The Best Beaches in Maui: A Paradise Seeker’s Guide
Maui, the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, is a paradise for beach lovers. With over 120 miles of coastline, it offers a diverse range of beaches, each with its unique charm and beauty. From the glitzy, cabana-lined shores of Wailea to the quiet, hidden coves of Hana, Maui’s beaches are a treat for every kind of beach lover. In this article, we will explore some of the best beaches in Maui, drawing insights from local experiences and guest reviews. So, let’s dive in and start planning your trip to this beach paradise.
1. Big Beach
Among the best beaches in Maui, stretching over a mile long and 100 feet wide from sand to the shore, Big Beach is—as its name suggests—one of the largest beaches on the island. Sheltered by low black lava cliffs, this beach is blessed with cool emerald waters and ultra-fine silver sand. Located in the lush, 165-acre Mākena State Park, it’s a more peaceful alternative to the resort-studded beaches in Lahaina and Ka’anapali.
Pro Tip: Big Beach is perfect for those seeking tranquility and a vast expanse of sand to lounge on. Don’t forget to pack your sunblock and beach towel!
2. Hamoa Beach
Though it’s a mere pocket of sand at the Hana end of Maui—no longer than 1,000 feet—Hamoa is undoubtedly one of Maui’s most beautiful beaches. It’s backed by a thick forest of Hala trees, its shore is wide and golden, and its waters a brilliant shade of aquamarine. However, Hamoa isn’t protected by outlying reefs, which means the surf can be quite powerful. It’s best to wade in the shallows or enjoy the view from the shore.
3. Ka’anapali Beach
With three miles of powder-white sand and crystalline water, it’s no wonder that Ka’anapali is the most popular beach in West Maui. Though it’s strung with resorts, it remains one of Hawaii’s most picturesque beaches and is spacious enough to never feel too crowded. There’s a lot to do, too, from snorkeling to jumping off Black Rock, a 16-foot cliff on Ka’anapali’s northern end—keep an eye out for green sea turtles!
4. Kapalua Beach
Kapalua is one of Maui’s best beaches, protected by two reefs that extend out on either end to form a crescent-shaped cove. Its rocky northern end has especially calm waters, and excellent visibility, and is rich with marine life—expect to see everything from butterfly fish to spotted Moray eels.
Did You Know? Kapalua Beach was named “America’s Best Beach” in 2018 by Dr. Beach, a coastal scientist known for his annual rankings of the world’s top beach destinations.
Stay tuned for the next part of this article where we will continue our journey through the best beaches in Maui. We’ll explore more hidden gems and provide tips to make your beach hopping in Maui an unforgettable experience.
5. Honokalani Beach
Continuing our journey, we arrive at Hana’s Honokalani Beach. With its jet-black shore, aquamarine waters, and jungle-like foliage, Honokalani Beach is one of Maui’s most Instagram-worthy spots. But it’s more than just a pretty face: beyond luxuriating on its onyx sand (actually millions of tiny lava pebbles). It’s wild, unspoiled Hawaii at its best, and a necessary stop along the Hana Highway—just look out for mile marker 32.
Pro Tip: Honokalani Beach is a black sand beach, a unique feature resulting from the rapid cooling of volcanic lava. Remember to wear sturdy shoes as the black sand can get quite hot under the sun!
6. Napili Beach
A few miles south of Kapalua on the island’s northwest shore is Napili Bay Beach, known for its show-stopping sunsets and silky golden sands. Thanks to outer reefs that protect its crystal-clear waters from large swells, it’s perfect for both swimming and snorkeling–you may even spot green sea turtles, which love to frequent the area.
7. Kaihalulu Beach
Tucked at the base of a lava cinder cone that gives the sand its signature rust-red color, Kaihalulu, again in Hana, is a photographer’s dream. Its calm, protected waters are a surreal shade of Kool-Aid blue and are perfect for both swimming and snorkeling. Be warned: the hike down is steep and narrow—don’t attempt it when it’s rainy!—but the views alone make it worth the slightly gnarly trek.
