KIHEI, HAWAII · June 15, 2026
The Complete Guide to Kamaole Beach Parks I, II, and III — Kihei, Maui
THE QUICK ANSWER
Kamaole Beach Park III (Kam III) is the best of the three for families and snorkelers — it has lifeguards, calm water, good coral, and solid facilities. Kam I is excellent for swimming and has the most parking. Kam II is the smallest and quietest of the three. All three are free, public beaches on S. Kihei Road in South Kihei.
South Kihei's three Kamaole Beach Parks are the beating heart of the neighborhood — and one of the main reasons visitors keep coming back to this part of Maui. They stretch along S. Kihei Road in quick succession, separated only by small residential areas. Each has its own personality. Here's how to choose.
Kamaole Beach Park I (Kam I)
Kamaole I is the northernmost of the three, located near the intersection of S. Kihei Road and Kamaole Place. It's the largest of the three parks, has the most parking, and offers good swimming conditions most of the year.
- Best for: Swimmers, families wanting more space, morning beach walks
- Lifeguards: Yes (hours vary by season — check ahead)
- Snorkeling: Moderate — some reef at the south end
- Parking: Dedicated lot, usually the easiest to find a spot
- Facilities: Restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, grills
Kam I tends to be a bit less crowded than Kam III because most visitors head straight for the snorkeling at the southern parks. If you want space and easy parking, start here.
Kamaole Beach Park II (Kam II)
Kamaole II is the smallest of the three — tucked between I and III with a narrower beach and smaller park area. It's also the quietest, making it a good choice for couples who want a more private feel.
- Best for: Couples, low-crowd mornings, calm swimming
- Lifeguards: Yes (hours vary by season)
- Snorkeling: Moderate
- Parking: Limited street parking nearby
- Facilities: Restrooms, outdoor showers
If you're staying at Kamaole Sands and walking north, you'll pass Kam II on the way to Kam I. It's worth a stop even if it's not your primary destination.
Kamaole Beach Park III (Kam III)
Kamaole III is the most popular of the three — and for good reason. The water here is consistently calm with a gradual sandy entry, making it the best beach in Kihei for families with young children and beginner snorkelers.
- Best for: Families, snorkelers, all-day beach days, kids
- Lifeguards: Yes — the primary draw for families
- Snorkeling: Excellent — reef at both ends of the beach with active fish life
- Parking: Dedicated lot (fills quickly in high season — arrive before 9 AM or after 3 PM)
- Facilities: Restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, playground, grills
The reef at the south end of Kam III is the best entry-level snorkeling in Kihei. You can see parrotfish, triggerfish, and Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) regularly. Gear is available to rent from shops on S. Kihei Road.
Kamaole Sands Resort — where Maui Bliss is located — is directly across S. Kihei Road from Kam III. The walk is about 3 minutes.
Quick Comparison
| Kam I | Kam II | Kam III | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | Largest | Smallest | Medium |
| Lifeguards | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Snorkeling | Moderate | Moderate | Excellent |
| Crowds | Moderate | Lightest | Heaviest |
| Families | Good | OK | Best |
| Parking | Easiest | Hardest | Moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Kamaole beaches safe for young children?
Yes — Kamaole III is especially safe for young children. The sandy bottom has a gradual slope and the water is calm most of the year. Lifeguards are on duty daily during daylight hours (hours vary by season).
Can I see sea turtles at Kamaole?
Yes — Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) are commonly spotted at Kamaole III. They forage near the reef at both ends of the beach. Give them at least 6 feet of space — it's Hawaii state law.
Is there shade at Kamaole Beach?
Shade is limited on the beach itself. The park areas have some tree cover. Bring a beach umbrella for all-day stays.
How early should I arrive to get parking?
Peak season: arrive before 9 AM or after 3 PM. Off-peak (fall and early spring), parking is rarely an issue even mid-morning.
Maui Bliss at Kamaole Sands is directly across the street from Kamaole Beach Park III. Book your stay at faroutwestvacations.com/properties/maui-bliss and walk to the beach in 3 minutes.