Kaanapali Beach
Stunning Kaanapali Beach offers golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Kaanapali Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stunning Kaanapali Beach offers golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
"Kaanapali is a piece of heaven on the earth. Beautiful beaches, lovely mountains and perfect sky."
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Beach access parking is limited; explore further down for more spots. :parking:
🐢 Turtle sightings are common
Keep an eye out for sea turtles, especially near Black Rock. Admire from a distance!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Black Rock (Pu'u Keka'a)
Northern end of Kaanapali Beach
Iconic cliff jumping spot with a free sunset ceremony. Great for snorkeling and spotting turtles.

Kaanapali Beachwalk
A scenic paved path stretching along the coastline, perfect for leisurely strolls with ocean views.

Snorkeling & Marine Life
Crystal-clear waters teem with colorful fish and sea turtles. Black Rock is a prime spot for sightings.

Whalers Village
Central Kaanapali Beach
A beachfront shopping center with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sun Safely
Respectful Visitor Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Beach access parking is limited; explore further down for more spots. :parking:
🐢 Turtle sightings are common
Keep an eye out for sea turtles, especially near Black Rock. Admire from a distance!
☀️ Sun protection is key
The Maui sun is strong. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Beachwalk
The Kaanapali Beachwalk is perfect for a scenic, free stroll.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking can be tricky
Beach access parking is limited; explore further down for more spots. :parking:
🐢 Turtle sightings are common
Keep an eye out for sea turtles, especially near Black Rock. Admire from a distance!
☀️ Sun protection is key
The Maui sun is strong. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Beachwalk
The Kaanapali Beachwalk is perfect for a scenic, free stroll.
🌊 Beginner-friendly waves
Waves can be strong but are generally good for beginner surfers and boogie boarding.
💰 Affordable stays possible
Look for Airbnb deals in October for potentially lower rates.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kaanapali Beach is widely praised as a beautiful slice of paradise with clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning scenery. Visitors enjoy the long beachwalk, snorkeling opportunities, and the iconic Black Rock. While generally welcoming, some reviews mention a need for respectful visitor etiquette. Occasional strong waves and limited parking are minor drawbacks.
"It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Maui. We saw a few turtles and some beautiful fish while swimming so snorkeling is great there. Tons of space and clear water. There are rocky cliffs on the right side of the beach for some cliff diving but be careful because it’s quite slippery."
Elzbieta Maslauskaite
"Kaanapali is a piece of heaven on the earth. Beautiful beaches, lovely mountains and perfect sky. Here is now one of my most favorite places I've ever stayed."
hanieh etedali
"It’s like small city with beautiful greenery
1. Maui crafts and gifts fair happening.
2. There is huge golf course.
3. A very small parking in-front of actual beach entry like 10 slots in front of it (go straight, you will find more parking). There will be lots of other beach entrances.
4. Huge resorts and great place to chill and enjoy beach for.
5. Went during weekdays and less crowd than what I expected."
Hitro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kaanapali Beach is located on the west side of Maui. If you're flying into Kahului Airport (OGG), it's about a 45-minute drive. Renting a car is recommended for exploring Maui, but many activities in Kaanapali are accessible on foot or via the Maui Bus.
Parking can be limited, especially at the main beach entrances. There are about 10 spots directly in front of one entry, but more parking is available if you continue driving along the coast.
Yes, you can access Kaanapali Beach without a car. The Maui Bus services the area, and many resorts and attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Kaanapali Beach is located just north of Lahaina town. While the areas were impacted by recent fires, Kaanapali itself remains a beautiful destination.
Walking along the Kaanapali Beachwalk is a popular and scenic way to get around. The Maui Bus is also a convenient option for longer distances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kaanapali Beach is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access the sand and water. Some activities or resort amenities might have associated costs.
Kaanapali Beach is open to the public from sunrise to sunset. The sunset cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock typically happens daily around sunset.
For general beach access, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to participate in specific tours, luaus, or dine at popular restaurants, reservations are highly recommended.
Standard beach rules apply, such as respecting marine life and not leaving trash behind. Be mindful of safety when cliff jumping at Black Rock.
