Exploring the Best South Maui Beaches for Family Fun
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Hawaiian Islands, South Maui stands as a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. From the crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to the lush, grassy areas perfect for picnicking, South Maui has something for everyone. As a family of four, we embarked on a memorable journey to discover the best South Maui beaches, with our two young children in tow. In this 3000-word blog post, we'll share our personal experiences, favorite spots, and insider tips for an unforgettable beach adventure in South Maui.
Kamaole Beach Parks - A Trilogy of Delightful Beaches
Our South Maui beach adventure began with a visit to the renowned Kamaole Beach Parks, a trio of beautiful beaches located along South Kihei Road. Each of these beaches offers a unique experience, making them perfect for families like ours.
Our South Maui beach adventure began with a visit to the renowned Kamaole Beach Parks, a trio of beautiful beaches located along South Kihei Road. Each of these beaches offers a unique experience, making them perfect for families like ours.
Kamaole Beach I (Kam I)
Our first stop was Kamaole Beach I, also known as Kam I. This beach is a great place to start your South Maui journey, especially if you're traveling with kids. The waters here are calm and shallow, making it perfect for young ones to splash around safely. We spent hours building sandcastles and enjoying the gentle waves. The beach area is equipped with picnic tables, barbecue grills, and a grassy area for family picnics, making it an ideal spot for a fun beach day. With a lifeguard station nearby, it offers an extra layer of safety, especially for families.
Kamaole Beach II (Kam II)
Kamaole Beach II, or Kam II, is another gem in the Kamaole trio. This beach is conveniently located across the street from excellent dining options like Coconuts and a delightful ice cream shop. After a morning of playing in the clear waters and exploring the rocky outcrops, we treated ourselves to some delicious treats. Kam II is also a fantastic place for water sports like paddle boarding and surfing "baby waves," which the kids absolutely loved. However, it's important to note that there's only street parking available here, so be prepared for a short walk to the beach.
Kamaole Beach III (Kam III) - The Ideal Sunset Spot
Kamaole Beach III, or Kam III, is a local favorite, known for its beautiful beaches and as the perfect sunset location. As the day transitioned to evening, we made our way to Kam III to witness a breathtaking Hawaiian sunset. The vivid colors painting the sky were a sight to behold, and the kids were captivated by the magical moment. Kam III also boasts a large parking lot and restroom facilities, making it incredibly convenient for families. The grassy area here is a perfect place to picnic as you wait for the sun to dip below the horizon. With a lifeguard station nearby and its central location, Kam III offers everything you need for a memorable beach outing. Remember to check ocean conditions before heading out for the day.
Additional Tips for the Kamaole Beach Parks
Kamaole Beach I tends to have the smallest waves, making it suitable for young children who want to wade in the water.
All three of the Kamaole Beach Parks have lifeguard stations, ensuring the safety of beachgoers. However, it's always essential to keep a close watch on your children, especially in the water.
Parking varies at each beach. Kam III has a large parking lot, Kam II relies on street parking, and Kam I has a very small parking lot. Arriving early can help secure parking, especially during peak times.
As we continued our journey through South Maui, these Kamaole Beach Parks provided the perfect blend of relaxation, dining convenience, and natural beauty. They are a testament to the beauty and diversity of South Maui's coastline, catering to families seeking different beach experiences within close proximity.
Sugar Beach - A Serene Stretch of Paradise
Our next destination on our South Maui beach adventure was Sugar Beach, also known as Mai Poina Beach Park. This beach is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil retreat away from the crowds and boasts its unique charm.
Sugar Beach Park (Mai Poina Beach Park)
Sugar Beach Park is a bit more off the beaten path, with few amenities and road-side parking. This serene stretch of shoreline is a haven for those seeking a quieter, more secluded beach experience. As we arrived, we immediately noticed the absence of large crowds, which allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the area.
One of the standout features of Sugar Beach is its length. Stretching for miles, it's a perfect beach for leisurely walks, where you can stroll hand in hand with your loved ones, gazing out at the vastness of the Pacific Ocean (if that's your thing). The beach's isolation adds to its charm, making it an excellent spot for those who prefer solitude and serenity.
