded luxury.
3. Big Beach Estates
- Type: Oceanfront lots and custom homes near Makena Beach
- Price Range: $10M – $25M+
- Perks: Estate-sized lots and uninterrupted views of Big Beach
This ultra-premium community is the closest residential zone to Big Beach and features dramatic lava rock surroundings with panoramic vistas.
4. Private Makena Acreage & Off-Market Properties
- Many Makena homes and parcels are off-market or sold privately.
- Working with a local expert like Ryan Buchan gives buyers access to private listings and exclusive opportunities.
Makena vs. Wailea vs. Kihei: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Makena | Wailea | Kihei |
| Price Range | $7M – $25M+ | $1.5M – $12M | $600K – $3M |
| Density | Very Low | Medium | High |
| Vacation Rentals | Rare/Not Allowed | Some Zoned | Many Zoned |
| Lifestyle | Secluded & Natural | Luxury Resort | Lively & Casual |
| Ocean Access | Direct & Private | Resort-Connected | Public/Varied |
Can You Use Makena Homes as Vacation Rentals?
In most cases, no—Makena is not zoned for short-term vacation rentals (STRs). Unlike Wailea or Kihei, homes in Makena are not permitted to operate as transient accommodations unless specifically zoned and licensed.
This preserves the peace and privacy of the area, making Makena a better fit for:
- Full-time residents
- Second-home owners
- Long-term investors
- Estate buyers
Buying Land in Makena: What to Know
Makena offers some of the last remaining undeveloped parcels in South Maui. If you’re interested in building your own estate, here’s what to consider:
- Land starts at $3 million+
- Most lots require architectural review (design must match the aesthetic of surrounding properties)
- Utilities and grading may increase costs
- Environmental protections exist—especially near coastlines, lava fields, and cultural sites
Ryan Buchan can help buyers assess buildability, zoning, and development cost projections before committing.
Living in Makena: A Day in the Life
Imagine waking up to birdsong, ocean breezes, and uninterrupted views of Molokini. A day in Makena might include:
- Morning paddleboard session at Makena Landing
- Private swim at Big Beach
- Lunch in nearby Wailea
- Afternoon reading from your oceanfront lanai
- Sunset cocktails while whales breach offshore (in season)
Makena is ideal for buyers who prioritize privacy, space, and peace—with luxury amenities just 10 minutes away.
Insider Tips from Ryan Buchan (RB-87875)
“Makena isn’t for everyone—it’s for the few. These homes rarely come on market, and when they do, it’s important to act quickly and know the land use rules inside and out.”
“If you’re buying in Makena, you’re not just buying a home—you’re securing a long-term piece of Maui’s untouched coastline.”
How to Buy a Home in Makena
Step 1: Hire a Makena Specialist
Work with a Realtor who has access to off-market listings, understands conservation land, and knows the architectural covenants of each community.
Step 2: Define Your Goals
Are you looking for a primary home, a second home, or a multigenerational estate?
Step 3: Understand Zoning
Makena has a mix of conservation land, residential zoning, and strict development rules. Always verify STR permissions and buildability.
Step 4: Review Title, Water Rights & Permits
Some Makena parcels involve water access issues or easement negotiations—be sure your team does deep due diligence.
Step 5: Tour and Act
Because Makena properties are rare, the best ones sell quickly—sometimes off-market. Have proof of funds and a trusted team in place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can foreign nationals buy Makena real estate?
A: Yes. Hawaii has no restrictions on foreign property ownership.
Q: Are there Makena condos?
A: Very few—most Makena properties are single-family homes or land. Most condo options are in neighboring Wailea.
Q: Are Makena homes in flood zones?
A: Some oceanfront homes may be in FEMA zones requiring flood insurance. Ryan can help assess risk levels and costs.
Q: Is there a HOA in Makena?
A: Many Makena communities have HOA oversight, especially gated ones like One Palauea Bay. HOA dues range from $400–$1,000+/month.
Final Thoughts: Why Makena Real Estate Is a Long-Term Investment in Paradise
Makena is one of the most exclusive and prestigious areas in all of Hawaii. If you value privacy, beauty, space, and security, Makena real estate offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a part of Maui’s unspoiled southern coast.
With limited inventory, rising global demand for ultra-luxury properties, and protected land use policies, Makena is poised for continued appreciation and legacy-level ownership.
Ready to Explore Makena Homes?
If you’re looking for a luxury home or rare land opportunity in Makena, don’t wait. Properties here move quietly and quickly.
📞 Call or Text 808 727-9442
Ryan Buchan (RB-87875) – Coldwell Banker Island Properties
📧 Email: rye.buchan@com
🌐 Explore Listings: RealEstateForSaleMaui.com
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