
Keawakapu Beach Kihei
A stunning stretch of golden sand between Kihei and Wailea, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and breathtaking sunsets.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters for swimming

Keawakapu Beach Kihei
Best Time
Calm waters for swimming

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning stretch of golden sand between Kihei and Wailea, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and breathtaking sunsets.
"Keawakapu Beach is a gem with soft sand, clear waters, and fewer crowds than other Maui beaches."

🚗 Easy Parking Access
There are two parking lots with easy beach access, but they fill up fast! Arrive early.
🐢 Snorkel with Turtles
Look for sea turtles near the rocks for an amazing snorkeling experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Sands and Calm Waters
Keawakapu Beach
Experience the incredibly smooth, soft sand and gentle waves perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Snorkeling Adventures
Rocky outcrops
Discover vibrant marine life and sea turtles while snorkeling near the beach's interesting rock formations.
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Spectacular Sunsets
Keawakapu Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for Prime Spots
Pack for Comfort and Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Parking Access
There are two parking lots with easy beach access, but they fill up fast! Arrive early.
🐢 Snorkel with Turtles
Look for sea turtles near the rocks for an amazing snorkeling experience.
🚶♀️ Long Beach Walks
Enjoy peaceful strolls along the 0.7-mile stretch of beautiful, wide sand.
☀️ Grassy Relaxation
Beyond the sand, find comfortable grassy areas perfect for lounging.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Parking Access
There are two parking lots with easy beach access, but they fill up fast! Arrive early.
🐢 Snorkel with Turtles
Look for sea turtles near the rocks for an amazing snorkeling experience.
🚶♀️ Long Beach Walks
Enjoy peaceful strolls along the 0.7-mile stretch of beautiful, wide sand.
☀️ Grassy Relaxation
Beyond the sand, find comfortable grassy areas perfect for lounging.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Keawakapu is a prime spot for watching the sun dip below the horizon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Keawakapu Beach is widely praised for its exceptionally smooth sand, clear waters, and suitability for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors appreciate the beautiful scenery, stunning sunsets, and the availability of grassy areas for relaxation. While parking and restroom facilities can be a drawback, the overall experience is highly positive, making it a gem for a relaxed beach day.
"This beach was recommended by several staff from our hotel. The beach is beautiful with its very smooth sand. It’s a little tricky navigating from the parking lot while carrying beach chairs and umbrellas. The place was crowded when we visited, I can see why there why the place is popular with swimmers."
Susanna SS
"Smooth sand (virtually no rocks). Grassy area next to the sand for even more comfortable seating. Beautiful water, great temperature. Waves were pleasant. Free parking/access. This beach was "just right" for us."
Benjamin Colsten
"Keawakapu Beach is a gem with soft sand, clear waters, and fewer crowds than other Maui beaches. It’s great for swimming, snorkeling near the rocky outcrops, and long walks along the shore. Sunsets here are stunning, and morning visits offer calm waters. Limited parking means arriving early is best. There are showers but no public restrooms. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot perfect for a relaxed beach day."
Shane Perry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Keawakapu Beach is conveniently located on the border of Kihei and Wailea. You can access it via South Kihei Road, with three main beach access points: near the Mana Kai Resort, at Kilohana Drive, and at the end of South Kihei Road.
Driving from other parts of Maui is common, with travel times varying.Yes, Keawakapu Beach has two parking lots, offering easy access to the shore. However, these lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
While direct bus routes to Keawakapu Beach might be limited, Kihei is accessible by bus from other parts of Maui. You can take the bus to Kihei and then potentially walk or take a short ride to the beach.
From Kahului Airport (OGG), the most convenient way to reach Keawakapu Beach is by rental car, which takes about 25-30 minutes. Alternatively, ride-sharing services or pre-booked shuttles are available.
The beach has parking lots and generally easy access to the sand. However, navigating from the parking lot with beach gear can be a bit tricky, and the sand itself can be soft.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Keawakapu Beach offers free public access and parking, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for enjoying Maui's coastline.
