5 Unforgettable Maui Beaches (Don’t Leave Hawaii Without Seeing #3)
It’s no secret the island of Maui excels in the beach department. Here are 5 you truly can’t miss.
The Hawaiian island of Maui is known for its stunning landscapes, but it’s the island’s magnificent beaches that truly steal the show.
Whether you’re seeking calm, clear waters for snorkeling, epic waves for surfing, or simply a stretch of sand to relax on, Maui has it all. From the golden shores of Wailea to the dramatic black sands of Wainapanapa, the Valley Isle has the perfect beach for every kind of traveler.
As Oahu residents, my husband and I have been known to “beach hop” over to Maui just to soak up the sun on the island’s beautiful golden sands.
And while Maui has dozens of wonderful beaches, there are five that I believe every Maui visitor should see at least once. So today, I’m sharing my five favorite Maui beaches and what makes each one special.
I’ll also include who each beach is best suited for and some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit.
So whether you’re looking for a family-friendly cove, a big-wave adventure, or just a peaceful day by the ocean, these five best beaches on Maui will deliver your perfect slice of paradise.
And that’s why beach hopping is one of the best things to do when you visit!
Read More: First Trip to Maui? Here Are 10 Things You Don’t Want to Miss!
So grab your reef-safe sunscreen and let’s get started!
1. Wailea Beach
Where to find it: Located on the south shore of Maui in the upscale Wailea resort area.
Why you’ll love it
Wailea Beach sits in front of luxury resorts like the Four Seasons and Grand Wailea Resort. It’s known for calm, crystal-clear waters, and pristine, powder-soft sand. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and watching some pretty epic sunsets.
The surrounding palm trees and manicured grounds of the nearby resorts create a luxurious, tropical vibe. And the calm, clear water is ideal for children and beginner snorkelers.
Best for: Families, couples, and anyone who prefers their beach with a side of 5-star luxury. Let’s just say that Wailea Beach is Maui’s most refined beach experience.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice. All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
Facilities: Public parking lots, restrooms, and showers are available. Beach gear rentals can be found at nearby resorts.
2. Ka’anapali Beach
Where to find it: Situated on Maui’s west coast, Kaanapali Beach stretches for 3 miles in front of several hotels and resorts just north of Lahaina.
Why you’ll love it
This 3.5-mile stretch of pristine sand is more than just a beach – it’s an experience. Kaanapali Beach is a lively spot with soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of activities.
The famous Black Rock (Pu’u Keka’a) at the north end of the beach is a top spot for snorkeling, and you can even catch a daily cliff-diving ceremony. During the winter whale season months (December – March), you’ll also likely spot humpback whales from shore.
Read More: The Everything Guide to the Best Maui Whale Watching Tours
Perfect for those who want resort amenities with their beach day, Kaanapali offers a long sandy stretch ideal for beach walks.
Best for: Families, snorkelers, and those looking for a beach with plenty of amenities and nearby dining options. It’s also ideal for active beachgoers with snorkeling, parasailing, and paddleboarding available.
Facilities: There are several beach access points with parking, but they fill up quickly. Public restrooms and showers are available. Numerous restaurants and bars (and popular Whalers Village) line the nearby resorts.
3. Wainapanapa Black Sand Beach
Where to find it: Located in Wainapanapa State Park along the famous Road to Hana on Maui’s east side.
Why you’ll love it
This striking black sand beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Hawaii. And it’s certainly one of the most unique!
Formed by volcanic activity, Wainapanapa offers a stark contrast to the typical white-sand beaches of Maui. Visitors can explore the surrounding sea caves, lava tubes, and cliffs while soaking in the dramatic scenery.
It’s a great stop along the Road to Hana, but swimming can be tricky due to rough waters. It’s better for exploring than for traditional beach lounging.
The short walk along the path overlooking the beach is a great place to stop and stretch your legs along the Road to Hana. Just keep in mind that this is, by far, the most difficult beach to visit on Maui. Let’s just say the Road to Hana drive isn’t for everyone!
Read More: Yes, it’s OK to Skip These 3 Super Popular Maui Experiences (Here’s Why)
Best for: Adventurers, photographers, and anyone hoping to check “Black Sand Beach” off their Bucket List.
Facilities: Wainapanapa State Park has parking, restrooms, and picnic tables. But don’t forget, this is the one beach on Maui that requires a timed reservation for entry to the park.
