Ukumehame Beach Park (Thousand Peaks) - Image 1
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Ukumehame Beach Park Thousand Peaks

4.5
·430 reviews·Lahaina, United States

Ukumehame Beach Park offers gentle surf for beginners and breathtaking sunsets, with unique driftwood adding to its charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Calm waters and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Ukumehame Beach Park (Thousand Peaks) - Image 1

Ukumehame Beach Park Thousand Peaks

Best Time

Early mornings

Calm waters and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ukumehame Beach Park offers gentle surf for beginners and breathtaking sunsets, with unique driftwood adding to its charm. Reddit

4.5
(430 reviews)

"Spectacular sunset views and beginner-friendly surf make this a must-visit spot on Maui. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Water Shoes Essential

The beach is rocky! Bring water shoes for comfortable walking and swimming.

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Pull over for incredible sunset views; it's a must-do on Maui.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gentle Surf Breaks

Gentle Surf Breaks

Ukumehame Beach Park

Ideal for beginner surfers, offering small, manageable waves perfect for learning and practicing.

Reddit
Spectacular Sunset Views

Spectacular Sunset Views

Ukumehame Beach Park

Witness breathtaking sunsets that are considered among the island's finest, a perfect end to any day.

Reddit
Unique Driftwood Art

Unique Driftwood Art

Ukumehame Beach Park shoreline

Discover large, artistic pieces of driftwood scattered along the shore, adding a natural, rustic charm.

Reddit
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Surf's Up for Beginners

Ukumehame Beach Park, also known as Thousand Peaks, is a fantastic spot for beginner surfers due to its gentle waves. However, the beach is quite rocky, so water shoes are a must for comfort and safety when entering and exiting the water. Reddit

Sunset Views & Roadside Charm

This beach is a popular pull-off for its stunning sunset views, often rivaling the best on the island. Be prepared for wind and occasional sand pelting, especially during certain times of the year, but the breathtaking scenery is well worth it. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Calm waters and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Unforgettable golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

10/10 experience!!! 🌟#royallahainaresort #maui #mauihawaii #vacation
@hiitsdenisee
34.3K likes • 749.7K views

🥾 Water Shoes Essential

The beach is rocky! Bring water shoes for comfortable walking and swimming. Reddit

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Pull over for incredible sunset views; it's a must-do on Maui. Reddit

This is your sign to book the luau on your next trip to Hawaii🌺🌺🌺🌺 We booked with Old Town Lahaina Luau! They had unlimited drinks and great vegetarian options (you need to tell them beforehand!) #hawaii #mauihawaiii🌺🌺 #luau #oldlahainaluau #hawaiianluau #mauihawaii #bucketlist #travel #experience
@whitneyphouse
31.2K likes • 368.4K views
reddit.com

Good place to go surfing? 🏄🏼‍♀️

🏄‍♀️ Beginner Surf Spot

Perfect for learning to surf with small, consistent waves. Reddit

💨 Be Prepared for Wind

It can get windy, sometimes pelting you with sand. Reddit

reddit.com

Beginner surf beach

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Water Shoes Essential

The beach is rocky! Bring water shoes for comfortable walking and swimming. Reddit

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Pull over for incredible sunset views; it's a must-do on Maui. Reddit

🏄‍♀️ Beginner Surf Spot

Perfect for learning to surf with small, consistent waves. Reddit

💨 Be Prepared for Wind

It can get windy, sometimes pelting you with sand. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(430 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ukumehame Beach Park is praised for its beginner-friendly surf, stunning sunset views, and unique driftwood. Visitors appreciate the calm waters for learning to surf and the breathtaking scenery, though some note the beach's rocky nature and potential for wind. Reddit

"While this location is primarily frequented by beginner surfers, there's always a spot where you and your family can enjoy the entire day. The bottom is relatively shallow yet rocky, so be sure to bring appropriate footwear. You’ll find small waves near the shore and a breathtaking sunset to admire."

Victor Surlari

"Beautiful sunsets and early mornings. Noisy highway but the view is worth it. Great beach for surfing but tons of rocks on the beach. Get water shoes and you can swim all you want."

Sheridan

"Best beach for swimming in all of Maui! You can choose to sit in the shade from the frees or in the sun. Lovely clear blue water and views of other islands"

annika sage

What People Like

Beginner surf waves
Spectacular sunsets
Unique driftwood

What People Dislike

Rocky beach
Windy conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ukumehame Beach Park is easily accessible via the Honoapi'ilani Highway (Highway 30) on Maui's west side. Look for the designated pull-off areas. It's a popular spot for a quick stop to enjoy the views. Reddit

Yes, there are pull-off areas along the highway that serve as parking. These can fill up quickly, especially during sunset. Reddit

Ukumehame Beach Park is located south of Lahaina town, making it a convenient stop if you're traveling between Lahaina and other parts of West Maui. Reddit

Public transport options on Maui are limited. It's generally recommended to have a rental car to easily access beaches like Ukumehame. Reddit

The Honoapi'ilani Highway is a well-maintained road, but it can be winding in places. Drive cautiously and be aware of other vehicles pulling over. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Ukumehame Beach Park is a public beach and does not require any admission tickets. Entry is free for everyone. Reddit

As a public beach, Ukumehame Beach Park is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. However, it's best to check local advisories for any specific park hours or restrictions. Reddit

Parking at the highway pull-offs is free. However, be mindful of designated parking areas and avoid blocking traffic. Reddit

No, there are no reservation systems for this beach. It's first-come, first-served, especially for the prime sunset viewing spots. Reddit

For casual surfing or swimming, no permits are typically required. However, if you plan on organizing a large event or commercial activity, you would need to check with the Maui County Parks and Recreation department. Reddit

