I requested more information about the school perhaps sit in one of their classes before investing thousands of dollars for their esthetician program. No response since the inquiry several years ago. Their positive reviews are more from their customers and not much about the academy.Update: When their reputation is on the line they promptly respond on google. Now that their tuition increase $2000-$3000 since few years ago when I contacted them I dont think I have any interest here

CAN I SAY WOW?! Christene Medeiros was beyond AMAZING! She was extremely thorough with explaining the procedure (facial), professional and knowledgeable with all the products. This was my first and surely wont be the last facial. The facility was very posh and clean. Hidden gem.. Couldnt ask for an even better experience.

All services are professional level, provided by students with instructor supervision. Availability and prices, including monthly specials and loyalty/rewards program are excellent! Staff is accommodating and pleasant❣

Awesome!!! I asked Christene Medeiros for her recommendation as this was my first facial in 10 years. She recommended the Ultimate Facial/Manual Lymphatic Drainage/Microdermabrasion and LED Light Therapy. She was very professional, friendly and knowledgeable. Wow ~ I’m so happy with my result. My face felt soft and it was glowing.

Ive been getting treatments here for years performed by students. I always leave refreshed and relaxed. Aside from the technical skills, you definitely feel a sense of genuine care has been taught to them as well.

This was such a amazing experience for me. Haven’t had a facial in over 5 years and after having one from Christene I will definitely be a regular there. I also got a Synergie Detox treatment and this was also amazing and very relaxing. Christene explained both procedures in detail and how they would benefit me. I would definitely recommend Makana Academy to my friends and family. Thanks to Christene for your great service.

THE BEST ESTHETICS SCHOOL in Hawaii!! I recently graduated from Makana Academy as a student and loved my whole experience! I researched esthetician schools for about a year in Hawaii and no other school compared to them. I chose them because they are a National Accredited school that’s very professional, welcoming and has such a clean pleasant atmosphere. I loved all of my instructors and learned so much! This was the best decision I ever made! If you are looking for an esthetics school this would be your best choice and you won’t be disappointed! Thank you Makana and to all of my instructors for helping me get one step closer to fulfilling my dream!💖💫

When scheduling my appointment, staff was very courteous and accommodating. They called the day before my appointment to remind me of my scheduled appointment, the services that I scheduled, and what time I should arrive. I did a ultimate facial and a synergie session with Christene Medeiros and it was AMAZING!! Christene made the whole experience worthwhile. She is very knowledgeable on the procedures she administered and was able to answer all my questions and concerns thoroughly. Definitely worth the time to drive there (considering I live in Kapolei) and time well spent getting pampered by Christene. Very professional!!

I was a student at Makana in 2015, and it was the best decision I could have ever made for my career. I already had 1000 hrs of schooling from several yrs prior in another state, but wanted a refresher and a way to get to know the industry in HI. I loved every moment of my time there. The quality of the 600 hrs of education I received from Makana far exceeded the previous 1000 hrs from another state. I loved that it was a small school. It made my learning experience feel really individualized. The educators were outstanding and so passionate, which really helps to engage their students. The owner, Malia, was always so great about cheering us on and supporting us when we needed it. She was so helpful when it came time to start job hunting too. My experience at Makana not only helped me to grow as an esthetician, but so much personal growth occurred during my time there as well.

I got a Makana facial today. It felt amazing. Makana Esthetics is a very professional and relaxing environment. Their student Emily performed my facial and she was awesome. Not only was she knowledgeable about her products and after care but she had a delicate touch and professional charisma. Would highly recommend this school and esthetician. Great job Emily!

I had the pleasure of getting several treatments from Makana Academy.. And all my experiences has been amazing.. The professionalism of the Teachers down to the students shows how well the owner transcends their vision upon them.. Makana Academy has a calm and relaxing ambiance which sets the mood for an amazing experience!!! I have a really busy work schedule and Makana Academy always finds a way to fit me in.. Thank you Malia Sanchez and Makana Academy for always giving me an amazing experience every time I come in!! Aloha

My very first time receiving a facial and I must say it was highly relaxing. I received my facial from Althea and she was amazing! She made sure I was okay and gave me notions like when she is about to apply something. I didnt know massages came with facials! It was such a treat to receive. I am definitely come back to see Althea for another facial. She said she is there for a couple more weeks or less so be sure to ask for her.

I had an excellent esthetician names Kimberly or Kim for short. She made sure I was comfortable and asked me about what my main concerns were and if I would like some tea water or coffee. She also made sure to ask if the pressure she was applying was too hard or too soft especially while doing extractions. I also had concerns about my skin peeling because my skin can be really sensitive especially because I’m in the sun a lot so she gave me a chamomile peel which would help with my sensitive skin but also cater to my needs and concerns. Definitely coming back to her in January!!!

