Kama'ole Beach Park

Kamaole Beach Park is Kihei's three-beach shoreline, with Kamaole I, II and III offering lifeguards, sandy coves, swimming, snorkeling, picnics and sunsets.

View overview Plan Your Visit

Kama'ole Beach Park, Maui

Kama'ole Beach is divided into three sections: Kama'ole I, II and III. Kama'ole I Beach has the largest beach of the three. It is a wide white-sand beach located between two rocky points. The ocean bottom is sandy, but drops off quickly to overhead depths. On some days there is a small shorebreak that provides good conditions for bodysurfers, but swimmers should still pay attention to changing conditions. There's a grassy area at the south end that's great for picnics and ball games. The north end of Kama'ole I Beach is also known as Charley Young Beach. The snorkeling conditions are good here when the ocean is calm.

Kama'ole II, located a little farther south, has a smaller white-sand beach and is also located between two rocky points. Swimming conditions are good here as well when the ocean is calm. The sandy ocean bottom also drops off quickly here, and a small shorebreak is present on most days. Sometimes when kona winds are strong, larger swells are generated that erode the beach. When the sand washes out to the ocean, a large bed of pebbles is exposed. As the waves wash over these beach rocks, also called ili ili, a rumbling sound can be heard. The Hawaiians called this beach Iliiliholo, or "running pebbles," because of this natural phenomenon.

Kama'ole III has a short but wide sandy beach. It's the smallest of the three, but there is a large grassy park area that makes up for the smaller beach. The beach is bordered by rocky points, and some large rocks are also exposed in a few places along the water's edge. The ocean bottom is sandy, but drops off quickly. The beach is good for swimming when the ocean is calm, but during times of high surf, rip currents and a dangerous shorebreak may occur. The waves here are more consistent and can be good for bodyboarders. Even though Kama'ole III has the smallest beach, it is often the busiest because it has a playground for children, a wide grassy area at the south end and the most parking spaces. You can play Frisbee or other outdoor games after enjoying the water, or have a picnic at one of the three beach areas. Surfing may also be possible when conditions allow.

Key Features

Three connected Kihei beach parks: Kamaole I, Kamaole II and Kamaole III
Kamaole I is the longest section and connects with Charley Young Beach at the north end
Kamaole II is smaller, with sand tucked between rocky points and nearby condo access
Kamaole III has the largest grassy park area for picnics, family gatherings and sunsets
Lifeguards, restrooms, showers and parking areas serve the Kamaole beach park sections
Swimming is popular when the ocean is calm, but wind, shorebreak and current can change conditions
Snorkeling is usually focused near rocky ends when visibility is clear and surf is low
Bodyboarding can be common when small waves break close to shore
Parking lots can fill during weekends, holidays and late-afternoon sunset hours
Close to South Kihei Road, condo areas, restaurants, shops and Wailea to the south

Daily Activity Picks

Featured Maui Activities

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Kamaole I, II and III?

Kamaole I is the longest and connects with Charley Young Beach at the north end. Kamaole II is smaller and tucked between rocky points. Kamaole III has the largest grassy park area above the beach.

Which Kamaole beach has the most park space?

Kamaole III has the largest grassy area, making it popular for picnics, sunset gatherings and families who want space above the sand. It still has beach access below the park.

Where is snorkeling best at Kamaole Beach Park?

Snorkeling is usually best near the rocky ends when the ocean is calm and clear. Avoid standing on reef, give marine life space and stay out when wind or surf lowers visibility.

Why is Kamaole Beach Park popular with families?

The three sections have lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic areas and sandy beach access close to Kihei condos and restaurants. That makes it easy to shape a simple beach day without driving far.

Can you walk between the three Kamaole beaches?

Yes. The three beaches are close together along South Kihei Road, with rocky points between some sections. Many visitors walk between them by road, sidewalk or sand depending on conditions and access.