BEST OF MAUI BEACHES 

 

Sparkling crystal-blue waters, tropical tradewinds, and azure skies that go on forever are trademarks of all Maui beaches.  Most have white sand, but black and red sand beaches are also a part of our island's natural resources.

Several of Maui's beaches are known worldwide as venues for international surfing and windsurfing competitions.  Others are perfect for the beginning snorkeler, beachcombers, families and children.

In Hawaii all beaches are accessible by the public.  On Maui that translates to over 30 miles of beaches.  Locales include beach parks with lifeguards, picnic facilities and restrooms.  Others are undeveloped, pristine, "secret spots" off the beaten path.  Each has a legitimate chance to be your own personal Best of Maui Beaches.
 
 

PLEASE REMEMBER:  Even though the ocean is Maui's playground there are precautions to observe.  Offshore winds and currents can be powerful and they can change suddenly. That means not straying too far from shore or heading out to kayak, windsurf or sail if warning signs are posted, or if conditions warrant caution.  Two good rules of thumb:  "If in doubt stay out" and always ask lifeguards and other beachgoers about local conditions.  


WEST MAUI BEACHES 

Black Rock -- Ka‘anapali Beach.
Beginning snorkelers and swimmers to experienced SCUBA divers can all enjoy the famous .Black Rock Beach. Coral and tropical fish are abundant.  Black Rock is at the northern end of Kaanapali Beach.  Here a beachwalk through Kaanapali begins.  Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll with  easy access to beachfront hotels, shopping and restaurants.
D. T. Fleming Beach Park -- Kapalua
A favorite for body and board surfing, this public park also features good swimming. Facilities include picnic tables and restrooms. Lifeguards on duty.
Ka‘anapali Beach -- Ka‘anapali Resort
West Maui's "signature beach. Three miles of white sand; sailboat and catamaran rides and rentals; surf and windsurf lessons. Easy walking access from all Kaanapali hotels.Features “Dig Me Beach. Named "America's Best Beach" in 2003”
Kapalua Beach -- Kapalua Resort
Kapalua is the first of Maui's beaches, and the first beach ever, to be named “"America's Best Beach" (1991).” A truly beautiful tropical beach which offers swimming, snorkeling and SCUBA diving.  Directly adjacent to Kapalua Resort's hotels, condos, restaturants, etc.

Launiupoko Beach Park -- South of Lahaina
A local favorite with a unique natural pool surrounded by a lava rock wall. Excellent for small children; picnic tables and restrooms.  Excellent for beginning stand-up paddlers.

Napili Bay -- South of Kapalua
Napili Bay is noted for its sandy beaches and good swimming.  An excellent 
snorkeling spot for novice and expert ocean adventurers.  Sunsets from Napili Bay are famous the world over.
Puamana Beach County Park – Lahaina
This beach provides swimming, picnic tables, restrooms, grills and a grassy park. Waves are excellent for beginning and intermediate surfers.  Walking distance to Lahaina Town.
Wahikuli State Park – Lahaina
A favorite for local families with small children this beach features calm water conditions for swimming, snorkeling and boogie boarding. Restrooms, picnic tables and grills are available.

 
CENTRAL MAUI BEACHES
Kanaha Beach Park – Kahului
Famous the world over for its excellent windsurfing conditions, Kanaha also offers good swimming and diving.  Close to town, this beach is a popular spot for lunch and local volleyball enthusiasts.  Lifeguards, restrooms, showers and picnic tables.
Waihe‘e Beach -- Waihe‘e
This beach is narrow and relatively free of crowds.  It faces east and is a popular surfing spot.
EAST MAUI BEACHES
H. A. Baldwin Beach Park – Paia
A picture-perfect Hawaii beach with excellent swimming and bodysurfing.  Also features a "baby beach" with a protected lagoon.  Lifeguards, restrooms and picnic facilities.
Ho‘okipa Beach Park -- Pa‘ia
 A world-famous venue for professional windsurfing and board surfing.  Many contests are held at Ho'okipa.  Winter surf can be massive, with excellent and safe viewing and photography.  Picnic tables and restrooms are available.
Hamoa Beach – Hana
Author James Michener called Hamoa Beach the most beautiful in the Pacific.  Outstanding swimming and bodysurfing.
Hana Beach Park – Hana
A favorite with local families, Hana Beach Park is one of the safest swimming beaches on the island.  Many local community events are held here.
Red Sand Beach – Hana
A "secret beach" with volcanic red sand and good swimming and snorkeling.  Free spirits love this beach despite its challenging location -- not for the faint of heart!
Wai‘anapanapa State Park – Hana
Excellent camping facilities, as well as cabins make Wai‘anapanapa State Park one of Maui's best beaches.  Overlooks  a black-sand beach with good swimming, snorkeling and freshwater pools in caves.
Make the most of  Maui's beaches and ocean sports.  Follow the links below to our Best of Maui Merchants specializing in 
ocean and beach activities.

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