Makena Top Makena is a popular body boarding spot in Maui. Makena Beach is known for their bright yellow sand. The "Makena Cloud" that typically stretches from the top of Haleakala to Kaho'olawe keeps the sand nice and cool. I have such fond memories of doing a photoshoot there in the early 2000's. The beach was mostly empty and I remember how it felt as I ran through the vibrant sand and jumped into the refreshing water. It was unforgettable.