The waves at Sugar Beach can vary depending on the day. While it is known for its gentle waves that are suitable for swimming, it's always wise to check the ocean conditions before taking a dip. During our visit, the waves were indeed gentle, making it a pleasant experience for the kids to wade in the clear waters.
In terms of amenities, Sugar Beach Park is more of a back-to-basics destination, so make sure to bring your own beach gear, snacks, and refreshments. The absence of lifeguard stations emphasizes the importance of vigilant supervision, especially if you're traveling with children.
Although Sugar Beach may lack some of the conveniences found at more popular beaches, its natural beauty and tranquility more than make up for it. It's a place where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature, creating lasting memories with your family against the backdrop of South Maui's stunning coastline. Our family also participated in a beach clean up event at sugar beach, and the amount of garbage that was collected was pretty astonishing. The other thing to keep in mind at Maui beaches is that some of the plants that fall into the sand have some serious spikes. It's best to wear shoes until you get all the way onto the sand and are past the "pokies" as my kids refer to them.
Charley Young Beach - A Hidden Gem
As we continued our exploration of South Maui, we stumbled upon Charley Young Beach, a hidden gem tucked away near Kalama Beach Park. This small beach offers a different vibe compared to the larger, more popular spots. It is at the far end of Kam I, but most people don't walk all the way down there, so it tends to be less crowded.
Charley Young Beach
Charley Young Beach is a local favorite and a great place to escape the crowds. The beach has a small parking lot, so it's best to arrive early. We loved the relaxed atmosphere and the gentle waves that were perfect for the kids to practice their surfing skills on "baby waves." The rocky outcrops on either end of the beach provide excellent snorkeling opportunities and a chance to spot some of Maui's vibrant marine life.
Kalama Beach Park - A Blend of Recreation and Hawaiian Culture
Our South Maui beach adventure continued with a visit to Kalama Beach Park, a delightful destination that seamlessly blends outdoor recreation with a touch of Hawaiian culture and history.
Kalama Beach Park
Kalama Beach Park was a stop for us primarily because of the huge outdoor playground! With it's central location and easy parking this beach park offers a wide range of activities and amenities that cater to both locals and tourists. It's an ideal place to take a surf lesson! The actual sand and water access isn't great here. There are a few entry points, but it's mostly rocky, which is why most people choose to surf or paddle board from this location.
One of the standout features of Kalama Beach Park is its accessibility. With a large parking lot, restrooms, and picnic areas, it's incredibly convenient for families. We appreciated the ample parking space, which made our visit hassle-free. The park also features barbecue grills, making it an excellent spot for a family picnic while enjoying the gorgeous South Maui weather.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Kalama Beach Park has tennis courts and a skate park, providing entertainment options for visitors of all ages. It's a fantastic place for families to spend the day, with opportunities for sports and recreation just steps away from the beach.
But Kalama Beach Park is not just about fun and games; it also offers a glimpse into Hawaiian history and culture. The park is home to the Hauola Stone, a sacred stone believed to possess healing powers. We took the time to learn about the stone's significance and the ancient Hawaiian traditions associated with it. It was a fascinating and educational experience for our family, allowing us to connect with the rich heritage of the Hawaiian Islands.
While Kalama Beach Park may not have the extensive sandy shores of some other South Maui beaches, its central location, family-friendly amenities, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination. It's a place where you can enjoy outdoor activities, relax in the shade of towering palm trees, and gain a deeper appreciation for the Hawaiian culture that permeates the island of Maui.
Our visit to Kalama Beach Park added a unique dimension to our South Maui beach adventure, reminding us that there's more to explore beyond the pristine shores and inviting waters. It's a place where recreation and culture come together, creating a well-rounded and enriching experience for families seeking both fun and education in South Maui.
Keawakapu Beach - Watersports and Whale Watching
Our South Maui beach adventure led us to Keawakapu Beach, a picturesque stretch of shoreline where water sports and the magic of whale watching come together. Located in close proximity to a hotel, Keawakapu Beach offers both convenience and exciting recreational opportunities.
