Discover the hidden gems of world-class beaches in Kihei. From the pristine white sands of Wailea Beach to the secluded tranquility of Charley Young Beach — find your perfect getaway with Hotala!

When you think of summer vacations, it’s not far-fetched that a picture of the beach will quickly come to mind. And when you list down bucket-list beach destinations, beaches in Kihei definitely deserve the top spots.
You can visit all year round, considering that the annual rainfall in Kihei is less than 13 inches (330 mm), making it the sunniest, driest beach town in Hawaii. Without a doubt, Kihei is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Maui, and we’re excited to share with you three of its best-kept secrets: Wailea, Keawakapu, and Charley Young Beach.
These beaches are not only stunning, but they’re also less crowded and more serene compared to other tourist-heavy beaches in Hawaii. Wailea, with its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Keawakapu, known for its long stretch of golden sand and picturesque sunsets, is an ideal place for families. Meanwhile, Charley Young Beach, with its calm waters and stunning views, is perfect for solo travelers looking for a peaceful retreat.
Beaches in Kihei: Maui’s South Shore Hideaways
Did you know that Kihei was once home to many of Maui’s earliest fishermen?
Today, though, it is more prominent for its beautiful and secluded beaches, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a rejuvenating retreat. The area is also home to a vibrant local community, offering visitors a taste of island life and culture.
Located near some of the best beaches in Maui, Kihei is the perfect Hawaiian destination to soak up the sun and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean while exploring its unique beaches.
Here are three of the best beaches near Kihei Maui that you won’t want to miss:
Wailea Beach

Wailea Beach always comes to mind when talking about a fun and lively island atmosphere. Known for its wide sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, there are plenty of things to do to keep you entertained.
Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from Aqualani Wailea and explore the picturesque coastline. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, book a snorkel tour and explore the nearby rocky point at the south end of the beach. For those who prefer to stay on land, take a stroll along the paved Wailea Beach Walk. It is a 1.3-mile shoreline path that offers stunning views of the ocean and can really rejuvenate the senses.
Keawakapu Beach
With its long stretch of golden sand and calm waters, Keawakapu Beach is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing Kihei vibe. A great spot for families and couples alike, it has plenty of opportunities for water sports and other activities.
And, with its close proximity to Kihei’s local shops and restaurants, you can easily spend the whole day enjoying everything this beach has to offer. Sunsets are also best viewed from this side of Maui. So, you might want to consider booking sunset-view accommodations in the area.
Charley Young Beach
Charley Young Beach is another unique and tranquil beach near Kihei, Maui. The beach is perfect for those seeking a more peaceful retreat as it is tucked away at the end of the stretch of beaches that form Kamaole Beach Park. Fortunately, it doesn’t get much foot traffic, so it offers a more secluded experience that many guests can truly appreciate.
When the water is calm, it is known as a good place to spot the awesome Hawaiian turtle. Don’t worry about stepping into private property as well; it is called Charley Young Beach, after a man who used to own the property above the beach, but he nor his family doesn’t own the beach itself. While the area above the beach might be privately owned, anyone can visit the beach itself.
Remember, all beaches in Maui, including the best beaches in Kihei, are open to the public, including those belonging to big-name resorts. So don’t be deterred by lounge chairs or private-looking beaches, as all are free to explore and enjoy!
Tips for a Fun Beach Day in Kihei
Now that three of Maui’s world-class beaches are not-so-secret anymore, it’s time to plan fun days at the best beaches in Kihei!
First-time visitors and seasoned beach-goers alike should take note of what to prepare to ensure a safe and enjoyable time at the beach.
Here are some tips to make the most out of your beach holiday in Kihei:
Pack the essentials
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and towels to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. And since you’re in Maui, it’s always best to bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
Avoid crowds
If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, try visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Also, consider exploring the lesser-known beaches near Kihei, such as Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve and La Perouse Bay. There’s more to find in both you can’t find anywhere else.
Consider kids and pets

Traveling with your kids or pets?
Might as well bring snacks, toys, and plenty of water to keep your little ones well-fed and hydrated throughout the day. When it comes to water activities, always supervise your children and never leave them unattended, especially if they’re not confident swimmers.
For furry companions, bring a leash and plenty of treats to keep them happy and comfortable throughout the day. It’s important to be mindful of the beach rules regarding pets, as some beaches may have restrictions or require leashes.
Be sure to review beach rules and regulations before heading out.
Stay safe
Always swim near a lifeguard and never swim alone. Ocean conditions can vary quickly at certain points of the day, so always check the surf forecast before heading to the beach.
With that, do not underestimate the power of the ocean and always take appropriate precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable beach day.
Respect the beach
Keep the beaches clean and pristine by disposing of trash properly. Also, please do avoid disturbing the wildlife. Maintain a safe distance from the animals, including sea turtles, and avoid touching or standing on coral reefs while snorkeling or scuba diving.
By keeping these tips in mind, you are guaranteed a fun and safe beach day in Kihei.
For World-Class Beaches in Kihei, Stay With Hotala
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When you book with Hotala, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best deals and accommodations for your beach vacation, be it in Kihei or beyond.
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TLDR
Kihei offers some of Maui’s best-kept secrets with its stunning and secluded beaches, including Wailea, Keawakapu, and Charley Young Beach. While planning your beach day, remember to pack the essentials, avoid crowds, and consider kids and pets.
And as a one-stop destination for travel needs, Hotala is a user-friendly platform that compares prices and reviews from multiple sources. Thus, making it easy to find the best deals in over 10 million accommodations worldwide.
Book your trip to the best beaches in Kihei now with Hotala!
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