Maui Beaches Guide
Daniel Mode
Daniel Mode
Laura Schulthies
Laura SchulthiesMaui is a paradise for beach lovers. With over 30 miles of stunning coastline, Maui boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or a bustling beach with plenty of activities, Maui has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 beaches in Maui that you should definitely check out.
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The Best Maui Beaches
Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach is world-famous for swimming and snorkeling. This stretch of ivory sands can be found on the western coast of Maui. Those looking for adventure will love the watersport options at Kaanapali Beach, including surfing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, parasailing, and jet skiing. Luxury resorts surround the beach, and the calm, clear waters are perfect for viewing the vibrant marine life below the surface. Make sure to take an evening stroll on Kaanapali Beach and stay for a beautiful sunset. Don’t miss the famous Black Rock (Pu’u Keka’a) at the north end of the beach, a volcanic lava outcropping that is one of Maui’s best snorkeling spots and a traditional Hawaiian “leaping place of souls.”
Beach Amenities: Free Public Parking (extremely limited), Paid Parking is Available at Whalers Parking Garage, Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Beach Club, No Lifeguard at main beach.
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Lahaina hotels
Kapalua Bay Beach
When you imagine a Hawaiian Beach, Kapalua Bay Beach is the exact tropical paradise that comes to mind. This award-winning beach on the northwest coast of Maui features incredibly calm waters. Kapalua Bay is one of the most celebrated beaches in all of Hawaii. Thanks to the crescent-shaped stretch of sand, this is the perfect beach for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming. It’s surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery, making for a picturesque backdrop for your beach day. Also, keep an eye out for sea turtles who like to frequent Kapalua Bay Beach. Despite its beauty, the beach is smaller and can get crowded. Make sure to arrive early, as the parking lot fills quickly.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Paid Parking ($29 per day flat rate), Picnic Tables, Beach Chair/Equipment Rentals, No Lifeguard On Duty.
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Kapalua hotels
Wailea Beach
Wailea Beach is rated as one of the best beaches in America. This popular beach on the southwest coast of Maui offers soft white sand and dazzling turquoise waters. When the ocean is calm, Wailea Beach is great for swimming and snorkeling around the rocky outcrops. Those looking for a luxury resort vibe while relaxing in the sand will love the incredible resorts surrounding Wailea Beach. In addition, this beach is known for the stunning views of the nearby islands of Lanai and Molokini Crater.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Free Public Parking (between Grand Wailea and Four Seasons – turn at yellow iron gate), ADA Accessible Parking, Picnic Area, Paved Beachwalk. No Lifeguards On Duty.
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Wailea hotels
Makena Beach
Makena Beach, known as Big Beach, is one of the largest beaches on Maui. The beach is on the south coast, and the golden sands remain undeveloped and peaceful. The beach stretches nearly two-thirds of a mile and is backed by the Pu’u Ola’i cinder cone. You can swim, boogie board, or relax in the sun as the beach features soft golden sand and crystal clear waters. Makena Beach also has plenty of amenities, including restrooms, and picnic tables. Enjoy the stunning views of the islets of Molokini and Kahoʻolawe.
Beach Amenities: Part of Makena State Park (open 5 am – 7 pm), Parking Fees: $10 Per Vehicle + $5 Per Person For Non-residents (Hawaii residents free with ID), Electronic parking kiosks accept credit cards only, Public Restrooms (portable), Picnic Tables, Lifeguard On Duty 8 am – 4:30 pm, Food Trucks, No drinking water available make sure bring your own.
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Wailea hotels
Keawakapu Beach
The stunning crescent shaped Keawakapu Beach is located on the southwest coast of Maui. The soft sands of this beach stretch for nearly a mile and offer plenty of space for relaxing and soaking in the tropical sunshine. The clear waters make Keawakapu Beach excellent for snorkeling, swimming with plenty of colorful tropical fish and sea turtles. It’s also a popular spot for sunset walks and stand-up paddleboarding.
Beach Amenities: 3 Free Public Parking Lots, ADA Accessible Parking, Public Portable Toilets, Public Showers, No Lifeguard On Duty, Equipment Rentals (SUP boards, kayaks, snorkel gear) available at Mana Kai Resort.