Keawakapu Beach
As we approached Keawakapu Beach, we noticed the presence of a hotel right in front of it. While this might lead some to believe that the beach is exclusive, we were delighted to discover that public parking spaces are available for beachgoers. The hotel, in fact, adds a touch of convenience to the experience, as it offers water sports rentals such as kayaks and paddleboards.
One of our most memorable experiences at Keawakapu Beach occurred during the winter months when we rented kayaks for an incredible whale-watching adventure. The waters off the coast of Maui are known for their frequent visits by majestic humpback whales during the winter migration season. Launching our kayaks from the beach, we ventured out into the clear waters and watched in awe as these magnificent creatures breached and played in the distance. It was a sight that left a lasting impression on our family and added an element of wonder to our beach adventure.
The availability of kayaks and paddleboards for rent at the hotel opens up a world of exploration on the water. Whether you're a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a beginner looking for an exciting adventure, Keawakapu Beach has something to offer. Paddling along the coastline, we marveled at the spectacular views of the West Maui mountains and the crystal-clear waters. It was an experience that allowed us to connect with the natural beauty of South Maui in a unique and active way.
Keawakapu Beach is also an ideal spot for families who want to introduce their children to the joys of water sports. The calm and clear waters make it a safe and enjoyable environment for kayaking and paddle boarding, even for beginners.
The presence of a hotel nearby means that amenities such as restrooms and dining options are within reach, making it easy to spend a full day at the beach without missing out on the comforts of civilization.
Our visit to Keawakapu Beach was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, where we immersed ourselves in the world of water sports and witnessed the awe-inspiring spectacle of humpback whales during their winter visit. It's a beach that offers not only natural beauty but also the thrill of exploration, making it a must-visit destination for families seeking a dynamic South Maui beach experience.
If you drive past the hotels, there is also public parking at the far end of the beach. It's a long beach so you can choose a few less people and less amenities, or more people and more convenience in terms of rentals/ restaurant.
Makena Beach State Park - A Beachgoer's Paradise
Our journey through South Maui wouldn't be complete without a visit to Makena Beach State Park, home to two iconic beaches: Big Beach and Little Beach. These beaches are known for their natural beauty and offer a taste of South Maui's wild side. Both of these beaches are STUNNING. Absolutely gorgeous scenery, and that's saying something because everywhere in Maui is breathtaking. HOWEVER, these are not swimming beaches in my opinion. I have never and will never let my kids swim here. The waves are powerful and have caused many injuries. Enjoy the beach, play in the sand, have a picnic, but be smart about the ocean.
Big Beach
Big Beach, also known as Oneloa Beach, is a must-visit for beachgoers seeking adventure. The kids had a blast playing in the soft, golden sand and splashing in the waves. While the surf here can be larger than at some of the other beaches we visited, there are sections with calmer waters that are suitable for swimming. The beach's gentle slope makes it a great place for families, but it's essential to keep an eye on the kids, especially when the surf is up.
Little Beach
For those seeking a unique experience, a short hike over the rocky points at the north end of Big Beach leads to Little Beach. Little Beach is famous for its clothing-optional policy, which adds a touch of bohemian charm to the area. We ventured here during sunset to watch the mesmerizing fire dancers and drum circles—a truly unforgettable experience.
Ulua Beach - Snorkeling Paradise and Family-Friendly Fun
Our South Maui beach adventure took an exciting turn when we made our way to Ulua Beach, a hidden gem that offers incredible snorkeling opportunities and family-friendly fun. Nestled beside the Andaz hotel, Ulua Beach provides access to a world of underwater wonders.
Ulua Beach
Upon arriving at Ulua Beach, we immediately noticed a unique feature—it doesn't have a lifeguard station. While this means that beachgoers should exercise caution and ensure they have the necessary safety equipment, it doesn't diminish the beach's allure. Accessing the beach is quite straightforward; you'll need to turn in beside the Andaz hotel.
