Beach camping near Kihei with horseback riding

Kihei is like a Hawaii postcard come to life. Turquoise seas lap at white-sand beaches, and palm trees frame jungle-covered hills. A short drive away, you can surf Lahina or hike Haleakala National Park. Camping is the perfect way to experience Kihei and stay close to the action. For the closest West Maui camping sites, head to Papalaua Beach Park. Sleep on the sand next to the ocean; many spots are shaded for comfort. Or, hop on the Hana Highway and camp at Kanaha Beach Park near Kahului. Be sure to get a permit before tent camping at one of Maui’s beach parks. At Waiʻanapanapa State Park, choose from cabins and sites with picnic tables. Here, you can go birding, hike the Hawaiian coast, or fish in the sea just steps from camp. Inside Haleakala National Park, hike to one of two backcountry campgrounds. The park also has two drive-up campgrounds: Hosmer Grove and Kipahulu. The best part of camping near Kihei is the weather. Temperatures tend to stay in the 70s and 80s for most of the year. Bring rain gear and light layers for higher-elevation camping.