Water quality, swimming conditions, and what to know at Kamaole, Kalama, Charley Young, and Keawakapu
Kihei stretches along the sunny, leeward (west-facing) coast of South Maui and is home to some of the island's most accessible and family-friendly beaches. Protected from trade winds by Haleakalā and the West Maui Mountains, Kihei typically enjoys calm ocean conditions and abundant sunshine. Water quality is generally good, though nearby development and storm drains mean post-rain caution is always warranted.
Kihei is one of the driest spots on Maui, receiving only 10–15 inches of rain per year. This is great for beach days, but when rain does fall — especially during Kona storm events — urban runoff from Kihei's dense development can reach the beaches quickly. Always apply the 72-hour post-rain rule and watch for visibly discolored water near storm drains.
Kamaole I ("Kam I") is the most popular of the three Kamaole parks and one of the most visited beaches in South Maui. It has lifeguards on duty daily, excellent facilities, and gentle, sandy-bottom water ideal for families with young children. Water quality is moderate under normal conditions. The main risk factor is storm drain outflow from adjacent streets and parking areas after heavy rain.
Kamaole II sits between the larger Kamaole I and III parks. Similar water quality and conditions, but slightly less crowded than its neighbors. Also lifeguarded. The beach is narrower here but the swimming is equally good. A solid option if Kamaole I feels too busy.
Kamaole III is the largest of the three parks with more facilities including a children's play area, pavilions, and ample parking. Lifeguarded daily. The rocky ends of the beach offer the best snorkeling in the Kamaole area — bring fins and explore the lava rock formations where fish and the occasional turtle are commonly seen. Water quality is similar to Kam I and II.
Kalama Beach Park is a long, wide beach park in central Kihei that tends to be calmer and less crowded than the Kamaole parks. The shallow, gently sloping sandy bottom makes it excellent for families with very young children. No designated lifeguard station. Water quality is slightly better than the Kamaole beaches under normal conditions due to fewer adjacent storm drain sources.
Charley Young is a quiet pocket beach tucked between Kamaole I and II, accessible via a narrow public access path. Because most tourists don't know about it, it's often far less crowded than its neighbors. The rocky edges offer decent snorkeling with coral and reef fish. A local favorite for exactly that reason. No lifeguard, no facilities.
Keawakapu is a beautiful, long stretch of white sand that transitions from Kihei into Wailea. It's noticeably calmer and more pristine than the Kamaole parks, with fewer visitors, no commercial activity, and excellent water clarity under normal conditions. The offshore reef provides some snorkeling and is home to turtles. Morning is the best time to visit for calm conditions.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — it is not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings on this site are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions.
Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii Department of Health Clean Water Branch before entering the water. This site is for informational purposes only and should not be the sole basis for any swimming decisions.
This site is a work in progress. If you notice something that isn't right or want to share local knowledge, please reach out.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