This discreet postage-stamp-sized beach, embraced by a rocky lava shoreline, is Kihei’s best bet for swimming with turtles. Forget it, however, if it’s not a calm day. The beach is reached via shoreline access at the northern side of Punahoa condos.
Punahoa Beach
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
Piʻilanihale Heiau & Kahanu Garden
27.2 MILES
Probably the most significant stop on the entire Road to Hana, this site combines a 294-acre ethnobotanical garden with the magnificent Piʻilanihale Heiau…
1.61 MILES
From break of day to twilight, this sparkling stretch of sand is a showstopper. Extending from south Kihei to Wailea’s Mokapu Beach, Keawakapu is set back…
23.38 MILES
For a long day on the beach, it’s hard to beat this crescent-shaped strip at the southwestern tip of Kapalua. Snorkel in the morning, grab lunch at the…
29.29 MILES
Wai'anapanapa means 'glistening waters', and the clear mineral waters in the cave pools here will leave you feeling squeaky clean. There's a natural lava…
3.09 MILES
Sunbathe like a celebrity at this sparkling strand, which fronts the swish Grand Wailea and ever-posh Four Seasons resorts and offers a full menu of water…
29.95 MILES
With its clear water, white sand and hala-tree backdrop, this famous crescent is a little gem; author James Michener once called it the only beach in the…
21.41 MILES
Got your camera? This beauty takes its name from the triple cascade that flows down a steep rock face on the inland side of the road, 0.5 miles past the…
6.61 MILES
The crowning glory of Makena State Park, this untouched beach is arguably the finest on Maui. In Hawaiian it’s called Oneloa, literally ‘Long Sand.’ And…
Nearby attractions
0.17 MILES
On a side street, out of view of busy S Kihei Rd, this neighborhood beach is the least touristed strand in Kihei. It’s a real jewel in the rough: broad…
0.35 MILES
Athletes, skateboarders and toddlers who need to roam will appreciate this expansive seaside park. Sports facilities include tennis and basketball courts,…
0.42 MILES
A pretty, golden-sand beach with full facilities and lifeguards, plus a volleyball court and a parking lot. Travelers with disabilities can access the…
0.8 MILES
This lovely beach has full facilities and lifeguards. A wooden accessibility ramp for visitors with disabilities leads from the park to the beach. Street…
1.02 MILES
Covered in a blanket of golden sand, Kamaʻole Beach Park III has full facilities and lifeguards, plus a playground and parking lot. Great spot for a beach…
1.61 MILES
From break of day to twilight, this sparkling stretch of sand is a showstopper. Extending from south Kihei to Wailea’s Mokapu Beach, Keawakapu is set back…
2.38 MILES
The lovely Mokapu Beach is behind the Andaz Maui resort, on the northern side of a small point.
2.39 MILES
Philosopher David Malo, who built this church in 1852, was the first Hawaiian ordained to the Christian ministry. He was also co-author of Hawaii’s first…