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Papalaua Wayside Park

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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.

Description

Municipal

A camping permit is required to camp in DPR parks. Permits are given on a first come, first served basis and are limited to the following parks: Papalaua Wayside Beach Park (West Maui):  Closed weekly for maintenance on:Tuesday and Wednesday

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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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

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

Drive Time


Reviews

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3.5

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4 Reviews

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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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
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
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

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to camp at Papalaua Wayside Park?

    Camping at Papalaua Wayside Park can starts at $10.00.