Kihei's Hidden Beach Gems

Charley Young Beach: The Quiet Corner

Tucked away at the northernmost end of Kam I, Charley Young Beach feels like a secret, even though it's hiding in plain sight. This is where I go when I need to escape the buzz of the main beaches and just listen to the rhythm of the waves. It has a tranquil, residential feel, and you'll often find more locals with a book here than tourists with snorkel gear.

History and Vibe

The beach has a charming history, named after a generous resident, Charley Young, who lived in the house above and ran a hose down to the beach so people could rinse the sand from their feet. He later built a permanent shower, cementing his legacy and the beach's name. This spirit of simple generosity still defines the beach's quiet, uncrowded atmosphere.

Sand and Activities

The beach itself is a beautiful stretch of soft sand, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The real highlight for me is the lava rock point that it shares with Kam I. This area offers surprisingly great snorkeling, and it's one of the most reliable spots in Kihei to swim alongside graceful sea turtles. Just remember to give them plenty of space—at least 30 feet is a good rule of thumb.

Amenities and Parking

The amenities here are minimal, which helps keep the crowds down. There is no lifeguard, only a portable toilet and a single outdoor shower at the entrance. There is a dedicated public parking lot just a short walk away on Kaiau Place, which is a huge plus.

Keawakapu Beach: The Golden Boundary

Keawakapu is where Kihei's laid-back vibe melts into the manicured elegance of Wailea. This stunning, 0.7-mile-long ribbon of golden sand marks the geographical and atmospheric boundary between the two towns. It's my absolute favorite spot for a long sunset walk, with the West Maui Mountains painting the perfect backdrop across the water.

Location and Vibe

The shoreline here is lined with a mix of spectacular multi-million dollar homes and older hotel resorts, but the development is set back, preserving a wonderfully open and non-commercialized feel on the beach itself. It's spacious and rarely feels crowded.

Activities

Keawakapu is a multi-purpose playground. The long, sandy stretch is perfect for swimming and morning jogs. The calm waters are also ideal for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, with rentals available at the north end. Snorkeling is excellent around the rocky outcroppings at both the northern and southern ends of the beach. For the truly adventurous, there's a fascinating piece of trivia: about 400 yards offshore lies an artificial reef created in 1962 from over 150 old cars, now a unique habitat for marine life that attracts scuba divers.

Amenities and Parking

Facilities are limited to outdoor showers and portable toilets. Parking is the main challenge. There are small public lots at both the north and south entrances to the beach, but they fill up very quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to park along South Kihei Road and walk.

Kihei Beach At-a-Glance

To help you choose the perfect spot for your day, here's a quick comparison of Kihei's best beaches. This little chart is my go-to for friends visiting the island, allowing them to match a beach to their plans instantly.