Charlie Young Beach is one of the very best beaches on the island for swimming. The distance from the Charlie Young side of Kamaole Beach #1 to the opposite side is about one-third of a mile and makes for a fantastic down and back swim. Snorkeling is good as well but only on the beach extremities along the rocks. The best time to go to Charlie Young Beach for a swim is in the morning hours and usually the earlier the better to avoid the normal trade winds which will fill in by late morning or early afternoon. This is also a good location for stand-up paddle boarding and you will often see a number of boards out on any given morning.
Amenities at Charlie Young Beach are few. There is parking on the side street at the top entrance to the stairway which takes you down to the beach. There is a portable restroom and a shower. A lifeguard tower is located at Kamaole Beach #1 just a couple of hundred yards down the beach.
Use Caution at Charlie Young Beach
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.
General Weather Conditions at Charlie Young Beach
Charlie Young Beach is the most beautiful in the morning hours. In the afternoon the trade winds usually kick up and sweep the majority of the beach users away. The surf here is generally small in the Winter months and a bit more active in the Summer. We advise all beach users to check in with the life guards for an update on the current ocean conditions before entering the water.
How to get to Charlie Young Beach
The main entrance to Charlie Young Beach is located at the end of Kaiau Place at the intersection with Ili Ili Road. Just past the shower you will find a concrete staircase that is the main point of access to the beach. Parking here can be tricky, but there is generally space in the lot that is located on the corner of Kaiau Place & South Kihei Road.