Maui's Kihei area offers camping access within a climate zone receiving just 10-15 inches of rainfall annually. The south Maui location serves as a practical base for exploring both beachfront and upcountry camping options with temperatures ranging from 60°F at higher elevations to 85°F along the coast. Dog owners can bring pets to several established campsites with specific leash and supervision requirements.
What to do
Hike through diverse ecosystems: The Hosmer Grove Campground trail showcases an experimental forest with multiple tree species. "The campground is home to a nature trail through a Frankenstein'd woods where they planted numerous different trees after logging the area in the old days searching for a fast growing tree they could then log again. It's a little bit of the Pacific Northwest in Hawaii, but with all the Hawaiian plantlife as well," notes Ryan W.
Watch for native birds: Early morning birding opportunities abound at higher elevations. "The bird watching is wild. The confluence of water and mixed plants makes this a perfect spot for bird watching, including some rare and endangered birds," according to a Hosmer Grove camper.
Explore waterfall hikes: The Kīpahulu Campground provides access to the Pipiwai Trail and bamboo forest. "We LOVED Pipiwai - it's a bit grueling, and is 4 miles there and back, but the 100 foot waterfall at the end of it is incredible and a must-see," reports Jordan T.
What campers like
Ocean proximity: Beachfront camping at Camp Olowalu offers direct water access. "The tent sites are amazing, though perhaps spaced a little close together between the main camp and the shoreline, but with beach access so close, and the surrounding environment so beautiful it's easy to forget," shares Shari G.
Outdoor shower facilities: Camp Olowalu's shower setup receives consistent praise. "The outdoor showers at Camp Olowalu resort are worth the stay in and of themselves. They are works of art, frankly," notes Tracy Jo I. Another camper adds, "If camping on Maui, definitely worth it for the last night of the trip for a good shower before flying home."
Stargazing opportunities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Kihei offer excellent night sky viewing. "At night, the stargazing is spectacular!" writes Michael W. about Kīpahulu Campground. The limited light pollution creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Temperature variations: Pack for significant climate differences between coastal and mountain camps. "When people say it's cold up there, it's COLD. We were there in June, and by nightfall it got to about 30 degrees (probably dropped even more by midnight)," warns Jordan T. about Hosmer Grove Campground.
Wind exposure: Coastal camping areas can experience strong winds. "Beware the wind!!! Because it's open air with no shielding trees, sooo many people evacuated to sleep in cars or resigned to/woke up to collapsed tents because of high winds," cautions Tracy Jo I.
Limited power access: Charging options are restricted at most sites. "Literally 8 plugs for a bajillion people causing a massive traffic jam in the mornings and evenings," notes a Camp Olowalu reviewer.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for local wildlife, especially poultry. "Don't turn your back on the chickens. They'll get into your vehicle if given the chance," warns Stephanie about Camp Olowalu.
