The best family beaches in Kihei are the three Kamaole beach parks and Keawakapu Beach, and with small kids any of the Kamaole parks is the right call. All three are lifeguarded every day from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., and each has restrooms, showers and picnic tables. Kamaole I is the easiest all-round, Kamaole II is good for a first snorkel, and Kamaole III has a big lawn and a playground next to the sand. Keawakapu is the long, quiet beach just south, good for walks but not lifeguarded.
| Beach Name | Key Amenity | Booking Options |
|---|---|---|
| Kamaole I | Restrooms & Showers | Booking.com Expedia VRBO |
| Kamaole II | Restrooms & Showers | Booking.com Expedia VRBO |
| Kamaole III | Playground | Booking.com Expedia VRBO |
| Keawakapu | Restrooms | View Details → |
Detailed Profiles of Family Beaches in Kihei
Kamaole Beach Park I
The Kamaole Beach Park I is widely considered the most family-friendly spot in Kihei, with a lifeguard tower staffed daily from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. (Hawaii Ocean Safety), and the state says the Kamaole parks regularly offer calm water (Hawaii Tourism Authority).
- The Beach: Soft golden sand, and one of the best spots on Maui for swimming, with calm water most days (Hawaii Tourism Authority).
- Key Amenities: Includes lifeguards, clean restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic tables.
- Tip: Set up near the north end to be close to the facilities.
Good to know: The lot across the street fills quickly by mid-morning.
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Kamaole Beach Park II
Known for its beautiful shoreline and great snorkeling, Kamaole Beach Park II is a favorite for families looking to explore the reef.
- The Beach: Easy water for kids to splash in with an adult beside them, and the reef is close for snorkeling.
- Key Amenities: Features lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables for easy lunches.
- Tip: Rent snorkel gear nearby instead of packing your own.
Good to know: Street parking only, so arrive early for a spot near the entrance.
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Kamaole Beach Park III
The Kamaole Beach Park III is unique because it features a large grassy park area right next to the sand.
- The Beach: The water can be slightly rougher, but the shoreline is great for kids to play.
- Key Amenities: Offers a playground, picnic facilities, restrooms, and lifeguards.
- Tip: Set up on the grass to keep sand out of the snacks.
Good to know: The large lot is still hard to get into on weekends and holidays.
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Keawakapu Beach
This long, sandy stretch known as Keawakapu Beach is perfect for morning walks and building sandcastles away from the main tourist crowds.
- The Beach: Long and quiet. It is not on the state lifeguard list, so an adult stays in the water with small children.
- Key Amenities: Includes public restrooms, showers, and dedicated beach access paths.
- Tip: It is much quieter than the Kamaole parks, good for a nap under a beach tent.
Good to know: Parking is a few small public lots, so come early.
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FAQs About Family Beaches in Kihei
Are these beaches safe for toddlers?
The three Kamaole beach parks are the ones to choose, because all three are lifeguarded daily from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. (Hawaii Ocean Safety) and the state describes their water as calm most days (Hawaii Tourism Authority). Keawakapu is not on the lifeguarded list. Always monitor children closely, especially when the surf conditions change.
What is the best time to find parking?
By 8:30 AM. By mid-morning, the popular beach parks are hard to park at.
Do I need to bring my own beach gear?
You can, but shops nearby rent chairs and umbrellas, which saves room in the car.
Kihei is one of the 11 US beach towns that average 70°F or better in December, all compared in our guide to warm beach towns in December.
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