Makana, better known as “Bali Hai or Fireworks Cliff,” is a beautiful mountain that lives up to its name. Makana means “gift or reward from heaven.” This luscious mountain is at the end of HI-560 W, and it hosts a garden that is a part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Limahuli Garden was named as the best natural botanical garden in the United States in 1997 by the American Horticultural Society. The garden is open to the public, but a fee is charged to do a tour of the garden.
It’s recommended to park by Haena Park near Ke’e Beach and walk over. This beautiful mountain has many indigenous native plants and a waterfall that is protected by Limahuli Garden. Makana was once a challenge and an honor to the Hawaiians back in the day. The hula students would have to climb it at night, and when they reach the top of the mountain they would have a “ōahi,” or fire-throwing ceremony, to honor the hālau hula students who graduated and to honor their hula achievements.
Makana is a mystic mountain of adventure and exploration. The beach around it is a secluded area and will leave an impression on your heart, as if you’re starring in a tropical paradise movie. Did you know Bali Hai was featured in the “South Pacific” film?
You may want to go for a small hike or take a walk down to the beach below Makana and just explore the sea shells or ponder over the soft, powdered sand. Bali Hai is another romantic beach area that will have you falling in love with the strength of the mountain and refreshing beauty of the waves.
