Kalepolepo Beach Park
A tranquil beach park in Kihei, Maui, known for its calm waters, abundant sea turtles, and stunning sunsets. Ideal for families and wildlife lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Quiet and peaceful
Kalepolepo Beach Park
Best Time
Quiet and peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil beach park in Kihei, Maui, known for its calm waters, abundant sea turtles, and stunning sunsets. Ideal for families and wildlife lovers.
"This was our favourite beach. Best place to bring our little one."
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Maintain a 20-foot distance from sea turtles. They are protected, and touching them can result in fines.
🅿️ Limited Parking
Parking is scarce; arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sea Turtle Sanctuary
Along the lava rock wall
Witness green sea turtles basking and resting in their protected sanctuary. A truly magical wildlife encounter!
Ancient Fish Pond
Eastern edge of the beach
Explore the centuries-old fish pond, a fascinating glimpse into Hawaiian history and sustainable practices.
Golden Hour Sunsets
The entire beach
Experience breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Calm: Best for Wading & Wildlife
Sunset Strolls & Local Vibes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Maintain a 20-foot distance from sea turtles. They are protected, and touching them can result in fines. +1
🅿️ Limited Parking
Parking is scarce; arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
🚶♀️ Sunset Walks
Enjoy leisurely sunset strolls along the golden sand beach.
🐠 Calm Waters for Wading
Ideal for non-swimmers and kids due to shallow, protected waters. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 Respect the Turtles
Maintain a 20-foot distance from sea turtles. They are protected, and touching them can result in fines. +1
🅿️ Limited Parking
Parking is scarce; arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
🚶♀️ Sunset Walks
Enjoy leisurely sunset strolls along the golden sand beach.
🐠 Calm Waters for Wading
Ideal for non-swimmers and kids due to shallow, protected waters. +1
🧺 Picnic Paradise
Grassy areas are perfect for picnics with ocean views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kalepolepo Beach Park is cherished for its calm, shallow waters, making it perfect for families and non-swimmers. Visitors rave about the frequent sightings of sea turtles and the beautiful sunset views. While parking is limited and the beach can get busy, its peaceful atmosphere and historical fish pond offer a unique and memorable experience.
"Visited Kalaopepo beach park in May 2024 with my partner when we stayed in Kihie. Its beautiful beach park area, golden sand beach nice grassy area for pic-nics, with superb views of west Maui and the other islands. The beach isn't usually busy so parking shouldn't be an issue, there is showers and porta potty's. The Kalepolepo beach park makes for lovely walks specially at sunset. Its also not far from eateries and shops in Kihie and other beach parks in the Kihie area. The sea was calm when we were there so good for kids snorkeling etc, saw locals fishing and wind surfing. There is a chance you may see green sea turtles, find seashell. I highly recommend visiting Kalepolepo beach park even if it's just for a sunset walk. Steve and Jacqui fae Fife."
steven clegg
"This was our favourite beach. Best place to bring our little one. It's a sheltered beach with soft sand, a grassy picnic area and we saw sea turtles up close, many fish (up to a foot long), and crabs. Even on windy days it's pretty calm. There is a shower to rinse off and a porta potty in the parking lot.
Parking is very limited and some people will make their own spots so it can get tight. We went by 9am and it was still pretty quiet.
The entrance is easy to miss as you're driving along."
Justin Taite
"Great little beach with shallow water with a lava rock wall around the water area that creates a little sanctuary for sea turtles. Lots of turtles swim in to sun themselves and rest, safe from sharks. Fun to bring kids and see several turtles. Best time is usually around sunset. You'll see close to a dozen usually. Just make sure and stay 20 feet away from them."
Mike Ashcraft
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kalepolepo Beach Park is located in North Kihei, just past Charley Young Beach. It's easily accessible by car, with signs indicating the entrance. Many visitors staying in Kihei find it a convenient spot for a short drive or even a longer walk.
While specific bus routes might vary, the Maui Bus system generally serves the Kihei area. It's advisable to check the latest Maui Bus schedules for routes that pass near North Kihei for public transport options.
The entrance can be easy to miss when driving along the coast. Keep an eye out for signs for Kalepolepo Beach Park, especially if you're heading north from central Kihei.
Yes, Kalepolepo Beach Park is conveniently located near other Kihei beaches and eateries. It's a short drive to popular spots like Kihei Cafe and Monkeypod, and close to other beach parks.
Depending on your location in Kihei, a walk to Kalepolepo Beach Park is feasible, especially if you're staying in the northern part of Kihei. It offers a pleasant coastal walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kalepolepo Beach Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Access is free for all visitors.
As a public park, Kalepolepo Beach Park is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no strict closing times posted, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No advance booking is required to visit Kalepolepo Beach Park. It's a public space, so you can visit spontaneously.
