10 Best Beaches in Maui: Discovering Paradise
- Lindsay & Justin
- Apr 12, 2022
- 6 min read
Updated: Nov 14, 2024
We embarked on an enchanting adventure to Maui, where we found golden sands meeting turquoise waters, and palm trees swaying in the gentle Hawaiian breeze. Known as "The Valley Isle," Maui captivated us with its stunning beaches that catered to every type of beachgoer. Whether we were sunbathing, surfing, or snorkeling, Maui's diverse coastline had something special in store for us. We explored the best beaches in Maui, and we're excited to share our experiences to help you plan your perfect Hawaiian getaway.
10 Best Beaches of Maui |
1. Ka'anapali Beach: The Crown Jewel of West Maui
We began our journey at Ka'anapali Beach, a three-mile stretch of pristine sand that lived up to its reputation as one of the world's best beaches. Located in West Maui, Ka'anapali offered us:
Crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling
Spectacular sunset views, including the thrilling daily cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock
Easy access to resorts, shops, and restaurants along the beachfront walkway
Exciting water activities like parasailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and catamaran cruises.
🐋 Pro tip: If visiting during whale watching season (November to May) you may be lucky enough to spot humpback whales from the shore. |
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2. Wailea Beach: Luxury and Serenity Combined
We then explored Wailea Beach, nestled in the upscale Wailea resort area. This crescent-shaped paradise exuded luxury and tranquility. Here's what made Wailea Beach special for us:
Calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling
Soft, golden sand perfect for sunbathing
Excellent facilities including showers, restrooms, and equipment rentals
Breathtaking views of neighboring islands Molokini and Kaho'olawe
💡 Don't miss: We took a stroll along the Wailea Beach Path and were rewarded with stunning coastal views and access to multiple beaches in the area. |
3. Hamoa Beach: A Hidden Gem in East Maui
Venturing off the beaten path, we discovered Hamoa Beach in East Maui while driving the Road to Hana, a true hidden gem. This secluded beach offered us:
A crescent-shaped bay with unique salt-and-pepper sand
Excellent bodysurfing and swimming conditions
A more local, less crowded atmosphere
Lush, tropical surroundings that made us feel like we were in a postcard
💡 Remember: Facilities were limited here, so we came prepared with our own supplies and refreshments. We recommend you do the same! |
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4. Napili Beach: Family-Friendly Fun
We found Napili Beach, located in Northwest Maui, to be a favorite among families and snorkelers. This charming bay boasted:
Calm, shallow waters perfect for children and beginner swimmers
Excellent snorkeling opportunities, with frequent sea turtle sightings
A laid-back atmosphere with a friendly mix of locals and tourists
Beautiful sunsets and views of Molokai island
Getting Here: Find parking along Napili Place or search "Napili Bay Beach Access" in GoogleMaps. Once here, follow the painted yellow footprints to the beach access pathway.
💡 Insider tip: We visited early in the morning for the best snorkeling conditions and to secure a spot on the beach. It was well worth the early wake-up call! |
5. Kapalua Bay Beach: A Snorkeler's Paradise
Consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, Kapalua Bay Beach was a must-visit on our Maui adventure. This picturesque bay offered us:
Protected waters with excellent visibility for snorkeling
Abundant marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles
Soft, white sand perfect for lounging
Stunning views of the nearby islands of Molokai and Lanai
🤿 Don't forget: We brought our own snorkeling gear, but you can also rent from nearby shops to fully experience the underwater wonders. |
Prefer a Guided Tour?
6. Big Beach (Makena Beach): For the Adventure Seekers
Also known as Makena Beach, Big Beach lived up to its name with nearly a mile of golden sand. This beach was perfect for our more adventurous days:
Powerful shore break ideal for skimboarding and bodyboarding
Ample space for beach activities and games
Stunning views of Molokini crater and Kaho'olawe island
A more natural, less developed beach experience
There is paid parking at Makena State Park and free street parking closer to the southern end of the beach.
