The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Kihei
4.6
(48)
1,330
hikers
12
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Kihei offer a diverse range of landscapes, from accessible coastal paths to unique wetland environments and dramatic volcanic terrain. The region, located on South Maui, is characterized by its sunny shores and varied natural features. While Kihei itself is a drier area, lush rainforests and waterfalls are accessible within a short drive. These trails provide opportunities to explore ocean vistas, observe native wildlife, and traverse ancient lava flows.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Kihei
…Last updated: July 8, 2026
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
6.96km
01:46
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.70km
00:26
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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20
hikers
9.45km
02:28
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
18
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Perfect barefoot running beach, as always as early or late in the day as possible.
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Perfect running route for a lap without shoes.
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Lots of fresh air and always parallel to the water.
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Ulua Beach Park is a 0.25-mile-long sandy beach known for its excellent swimming, boogie boarding, and beginner to intermediate snorkeling opportunities, with the rocky outcrop on the north end of the beach offering some of the best spots. Ulua Beach is more crowded than its neighboring beach to the north. The beach gets its name from a famous Hawaiian game fish and was initially called "Kaula'uo" by locals before World War II. It was renamed "Little Tarawa" by US Marines during their training mission, which is still the name some locals use. Limited parking is available, so plan to come early if you need a space.
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Kalama Park is a spacious park with athletic fields, courts, skating rink, pavilions, and a giant metal whale sculpture. This beach has nice waves and is a better surfing destination than some other nearby beaches.
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Kamaole III is one of the last main beaches in Kilhe and is a favorite hangout for locals and visitors. It includes a giant beach park, playground and barbecue facilities, perfect for families to enjoy a full day enjoying the beach. Sunset here is something of a tradition. Locals make this place a habit in the evenings to play bocce ball, eat and watch the sun go down.
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The Shops at Wailea is a collection of island restaurants and distinctive Hawai‘ian stores. There is a lovely courtyard here where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after your run or pick up any essentials you may need for an afternoon at the beach.
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This beach is a beautiful, small stretch of sand with lots of character. It is named after a nearby resident who became a local celebrity for offering beachgoers a hose to wash the sand off their feet after a swim and keeping the pathways clear past his home. There are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling here and a grassy area for families to enjoy a picnic and beach volleyball on a broader section of the sand. While passing by, watch for sea turtles often spotted in this area. After a run, it is an excellent spot to kick off your shoes and enjoy the scenery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Kihei?
There are 9 family-friendly hiking trails around Kihei featured in this guide, with 7 of them rated as easy and 2 as moderate, making them suitable for various family abilities.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Kihei?
Kihei offers a diverse range of terrain for family hikes. You'll find many coastal paths with stunning ocean views, such as the Maʻalaea Beach Walk, as well as paved boardwalks like the Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk. Some trails also venture through unique wetland environments or offer glimpses of the island's volcanic landscapes, though these are typically found a short drive from Kihei's main town area.
Are there any easy, short loop trails suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for families with young children or those looking for a shorter stroll, the Kalama Park loop is an excellent choice. It's an easy 1.7 km path, perfect for a quick outing.
What are the best trails for coastal views and beach access?
Many family-friendly trails in Kihei offer beautiful coastal views and beach access. The Maʻalaea Beach Walk is a great option for a longer coastal experience. For shorter walks with beach access, consider the Kamaole III Beach loop from Kamaole Beach Park, which is just over 2 km.
Are there any trails where we can see wildlife, especially birds?
Absolutely! The Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, located near Kihei, is a significant natural wetland and a fantastic spot for birdwatching. While not directly featured as a komoot route in this guide, the Keālia Coastal Boardwalk within the refuge offers an easy trail to observe native Hawaiian birds like the Hawaiian Coot and Hawaiian Stilt. It's a great educational experience for families.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails in Kihei?
The family-friendly trails in Kihei are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the easy accessibility, the stunning ocean views, and the well-maintained paths that make them enjoyable for all ages.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions near the family hiking trails?
Yes, several attractions are close to the family hiking trails. You can visit Keawakapu Beach or Charley Young Beach for some relaxation. The Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk is also a popular scenic spot. For an indoor activity, the Maui Ocean Center is a short drive away and offers an engaging experience for kids.
Can we find trails that are suitable for strollers?
While specific stroller-friendly designations aren't always available, many of Kihei's coastal paths and boardwalks, such as sections of the Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk or the paved areas around Kalama Park, are generally flat and paved, making them suitable for strollers. Always check the specific trail conditions before heading out.
What is the best time of day to hike with family in Kihei?
Given Kihei's sunny climate, the best time to hike with family is typically in the early morning or late afternoon. This avoids the midday heat, which can be intense, and often provides more comfortable temperatures and beautiful light for photography.
Are there any family-friendly trails that are less crowded?
While popular spots can get busy, exploring trails during off-peak hours (early mornings) or choosing slightly less central routes can help. The Maʻalaea Beach Walk, while offering great views, can sometimes feel less crowded than the more central beach parks, especially further along the path.
Are there any waterfalls accessible within a reasonable drive from Kihei?
While Kihei itself is a drier area and doesn't have natural waterfalls directly within town, lush rainforest environments with waterfalls are accessible within a reasonable drive. For example, Twin Falls, located at the beginning of the Road to Hana, offers opportunities to hike and see multiple waterfalls and streams, making for a memorable family day trip.
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