One of the first things you'll notice about Ulua Beach is that it has only about 10 parking spots. However, don't be discouraged if you find them occupied upon arrival. Waiting for 10 to 20 minutes to secure a parking spot is perfectly normal here, as people are constantly coming and going. The patience pays off, as Ulua Beach has a lot to offer.
The magic of Ulua Beach lies beneath the surface. As we ventured into the water, we were treated to a snorkeler's paradise. Schools of vibrant fish and stunning coral formations greeted us within just 10 feet of the shoreline. This accessibility is a boon for less adventurous snorkelers, as it provides an opportunity to appreciate the underwater world without venturing too far from the beach. We spent hours marveling at the marine life and spotting Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles gliding gracefully through the clear waters.
Ulua Beach's location in a protected cove means that the waves are typically smaller here, making it an ideal spot for families with children who want to play in the waves. The sandy bottom and gentle waters create a safe and enjoyable environment for those who prefer swimming and splashing around closer to the shore.
The beach's unique combination of excellent snorkeling, family-friendly conditions, and easy accessibility makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're an avid snorkeler, a family looking for a fun day at the beach, or simply seeking a tranquil spot to relax and enjoy the scenery, Ulua Beach caters to all tastes.
Our visit to Ulua Beach left us with a deep appreciation for the wonders of the underwater world and the beauty of South Maui's coastline. It's a beach that showcases the diversity of experiences you can enjoy on the island, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Kalepolepo Beach Park - A Touch of Hawaiian History
Our beach adventure in South Maui took an educational turn as we visited Kalepolepo Beach Park. This beach offers not only natural beauty but also a glimpse into Hawaiian history and culture.
Kalepolepo Beach Park
Kalepolepo Beach Park is home to the Hauola Stone, a sacred stone believed to possess healing powers. As we explored the area, we learned about the ancient Hawaiian traditions and the significance of this sacred site. The beach itself is relatively small but offers calm waters, making it an ideal spot for young children to swim safely. The kids enjoyed building sandcastles while we appreciated the historical significance of the place.
Exploring South Maui - Beyond the Beaches
While South Maui's beaches are undeniably captivating, there's more to explore in this beautiful region. We ventured beyond the shoreline to discover some exciting outdoor activities and attractions that made our family vacation even more memorable.
Maui Ocean Center
Located near Keawakapu Beach, the Maui Ocean Center is a must-visit for families. This ocean-themed aquarium provides a fascinating educational experience for kids and adults alike. We were amazed by the diverse marine life showcased in the center's exhibits, and the kids had a blast at the interactive touch tanks. It's a perfect place to learn about the marine life that surrounds the Hawaiian Islands.
Outdoor Activities
South Maui offers a variety of outdoor activities for active families. If your kids enjoy skateboarding, Kalama Beach Park features a skate park where they can practice their skills. Additionally, tennis courts are available at various beach parks for those looking to play a game or two.
Shopping and Dining
For those who enjoy shopping and dining, South Maui has several shopping centers and grocery stores where you can stock up on supplies or indulge in some retail therapy. The Grand Wailea, a luxurious resort on the southwest coast, is worth a visit for its upscale shopping and dining options.
Conclusion - South Maui's Treasures Await
In conclusion, our family's adventure in South Maui was filled with unforgettable moments and natural wonders. From the calm waters of Kamaole Beach Parks to the thrilling snorkeling at Ulua Beach and the serene beauty of Sugar Beach, South Maui's beaches have something for every family to enjoy. As we explored this stunning region, we discovered that South Maui's treasures extend beyond the shoreline, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and attractions.
Whether you're seeking a relaxing day at the beach, a thrilling snorkeling experience, or a glimpse into Hawaiian history and culture, South Maui has it all. As the sun sets over this enchanting island, we can't help but cherish the memories of our family beach adventure in South Maui—a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor fun, and cultural enrichment.
So, pack your sunscreen, grab your snorkeling gear, and get ready to explore the best of South Maui with your family. It's a journey you'll treasure for a lifetime, just as we have.
