Kapalua Bay
A protected cove with crystal-clear waters, Kapalua Bay is a top spot for snorkeling, swimming, and spotting sea turtles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Kapalua Bay
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A protected cove with crystal-clear waters, Kapalua Bay is a top spot for snorkeling, swimming, and spotting sea turtles.
"This was by far the nicest beach for us. It was beyond beautiful. The snorkeling was safe and rewarding."
🚗 Parking Hacks
Arrive early for free street parking or budget for paid lots ($15-$20/day). Consider a parking guide!
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Sea turtles are frequently spotted here! Be respectful and keep a safe distance while enjoying their presence.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Coral Reefs
Along the bay's edges
Explore a kaleidoscope of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even eels. A snorkeler's paradise!
Gentle, Turquoise Waters
Protected cove
Perfect for swimming and wading, the calm, clear waters make this bay ideal for families and relaxed beachgoers.
Stunning Sunset Views
Overlooking the Pacific
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors, creating a truly magical end to your day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Strategy is Key
Snorkeling Success Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Hacks
Arrive early for free street parking or budget for paid lots ($15-$20/day). Consider a parking guide!
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Sea turtles are frequently spotted here! Be respectful and keep a safe distance while enjoying their presence.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Rent gear nearby or bring your own for the best snorkeling experience. Visibility can vary, so explore the reef edges.
☀️ Sun Protection
The Hawaiian sun is strong! Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Hacks
Arrive early for free street parking or budget for paid lots ($15-$20/day). Consider a parking guide!
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Sea turtles are frequently spotted here! Be respectful and keep a safe distance while enjoying their presence.
🤿 Snorkel Gear
Rent gear nearby or bring your own for the best snorkeling experience. Visibility can vary, so explore the reef edges.
☀️ Sun Protection
The Hawaiian sun is strong! Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for a comfortable day.
💧 Rinse Off
Permanent restrooms with outdoor showers are available at the beach entrance for rinsing off sand and saltwater.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kapalua Bay is widely praised for its stunning beauty, excellent snorkeling with abundant marine life, and calm, clear waters ideal for swimming. Visitors appreciate the convenience of nearby restrooms and showers. However, the high cost of parking and potential for crowds during peak times are noted drawbacks.
"This was by far the nicest beach for us. It was beyond beautiful. The snorkeling was safe and rewarding. Lots of sea life like eels, turtles, and a variety of fish. The water was warm and turquoise blue. Plenty of sand to call home for the day. Close bathrooms, showers. There are some paid parking spots available close by. There is also paid parking across the street @ $10 for 3 hours or $15/day. You pay with your smartphone."
dcDalton
"Great beach! Seemed like parking could be tight but never had a problem because we got there in the morning. I swam a couple of times out here with my 8 y/o son and the waves never got very big compared to other beaches we went to. Saw a lot of fish especially along the one side of the bay where there was a lot of coral that hadn't been trampled on"
Ryan Freund
"Beautiful little beach, easy access, expensive parking. You have to pay for a day pass, with tax is over $30. We hung out for several hours and had a great time, felt like it was worth it. I snorkeled the whole bay, saw several turtles, a ton of fish, an eel, and supposedly someone saw an octopus. My kids played in the sand and the waves. Plenty of nice beach for them without coral or lava rock too close to tear them up. Just out from the beach there is lots of coral for exploring. Really cool spot. It was pretty crowded when we go there, but it cleared out when it rained (I didn’t even know it was raining because I was snorkeling lol). We will probably go back here if in the area."
Aaron B (Foodie Dad)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kapalua Bay is located in West Maui. You can drive there and find parking, though it can be limited and costly. Many visitors staying in nearby resorts like The Ritz Carlton or Montage Kapalua Bay have easy access.
Yes, there are paid parking lots available, typically costing around $15-$20 for the day, or $10 for 3 hours. Free street parking can be found but is very limited and often requires an early arrival.
If you are staying at a nearby resort or villa, walking is a great option. The Kapalua Coastal Trail also leads to the bay, offering scenic views along the way.
For exploring Kapalua and its surroundings, renting a car offers the most flexibility. Ride-sharing services are also available, and some resorts offer shuttle services.
While the beach itself is sandy, access from parking areas might involve some walking. The paved path to the beach is generally manageable, but specific accessibility details should be confirmed with local authorities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kapalua Bay is a public beach and does not require an entrance ticket. You only need to pay for parking if you are driving.