Keawakapu Beach is a public beach and is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no official closing times, but it's advisable to leave before dark for safety.
No, tickets are not required for Keawakapu Beach as it is a public park. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
While generally open, it's always a good idea to check local advisories for any temporary closures or restrictions due to weather or ocean conditions, as seen after storms.
Public beaches are typically not lit at night, and it's recommended to leave before dark for safety reasons. Enjoy the beach during daylight hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Keawakapu Beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling near the rocky areas, sunbathing on its smooth sand, and taking long, scenic walks along the shore.
It's also a popular spot for water sports like wing foiling.Yes, Keawakapu Beach is known for its calm waters and smooth sand, making it excellent for swimming.
The waves are generally pleasant, though conditions can vary.The sand at Keawakapu Beach is exceptionally smooth and soft, with virtually no rocks, providing a comfortable surface for lounging and walking.
While there are showers available for rinsing off, public restrooms are not consistently maintained or available at Keawakapu Beach.
Keawakapu Beach can get crowded, especially during peak hours and seasons, but it's often less crowded than some other popular Maui beaches. Arriving early helps avoid the busiest times.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography at Keawakapu Beach.
Capture the expansive golden sands, the clear turquoise waters, the rocky outcrops perfect for framing shots, and of course, the stunning sunset views.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check current FAA and local Maui guidelines before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
Look for opportunities to photograph sea turtles near the shore, surfers or foilers on the water, and the unique textures of the sand and rocks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a full day of family fun, combine a visit to Keawakapu Beach with exploring other nearby Kihei attractions. Many family-friendly resorts and condo rentals are available in the Kihei area, offering convenient amenities and easy access to the beach. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and snacks to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize Maui's public transportation system, like the bus, to get around Kihei and to Keawakapu Beach, which is a cost-effective alternative to car rentals. Many local eateries in Kihei offer delicious and reasonably priced meals, allowing you to experience local flavors without breaking the bank.
couples
Explore the nearby upscale dining options in Wailea or enjoy a casual, delicious meal in Kihei. The tranquil atmosphere of Keawakapu Beach provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and connection.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Keawakapu Beach: A Traveler's Guide
This beach is a top contender for one of Maui's best, offering a fantastic experience for various activities. It's particularly well-suited for swimming due to its generally calm waters and pleasant wave conditions. Snorkeling is another highlight, with interesting rocky outcrops providing habitats for marine life, including frequent sightings of sea turtles. For those seeking more active pursuits, Keawakapu Beach is also a popular spot for water sports like wing foiling and surf foiling, showcasing the dynamic energy of the ocean.
Visitors often praise Keawakapu Beach for its scenic beauty and relatively peaceful atmosphere, though it can become crowded during peak times. The beach offers convenient access with two parking lots, though arriving early is advised to secure a spot. While showers are available, public restrooms are not always consistently maintained. The sunsets at Keawakapu Beach are legendary, providing a breathtaking backdrop for an evening stroll or a moment of quiet reflection.
Kihei's Coastal Charm: Beyond Keawakapu Beach
For foodies, Kihei is a culinary hotspot. From delicious malasadas at Sugar Beach Bakery to hearty brunches at Nalu's, there are plenty of spots to satisfy your cravings. The town also boasts unique eateries and is known for its diverse food scene, making it a great place to explore local flavors. Beyond the beaches, Kihei offers opportunities for exploring unique geological formations like the Lava Fields at La Perouse Bay, adding an adventurous element to your trip.
Getting around Kihei and to other parts of Maui is relatively straightforward. While renting a car is the most convenient option, the local bus system offers an affordable way to travel, with day passes available. Kihei's central location on the south shore makes it an excellent starting point for day trips to various parts of the island, from the scenic Road to Hana to the summit of Haleakala.
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