15 Best Beaches in Kihei, Hawaii

Kihei is a stunning census-designated place (CDP) in Maui County, Hawaii, United States. Its current population is estimated to be 16,749.

Kihei used to be the typical destination for traveling Hawaiian majesty, featuring a distinct collection of beaches.

The town’s beautiful beaches make it distinct from other towns, offering a variety of outdoor recreational activities.

So, if you’re a fan of sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and fishing, you have to make Kihei your next vacation location.

Let’s explore the best beaches in Kihei, Hawaii.

Best Beaches in Kihei, Hawaii

1. Kama’ole II (Kam 2)

Kama’ole II is the best place for a memorable family hangout due to its overwhelming beauty.

The beach features pristine white sand with calming waters. It is half the size of Kama’ole I.

It is also perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and building sand castles. It is even more excellent for families to explore tide pools during low tides.

Kama’ole II is more isolated than the other two, with a lifeguard tower located right in its center. There is a nice spot for taking stunning Instagram-worthy pictures.

The Beach features a grassy ground with picnic tables ideal for a premier outdoor meal.

Restrooms and showers are available, although there is a laid-out parking lot as vehicles get to park by the streets.

Address: Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

2. Maio Point Beach Park

Maio Point Beach Park, also referred to as Mai Poina’ Oe la’u Beach, is extremely large, with strong waves and winds. It is one of the best beaches in Kihei, Hawaii.

Maio Point Beach Park is the number one location for surfers in the town throughout the year. Regardless of its vogue, Maio Point Beach Park is hardly ever crowded. It is less noisy than other Kihei beaches.

It is an elongation of Sugar Beach with no available lifeguards, though showers and restrooms exist.

Maio Point Beach Park offers the opportunity to go jogging or a nice morning walk to watch the stunning sunset.

There are picnic tables plus a grassy park perfect for an afternoon meal with a couple of friends and loved ones.

The Beach is ideal for stand-up paddle boarding in the mornings, while windsurfing and kitesurfing are great in the afternoon.

Palm trees are lining each side of the Beach. The grassy areas give it some additional beauty.

Address: 353 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

3. Keaka Beach

Keaka Beach is located in the Southern part of Kalepolepo Beach Park. It is the beach seen below the rock wall. It is reputed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Kihei, Hawaii.

It is best to visit the beach in the morning to enjoy the views of the waters under the sun and carry out some water activities as the wind can become stronger in the afternoon.

This sandy beach is perfect for beachcombing, swimming, and quiet beach strolls. Keaka Beach is also an amazing option for hangouts and outings.

Address: Kihei, Hawaii 96753, United States

4. Maalaea Beach

Maalaea Beach is found beside the Kealia Coastal Boardwalk as an extension of Sugar Beach towards the south. 

Nonetheless, as you head towards the north side, the beach takes another form; the sand is more coaster mixed with debris and narrow.

The beach is quite long, and a large part of it is lined with houses, making it seem less crowded. Maalaea Beach is a great choice for sunset walks with lava beds for beach climbing.

Though it is not great for swimming or laying out, make sure you enjoy the 2.5-mile uninterrupted beach walk.

Maalaea Beach should be your next destination if you’re seeking an isolated place for some alone time. It is among the best beaches in Kihei, Hawaii.

Address: Maalaea Beach, Kihei, Hawaii 96753, United States

5. Waipuilani Beach Park

 Waipuilani Beach Park is an extended, narrow stretch with few dry spaces for visitors to sit, especially during high tide.

The Beach Park often features several beach debris like seaweed, trees, and rocks. You could visit for some quiet time with friends or family.

This is a perfect spot for watching, walking, and beachcombing while also catching a glimpse of the gorgeous Maui sunset.

Waipuilani Beach Park is also a fantastic place to have a nice picnic on the large grass with benches to sit on while you have a meal or watch the sunset.

Aside from beachcombing, Waipuilani Beach Park is great for playing tennis games as it features tennis courts.

