Makena Real Estate Guide

What Makes Makena Real Estate so Special?

We are routinely asked, “What makes Makena real estate so desirable compared to other parts of Maui?” To answer this properly, you would need to take a few things into consideration. The first is the climate, Makena experiences the goldilocks of weather patterns on Maui. Secondly, the location of Makena is far enough removed for seclusion, but close enough to access nearby amenities. Lastly, Makena has unique and tasteful architecture in tune with the natural environment not seen in other parts of Maui. To break this down further, we have compiled additional information below.

Makena Weather

One of the most unique features of Maui are the microclimates. While this adds to varying landscapes, it also makes it difficult to know the nuances about each specific area. As a general rule of thumb, the North and East shores are known for heavier rainfall and dense vegetation, while the South and West regions are known for dryer climates and white sandy beaches. Makena is located at the base of Haleakala on the southwest side. What this means is that weather systems are brought to Maui by the prevailing trade winds that come from the Northeast, clouds, and heavy rainfall are pinned against that side of the mountain, leaving the southern portions like Makena dry and warm. One major difference between Makena and other southern towns is that Makena notoriously has an afternoon cloud cover that gives you a reprieve from the heat during the hottest part of the day. The annual rainfall for Makena is 14.5 inches. For comparison, some nearby towns like Wailea and Kihei get around 11 inches annually, while the North Shore towns like Haiku receive 100 inches regularly. The average temperatures range from 65 degrees in the evening to highs of 87 during the day.

View of Kahoolawe and Molokini from Makena

Makena’s Location

Traffic (or lack thereof)

As noted above, Makena is situated on Maui’s south shore near the end of Makena Road heading towards La Perouse Bay. Being that Makena Road turns into a dead-end, this limits the through traffic that areas such as Wailea receive. Another consideration is the last large condo building, or hotel is at the end of Wailea/beginning of Makena, leaving the remaining downstream homes free of traffic-related to condos and hotels.

Activities

Another benefit of being in Makena is the surrounding beaches. One of my favorite places to snorkel and dive is the Ahihi Kinau Natural Reserve, the water and wildlife are in pristine condition compared to other high traffic tourist areas. Another local favorite is Big Beach, this half-mile long, white sandy beach is exceptional for sunbathing or water sports. La Perouse Bay and the Kings Trail are also great activity spots. If you’re an avid golfer, there are plenty of options, such as The Wailea Emerald Course, Wailea Gold Course, and Wailea Blue Course.

homPo’olenalena Beach in MakenaDining and Shopping

There is a fine line between having privacy and feeling disconnected from the community and modern comforts. It is less than five miles from the heart of Makena to The Shops at Wailea, where you can find restaurants such as Ruth’s Chris, Tommy Bahama, Cheese Burger in Paradise, and more. You can also find shopping such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Billabong, Lululemon, Prada, art galleries, and more. There is also the Wailea Gateway for additional dining and shopping options.

Makena Architecture

In a number of communities on Maui, unimaginative architecture is the norm. This is largely due to neighborhood restrictions as well as the time period in which the home was built. Being that Makena is not part of a community association that enforces design guidelines, you see more unique and attractive displays of architecture and taste. Jim Neiss, an award-winning architect here on Maui, is responsible for numerous well designed and notable homes in Makena. One of his more recent endeavors is a Bali inspired home at 7381 Makena Rd, known as Makana Ola.

Makana Ola

This estate features a 3BR/ 3.5BA main residence and 2BR/ 2BA guest cottage or “ohana.” The main home has a soaking pool overlooking the ocean, while the guest cottage fronts the 45′ lap pool. Weight training, cardio, and yoga will keep you in peak physical shape while a post-workout soak or steam will get you right back to rest and relaxation.

So Why is Makena Real Estate so Heavily Sought After?

Owners of Makena real estate all have a few things in common: they love natural beauty, they like comfortable weather, they enjoy the privacy that Makena offers, and, most importantly, they treasure spending their time with their loved ones in a place that cannot be recreated anywhere else.