Here’s how to get that reservation: Headed to Maui? Here are 3 Reservations You Need to Make Now 🌺📆💻
4. Kapalua Bay
Where to find it: On the northwest coast of Maui, just south of Napili, Kapalua Bay is tucked between two rocky headlands that shelter the beach.
Why you’ll love it
Kapalua Bay offers a protected, tranquil spot perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with gentle waves and vibrant marine life. Its crescent-shaped little beach and surrounding lush landscape create a postcard-perfect setting.
If you’re traveling with little ones or just prefer easily swimmable beaches, Kapalua Bay is your beach. This popular spot offers some of the most tranquil swimming conditions on the island, protected by two reefs that create a natural barrier against strong waves.
It’s also a quieter alternative to the busier Kaanapali Beach.
Best for: Families and snorkelers, especially those with younger kids due to the calm, shallow water.
Facilities: Public restrooms, showers, and limited parking are available near the beach, but you may need to arrive early to snag a spot. Beach rentals are available nearby.
5. Ho’okipa Beach
Where to find it: Located on the north shore of Maui, just east of the town of Paia, along the Hana Highway.
Why you’ll love it
Hookipa is one of the world’s top beaches for windsurfing. The strong winds and big waves draw surfers and windsurfers from around the globe. For that same reason, swimming is not ideal due to the strong currents.
But let’s be honest, you’re probably here for the turtles.
Hookipa Beach is one of the best places on Maui to observe Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) basking in the sun. So if turtle spotting is on your Maui Bucket List, this is the best spot to find them.
Just remember to give the honu their space and keep the required 10′ minimum distance. They are there to rest after all.
Visitors can watch the windsurfing action from the lookout or kick back on the sandy shores and do as the honu do.
Best for: Turtle-lovers, surfers, windsurfers, and anyone who wants to watch the pros take on Maui’s waves.
Facilities: There is a parking lot, restrooms, and picnic areas. This is a popular beach with locals and parking fills up quickly on the weekends. There are no lifeguards, so exercise caution if you go near the water.
A few more of Maui’s beaches worth a visit…
If you’ve hit all of the above and you’re looking for more terrific beaches, here are a few more of my favorite beaches to add to your list:
- Makena Beach (Big Beach): Located in South Maui, this beach is known for its vast stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the largest beaches on Maui and offers a more secluded feel compared to the more developed areas like Wailea or Kaanapali. But be warned – this beach can have dangerous shore breaks.
- Baldwin Beach: Situated near Paia on the North Shore, Baldwin Beach is a local favorite. It’s great for swimming, with calm waters near the lagoon area at one end, and offers picturesque views, especially at sunset.
- Napili Bay: Just south of Kapalua, Napili Bay is a small, crescent-shaped beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a family-friendly spot with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Keawakapu Beach: Want to escape the crowds? This hidden gem connects Kihei to Wailea and offers the best of both worlds. The beach provides plenty of space for lounging and swimming, with fewer people than its more famous neighbors.
- Ulua Beach: Early birds, this one’s for you. Ulua Beach offers excellent morning snorkeling before the afternoon winds pick up.
- Baby Beach (Paia): Don’t let the name fool you – this beach isn’t just for babies. Protected by a reef that creates a natural swimming pool effect, it’s perfect for keiki or anyone seeking a calmer beach experience on Maui’s north shore.
That’s a wrap…let’s hit the beach!
Remember, when it comes to the best Maui beaches, it’s all relative.
The best beach for you depends on your comfort level in the water and whether activities and amenities are important to you.
Part of the fun of visiting Maui is exploring different beaches during your stay – that’s how you’ll find your perfect slice of paradise.
And don’t forget, Maui is so much more than just beaches: First Trip to Maui? Here Are 10 Things You Don’t Want to Miss!
Tip: Kauai’s beaches are pretty great, too. And don’t miss these awesome Oahu beaches!
And there are a few more Hawaiian beaches that I consider “Bucket List Worthy.”
Read More: 15 Amazing Beaches to Add to Your Hawaii Bucket List
And for more fun things to see and do on Maui, check out The Ultimate Travel Guide to Maui Hawaii (2024) and You Haven’t Really Seen Maui Until You’ve Explored This Stunning Sky-High Region🌿.
Oh, and if you’re trying to decide between Maui and Kauai…I can help with that, too!
Read More: Maui or Kauai: Which Island is Perfect for Your Hawaii Vacation?
