Ready for paradise? While living on Maui, I discovered calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, sunsets that lit up the sky, and early morning walks with sea turtles as company. "The stunning beaches in Kihei, Maui offer golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets, perfect for relaxing or adventure-packed days. "
Highlights:
Recommended Beaches in Kihei, Maui:
1. Kalepolepo Beach Park - 25 minutes from Kahului Airport
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Kalepolepo Beach Park, 726 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii 96753Recommended For:
Wildlife lovers, nature enthusiasts, families, and cultural history buffsWhat I Love: ♥
Kalepolepo Beach Park blends natural beauty and heritage, offering a historic fishpond, warm waters, and a chance to spot humpback whales in season.- Watch for humpback whales offshore—this beach is part of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.
- Swim in the protected, naturally warm waters of the ancient royal fishpond, ideal for small children and families.
- Discover the cultural significance of the fishpond through interpretive plaques and signage around the park.
- Relax under the shade trees or bring a picnic for a peaceful beach day away from the larger crowds.
Cost:
Free public access. Limited parking available on-site. No entry fees.Best time to visit:
Winter months for whale watching. Mornings and late afternoons for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.Local tips:
Bring binoculars for the best chance to spot whales. Wear water shoes in the pond due to natural rocks. Pack a lunch and enjoy it near the shaded picnic areas.Distance:
Centrally located in Kihei, about 25 minutes from Kahului Airport (OGG).How to Get to Kalepolepo Beach Park:
From Pi’ilani Highway, take the S Kihei Road exit and head south. The beach park entrance is near the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary visitor center.2. Kamaole - 30 minutes from Kahului
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Location:
Kamaole Beach Parks I, II & III, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii 96753Recommended For:
Families, beach game enthusiasts, casual hikers, tide pool explorers, and picnic loversWhat I Love: ♥
Kamaole Beach Parks offer three distinct experiences—Kam I for activity and family fun, Kam II for quiet tide pool discovery, and Kam III for scenic walks and views.- Play beach volleyball, grill lunch, or picnic with friends at Kam I, which features public restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and BBQs.
- Explore tide pools and gentle shoreline paths at Kam II—perfect for nature lovers and kids eager to find sea life.
- Hike along the scenic coastal trail starting at Kam III, offering stunning vistas and a more tranquil beach vibe.
- Relax on the soft sands of Charley Young Beach at the north end of Kam I for a quieter beach day.
Cost:
Free public access with no entry fee. Street and small lot parking available near each park.Best time to visit:
Mornings for easier parking and gentler surf. Sunset is ideal for scenic walks and photos.Local tips:
Bring snorkel gear for calm mornings—turtles are often spotted near rocky edges. Use Kam I’s amenities for group outings, and don’t forget sunscreen and reusable water bottles.Distance:
Located along South Kihei Road, easily accessible from central Kihei and just 25–30 minutes from Kahului Airport (OGG).How to Get to Kamaole Beach Parks:
Drive south on South Kihei Road. Kam I, II, and III are spaced sequentially along the coast. Public beach access signs mark each entrance; parking lots and street parking available nearby.Romantic Beaches in Kihei, Maui:
3. Mai Poina ‘Oe Ia‘u Beach Park - 10 minutes south of Kihei
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Location:
Mai Poina ‘Oe Ia’u Beach Park, 5450 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii 96753Recommended For:
Surfers, windsurfers, couples, beach walkers, and familiesWhat I Love: ♥
This long, open beach offers ideal conditions for windsurfing and surfing year-round, along with scenic sunsets and peaceful vibes perfect for couples or laid-back family outings.- Surf or windsurf along this expansive beach, known for steady wind and wave conditions.
- Stroll hand-in-hand with a partner at sunset—the beach’s length and quiet ambiance make it especially romantic.
- Picnic with friends or family under shaded areas, enjoying the open skies and coastal breeze.
- Watch skilled surfers tackle the waves from the comfort of your towel—great views without the crowds.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Small parking lot and limited street parking available.Best time to visit:
Afternoons for windsurfing; sunset for spectacular ocean views and photo opportunities.Local tips:
Bring a beach mat and umbrella—shade is limited. This is not a swimming or snorkeling beach, so sit back and enjoy the surf action. Pack drinks and snacks as amenities are minimal.Distance:
About 10 minutes south of central Kihei, located off South Kihei Road near the boundary with Wailea.How to Get to Mai Poina ‘Oe Ia’u Beach Park:
Drive south on South Kihei Road. The entrance to the beach park is near the intersection with Ohukai Road. Look for signage and beach access points along the roadside.4. Waiohuli Beach - Centrally located in Kihei
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Location:
Waiohuli Beach, 2237 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii 96753Recommended For:
Couples, solitude seekers, locals, and relaxed beachgoersWhat I Love: ♥
Waiohuli Beach is a peaceful, hidden gem in Kihei—rarely crowded and perfect for quiet moments, whether solo or with someone special.- Escape the hustle and bustle of Kihei's main beaches and enjoy the serenity of this local favorite.
