A Hawaiian archipelago island, Maui is located in the Central Pacific. Located on the scenic Hana Highway, Haleakala National Park encompasses the island’s highest peak, Haleakala, as well as the pools and waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch. Among the island’s 30 miles of beaches is golden-crescent Kapalua, which is protected from strong currents by lava-rock promontories.
1. Big Beach
Big Beach is one of the largest beaches on the island, stretching over a mile long and 100 feet wide from sand to shore. In addition, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches, protected by low black lava cliffs and blessed with cool emerald waters and ultra fine silver sand. In addition, it is a tranquil alternative to Lahaina and Kaanapali’s resort-strewn beaches due to its tucked-away location in M’kena State Park.
2. Hamoa Beach
While Hamoa is a mere pocket of sand at the Hana end of Maui, it is undoubtedly one of Maui’s most beautiful beaches. This beautiful beach is surrounded by a dense forest of Hala trees, its shore is wide and golden, and its waters are a brilliant shade of aquamarine. While Hamoa might look pretty, it’s not protected by outlying reefs, so the surf can be quite powerful, so it’s best to wade in the shallows or enjoy the view from the shore. The newly opened Hana-Maui Resort by Hyatt (formerly Travaasa Hana) offers daily shuttle service to Hamoa Beach beginning at 11 a.m.
3. Ka’anapali Beach
It’s no wonder Ka’anapali is the most popular beach in West Maui with its powder-white sand and crystal-clear water. There are a number of resorts along the beach, but it remains one of Hawaii’s most picturesque beaches, and it is spacious enough to never feel crowded. You can also snorkel or jump off Black Rock, a 16-foot cliff on Ka’anapali’s northern end. Watch out for green sea turtles! After a $120 million renovation, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa reopened in November 2020. Its newly-built Hōkūpa tower is the most luxurious accommodation at Ka’anapali.
4. Kapalua Beach
One of Maui’s best snorkeling beaches, Kapalua is protected by two reefs that extend out on either end. The waters at its rocky northern end are particularly calm, have excellent visibility, and are rich with marine life-you can see everything from butterfly fish to spotted Moray eels there. With its luxurious rooms and pandemic-friendly private luaus (a luau experience from the comfort of your own lanai), Montage Kapalua Bay is our favorite place to stay in the area.
5. Honokalani Beach
Hana’s Honokalani Beach is one of Maui’s most Instagram-worthy spots, with its jet-black shore, aquamarine waters, and jungle-like vegetation. You can boogie-board or explore the many sea caves carved into the cliffs along the shore, not to mention relax on its onyx sand (actually millions of tiny lava pebbles). This is wild, unspoiled Hawaii at its best, and a must-see along the Hana Highway.
6. Napili Beach
Napili, located on the northwest shore of the island near Kapalua, is known for its show-stopping sunsets and silky golden sand. The crystal-clear waters are protected from large swells by outer reefs, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling – you may even spot green sea turtles here. Enjoy dinner at Merriman’s nearby followed by a stay at Napili Kai Beach Resort, one of Maui’s best resorts.
7. Kaihalulu Beach
In Hana, Kaihalulu, again at the base of a lava cone, is a photographer’s dream. The sand here is rust-red, giving it its signature color. Swimming and snorkeling are both perfect in the calm, protected waters (just avoid the cliff-jumpers at either end). The hike down is steep and narrow – don’t try it when it’s raining! -but the views alone make it worth the slightly gnarly trek.
8. Wailea Beach
Located adjacent to the Four Seasons Resort Maui, Wailea Beach is the hot spot for A-listers. No wonder: aside from its sugary sand and iridescent waters, the beach boasts breathtaking views of Molokini Crater and Lanai and Kahoolawe islands. In April 2021, the AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea will open on three acres of lush, jungle-like gardens, with 110 minimalist-luxe rooms and a poolside tiki bar.
9. Keawakapu Beach
A great alternative to South Maui’s larger and more touristy beaches, Keawakapu is discreetly tucked between Wailea and Kihei. This beach offers cushiony white sand for lounging, strolling, and sunrise yoga, while the ocean is calm and great for swimming and snorkeling, especially at the southern end. Stay at the zen, ultraluxe Andaz Maui, located five minutes’ drive from Keawakapu, if you want to stay close (and who wouldn’t?).
10. Baldwin Beach
Baldwin Beach on Maui’s North Shore is a family-friendly beach equipped with bathrooms, showers, barbecues, picnic tables, a covered pavilion, and lifeguards. Baldwin’s western tip even has a section dubbed “Baby Beach,” thanks to a large reef that creates a shallow pool ideal for keiki. A post-swim seafood feast awaits you at Mama’s Fish House-one of Maui’s best restaurants.
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