Generally, there are no strict restrictions on bringing food and drinks for personal consumption. However, it's always good practice to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
Kalepolepo Beach Park is known for its calm, shallow waters, making it excellent for wading, snorkeling, and for families with children. It's not typically a beach for strong swimmers or surfers due to its protected nature. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy wading, snorkeling, wildlife viewing (especially sea turtles), picnicking, sunset watching, and leisurely walks. Some locals also engage in fishing and windsurfing. +1
Yes, there are porta-potties and showers available at Kalepolepo Beach Park for rinsing off after your beach time. +1
The park is generally not as crowded as some of Maui's more famous beaches, especially if you visit in the morning. However, it can get busier in the late afternoon, particularly around sunset. +1
Kalepolepo is famous for its green sea turtles that come to rest and sunbathe. You might also spot various fish and crabs in the shallow waters. +2
Absolutely! The calm, shallow, and protected waters make it a favorite for families with young children who want to play safely in the ocean.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Kalepolepo Beach Park. However, it's very close to Kihei, which offers a wide array of dining options, from food trucks to sit-down restaurants.
Nearby Kihei boasts popular spots like Kihei Cafe for breakfast and lunch, South Maui Fish Co. for seafood, and 808 Deli for sandwiches. Monkeypod in Wailea is also a well-regarded option. 
Yes, the park has grassy areas perfect for picnics. You can bring your own food and enjoy a meal with ocean views.
Yes, there are several grocery stores and markets in Kihei where you can purchase supplies for a picnic. Costco is also an option if you're looking for bulk items.
The Kihei area offers diverse culinary experiences, including fresh seafood, local Hawaiian dishes like poke and acai bowls, and casual American fare. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. The calm waters and potential for sea turtle sightings also provide unique photo opportunities.
Popular subjects include the sea turtles, the ancient fish pond, the serene ocean views, and the vibrant sunsets. The park's natural beauty and wildlife offer plenty of photographic inspiration. +1
The entire stretch of the beach offers lovely views. The area around the lava rock wall where turtles often gather, and the edge near the fish pond, are particularly photogenic. +1
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. It's always best to check current regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife when operating a drone.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, a polarizing filter for reducing glare on the water, and a tripod for sunset shots would be beneficial. A waterproof camera or phone case is also a good idea for capturing close-ups of the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Beyond the water, the park offers grassy picnic areas perfect for family lunches and snacks. The chance to see sea turtles up close (from a distance!) is also a huge hit with kids, providing an exciting and educational wildlife experience. Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for a comfortable family outing.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Relaxers
Enjoy leisurely walks along the golden sand, especially during the magical sunset hours. It's also a great spot for meditation or gentle yoga amidst the calming sounds of the ocean. The opportunity to observe sea turtles in their natural habitat adds a unique element of tranquility to your solo experience.
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the turtles. The shallow waters also host a variety of colorful fish and other marine creatures, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling or even just observing from the shore. The historical fish pond also adds an element of ecological interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Kalepolepo's Sea Turtles
Seeing the honu at Kalepolepo is a highlight for many visitors, offering an unforgettable wildlife encounter. The best times to spot them are often in the late afternoon, especially around sunset, when they tend to come closer to shore. Remember that touching or disturbing the turtles is illegal and harmful to their well-being.
Beyond the turtles, the park's waters are teeming with smaller marine life. Snorkelers and even those just wading can often see a variety of colorful fish darting among the rocks and seagrass. This abundance of life contributes to the park's reputation as a peaceful natural sanctuary.
A Glimpse into Ancient Hawaiian Life: The Fish Pond
Efforts are underway to restore and preserve this historical site, with local pond wardens actively working on its upkeep. Visitors can observe the pond's structure and learn about its historical importance. It's crucial to respect the protected areas around the pond and the rocks, as they are vital for the ecosystem and the turtles.
Exploring the fish pond offers a unique educational opportunity, connecting visitors to the rich cultural heritage of Maui. It provides a deeper appreciation for the island's history and the ingenuity of its early inhabitants, complementing the natural beauty of the beach itself.
Kihei's Culinary Delights Near Kalepolepo
+1Popular recommendations include Kihei Cafe for hearty breakfasts and lunches, South Maui Fish Co. for delicious seafood, and 808 Deli for gourmet sandwiches. For those seeking a more upscale experience, Monkeypod in Wailea is a highly-rated option. Many visitors also enjoy grabbing fresh coconuts from local vendors.
This culinary accessibility means you can easily grab picnic supplies for a day at the beach or enjoy a satisfying meal after a relaxing afternoon. The variety ensures that your dining experiences in Kihei can be as diverse and enjoyable as your beach explorations.
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