
Napili Bay Maui
A tranquil crescent beach on Maui, famed for calm waters, abundant sea turtles, and breathtaking sunsets. Ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful waters, fewer crowds

Napili Bay Maui
Best Time
Peaceful waters, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil crescent beach on Maui, famed for calm waters, abundant sea turtles, and breathtaking sunsets. Ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
"This is the best beach on the island. Great place for swimming, snorkeling or relaxing."

🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips
Look for Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) near the reef. Be respectful and keep your distance!
🥽 Snorkel Gear Essentials
Bring your own snorkel gear for exploring the vibrant reef and abundant marine life.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Snorkeling with Sea Turtles
Napili Bay
Crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant fish and frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu).

Crescent-Shaped Sandy Shoreline
Napili Bay
A picturesque, soft golden sand beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the gentle waves.

Spectacular Sunset Views
Napili Bay
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean.

The Gazebo Restaurant
Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger
Famous for its delicious breakfast with stunning ocean views, a must-try for many visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Calm: Best Times to Visit Napili Bay
Accessing Napili Bay: Insider Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips
Look for Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) near the reef. Be respectful and keep your distance!
🥽 Snorkel Gear Essentials
Bring your own snorkel gear for exploring the vibrant reef and abundant marine life.
👟 Watch Your Step
The reef and rocks can make getting in and out of the water tricky; wear water shoes if needed.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be limited; try early mornings or weekdays. Be mindful of condo parking restrictions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips
Look for Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) near the reef. Be respectful and keep your distance!
🥽 Snorkel Gear Essentials
Bring your own snorkel gear for exploring the vibrant reef and abundant marine life.
👟 Watch Your Step
The reef and rocks can make getting in and out of the water tricky; wear water shoes if needed.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be limited; try early mornings or weekdays. Be mindful of condo parking restrictions.
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Stay for the sunset; it's truly magical and a highlight for many visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Napili Bay is widely praised for its stunning beauty, calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and frequent sightings of sea turtles. Visitors love the soft sand, picturesque crescent shape, and breathtaking sunsets. Some find parking challenging and note the need to be cautious when entering the water due to reefs and rocks.
"Beautiful place down Lower Honoapiilani. Turtles frequent this bay often. To access the bay you can turn into Napoli Point condos and make you way to the bay via the sidewalks. Do not park in reserved spaces."
Adventure Escape
"Absolutely stunning place to snorkel - reef right off the shore, fish everywhere - angel fishes, parrot fishes, turtles, etc. The water is turquoise and it's a calm place to swim. Watch getting in and out because of the reef and rocks."
Jennifer Gripka
"Napili Bay was lovely. The water was calm and ideal for snorkeling and paddle boarding. There were rocks and reefs that allowed for interesting fish. Though we didn’t see any, some people said they saw a Sea Turtle while someone in my party swam with a seal."
Gregory Crosby
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Napili Bay is located on Maui's west side. While direct public transport might be limited, many visitors drive. Some suggest parking near Napili Point condos and walking to the beach, but be cautious of reserved spots. Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Maui and reaching Napili Bay.
Parking at Napili Bay can be challenging, especially during peak times. Some visitors find parking around 10:30 am to be manageable. It's advisable to arrive early or consider parking at nearby accommodations if you're staying there.
Napili Bay is north of Kaanapali. While it's a scenic drive, walking from Kaanapali to Napili Bay is a significant distance. It's more practical to drive or take a short taxi/rideshare.
Accessing Napili Bay can involve navigating through condo complexes like Napili Point. Be respectful of private property and look for public access points. Staying at a resort on Napili Bay, like Outrigger Napili Shores, offers direct beach access.
While dedicated shuttle services specifically for Napili Bay might not be common, many Maui resorts offer shuttle services to nearby attractions. Check with your accommodation for options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Napili Bay is a public beach and does not require tickets for entry. You can enjoy its beauty and amenities free of charge.
Napili Bay is accessible to the public from sunrise to sunset. There are no official closing times, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee to access Napili Bay. It's a public beach for everyone to enjoy.
Napili Bay does not offer reservations for beach spots. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early is recommended for the best experience.
The main restriction is to be respectful of the environment and any private property nearby. Avoid parking in reserved condo spots. Also, remember to give sea turtles plenty of space.
🎫 🤿 Onsite Experience
Napili Bay is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and relaxing on the soft sand. It's also a prime spot for spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles. The calm waters make it great for families.
Yes, Napili Bay is renowned for its excellent snorkeling. The reef right off the shore is home to abundant fish, including angelfish and parrotfish, and you're likely to see sea turtles.
Lifeguard services at Napili Bay can vary. It's always wise to be aware of ocean conditions and swim in designated safe areas.
The best times for snorkeling are generally in the morning when the water is calmest and visibility is highest. Early mornings or late afternoons can also offer good conditions.
Napili Bay is generally safe for swimming due to its protected outer reef, which keeps the waters calm. However, always be mindful of the reef and rocks when entering and exiting the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Gazebo restaurant at Napili Shores is a popular spot for breakfast with ocean views. Sea House Restaurant at Napili Kai offers solid dining options and a decent happy hour.
The Gazebo is famous for its breakfast dishes, offering a delightful start to your day with stunning ocean vistas.
Some reviews mention a snack bar on the beach, offering convenient options for a quick bite.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. Remember to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
There are grocery stores located a short drive away in the nearby towns of Kaanapali or Lahaina, where you can stock up on supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire crescent-shaped beach offers stunning photo opportunities. Capture the vibrant marine life while snorkeling, the golden sands, and especially the breathtaking sunsets.
Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds for serene shots. Late afternoons and evenings are perfect for capturing dramatic sunset colors.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA and local Maui guidelines before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
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.
The northern end of the bay, near the rocky outcrops, can offer unique perspectives. Also, consider elevated viewpoints from nearby condos or resorts for panoramic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Snorkeling and Marine Life at Napili Bay
When entering the water, be mindful of the reef and rocks, especially during lower tides. Wearing water shoes can provide extra protection and grip. The calm conditions make it an excellent spot for both novice and experienced snorkelers to explore the underwater world. Many visitors consider the snorkeling here to be among the best on Maui, offering an unforgettable encounter with Hawaii's vibrant ocean ecosystem.
Beyond turtles and fish, some visitors have even reported seeing seals in the bay. The abundance and variety of marine life make Napili Bay a must-visit for anyone interested in underwater exploration. The clarity of the water often allows for excellent visibility, enhancing the snorkeling experience.
Accommodations and Staying Near Napili Bay
Vacation rentals, including condos, are also popular choices for those seeking more space and a home-away-from-home feel. Websites like VRBO list numerous condos in Napili Bay Maui and Napili Bay vacation rentals. These options can be ideal for families or longer stays. When choosing a place to stay, consider proximity to the beach, available amenities, and reviews from previous guests to ensure the best fit for your Maui getaway.
For those looking for dining options, The Gazebo and Sea House Restaurant are highly recommended and conveniently located near many Napili Bay accommodations. Exploring the various places to stay in Napili Maui will help you find the perfect base for enjoying all that this beautiful part of West Maui has to offer.
The Serene Beauty of Napili Bay
The natural beauty of Napili Bay is further enhanced by the lush greenery that frames the beach, creating a truly idyllic setting. It's often described as a hidden gem, offering a sense of escape and tranquility. The sunsets here are particularly spectacular, casting a warm glow over the ocean and providing a perfect end to a day spent by the sea. Many visitors find that Napili Bay has a magical quality that instantly slows down life and promotes relaxation.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit