Kama'ole Beach Park I

Located in the town of Kihei, north of Wailea on Maalaea Bay, Kama’ole Beach Park incorporates three sandy beaches separated by rocky outcrops. All three beaches are worthy of a mention. For ease of reference, the locals have christened them Kam 1, Kam 2 and Kam 3. 

Let’s check out the northernmost Kamaole Beach 1 first, which is generally considered the nicest. Accessed from Kaiau St down a public access footpath and stairs, this neat sandy beach with its light-coloured sand and tidal rock pools is relatively safe for swimming. It’s a gem for snorkelling. However, the beach drops away sharply so you can quickly find yourself out of your depth. 

This sandy spot is popular with locals being close to the car park and lifeguard station. It also has showers, picnic tables and restrooms. If you’re lucky you might find a volleyball net set up as well.

Like most beaches on Maui, in winter the surf takes on a different nature with big rip currents. At low tide you can walk the entire length of all three beaches if you can navigate around the rocky points. Altogether, Kam 1 Beach extends for about 1/3 mile. The extreme north end of Kam 1 is known as Charley Young Beach in honour of the military reporter who built his home here pre-WW2.