The girls at Makana are the best especially Althea my esthetician. I always have a great experience there! Shes very kind and knowledgeable about her craft. She gives great massages which is like an ultimate plus times infinity! My face is always glowing when I leave. I will be back for Althea. I highly recommend her!

I look forward to my services at Makana. The ambiance is beautiful. A calm and peaceful environment sets the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. It’s doesn’t feel like you’re in school setting.Students are well trained. They’re knowledgeable and friendly. Every service I’ve received by a Makana student was professional and thorough. It’s hard to believe you’re being serviced by a student.My favorite service is the Ultimate Facial. LED light therapy is a must to maintain a youthful glow and the price at Makana is unbeatable. I highly recommend visiting Makana. I think you’ll be satisfied with your experience.

I got a Pumpkin Enzyme Facial a few weeks ago bye Althea and it was so soothing! I’ve gotten many facial but this was by far one of the best and made my skin feel amazing! I will definitely return again.

I had the pleasure of getting a facial treatment from the Makana Academy by Tatiana Heard today and my experience was great! Everything from the professionalism, the patience, and the vibe was spot on. I really recommend this place to many people. I have already made my second appointment to return for another great experience.

Makana is such a gem of a place! I have been there several times and every time, I get great service! The facials I get there are fabulous. My face feels rejuvenated every time. I love the products they use. I love taking all my friends there and everyone ends up loving their experience. Cant wait to go back next month! I would recommend this place to everyone for sure!

I got the Makana facial with Kim! It was very relaxing and she checked with me during the process so I was comfortable. Steaming, massaging and making sure my lashes are protected from the steam lol. Very clean looking and the other girls seemed nice also.

Althea was amazing! The prices here are very affordable. The monthly specials and returning client deals are great way save money. I definitely plan to come back.

My wife and I love pampering ourselves at Makana Esthetics. The beautiful and calm environment provides the perfect getaway from the everyday hustle and bustle of life. The students and staff are friendly and very knowledgeable, and I must say every time I visit Makana their is no lack of consistency in the services provided which is very important to me. I love that I can expect an awesome experience every time.... 👍👍

Kim was wonderful! She totally listens to tour skin concerns, makes helpful suggestions while explaining alternate options, and gives awesome massages. Her customer service is top notch and I’d recommend her to anyone!

Loved my pumpkin enzyme facial done by Emily Moriyama. Everything was very professional and relaxing. I loved how clean and glowing my face felt and looked after. I would definitely go back!

Ive been to Makana many times as I accompany my wife when she gets a facial. I love going because I always feel so rested and rejuvenated after our session, not to mention that my skin feels so much better. I have nothing but positive remarks for Makana and I would recommend anyone to go and get a facial.

Makana Esthetics is my go-to spa whenever I need to pamper myself with a facial! My favorite is the pumpkin facial but I’ve recently had their signature Makana facial and back facial and they were amazing, too!! The aestheticians are always professional and friendly and the location is convenient with lots of free parking. I look forward to the monthly specials and always share them with friends. It’s also a fun thing to do with friends ❣️

I came into Makana Academy for a facial, and I received a deep cleanse facial. Jadyn was my esthetician, and it was very relaxing and my face feels great. She did an excellent job! I would come back again and recommend her.

Love 💕the friendly service and professionalism of staff member Emily Moriyama. I had the deep cleaning facial. It was my first time. I would go back again. My face feels clean and refreshing.

Received a facial from Althea and she was awesome. She made sure I was comfortable and everything was relaxing. Loved how glowing my face looked after.

Emily is the best!!! She is so gentle and takes her time. It was so relaxing. She does an amazing job!!! I would defiantly go back again!

I had facial done with Tatiana Heard. The place was very clean everyone was nice and professional. Tatiana was nice, funny, and did a great job! Will be coming again.

Makana Wellness Academy is AMAZING!!!! Everyone there is SOOOO friendly and as soon as you walk in you feel so welcomed! Then you enter the treatment room and the beds are like clouds of heaven! They are so soft and comfortable! Every person whos worked on me has been friendly and very professional. I always walk out feeling pampered, rejuvenated and relaxed. I HIGHLY recommend Makana!!!

It was my first time at Makana Academy and also my first facial ever! First thing you think about is, what would be good for my skin? Well, Royslen was very detailed, informative with products & made me feel comfortable to know that I was in good hands. I did the Chamomile facial with the pore purifying mask. Prior to my facial, my skin was very dull! no way to feel, right! well, after my service, I could walk around with no make up & not worry about my face looking dull! my skin was literally GLOWING! Thank you Royslen!

Just had the pumpkin facial done and it was the most relaxing experience I have had. It smells great and feels fantastic. The customer service was great they are very polite and cheerful. They are very well knowledgeable on there products and treatments. For sure coming back here!! Thank you so much to Julia Busenbark such an amazing job

My first facial experience was amazing!! They were kind, welcoming, and made me feel amazing! I am so thankful to have gone! Highly recommended!!

