Kihei is one of the best areas in Maui for beach hopping. The coastline is packed with soft sand beaches, calm swimming spots, and scenic sunset views all within a short driving distance.
If you are staying in South Maui, renting a scooter or small vehicle makes it even easier to explore multiple beaches in one day. Many visitors use local rentals from Maui Scooter Shack to move freely between locations and enjoy the coastline at their own pace.
Here are 5 of the best beaches you can easily drive to in Kihei.
Kalama Beach Park
Kalama Beach Park is one of the most active and versatile beaches in Kihei. It is popular among both locals and visitors because it offers a mix of ocean activities and park facilities.
This beach is great for surfing and paddle boarding, especially during calm morning conditions. You will often see beginners learning in the water while experienced surfers ride small waves.
On land, the park includes volleyball courts with lights for night games, tennis courts, a playground, basketball courts, and even a skate and bike area. This makes it more than just a beach. It is a full recreation spot.
During sunset, Kalama Beach Park becomes a peaceful place to relax. It is also known as a good location to spot sea turtles along the shoreline.
Location: 1952 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Kamaole Beach Park 1
Kamaole Beach Park 1 is the northernmost of the famous Kamaole beaches. It is a great starting point for beach hopping in Kihei.
The beach has soft sand, clear water, and a relaxed atmosphere. It is not too crowded compared to other spots, which makes it ideal for families and couples who want a peaceful beach experience.
Swimming conditions are usually good, and the beach is easy to access directly from the road. Parking is available nearby, making it convenient for short visits or quick stops during your drive.
Location: 2408 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Kamaole Beach Park 2
Kamaole Beach Park 2 is one of the most popular swimming beaches in Kihei. It has a wide sandy shoreline and very easy access from the main road.
One of the unique features of this beach is how gradually the ocean slopes. You can walk far into the water and still remain in shallow depth for a long distance, which makes it beginner friendly for swimming and relaxing.
It is a great spot for sunbathing, casual swimming, and enjoying calm ocean conditions. Many visitors stop here during their beach drive because it is simple, beautiful, and very accessible.
Location: 2510 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Kamaole Beach Park 3
Kamaole Beach Park 3 is the most activity filled of the Kamaole beaches. It has a large grassy area that is perfect for picnics, BBQs, and group gatherings.
This beach is especially popular with families because it offers both ocean access and park space. The waves here are often slightly stronger, making it a good location for bodyboarding and boogie boarding.
You will also find shaded areas and open space for relaxing after swimming. Sunset time here is particularly beautiful, with wide ocean views and a lively atmosphere.
Location: 2690 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Keawakapu Beach
Keawakapu Beach is one of the most scenic and peaceful beaches in South Maui. It is known for its long stretch of soft sand and calm walking paths.
This beach is perfect for morning jogs, sunset walks, and quiet relaxation. The ocean here is usually calmer compared to other beaches, making it great for swimming and floating.
During whale season, visitors often spot humpback whales from the shoreline, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. The natural beauty and quieter environment make it a favorite for couples and photographers.
Location: 3062 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Best Way to Explore These Beaches
The best part about these Kihei beaches is how close they are to each other. You can visit multiple beaches in a single day without long travel times.
Many visitors prefer using scooters or small rentals to move easily between beaches, especially when parking is limited during peak hours. Local rental options like Maui Scooter Shack make it simple to explore South Maui at your own pace.
Tips for Beach Driving in Kihei
To make your beach trip smoother, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Start early for better parking and quieter beaches
- Bring reef safe sunscreen for ocean protection
- Carry water and light snacks for long beach days
- Check ocean conditions before swimming
- Stay for sunset at least once during your trip
Final Thoughts
Kihei offers some of the most accessible and beautiful beaches in Maui. From active parks like Kalama Beach Park to peaceful spots like Keawakapu Beach, each location has its own unique experience.
Whether you are planning a relaxed beach day or a full coastal drive, these five beaches give you the perfect introduction to South Maui’s coastline.
If you want maximum freedom to explore them all in one day, consider using a local scooter rental so you can move easily between locations and enjoy Maui at your own pace.