- Relax with a book, the sound of waves, or a quiet chat with friends or loved ones.
- Listen to the wind and ocean in a peaceful, natural setting where you won’t be disturbed by crowds.
- Enjoy a sunset or peaceful beach walk on a small stretch of sand known mostly to locals.
Cost:
Free public access. Street parking is available nearby, but limited.Best time to visit:
Any time of day for peace and quiet—sunset is especially magical for tranquil views and cool breezes.Local tips:
Bring your own beach mat or chair—there are no amenities or facilities here. It’s not a beach for swimming, so come for the solitude and scenery instead.Distance:
Centrally located in Kihei, just a short drive or walk from many local accommodations and shops.How to Get to Waiohuli Beach:
Located off South Kihei Road near the Waiohuli Beach Hale complex. Look for a narrow public access path between buildings to reach the shoreline.Family Beaches in Kihei, Maui:
5. Sugar Beach - 25 minutes from Kahului
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Location:
Sugar Beach (Kealia Beach), North Kihei Rd, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii 96753Recommended For:
Solitude seekers, water sports enthusiasts, walkers, and nature loversWhat I Love: ♥
Sugar Beach—also known as Kealia Beach—is one of Maui’s longest and most underrated stretches of sand, ideal for quiet escapes, long walks, and exhilarating water sports without the crowds.- Walk along 2.5 miles of uninterrupted shoreline stretching from North Kihei to Haycraft Park in Ma’alaea.
- Paddle or kayak through the calm morning waters—this beach is a favorite among local water sport enthusiasts.
- Surf the wind with a kite or sail as conditions often favor windsurfing and kite surfing.
- Escape the crowds and discover a peaceful, spacious beach that’s often overlooked by tourists.
Cost:
Free public access. No restrooms or on-site facilities, and parking is limited along the road.Best time to visit:
Early mornings for calm waters and fewer people; sunsets are quiet and scenic with a golden glow on the long shoreline.Local tips:
Bring your own supplies—there are no restrooms or concessions. Great for jogging or beachcombing. Watch for green sea turtles resting along the sand.Distance:
Located along North Kihei Road, just 10 minutes from central Kihei and 20–25 minutes from Kahului Airport (OGG).How to Get to Sugar Beach:
Drive north on South Kihei Road until it merges into North Kihei Road. Beach access points are located along the road, especially near the Kealia Coastal Boardwalk.6. Charley Young Beach - Located in northern Kihei
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Location:
Charley Young Beach, North end of Kamaole I Beach, Kihei, Maui, Hawaii 96753Recommended For:
Nature lovers, boogie boarders, anglers, and those seeking scenic, lesser-known beachesWhat I Love: ♥
Tucked away at the north end of Kamaole I, Charley Young Beach is a hidden gem known for its stunning scenery, peaceful vibe, and frequent sea turtle sightings.- Spot sea turtles cruising along the coast—a highlight for wildlife watchers and beach photographers.
- Boogie board on swells that roll into this rugged section of shoreline, especially during active surf days.
- Fish from the rocky edges or sandy shores where locals often cast lines in the early morning and evening.
- Relax on one of Kihei’s most picturesque beaches, far from crowds thanks to its limited parking and tucked-away access.
Cost:
Free public access. Extremely limited parking (about 3 spaces), so arrive early or walk from nearby Kamaole I lot.Best time to visit:
Early morning for turtle sightings and parking availability. Late afternoon offers golden-hour lighting and quieter ambiance.Local tips:
Bring your own shade and water—no facilities are on-site. Strong surf and currents can appear quickly, so swim with caution and check conditions before entering the water.Distance:
Located in northern Kihei, just minutes from central hotels and shops. Access is from Kaiau Place off South Kihei Road.How to Get to Charley Young Beach:
Turn onto Kaiau Place from South Kihei Road. Look for a narrow beach access point with minimal signage. Parking is limited—overflow parking can be found at Kamaole I Beach Park.7. More Info About Kihei Beaches
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Hawaii, the Aloha State, is well-known for its world class weather, gorgeous scenery, and very friendly people. It's a highly popular tourist destination, with several islands to explore and lots of forests and sandy spaces to enjoy. Hawaii is a great place to visit for people who are looking to get away from the stresses of their lives and get in touch with nature, and there are lots of thrilling and exciting activities to be enjoyed across the island state. Not only that, but during your Hawaii vacation, you’ll also have plenty of chances to experience the lovely local culture and try out some typical Hawaiian food and drink. All-in-all, a trip to Hawaii is a wonderful way to spend some time and Kihei is one of the prettiest regions across the Hawaiian Islands.
Beaches can be found all over the globe. Almost every country with a coastline has some beautiful beaches to enjoy, but some of the world's seafront spots are much more popular than others due to their beauty, comfort, and local attractions. Some beaches are too rocky and rough to really be suitable for fun activities like sunbathing and swimming, so many people choose to travel to tropical locations and paradisiacal islands in order to enjoy the sights and sounds of the prettiest beaches. And if you want to see some of the best beaches in the United States of America, Hawaii is the place to be.
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