Ho'okipa Beach Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Ho'okipa Beach Park?
What makes it 65% Kids-Friendly: Children can explore tide pools, watch surfers, and eat under shaded tables, yet lifeguards often warn of powerful waves that make open-ocean swimming unsuitable for under-12s.
Positives:
- Free amenities: Restrooms, rinse showers, picnic pavilions, and parking are free.
- Lifeguards on duty: Lifeguards patrol from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM for added safety.
Challenges:
- Strong currents: Open ocean has strong waves; keep children in tide pools only.
- Limited shade: Shade only under pavilions; bring sun protection and extra water.
What is Ho'okipa Beach Park?
- A state-managed beach park on Maui’s north shore featuring a broad white-sand shoreline alongside grassy picnic areas and covered pavilions
- A world-renowned surf and windsurf venue shaped by consistent winter swells and summer trade winds
- A coastal landmark defined by a cliffside lookout, panoramic ocean vistas, and a natural haul-out site for green sea turtles
What is so special about Ho'okipa Beach Park for with kids?
- Splash in safe tide pools while spotting turtles
- Enjoy a beachside family picnic under shaded pavilions
- Watch world-class surfers from the cliffside lookout
- Book kids’ surf lessons for first-wave excitement
- Free amenities like restrooms and rinse showers add convenience
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2–3 hour visit lets families explore tide pools, picnic, and watch turtles without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Ho'okipa Beach Park
Tide Pool Play:
Kids can splash and look for small fish in shallow natural pools at the shoreline.
Tip: Bring water shoes to protect feet on rocks and seaweed.
Turtle Watching:
Spot Hawaiian green sea turtles resting on the sand near the pavilion.
Tip: Keep at least 10 ft (3 m) distance and use binoculars for a closer view.
Picnic Under Pavilion:
Use one of three covered pavilions with tables and BBQ grills for family meals.
Tip: Bring snacks, drinks, and a shade umbrella for extra cover.
Cliffside Lookout:
Walk up to the hilltop parking lot for panoramic views of surfers and the ocean.
Tip: Visit at sunrise or late afternoon for best light and cooler temperatures.
Kids’ Surf Lesson:
Group surf lessons teach children basic safety and wave riding on soft-top boards.
Tip: Book lessons in advance with Paia Surf and pack a rash guard.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ho'okipa Beach Park
- Early arrival: Arrive by 8 AM to grab a pavilion and parking spot close to facilities.
- Bring beach shoes: Water shoes protect little feet on rocks and hot sand.
Reviews of Ho'okipa Beach Park
Vanessa Miller
Great place to view turtles and to watch kite surfers. I only recommend swimming and playing here for seasoned ocean goers. Great beach to bring a chair and watch wildlife and people. I've been visiting for 12 years. Great place to visit with locals and get a real feel for Maui. I recommend parking at the lowest lot and walking up the beach to see the turtles. This helps with traffic congestion.
Andras Nagy
You can sit down and enjoy the view of the ocean with amazing surfers and also the best spot to find green sea turtles on the shore.
Kira
Great beach. The ability to stay up top or go down on the beach is really nice. There are showers here. There are lots of surfers and people who know where they are going and what they're doing. Still great to visit and just chill.
Rovi Bartolo
Good parking and nice to sit and watch the surfers. It’s beautiful to look at because of the turtles and the ocean! But it is not a swimming beach. And it is good for surfing only if you are a well-seasoned surfer. Lots of rocks at the shore!
Amber Lee
Good parking, easy to walk down. We went just to see the turtles resting on the beach which was easy because there are a ton just laying there plain to see. Photos are good to take and the beach looked clean although we didn’t go on it. Not much else to say, but it is cool to see all the turtles just hanging out if you’re in the area.
When is the best time to visit Ho'okipa Beach Park (Hawaii, United States)?
Summer brings gentler waves ideal for tide-pool play. Winter surf can be large—safe for viewing expert surfers but not for small children in open water.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Groceries for picnic | USD 30 |
| Kids group surf lesson (2 children) | USD 200 |
| Adult board rental (2 boards) | USD 60 |
| Total Estimated | USD 290 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Ho'okipa Beach Park
Address: 179 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779, USA
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About Ho'okipa Beach Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 808-572-812210 BEST nearby Activities
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