Oneloa Beach


Also known as Ironwoods Beach, this white-sand jewel is fringed by low sand dunes covered in beach morning glory. It's a picturesque place to soak up the rays. On calm days, swimming is good close to shore, as is snorkeling in the protected area along the rocky point at the northern side of the beach. When there’s any sizable surf, strong rip currents can be present.

The half-mile strand – Oneloa means ‘long sand’ – sits beside the Coastal Trail and is backed by gated resort condos and restricted golf greens. Beach access requires a sharp eye. Turn onto Ironwood Lane and then left into the small parking lot opposite the Ironwoods gate. Arrive early or at lunchtime to get a parking space, freshly emptied by the people leaving.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Makaluapuna Point

0.27 MILES

Razor-sharp spikes crown rocky Makaluapuna Point, known informally by the nickname Dragon’s Teeth. The formation does look uncannily like the mouth of an…

2. Honokahua Burial Site

0.28 MILES

This site is of cultural significance to Native Hawaiians and is off-limits to the general public.There are an estimated 2000 Hawaiians laid to rest here,…

3. DT Fleming Beach Park

0.49 MILES

Surrounded by ironwood trees and backed by an old one-room schoolhouse, this sandy crescent looks like an outpost from another era. In keeping with its…

4. Kapalua Beach

0.6 MILES

For a long day on the beach, it’s hard to beat this crescent-shaped strip at the southwestern tip of Kapalua. Snorkel in the morning, grab lunch at the…

5. Napili Beach

0.71 MILES

The deep golden sands and gentle curves of Napili Beach offer good beachcombing at any time and excellent swimming and snorkeling when it’s calm. Look for…

6. Mokuleʻia Beach

1.17 MILES

Also known as Slaughterhouse Beach, this cove is excellent for snorkeling, and is a top-rated bodysurfing spot during the summer. Its attractive white…

7. Honolua Bay

1.45 MILES

Honolua Bay is an advanced surfer’s dream. It faces northwest and when it catches the winter swells it has some of the gnarliest surfing in the world.

8. Punalau Beach

2.45 MILES

Manicured golf courses and ritzy enclaves drop away and the scenery gets wilder as you drive toward Maui’s northernmost point. Ironwood-lined Punalau…