Did You Know? Kaihalulu Beach is one of the few red sand beaches in the world. The red sand is created by the crumbling of the red cinder cone hill (Pu’u o Maui) that surrounds the beach.
8. Wailea Beach
Fronting the Four Seasons Resort Maui—a classic celebrity haunt—glamorous Wailea Beach is where all the A-listers come out to play. Besides its sprawling sugary sand and iridescent waters, the beach boasts stunning views over the Molokini Crater and the islands of Lanai and Kahoolawe.
Stay tuned for the final part of this article where we will conclude our journey through the best beaches in Maui. We’ll explore more hidden gems and provide tips to make your beach hopping in Maui an unforgettable experience.
9. Keawakapu Beach
Tucked discreetly between Wailea and Kihei, Keawakapu Beach offers a great alternative to South Maui’s larger and more touristed beaches. Its cushiony white sand makes it an excellent spot for lounging, strolling, and sunrise yoga. While the ocean is calm and good for swimming and snorkeling, particularly at the southern end of the beach.
Pro Tip: Keawakapu Beach is a great spot for a morning yoga session. The calm and serene environment provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing start to your day.
10. Baldwin Beach
Located near Historic Paia Town on Maui’s North Shore. Baldwin Beach is one of the island’s most family-friendly, equipped with bathrooms, showers, barbecues, picnic tables, a covered pavilion, and lifeguard stations. There’s even a section dubbed “Baby Beach” thanks to a large reef on Baldwin’s western tip that creates a sheltered, shallow pool perfect for the Keiki.
Did You Know? Baldwin Beach is named after Henry Perrine Baldwin, a businessman and philanthropist who co-founded Alexander & Baldwin, one of the largest sugar cane plantation businesses in Hawaii.
In conclusion, Maui offers an array of stunning beaches, each with its unique charm and beauty. Whether you’re a beach bum, a snorkeling enthusiast, or a sunset lover, there’s a beach for you in Maui. So pack your beach essentials and get ready to explore the best beaches in Maui. Happy beach hopping!
If you’re planning ahead and want to know what the cheapest time to fly to Maui is, check out this blog post.
FAQs
What is the largest beach in Maui?
Big Beach, located in the Mākena State Park, is one of the largest beaches on the island, stretching over a mile long and 100 feet wide from sand to shore.
Which beach in Maui is best for snorkeling?
Kapalua Beach is one of Maui’s best snorkeling beaches, protected by two reefs that extend out on either end to form a crescent-shaped cove.
Are there any black sand beaches in Maui?
Yes, Honokalani Beach in Hana is a beautiful black sand beach. The black sand is actually made up of tiny lava pebbles.
What is the most popular beach in West Maui?
Ka’anapali Beach, with its three miles of powder-white sand and crystalline water, is the most popular beach in West Maui.
Which beach in Maui is known for its show-stopping sunsets?
Napili Beach, located a few miles south of Kapalua on the island’s northwest shore, is known for its stunning sunsets.
Are there any red sand beaches in Maui?
Yes, Kaihalulu Beach in Hana is one of the few red sand beaches in the world. The sand gets its red color from the crumbling of the red cinder cone hill that surrounds the beach.
Which beach in Maui is family-friendly?
Baldwin Beach, located near Historic Paia Town on Maui’s North Shore, is one of the island’s most family-friendly beaches. It even has a section dubbed “Baby Beach” that creates a sheltered, shallow pool perfect for kids.
Which beach in Maui is a favorite among celebrities?
Wailea Beach, fronting the Four Seasons Resort Maui, is a favorite among celebrities due to its sprawling sugary sand, iridescent waters, and stunning views.
Which beach in Maui is less crowded?
Keawakapu Beach, tucked discreetly between Wailea and Kihei, offers a great alternative to South Maui’s larger and more touristed beaches.
What are some activities to do on Maui’s beaches?
Maui’s beaches offer a variety of activities including lounging, strolling, sunrise yoga, swimming, snorkeling, boogie-boarding, and exploring sea caves.
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