Althea did nice job with my wife’s facial. I would highly recommend Althea to do all my facials. Thank you!

My facial today with emily was a nice first experience with great pressure on the muscles. Everything was excellent over all and great onversation too. Thank you

Makana Esthetics not only got me ahead in life by teaching me a skill, it changed my entire life. Malia Sanchez is by far one of the most compassionate and understanding people, and those principles are echoed through the school. We were taught about self worth, the importance of giving back and being three change we wish to see in the world. Not to mention superior esthetic training, including skills that other establishments charge extra for. I am a graduate of 2009 and have been practicing since. Earned back my tuition in the first year of employment. I am forever indebted to Makana and Malia. If you want a career and be a part of the Makana family, come here!

If you’re looking for clean, quality, and excellent service, you need to book your next appointment with Kim Y. Her knowledge, professionalism, and warm personality puts her above the rest!

Makana Esthetics & Wellness Academy is absolutely amazing, everyone was so friendly and knowledgeable. Special thanks to the owner, Malia for being such a gracious host. Keep up the great work guys you are doing something truly amazing!

Today I had my first facial at Makana Esthetics! It was an awesome experience. Got to learn about my skin & freckles. My face was so fresh & so clean. Check it out

Its the best place to get facials and with low costs. There is facial deals on every month.I recommend Cari-Ann. She always gives excellent service and has good knowledge in facials. Also, I get the body scrub and synergie cellulite. The synergy feels like getting massage

The staff was very nice and the facial was amazing! My face feels great it was a great experience

Royslen is the best hands down, I’ve never had a facial in my life, & she made me GLOW up real quick!! Very informative gave me good advice so I can keep this face lookin fresh. I will definitely be back for her amazing service!

I received the Papaya Enzyme Facial from Alysia Dutton and it was amazing! She was very professional and informative throughout the entire service. It was hard to believe she was a student from her performance. I will DEFINITELY follow her wherever she goes. Thank you for making my skin look and feel beautiful, and thank you Makana Esthetics for being so amazing!

I was assisted by the wonderful, Althea. Althea recommended the, “Ultimate Facial” which is a 60 minute service that includes a microdermabrasion treatment followed with a Light Therapy device to heal my skin. My skin type is oily, acne-prone & the product selection from cleanser, serum & sunscreen felt phenomenal on my skin. Lightweight formulas that are gentle & safe, even for challenging skin. Thank you Althea & Makana Wellness Academy for reviving my skin.XOKrisseePoo

I had an amazing pumpkin facial and eyelash tint from Brooke Thibaudeau. She did such a great job, it was so relaxing and my skin was glowing when I was done. Highly recommend her services, very professional and kind!

Excellent service, love this place. Lareshia Lee did a great job!

Such a peaceful and relaxing environment to be in as soon as you walk through the doors, and on top of that I had the beautiful BEST of the BEST ROYSLIN take care me ! She is such a sweet person and is so knowledgeable to what she is doing exactly, answered all my questions, made me feel rejuvenated and my face overall felt AMAZING! Royslin is definitely the go to gal ! :)

I had an amazing experience with royslen, she did a basic facial as well as a high frequency add on with an eye brow tint. Talk about the ultimate fresh loook, walking out looking glam glowy and amazing. She was awesome. Her massages was great. Always hitting that stress point spot. Much needed.

Had a great experience with Lareshia today ! Got the papaya facial (: would definitely go back for another! Thank you !!!!

Absolutely love this place!! The service is always amazing and the treatments are wonderful.

Went here for my first facial ever and it was so relaxing.Thank you to Julia Busenbark for the great experience. My skin feels great. I recommend this to everyone.

Awesome experience Althea did an awesome job on my facial!

I flew all the way from LasVegas, Nevada to come to visit this amazing academy I’ve been following on Instagram. I had the Pumpkin Peeling Enzyme facial that was suggested since I’m a tennis player with sun damaged skin. If I lived in Oahu, I would definitely go there for all of my treatments

Makana Esthetics is truly, hands down, a fantastic place for all of your esthetic needs! I loved the signature Makana facial, as well as the hydra facial! The staff|students are so warm and welcoming, not surprising with the owner being the same way! I highly recommend Makana not only for esthetic needs, but also if you were ever wanting to pursue a career in the esthetic world! Thank you Makana Esthetics, I will be back soon:)