Address: 980 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

6. Kenolio Beach

Kenolio Beach, also popularly known as Kihei Wharf, is located at the south end of Sugar Beach, diverged by a rocky outcrop.

Kenolio Beach is located not too far from Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice and Kihei Farmer’s Market.

The Beach becomes relatively narrow at high tide. It is usually windy, making it a bad choice for lounging or swimming.

However, it is a great place to see sea glass, including fascinating shells and rocks. Kenolio Beach is home to the Kihei Canoe Club, offering paddle programs to visitors on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The visitor paddle introduces you to Hawaiian culture and uncovers the facts of the local sea life.

Address: Kihei, Hawaii 96753, United States

7. Lipoa Street Beach

Though not one of the top beaches in Kihei, Lipoa Street Beach is definitely worth visiting for its natural appearance.

Lipoa Street Beach features a decent collection of palm trees, which creates great spots for pictures.

More than not, you will find Hawaiian honu or green turtles resting on the beach during afternoons.

Due to the poor management of the beach and the unkempt nature, many people would advise you to explore other beaches.

It is still a nice stop to make if you’re around the area, either to enjoy the sight of the sunset or turtles resting here.

Address: 70 W Lipoa St, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

8. Cove Beach Park

Cove Beach Park is located at Kalama’s Park’s southern end; true to its name, it is a miniature sand cove.

If you stay here long enough to get to the southern part of the cove, you will discover another small hidden beach.

Many people don’t know it actually exists. It is a great place for swimming, laying out, and snorkeling.

Cove Beach Park is one of the most loved beaches for body boarding, surfing, and stand-up paddle boarding.

The beach’s shaded cove forms calm waves for beginners, which is the reason surfing lessons are usually held here.

Address: 2126 Iliili Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

Also check out our list of Paragliding in Oahu and things to do in Kahului for a fun trip.

9. Kalepolepo Beach Park

Sitting on South Kihei Road, just beside the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, is Kalepolepo Beach. It features a popular old fishpond that was constructed around 1400 and 1500.

This place was a relaxing spot for prominent people, so some locals volunteered to renovate it and bring back its lost beauty.

During your time here, you also have the opportunity to see whales. Kalepolepo Beach is loved because the pond is maintained by natural springs flowing beneath it, ensuring the pond is warm.

The pond is a nice and safe place for the little ones to swim in. As you walk around the beach, you will find plaques teaching about the past and lifestyle of the native Hawaiians.

Kalepolepo Beach holds so much cultural significance to native Hawaiians, as it was once a growing Hawaiian village.

Visitors can explore the marine sanctuary nestled here if they are eager to learn about the humpback whales. The visitor center is open for free, showcasing intriguing displays, exhibits, and exciting family programs.

Address: S Kihei Rd & Kaonoulu St, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

10. Charley Young Beach

For those looking for a hidden place for an exquisite gateway from the noisy world to relax and have fun, Charley Young Beach is the best option.

Charley Young Beach is encompassed by ironwood trees, providing a shadowed appearance.

It is nestled in the north end of Kam 1 beach, a point known for its calmness. Regardless of its size, it is one of the best beaches in Kihei, Hawaii.

The Beach, stretching for about six hundred yards, provides a space perfect for a long walk with crystal and soft sand for kids to play with.

Finding swimming sea turtles at the far end of Charley Young Beach is possible. The beach is an excellent option for sunbathing or just relaxing with tall trees as shade.

Address: Charley Young Beach, Kihei, Hawaii 96753, United States

11. Sugar Beach

Sugar Beach’s shoreline, recognized for having the longest sand stretch on Maui, provides space for several activities.

From here, you get to enjoy fascinating views of Molokini, Kaho’olawe, and Lanai, the three islands close by.

Sugar Beach is not only known for its mesmerizing views but is rated one of the best beaches in Kihei, Hawaii, for its canoe clubs.

The Beach water is calm but shallow, with a spot where tourists can see whales as they often come out to play.

