Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
A refined fusion of water purity, environmental stability, and communal vibrancy for Charley Young Beach.
View MethodologyAnalyzed via live sensors and environmental data.
Wave height, wind, and atmospheric stability.
Live footfall and crowd balance metrics.
Community reviews and curated sentiment.
“Tucked between two condominium towers on South Kihei Road, Charley Young reveals itself only to those who wander past the public parking signs. The sand here feels finer underfoot than most Maui beaches, and the…”
Limited recent visitor reports — live OBI telemetry is your best guide for current conditions.
You'll find Charley Young Beach by looking for the modest public access path squeezed between Kamaole I and the condo complexes that line this stretch of Kihei. The beach itself is short—maybe a hundred yards of packed white sand that gives way to a gentle slope into turquoise shallows. Local families arrive before eight in the morning, spreading towels beneath the kiawe trees that fringe the backshore and offer the only real shade.
The reef here sits close enough to shore that snorkelers can reach it in five minutes of easy swimming. Yellow tangs dart between coral heads, and if you time your visit for the incoming tide, you'll often spot green sea turtles grazing on limu near the rocks at the north end. The water stays calm most mornings, though afternoon trade winds can kick up a light chop that sends beginners back to the sand.
Credit: FlickrNearshore Reef
Turtles feed on morning tides
Gentle entry for beginners
Morning cover near high tide
Where it is
Charley Young Beach
Kihei, Hawaii, USA
20.732400°, -156.450300°
Weather
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Swell
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Temp
Warm · Restorative
UV Index
Moderate
Wind
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Tidal State
Last known
Max Sunlight
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Ideal Shade
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Jan - Dec (Peak)
May - Nov (Off-season)
Historical data suggests peak visibility and stable sea temperatures occur during the prime visitation window.
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Charley Young Beach is generally safe for swimming, especially during calm conditions typical of summer months. The beach has a gradual sandy entry, making it suitable for families. Snorkeling is good along the rocky points on either side, where you'll find tropical fish and occasional sea turtles. However, always check current conditions before entering, as winter swells can create stronger currents and shore break. Mornings typically offer the calmest water and best visibility for snorkeling. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk.
Charley Young Beach is enjoyable year-round due to Kihei's consistently sunny, warm weather. Summer months (May-September) offer the calmest ocean conditions and best snorkeling visibility. Winter (December-March) can bring larger waves and occasional wind, but the beach remains accessible. For fewer crowds, visit early morning before 9am or weekdays. The beach faces west, making it excellent for sunset viewing. Mornings generally provide better snorkeling conditions with clearer water, while afternoons can get breezier, typical of Kihei's weather patterns.
Charley Young Beach has a small, free public parking lot accessed from South Kihei Road via Kaiau Place (between Kamaole Beach Parks I and II). The lot holds approximately 15-20 vehicles and fills quickly, especially on weekends and mid-morning. Arrive before 8am for best parking availability. Street parking on Kaiau Place is limited. The beach access is easy, with a short paved walkway from the parking area. Look for the small public beach access sign, as this local favorite is tucked between condos and easily missed from the main road.
Charley Young Beach has no on-site facilities or food vendors, so bring your own supplies. Public restrooms and showers are available at nearby Kamaole Beach Park I, a short walk north. South Kihei Road offers numerous restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, and food trucks within a 5-10 minute drive. Popular nearby options include food trucks at Kihei Kalama Village and various restaurants in Kihei town. For accommodations, several condos and vacation rentals line the beach, with additional hotels and resorts throughout Kihei within easy driving distance.
Charley Young Beach remains relatively uncrowded because it's tucked between the more prominent Kamaole Beach Parks and lacks obvious signage from South Kihei Road. While neighboring beaches have large parking lots and full facilities, Charley Young's small parking area and residential setting keep it under the radar for many tourists. The beach offers the same beautiful white sand and excellent snorkeling as its famous neighbors but with a more local, peaceful atmosphere. Its compact size and limited parking actually enhance the experience for those who find it, offering a quieter alternative for sunbathing and swimming.
Photos