STUDENTS BEWARE!!!I understand the profound lack of choices of esthetician schools here in Hawaii. But you can do better than this. Dont waste your time and money attending this schoolThe owner and a few of the instructors are not good people. The school is run very poorly.Heres why1. Very unorganized in every aspect. From the way theory is taught, to how the class room time is structured. The syllabus that is provided is a very loose guide of what you would be receiving; as many things are forgotten or overlooked. Frequently, the licensed instructors dont show up or are very tardy. Lots of miscommunications.Theory throughout the program is rushed and delivered without much care for if the students are actually retaining the information. The different teaching styles create a learning gap in the beginning stages, the owner and other instructors are aware, but make no effort to fix this issue.2. Unprofessional! On many occasions the owner would enter the classroom and interrupt lesson to rant and ramble, often times about her personal and unrelated issues. These rants would go on for long periods of time, sometimes even over an hour or two.Recent (and unlicensed grads) were given jobs and would teach lessons and assist with services on clients. Many times there would be only one licensed instructor and the clinic floor students would preform services on clients under the supervision of unlicensed recent grads.3. Bad Business practices. The rules were not enforced equally amongst the students. Students who were favored over others, were allowed to violate several rules and policies; while others were not.Instead of maintaining service supplies and products (which in this setting are educational tools that should have been covered with tuition) the owner choose to purchase unrelated and unnecessary retail clothing and beauty items.On several occasions the owner and instructors would cheat the time clock by allowing students to leave early and they would clock them out at the correct time.The bottom line is, overall you dont get what you pay with this school. The owner and a few of the staff are not good people. Dont risk your money, time, and education. The other schools are better options by far.

I highly Makana Wellness Academy as the place to go for your all of your esthetic needs. I just received my first laser hair removal session on my face and am very happy to say that I am already seeing extremly positive/dramatic results, after just one treatment!!! The treatment was pain-free, fast, and the cost of the service just cant be beat.I also purchased Makanas signature Hibiscus Daily Green Tea Cleanser which yielded immediate results in calming and clearing my daughters teenage skin/acne...which was the cherry on top of my visit to Makana.Overall I was very impressed with the staff, the beautiful atmosphere and the way in which I was educated about the treatment I was given...Makana has a new life long customer in me!

I really wish I could write two reviews, one from the client’s perspective, and one from the spa owner’s perspective. Unfortunately I can’t, so I will have to roll both of these reviews into one.Let’s start with my opinion of this establishment as a loyal customer who received numerous facials and body treatments. I like how it is conveniently located right off Nimitz Highway. The front desk area is just beautiful and is better than most spas on the island. It definitely doesn’t have the feel of school. The front desk is usually manned by smiling and enthusiastic staff that makes you feel welcome the moment you pass through the door.This school has individual single client treatment rooms for the clinical / practical part unlike most of the esthetics school on the island or on th mainland. I actually felt comfortable undressing and getting ready for the spa treatment. They use high-end spa products such as Skinceuticals and other professional lines, unlike other schools which use the cheapest brands for students to practice on. The service was professional from the first “Aloha” as I walked through the door, the staff offering me the drink, walking me to the treatment room, soft music playing in the background and the estheticians explaining every step of the treatment. I enjoyed every service that I received there and I even bought two packages of full body treatments which I love. I just want to add that when I bought services there I would always go incognito, without letting anybody know that I am the owner of a spa in Honolulu.From the business perspective, as an owner of Honolulu Spa & Wellness I get really excited when I get to interview the students from Makana Esthetics Academy. The graduates of this school stand up during the interview process because they are more professional, nicer, and have better technique while demonstrating to me their facials during the practical part of the interview. I can honestly say that Makana Esthetics Wellness Academy really knows how to prepare its students for a real life positions in professional spa world.

Alysia Dutton best esthetitian I have experienced, not only shes very knowledgable of what she is doing, she gave me so much pointer on how to take care of my skin. She provides great customer service and help me feel very relax throughout my facial. She recommended me a product that Ive been using for a week to help with my dark spot and I am happy she did because I am seeing a lot of improvement on my skin. Highly recommend her for any future appointments.

First time to Makana, and was very happy with the signature facial I got from Tia, it was so soothing and relaxing, I booked another appointment.

Lovely, Relaxing atmosphere and the best facial ever from Rachel Spear Cote. Thanks for the special service and Loved the Academy.

Great services & all in a timely manner!

I would highly recommend this place to anyone whos either wanting to go to an esthetician school or making an appointment with any student attending Makana Academy. Right when I entered into the Academy, the receptionist greeted me with a smile and asked if I wanted water or tea while I waited for my esthetician. I just got an Ultimate Facial done by Elika Simmons. An Ultimate Facial includes Lymphatic Drainage, Light Therapy, and Microdermabrasion. She did very well by informing what each Facial does to your skin. Trust me when I say that it was very relaxing. There were a few times where I was falling asleep. After my Facial, she gave me a glass of water and informed me on some products that I may like that would help with my skin. Other than that, Ive had a great experience here at the Makana Academy!

I got an eyebrow wax from Brooke thibaudaeu and she did a fantastic job! I will only go to her from now on.

Need outdoor sign!