Kapalua Bay is accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no official closing times for the beach itself, but parking facilities may have specific hours.
The primary fee is for parking, which can range from $15-$20 per day. There are no entrance fees for the beach itself.
While there might not be direct rental stands on the beach, many nearby resorts and shops offer beach equipment rentals, including snorkel gear and chairs.
Kapalua Bay can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons and times. Arriving early in the morning is recommended to secure a good spot.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The best snorkeling is found along the rocky edges of the bay where coral reefs thrive. Look for sea turtles, eels, and a variety of colorful fish.
Yes, Kapalua Bay is known for its frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles (Honu). Remember to observe them from a respectful distance. +1
Absolutely! The protected cove offers calm, clear waters that are ideal for swimming, wading, and floating. It's great for families.
You'll find restrooms and outdoor showers at the beach entrance, which are convenient for rinsing off after a swim.
The Kapalua Coastal Trail is a scenic 2.5-mile path offering stunning ocean views, perfect for walking or running. It connects to Kapalua Bay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no direct restaurants on the beach itself, several upscale dining options are located within the nearby resorts like Montage Kapalua Bay and The Ritz Carlton.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. Pack a picnic to make a full day of it!
Nearby dining includes Merriman's Kapalua for oceanfront views and fine dining, and The Plantation House Restaurant.
You'll likely need to drive a short distance to find convenience stores or markets for snacks. It's best to pack your own or plan to dine at a nearby restaurant.
Food trucks are not typically found directly at Kapalua Bay. For a more casual bite, explore the nearby towns of Lahaina or Napili.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire bay offers stunning backdrops, from the turquoise waters and sandy shores to the dramatic lava rock cliffs and swaying palms. Sunsets are particularly photogenic.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon provides the magical golden hour and vibrant sunset colors.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and may be restricted in certain areas, especially near resorts and protected marine life. Always check current rules before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. If you plan to snorkel, a waterproof camera or action camera is ideal for underwater shots.
Capturing sea turtles in their natural habitat, the dramatic coastline, and the vibrant sunsets are iconic photo opportunities at Kapalua Bay.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While parking can be a consideration, arriving early can help secure a spot. Bringing snacks and drinks is recommended, as dining options are a short drive away. The presence of restrooms and showers is a convenient bonus for families. Consider bringing beach toys and flotation devices for extra fun in the gentle waves.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bring your own snorkel gear if possible to save on rental costs. Enjoy the natural beauty of the beach and the snorkeling opportunities without needing to spend a lot on activities. The Kapalua Coastal Trail is a free and scenic activity to enjoy.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider staying at one of the luxurious oceanfront resorts nearby, such as Montage Kapalua Bay, for an elevated experience. Enjoy fine dining at nearby restaurants like Merriman's Kapalua for a special evening out.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Snorkeling Paradise: What to Expect
While visibility is generally excellent, it can fluctuate depending on recent weather and ocean conditions. Some visitors have noted that visibility might be better at other spots like Black Rock Beach on certain days. However, the sheer abundance of marine life and the ease of access make Kapalua Bay a must-visit for snorkel enthusiasts. Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate ecosystem.
For those looking to enhance their snorkeling experience, consider renting gear from local shops or bringing your own. The water temperature is typically pleasant year-round, making it comfortable for extended underwater exploration. The gentle waves within the cove also make it a safe environment for children to experience the underwater world with supervision.
Navigating Kapalua Bay Parking & Access
For budget-conscious travelers, finding free street parking is an option, but it requires arriving very early in the morning, as spots are limited and fill up fast. Even with free parking, the walk to the beach can be longer. Some visitors recommend utilizing a 'Kapalua Parking Guide' to help navigate the options and potentially save time and money.
Once you reach the beach, you'll find permanent restrooms with outdoor showers at the entrance, which are incredibly useful for rinsing off sand and saltwater after your beach activities. The path to the beach is generally well-maintained, making access relatively straightforward.
Beyond the Beach: Kapalua Coastal Trail
The trail provides a different perspective of the Kapalua coastline and can be enjoyed year-round. It's a great way to get some exercise while soaking in the natural beauty of the area. You can access the trail from various points, including near Kapalua Bay itself, making it easy to combine with a beach day.
Along the trail, you might encounter various viewpoints perfect for photography or simply pausing to admire the scenery. It's a refreshing experience that complements the relaxation of the beach, offering a more active way to appreciate the island's natural splendor.
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