Check local event listings or inquire at your resort. Events like the Maui Crafts and Gifts Fair may occur periodically.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and walking the beachwalk. Black Rock offers cliff jumping and is a great spot for spotting turtles.
Yes, Kaanapali Beach is generally good for swimming, with clear waters and sandy bottoms. However, waves can sometimes be strong, especially for beginners.
Absolutely! Kaanapali Beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, particularly around Black Rock, where you can see a variety of fish and sea turtles.
This is a daily tradition where a diver lights torches and leaps from Black Rock into the ocean at sunset, accompanied by Hawaiian chants. It's a free and memorable experience.
Be cautious of strong waves, especially if you're not an experienced swimmer. The rocks around Black Rock can be slippery. Also, be aware of potential shark sightings, though encounters are rare.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kaanapali offers a wide range of dining options, from casual beachfront cafes to upscale restaurants. Whalers Village has several eateries, and resorts like The Westin and Hyatt also have dining facilities.
While Kaanapali has many high-end dining choices, you can find more budget-friendly options by exploring slightly off the main strip or looking for happy hour specials.
You'll find a variety of cuisines, including fresh seafood, Hawaiian specialties, and international dishes. Hula Grill is known for its island flavors.
Yes, Kaanapali has several spots offering happy hour deals, especially in the late afternoon. Checking local guides or apps can help you find the latest specials.
While Kaanapali is more resort-focused, there are often small convenience stores within resorts or nearby shopping areas for basic necessities. For larger grocery runs, you might need to travel a bit further.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of Kaanapali Beach offers stunning ocean views. Black Rock at sunset is particularly photogenic, as are the palm-lined shores and the beachwalk.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant blue water is still captivating.
Yes, but always maintain a respectful distance. Avoid using flash, and never touch or disturb the turtles.
Drone regulations can vary and are subject to change. It's best to check current FAA and local Maui guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting, like turtles or distant whales (in season). An underwater camera is perfect for snorkeling shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Snorkeling near Black Rock can be an exciting adventure for older children, offering a chance to see sea turtles and colorful fish. Whalers Village provides a convenient spot for casual dining and souvenir shopping, making it easy to manage family needs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to save on daily expenses. For dining, explore happy hour specials at resort bars or seek out more local eateries slightly away from the main tourist strip. Utilizing the Maui Bus can also be a cost-effective way to get around compared to taxis or ride-shares.
💑 Couples
Many resorts offer oceanfront dining with beautiful views, perfect for a romantic dinner. Consider booking a sunset sail or a snorkeling tour for a memorable day on the water together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Kaanapali's Marine Life
Beyond turtles, snorkelers can expect to see a diverse array of tropical fish. The coral formations, though sometimes delicate, provide habitats for these colorful creatures. Remember to always maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and avoid touching coral or marine animals to help preserve this delicate ecosystem.
For those interested in larger marine life, Kaanapali's waters can also be a place to spot dolphins or even sharks, though sightings of larger predators are rare and usually occur further offshore. The presence of these animals underscores the importance of responsible tourism and respecting the natural environment.
The Kaanapali Beachwalk Experience
This accessible walkway is perfect for morning jogs, leisurely sunset strolls, or simply finding a quiet spot to sit and watch the waves. Along the way, you'll pass by lush landscaping, public access points to the beach, and various amenities. It's a fantastic free activity that allows visitors to soak in the beauty of West Maui at their own pace.
Many visitors find the Beachwalk to be a highlight of their stay, appreciating its convenience and the constant, stunning ocean vistas. It’s also a great place to people-watch and get a feel for the relaxed island vibe.
Navigating Kaanapali's Resorts and Amenities
These resorts often provide direct beach access, swimming pools, dining options, and various activities. For families, resorts like Marriott's Maui Ocean Club are highlighted for their suitability. Many resorts also offer access to or are within walking distance of shopping and dining hubs like Whalers Village.
While staying at a resort offers convenience, it's also worth noting that some visitors have found affordable Airbnb options in the Kaanapali area, providing a different type of accommodation experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit