Keawakapu Beach

Keawakapu Beach, nestled between Wailea and Kihei on Maui’s sunny south shore, is known for its serene and uncrowded atmosphere. This beach offers a peaceful retreat, making it a popular choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. In this guide, we’ll explore the best activities, nearby attractions, and essential tips for visiting this hidden gem.

• Keawakapu Beach offers a long stretch of soft, golden sand that is perfect for lounging, sunbathing, and relaxing by the ocean.
• The gentle waves and clear waters create excellent conditions for swimming and snorkeling. The reef near the southern end is teeming with colorful marine life, making it a favorite spot for underwater exploration.
• Keawakapu Beach is known for its stunning sunsets. Enjoy a picture-perfect view as the sun dips below the horizon.
• Compared to other popular Maui beaches, Keawakapu Beach tends to be quieter and less crowded, offering a more serene experience. This makes it great for families or those who prefer a more laid-back environment.
• Easily transition from a beach day to a nearby restaurant for a sunset dinner.

The name “Keawakapu” is a Hawaiian term that loosely translates to “forbidden cove.” This could suggest that the area once held spiritual or restricted significance in ancient Hawaiian culture. The beach’s name might also have ties to the nearby Mana Kai Resort, where “mana” represents spiritual power or energy. While there may not be detailed historical records, Keawakapu’s connection to Hawaiian tradition adds a deeper layer to its serene environment, making it more than just a beautiful beach.

Until the mid-1900s, the Wailea area, including Keawakapu Beach, remained largely untouched by development. This allowed the beach to maintain its natural beauty, drawing the admiration of the local community.

The landscape began to change when the development of the Wailea Resort started, marking the transformation of the area into a luxurious vacation destination. As tourism in Wailea grew, Keawakapu Beach became a favorite spot for both tourists and locals looking for a peaceful escape by the ocean.

The landscape began to change when the development of the Wailea Resort started, marking the transformation of the area into a luxurious vacation destination. As tourism in Wailea grew, Keawakapu Beach became a favorite spot for both tourists and locals looking for a peaceful escape by the ocean.

Today, Keawakapu Beach is celebrated for its soft, golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets. It’s a popular choice for a range of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and simply soaking in the natural splendor that Maui offers.

At the northern end of Keawakapu Beach, vibrant tide pools teeming with marine life are a favorite for families and nature enthusiasts. These pools provide an opportunity to observe Hawaii’s unique sea creatures up close.

Located approximately 400 yards offshore is an artificial reef constructed from car bodies. This unique underwater feature has become a habitat for various marine species, making it a fascinating snorkeling spot for those looking to explore beyond the shoreline.

The beach offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, with the islands of Kahoʻolawe, Molokini, and Lanai visible on clear days. The scenic backdrop, combined with the surrounding mountains, creates an idyllic setting for photographers and sunset lovers.

Unlike some of Maui’s more crowded beaches, Keawakapu Beach maintains a peaceful and serene vibe. Its quieter ambiance makes it an ideal spot for visitors seeking a relaxing, less-commercialized beach experience, away from the bustling tourist crowds.

Keawakapu Beach boasts calm, crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming. Just offshore, snorkelers can explore vibrant reefs teeming with tropical fish, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or two.

The long, sandy stretch of Keawakapu Beach is perfect for leisurely walks, offering plenty of opportunities to find beautiful shells along the shoreline. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the coastal scenery.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, Keawakapu’s gentle waves are great for paddleboarding or kayaking. The calm waters make it easy to glide across the surface while taking in stunning ocean views.

With its soft sands and oceanfront views, Keawakapu Beach is a prime spot for a relaxing picnic. Bring a blanket, and some snacks, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere as you enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

Keawakapu Beach offers convenient amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. There is ample parking available nearby, along with public restrooms and showers for freshening up after a day in the sun. For those looking to rent equipment, nearby rental shops provide beach chairs, snorkel gear, and water sports equipment. Plus, the beach’s proximity to local cafes and restaurants means you’re never far from a quick bite or a refreshing drink.

• Bring Your Snacks: While cafes are nearby, packing your snacks or a picnic ensures a relaxed beach day without interruptions.
• Stay Hydrated: The Maui sun can be intense, so bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during your visit.
• Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect marine life by using reef-safe sunscreen when swimming or snorkeling.
• Check Ocean Conditions: Always be mindful of ocean conditions, as waves and currents can change throughout the day.
• Pack Out What You Pack In: Help preserve the beach’s natural beauty by cleaning up after yourself and disposing of trash properly.
• Respect Wildlife: Admire marine life like turtles from a distance, and avoid touching or disturbing them.

The best times to visit Keawakapu Beach are early in the morning or late afternoon when the beach is quieter and the waters are calmest. These times also offer cooler temperatures and ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying a peaceful beach stroll. Plus, visiting in the late afternoon allows you to catch one of Maui’s stunning sunsets over the ocean.

A walk along the nearby Wailea Beach Path offers a scenic way to explore more of Maui’s stunning beaches and luxury resorts. Keawakapu Beach is also conveniently located between Kihei and Wailea, giving visitors easy access to a variety of shopping, dining, and accommodation options just a short drive away. It’s the perfect location to enjoy both a relaxing beach day and the amenities of nearby towns.

Keawakapu Beach is surrounded by top-rated dining and accommodation options, making it an ideal spot for a full day of relaxation and great food. For a memorable sunset dinner, head to Five Palms at 2960 South Kihei Road, where you’ll enjoy oceanfront views and a diverse menu of fresh seafood and steaks. If you prefer a laid-back vibe, Nalu’s South Shore Grill at 1280 S Kihei Rd offers locally sourced Hawaiian dishes in an inviting open-air setting. For a unique island experience, stop by the Kinaole Grill Food Truck at 77 Alanui Ke’ali’i and savor Hawaiian favorites like coconut shrimp and grilled mahi mahi.

To reach Keawakapu Beach by car, start by taking the Piilani Highway (HI-31) and head towards Wailea. Continue on HI-31 until you reach the intersection with Kilohana Drive. Turn right onto Kilohana Drive, and follow it until you arrive at the public access parking lot located near the beach entrance. Make sure to arrive early, as the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.

If you prefer to take the bus, the Maui Bus public transit system offers routes that can get you close to Keawakapu Beach. Look for buses on the Kihei Islander route, which serves the Kīhei and Wailea areas. You can board the bus from central locations such as the Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center in Kahului or anywhere along the designated bus stops on the route. Once on the bus, get off at the Kilohana Drive stop, which is a short walk from the beach. Be sure to check the latest bus schedules and routes, as they may vary throughout the year.

Keawakapu Beach is the perfect escape for anyone craving peace, natural beauty, and plenty of activities in one scenic spot. With its calm waters, breathtaking sunsets, and convenient location near Kihei and Wailea, it’s a must-visit for travelers looking to relax, explore, and soak in Maui’s coastal charm. Whether you’re swimming, snorkeling, or simply unwinding on the shore, Keawakapu Beach delivers the ultimate beach day experience.