Keawakapu Beach

Apr 29, 2020 | General Information

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Keawakapu Beach in Kihei is an enormous beach stretching approximately one mile from tip to tip. It is so large in fact that there are three separate points of entry where you can park and then walk to the beach. The north and the south ends of Keawakapu are generally the most populated areas in terms of beachgoers. The middle entrance is probably the most popular for the local population. The sand here is a golden color as many beaches are in the South Maui area and the beach in most areas is fairly wide providing lots of room to pick out a spot and enjoy the sun.

Keawakapu Beach as viewed from the North end looking South
Keawakapu Beach is interesting in the sense that it can provide great swimming for long distances and great snorkeling in areas as well. Along all the rocky areas of the beach you will find good snorkeling and spots such as these can be found on the extreme ends of the beach. Within a few yards of the rocks on either end however you will find a nice sand bottom which will make for a comfortable ocean entry. In the center areas of the beach, just somewhat south of the middle entrance from Kihei Road across from Wailea Kai, the beach all of a sudden becomes very reef-like with a series of large coral heads that guard an easy entrance from the sand. Many people can, and do, swim the whole length of the beach by swimming out beyond the reefs and continuing down the shoreline to the other side. Once you decide on this option however you are pretty much committed to continuing to the end where you can find a sand bottom again for an easy exit. Taking a ninety degree turn in to the beach from beyond the reef will almost assure cuts or abrasions as you skirt the shallow reef structure. This reef becomes a plus in the summer months however when the large south swells roll in and break on the reef providing a great surfing wave. This surf break is often referred to as “Sidewalks”.

Keawakapu
The south end of Keawakapu Beach has a parking area, a shower and a restroom. The middle entrance has a narrow pathway leading to the beach from Kihei Road and it has a shower but no bathroom. The northern entrance has a dirt parking lot behind the Mana Kai Resort but there are no public restrooms or showers.

Keawakapu Beach from South Entrance looking North
Please be advised that all beaches and ocean locations in Hawaii can be potentially dangerous including this location. Be completely aware of the ocean conditions prior to entering the water and of course, never turn your back on the ocean when you are on the shoreline. It should also be noted that all shorelines and beaches in Hawaii, including this one, can be frequented by sharks, jellyfish and other sea creatures which can provide potential harm to people entering the water.