💎 South of Makena Beach is the hidden gem, Makena Cove! Find via a secret access point in the stone wall along Makena Rd (which is a legal public access). This hidden cove is a popular place for weddings.
🛟 Safety note: The shore break was intense, so we always heeded warning signs and lifeguard instructions. We strongly advise you to do the same for a safe and enjoyable visit. |
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7. Ho'okipa Beach: A Windsurfer's Dream
For our water sports enthusiasts, Ho'okipa Beach on Maui's north shore was a must-visit. Known as the "windsurfing capital of the world," Ho'okipa offered us:
World-class windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions
Spectacular waves for experienced surfers
An excellent spot to watch professional windsurfers in action
A unique opportunity to see Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the shore
🐢 Best time to visit: We headed to Ho'okipa in the late afternoon to watch the sunset and see turtles coming ashore. It was a magical experience! |
8. D.T. Fleming Beach Park: A Scenic North Shore Gem
Our journey took us to D.T. Fleming Beach Park, a beautiful stretch of golden sand on Maui's north shore. This beach park offered us:
A long, wide beach perfect for sunbathing and beach walks
Excellent bodyboarding and surfing conditions, especially for experienced wave riders
Picturesque views of the rugged coastline and Molokai island
Convenient amenities including showers, restrooms, and picnic areas
🛟 Safety tip: We observed that the waves can be quite strong here, especially during winter months. Always check conditions and heed lifeguard warnings before entering the water.
💡 Insider Tip: Walking here via the Kapalua Coastal Trail will take you right by Dragon's Teeth Access Trail, one of our recommended top things to do in Maui! |
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9. Keawakapu Beach: Where Luxury Meets Serenity
Straddling the border between Kihei and Wailea, Keawakapu Beach offered us the best of both worlds:
A long stretch of soft, white sand perfect for beach walks
Clear, calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling
Less crowded than neighboring Wailea beaches
Beautiful sunset views and whale watching opportunities in season
🤫 Local's secret: We found the north end of the beach to be quieter and less crowded, perfect for those seeking a more peaceful experience. After the beach, try the "Cinnamon Roll Place" ... you'll thank us later! |
10. Honolua Bay: A Marine Life Sanctuary
Last but certainly not least, Honolua Bay is a must-visit for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts:
Part of a Marine Life Conservation District, ensuring pristine underwater environments
Incredible diversity of marine life, including colorful coral and tropical fish
Excellent surfing conditions during winter months
Surrounded by lush, green cliffs for a dramatic backdrop
Best practice: We used reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem. We highly recommend all visitors do the same to help preserve this beautiful environment. Please note, this is a rocky beach meant for snorkeling not sunbathing.
🤫 Secret Snorkel Tip: Tour companies take people here by the boatload paying $100/person but you can visit for free via the Honolua Bay Access Trail. |
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Tips for Enjoying Maui's Beaches Responsibly
As we explored these stunning beaches, we kept in mind the following tips to ensure a safe and responsible visit:
Always respect the ocean and heed warning signs and lifeguard instructions
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect Maui's delicate marine ecosystems
Pack out what you pack in – keep Maui's beaches clean for everyone to enjoy
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance from marine animals
Be mindful of the strong Hawaiian sun – stay hydrated and seek shade during peak hours
Learn and respect local customs and traditions
We found Maui's beaches to be as diverse as they were beautiful, offering something for every type of traveler. From the world-famous Ka'anapali Beach to the hidden gem of Hamoa Beach, each shoreline told its own story of Hawaiian beauty and culture. Whether we were seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Maui's beaches provided us with unforgettable experiences and memories to last a lifetime.
📚 Also Read: 15 Things To Do in Maui Hawaii |
So pack your sunscreen, grab your snorkel gear, and get ready to discover your own slice of paradise on Maui's incredible beaches. We hope our experiences help guide you to your perfect Maui beach adventure. Aloha and happy beachcombing!
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