Its bay is perfect for swimming on the beach shore and stand-up paddles, and one of the two canoe clubs offers a visitors’ paddle program.

Sugar Beach is scattered with debris and rocks underwater with remains of the stone wharf, which is why visitors are advised to be careful to avoid injuries.

The Beach also features casual picnic tables for visitors to enjoy snacks or meals.

It is good to note that there are no lifeguards, so if you’re not a skilled swimmer, you have to be careful.

Address: 145 N Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

12. Kalama Beach Park

 

Kalama Beach Park features an enormous 36-acre park with a bit of a sandy beach, while the water is shallow and filled with stones.

The Beach is not regarded as so much of an attraction despite being a popular spot in the area, including the Cove Beach Park not far away from it.

It provides several recreational structures for the pleasure of the public. It is located in an area surrounded by numerous restaurants and shops.

Kalama Beach Park features a playground for children, a tennis and basketball court, a soccer field, a skating rink, and a baseball field.

There is a shaded pavilion with several facilities for loved ones to visit and enjoy a romantic picnic.

You might be lucky to witness festivals, outdoor concerts, and other sports events. There is a nice walkway perfect for a nice stroll through the Park.

Address: 1900 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

13. Kama’ole III (Kam 3)

What could be better than spending a beautiful sunny day at the stunning Kama’ole III (Kam 3)?

Kama’ole III is the smallest of the three Kamaole Beaches, although it has the biggest park area featuring several facilities.

The beach features a large green grass area with lots of picnic tables and BBQ grills, making it perfect for an intimate picnic.

There is a play area with swing sets for children to enjoy. It is great for snorkeling and body boarding, with a chance to explore tide pools.

Kama’ole III is characterized by its beautiful turquoise-blue water with shining golden sand. Its waters occasionally fluctuate, becoming rougher than its counterparts.

The Beach has the largest parking of the three, with amenities like showers and restrooms. The three beaches are linked through a small route so you can walk from one beach to the other.

For additional safety, there is always a lifeguard available. After exploring the waters, you could sit and have a great picnic.

Address: S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

14. Kama’ole I (KAM 1)

Why not visit a gorgeous beach where you can have some playtime with your family and friends?

Kama’ole I (KAM 1) is located in the southern part of Kihei Road. It is part of a group beach called Kam 1, Kam 2, and Kam 3, respectively.

Arguably, these three beaches of the Kama’ole State Beach Park are said to be the most popular ones in the city.

This is the largest beach amongst the three, though it is not as rocky as the rest, stretching out with Charley Young Beach at its North end.

It is one of the best-equipped beaches, featuring showers, parking lots, a volleyball court, restrooms, and picnic tables with BBQ grills.

Kam 1 is one of the best locations for swimming, building sandcastles, relaxing, and snorkeling. To experience an authentic Maui vacation, visit Kama’ole I (KAM 1).

Address: 2230 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States

15. Keawakapu Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in Kihei, Hawaii, and a great vacation spot for you and your family is Keawakapu Beach. It is a sandy beach with shimmering turquoise blue waters plus a beautiful backdrop set by West Maui mountains.

The Beach is open to exciting outdoor activities like snorkeling, swimming, and lounging.

It is located between North Kihei and South Wailea, with a length of 0.7 miles, providing an extended stretch of white sand.

Generally, Keawakapu Beach is busier at the northern end but quieter at the southern end, though more rockier.

Keawakapu Beach is said to have the calmest water in the city, making it a popular place for snorkeling and swimming. You might find turtles in the waters and feeding off the beach rocks at any of the ends.

Address: 2960 S Kihei Rd. Kihei, HI 96753, United States

Planning a road trip? check out our list of things to do in Honolulu, things to do in Kaanapali, and fun things to do in Kailua for a fun trip

Plan Your Trip to Kihei

Kihei is not so popular; many might not consider it when considering their next vacation destination.

However, it is one of the most incredible small places to visit in the United States. It offers the perfect gateway you’re looking for.