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$10 / night

$10 / night

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Papalaua Wayside Park

4 Reviews

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CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Papalaua Wayside Park, near Lahaina, Hawaii, is a unique spot for those looking to camp right by the beach. This location offers a laid-back vibe with the sound of waves crashing nearby, making it a great choice for beach lovers.

The camping area is right along the southern shore, providing easy access to the beautiful coastline. Visitors have mentioned that it’s the cheapest camping option on the west side of Maui, which is a big plus for budget travelers. While there are no showers or drinking water available, the proximity to the beach allows for some refreshing dips in the ocean.

You’ll find some basic amenities like porta-potties and trash disposal, but be prepared for a bit of a rustic experience. Campers have noted that the area can get noisy due to its closeness to the highway, but many find the sound of the ocean to be a soothing backdrop. As one camper put it, “Easy beach living, the low maintenance traveler will find themselves right at home here.”

If you’re planning to stay, remember to grab your permits from local government offices before you arrive. While some campers have had concerns about privacy and safety, the stunning beach views and the chance to camp right on the sand make it a memorable experience for many. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your van, Papalaua Wayside Park offers a slice of paradise for those willing to embrace its quirks.

Reservation Info

Four day max stay

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Location

Papalaua Wayside Park is located in Hawaii

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

20.80155044 N
156.59093836 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Maui Tent Ohana

Maui Tent Ohana

22 min away

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

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Reviews

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4 Reviews

jane G.
Reviewed Nov. 28, 2021

Exposed but pretty nice

You don’t need a permit right now which is nice. My friends and I came in late and were still able to find a spot, we parked next to the port-a-potty’s and some guys came around 3 am to grab the trash and spooked us, so avoid that if possible. Thorns on the ground, so wear shoes. Really close to the highway so we were worried about noise and privacy because we were tent camping on our car, so not so much of an issue if you’re in a tent or hammock on the beach. Overall a nice experience.

SiteC
Month of VisitNovember
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S
Reviewed Oct. 31, 2020

Worth Some Hassle

We opted for van camping so we were close to the road so it was noisier than if we’d been closer to the beach. Due to rain and needing to drive around other vehicles, the site was hard to get in and out of but we really enjoyed the location and ease.

  • Review photo of Papalaua Wayside Park by Stephanie , October 31, 2020
Tracy Jo I.
Reviewed Mar. 10, 2020

Pass on this Wayside “campground”

Infested with kiave (extreme thorn plants). Difficult to get in and out of because it’s literally ten feet off a major highway. No fire access. No water access. Getting permits are a huge pain. Checking happened only once and it was in the middle of the night which is terrifying for a woman solo camping.

Attention Worst of all: a serious theft problem. Tent stolen. Umbrella stolen. Ladies before me had all their passports stolen.

The only pros are that it’s on a beautiful beach and the permitted spot is absolutely massive. Too bad tons of non-permitted campers decided to join me in the spot 🙄

  • Review photo of Papalaua Wayside Park by Tracy Jo I., March 10, 2020
Carrie S.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Jul. 6, 2018

Great location on the south west side of Maui

The cheapest place to camp on the west side of Maui. Located on the southern shore, the camping is all beach camping right along the beautiful coast. Trees for shade, porta potties for bathrooms.

Permits must be acquired at one of two government offices. Note that there is a sizable population of transient travelers who seem to live at the beach full time, and no maintenance seems to be done aside from the occasional trash and bathroom cleaning. Bring your own Toilet Paper as it seems to go fast. You are located between the beach and the highway, so it will be noisy but a steady calming sort of noisy.

Easy beach living, the low maintenance traveler will find themselves right at home here.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Papalaua Wayside Park by Carrie S., July 6, 2018
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you camp overnight at Papalaua Wayside Park?

Yes, you can camp overnight at Papalaua Wayside Park. It's a beach camping location situated along Maui's southern shore, offering beautiful coastal views. This is considered one of the most affordable camping options on the west side of Maui. The campground allows both tent camping directly on the beach and van camping in designated areas. The spots closer to the beach tend to be quieter than those near the road.

How do you get to Papalaua Wayside Park from Lahaina?

To reach Papalaua Wayside Park from Lahaina, you'll need to drive south along the west coast of Maui. The park is located directly off a major highway on the southern shore. It's easily identifiable as it sits right along the coast. The entrance can be somewhat challenging to navigate as it's very close to the highway with limited turning space. The park is approximately 10 feet from the main road, so watch carefully for the entrance to avoid missing it.

What permits do you need for camping at Papalaua Wayside Park?

Camping permits for Papalaua Wayside Park have historically been required and must be acquired through government offices. However, permit requirements may vary, as some periods have operated without permit requirements. When permits are needed, they must be obtained before arriving at the campground. The permit process can be somewhat challenging to navigate. For the most current permit information and requirements, contact the Maui County Parks Department or visit their official website before planning your trip.

What facilities and amenities are available at Papalaua Wayside Park?

Papalaua Wayside Park offers basic amenities for campers. The facilities include porta-potties for bathrooms. There are shade trees throughout the camping area, which provide relief from the sun. The park lacks running water, so bring your own supply. Be aware that the ground has kiave plants with thorns, so wearing shoes is highly recommended. The park doesn't have designated fire pits or fire access, and it's situated very close to a major highway.

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