🎫 🏄‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Ukumehame Beach Park is renowned for its beginner-friendly surf breaks, stunning sunset views, and unique driftwood formations along the shore. Reddit

Yes, the water is often clear and blue, and you can swim here. However, the bottom is rocky, so water shoes are highly recommended for comfort and safety. Reddit

You can expect small, gentle waves that are perfect for beginner surfers. Experienced surfers might find it too mellow, but it's ideal for learning. Reddit

Basic facilities might be available, but it's not a fully developed park. It's best to come prepared with your own essentials. Reddit

Definitely wear water shoes due to the rocky shore. Otherwise, typical beach attire is suitable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset is the prime time for photography, offering dramatic colors and light. Early mornings can also provide beautiful, soft light with fewer people. Reddit

Capture the surfers catching small waves, the vibrant colors of the sunset, the unique driftwood sculptures, and the expansive ocean views. Reddit

The entire shoreline offers great vantage points. The highway pull-offs provide elevated views, while walking along the beach lets you get closer to the driftwood and waves. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean and sunset. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating surfers. Protect your gear from sand and salt spray. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. Always check current FAA and local Maui County rules before flying a drone in public areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ukumehame Beach Park is a great option for families looking for a relaxed beach experience. The gentle waves make it suitable for children to play in the shallows, provided they are supervised and wearing water shoes due to the rocky bottom. The unique driftwood can also be a source of entertainment for kids, offering natural sculptures to explore. Reddit

While it's not a full-service beach, the stunning sunset views offer a memorable family activity. Pack some snacks and drinks, and enjoy a beautiful evening by the ocean. Just be prepared for the wind and ensure everyone has appropriate footwear for the rocky terrain. Reddit

🏄‍♀️ Beginner Surfers

If you're looking to learn to surf or improve your beginner skills, Ukumehame Beach Park is an ideal location. The waves are consistently small and forgiving, allowing for plenty of practice without the intimidation of larger breaks. Many local surf schools operate in this area, offering lessons that can help you get up and riding quickly. Reddit

Remember to wear water shoes to navigate the rocky shore and ocean floor comfortably. The mellow conditions here mean you can spend more time on your board, perfecting your technique and enjoying the ocean. It's a low-pressure environment perfect for building confidence. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Ukumehame Beach Park to be a rewarding location, especially during the golden hours. The sunset here is legendary, offering dramatic skies and beautiful light that can transform any shot. The unique driftwood formations also provide interesting foreground elements and textures for your photos. Reddit

For surf photography, the gentle waves offer opportunities to capture surfers in action without the chaos of powerful breaks. Early mornings can also yield stunning shots with softer light and fewer crowds. Just be sure to protect your gear from the wind and sand. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Surfing at Ukumehame Beach Park

Ukumehame Beach Park, often referred to as Thousand Peaks, is a gem for beginner surfers on Maui. The waves here are typically small and gentle, providing a forgiving environment for those just starting out or looking to refine their skills. Unlike some of Maui's more challenging surf spots, Ukumehame offers a consistent, mellow break that allows for longer rides and more practice time. It's a place where you can feel confident in the water, even if you're a bit nervous. Reddit

However, it's crucial to be aware of the beach's composition. The shoreline and the ocean floor are quite rocky. This means that wearing water shoes is not just recommended, but essential for a comfortable and safe experience. They protect your feet from sharp rocks when entering and exiting the water, and also provide better grip. While the waves are beginner-friendly, the rocky bottom can be a hazard if you're not prepared. Reddit

For those looking to learn, consider booking a lesson with a local surf school. They'll provide the necessary equipment and guidance, ensuring you make the most of the conditions. Even if you're an experienced surfer, Ukumehame can be a relaxing spot for a casual paddle or to enjoy the ocean's rhythm without intense breaks. Reddit

The Magic of Ukumehame Sunsets

Beyond its surfing appeal, Ukumehame Beach Park is a celebrated destination for breathtaking sunsets. Many visitors and locals alike consider it one of the best spots on the island to witness the sky ablaze with color. The unobstructed western horizon provides a perfect canvas for the sun's descent, painting the clouds and ocean in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It's a truly awe-inspiring spectacle that draws people to simply pull over and soak in the view. Reddit

While the views are spectacular, be prepared for the elements. This area can be quite windy, especially during certain seasons. This wind can sometimes lead to sand being blown around, which might be a minor inconvenience for some. However, most agree that the unparalleled beauty of the sunset far outweighs any discomfort. The sound of the waves and the vastness of the ocean create a serene atmosphere, even with the occasional gust of wind. Reddit

It's a popular spot for a reason, so expect other people to be there, especially during peak sunset hours. The highway pull-offs offer convenient viewing points, but walking along the beach can provide a more intimate experience with the scenery. Don't forget your camera to capture this daily masterpiece! Reddit

Ukumehame's Natural Artistry

One of the unique features that sets Ukumehame Beach Park apart is the presence of large, artistic driftwood pieces scattered along its shoreline. These natural sculptures, weathered by the ocean and time, add a rustic and intriguing element to the beach's landscape. They create fantastic opportunities for photos and add to the overall natural beauty of the location. Reddit

The contrast between the smooth, worn wood and the vibrant blue of the Pacific Ocean is visually striking. These driftwood formations are not just decorative; they are a testament to the power of the ocean and the constant cycle of nature. They invite exploration and offer a sense of discovery as you wander along the beach. Reddit

While the driftwood is a highlight, remember that the beach itself is rocky. So, while you can admire and photograph these natural art pieces, be mindful of your footing when exploring the shoreline. The combination of gentle waves, stunning sunsets, and these unique wooden sculptures makes Ukumehame a memorable stop on any Maui itinerary. Reddit

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