What Is It Known For?
Makana Esthetics Wellness Academy is widely known for its strong roots in the local beauty community and its commitment to hands-on training. Founded in 2007 by Malia Sanchez, the academy first opened its doors in Kakaako on Waimanu Street. It later expanded into its current state-of-the-art facility in the Na Lama Kukui Building, offering free customer parking and a convenient location across from Liliha Bakery.
Today, Makana is a for-profit college in Honolulu, Hawaii, enrolling about 68 students per year in its full-time programs. Its small size gives students a close-knit, supportive environment where instructors can focus on personalized skill development.
Degrees & Certifications
Makana Esthetics Wellness Academy offers a range of programs designed to help you build strong esthetics skills and grow as a professional. The curriculum focuses on preparing students for state licensure and advanced specialization.
Programs Offered:
- Core 600-Hour Esthetics Program
- Medical Dermaplaning Course
- Brow Lamination and Brow Tint Course
- Brazilian Waxing Course
Class Schedules
Makana Esthetics Wellness Academy primarily offers day classes in an on-campus, hands-on environment. The full-time Core Esthetics Program runs on a daytime schedule, with classes generally held from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on specified weekdays and Saturdays.
The school does not offer online, night, or formal hybrid classes for its main program. Furthermore, the program does not incorporate off-site externships; instead, students gain extensive practical experience by performing a wide range of services on real spa clients at the academy’s on-site day spa.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. The school is institutionally accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA).
Acceptance Rate
Makana has an open admissions policy, giving it a 100% acceptance rate.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
According to the U.S. Department of Education, the average annual cost for Makana’s largest program is $14,133. Costs vary based on supplies, fees, and financial aid. Students can estimate their expenses using the school’s Net Price Calculator.
Programs & Courses
Professional Services
- Core Esthetics Program
Campus Locations
Honolulu 560 N Nimitz Hwy #125D, Honolulu, HI 96817
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Makana Esthetics Wellness Academy maintains an extraordinarily high level of satisfaction from both paying clients and alumni. The academy is consistently praised for providing luxurious, professional-grade spa services at student-friendly prices, while successfully preparing graduates for professional careers.
Overall Score: 4.9/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Service and Value: Clients repeatedly describe the experience as the “most magical,” “most relaxing,” and the “perfect thing I’ve ever done,” noting that you get to be “boujie on a budget.” Services like the Signature Facial, Back Facial, and specialized enzyme facials are highly recommended.
Professional and Knowledgeable Students: Reviewers are consistently surprised that the high-quality services are performed by students. The students are called “extremely professional,” “knowledgeable” about products, and excellent in their technique, massage pressure, and communication.
Relaxing and Calm Ambiance: The facility receives praise for its “calm and peaceful environment” and “beautiful” ambiance, setting a tone for a relaxing, enjoyable experience that “doesn’t feel like you’re in school setting.”
Effective Products and Results: Clients note that the services are effective, with their skin feeling “flawless,” “rejuvenated,” and “so much better” after treatments.
Career Preparation and Confidence: Alumni state that the school is the one to choose to “set you up for success.” They credit the curriculum and instructors with giving them the “foundational skills” and preparation needed to be successful in the esthetics industry.
Supportive and Helpful Instructors: Instructors and staff are lauded for being “very helpful,” setting a clear professional vision, and being instrumental in helping students prepare for their new career path.
Common Criticisms
Lack of Criticisms: There are no discernible negative patterns or serious complaints in the provided reviews. All reviews are exceptionally high (4.9/5 stars overall). The only minor logistical detail is the need to call to book an appointment, but this is typical for service-based academies.
Momentum
The momentum is extremely strong, with highly enthusiastic reviews continuing to flow in, including several posted just two weeks ago and within the last seven months. The owner is actively engaged, personally responding to reviews for many years, which reinforces the feeling of a supportive, community-focused institution. The longevity of positive feedback from both recent clients and alumni from over a decade ago confirms the school’s enduring quality.