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Wailea hotels
Honolua Bay
As part of the Marine Life Conservation District, Honolua Bay is a unique swath of sand on the northwestern coast of Maui. This is a popular destination for Maui snorkeling, however, there is no fishing allowed. Thanks to the rocky cliffs on the beach, you will find a variety of marine life that call this beach home, including sea turtles and vibrant fish. The beach is a bit rocky and secluded, making it perfect for a peaceful beach day in nature. During summer, the calm, clear waters offer world-class snorkeling. In winter, Honolua transforms into one of Hawaii’s premier big-wave surf breaks for experienced surfers, conditions can be extremely dangerous, and this is not a beginner surfing beach.
Beach Amenities: Limited Street Parking Only, Short Jungle Trail From Parking To Bay, Porta Potties (installed July 2025), No Lifeguard On Duty, Food Trucks, Warning: Area Known For Car Break-ins – Don’t Leave Valuables In Vehicle.
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Kapalua hotels
Napili Bay
Napili Bay is a low-key resort beach on the northwest coast of Maui that is perfect for families. This beach is a favorite of locals and visitors, thanks to its quieter atmosphere compared to nearby Ka’anapali. Soft white sand and calm glassy waters make it great for swimming and snorkeling. Sea turtles often frequent the bay, and the water is typically incredibly clear, making spotting these beautiful ocean creatures easy. Napili Bay has an old-beach town feel and is surrounded by shopping and fantastic restaurants including the Sea House at Napili Kai and the popular Gazebo Restaurant.
Beach Amenities: Public Showers, No Public Restroom(restrooms available in resort with permission), No Lifeguards On Duty.
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Kapalua hotels
Kanaha Beach Park
Known for having some of the best kiteboarding and windsurfing in the world, Kanaha Beach Park is located on the north coast of Maui. This is the perfect place for adrenaline junkies to get out on the water, thanks to the strong winds and choppy waters on the beach. Kanaha Beach, known locally as “Kite Beach,” hosted the first kiteboarding competition, and played a central role in popularizing the sport worldwide. It’s also great for swimming and paddleboarding. This beach is a popular spot for locals and families, and the location close to Kahului Airport makes it the perfect stop upon arrival or before departure.
Beach Amenities: Ample Public Parking, ADA Parking Spaces, Public Restrooms, Public Outdoor Showers, and Lifeguard On Duty from 8 am to 4:30 pm, Picnic Tables, BBQ Grills, Sand Volleyball Courts, Dog Friendly, Camping Available (with permit, closed Mondays/Tuesdays).
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Kapalua hotels
Maui Black Sand Beaches
In addition to beautiful golden and white sand beaches, Maui is also home to several black sand beaches!
Honokalani Black Sand Beach
Maui’s famous black sand beach, Honokalani officially known as Pa’iloa Beach, is located in Waianapanapa State Park, just outside the town of Hana. This historically important site is deemed sacred by the Hawaiian people. Reservations are required for all visitors and can be made up to 30 days in advance. Keep in mind that same-day reservations will not be accepted. The beach was formed by basaltic lava that cooled, hardened, and was pulverized by wave action. Swimming can be dangerous and not particularly recommended here. The area is known for fierce rip currents that can sweep through the bay. Make sure to exercise caution as the ocean bottom drops off close to shore. The beach is perfect for exploring and relaxing, but remember that the black sand gets much hotter and you should always wear shoes.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee $5 USD, Paid Parking $10 USD per non-resident vehicle, Public Restrooms, Outdoor Showers, Picnic Areas, No Lifeguard Present, 12 Rentable Cabins in Waianapanapa State Park.
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Hana hotels
Oneuli Black Sand Beach (Naupaka Beach)
This beautiful black sand beach, which is part of Makena State Park, is found on the north side of the Puu Olai cinder cone. Oneuli, also called Naupaka Beach, is covered in a thick blanket of dark sand, a mix of black, red, and white minerals combined with coral fragments. At the water’s edge, the sand abruptly disappears and becomes hard lava. Keep in mind there is a lack of a sandy entry into the water so thick-soled water shoes are recommended. Oneuli Beach (Naupaka Beach) is excellent for snorkeling and diving. You can discover an underwater world full of vibrant coral and reefs just past the water’s entry. Colorful and abundant sea life often swims by. Keep an eye out as green sea turtles also frequent this area.
Beach Amenities: Small Unpaved Parking Lot (6-10 cars) accessed via bumpy dirt road off Makena Alanui Road, One Porta Potty, No Lifeguards On Duty, No Additional Amenities.
Stay Nearby! Check Prices on Wailea hotels
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