Best Beaches in Maui, Hawaii
Maui is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii. Known for golden sand, crystal-clear water, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and incredible sunsets, Maui’s beaches attract travelers from around the world.
From the famous golden sands of Kaanapali Beach to the unique black sand shores of Waiʻanapanapa State Park, Maui offers a diverse range of beach experiences including snorkeling, surfing, swimming, and relaxing tropical scenery.
Best Maui Beaches (Quick Picks)
- Best Overall Beach: Kaanapali Beach
- Best Snorkeling Beach: Kapalua Bay
- Best Scenic Beach: Waiʻanapanapa Black Sand Beach
- Best Beach for Families: Napili Bay
- Best Sunset Beach: Wailea Beach
Best Beaches in Maui
Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Hawaii. The long stretch of golden sand offers excellent swimming, snorkeling near Black Rock, and beautiful sunset views.
Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay is one of the best snorkeling beaches on Maui. Calm waters and coral reefs attract colorful fish and sea turtles.
Wailea Beach
Wailea Beach is known for its calm waters, luxury resorts, and scenic coastal views. It is a great beach for swimming and sunset walks.
Napili Bay
Napili Bay offers calm water and soft sand making it one of the best family-friendly beaches on Maui.
Waiʻanapanapa State Park
Waiʻanapanapa is famous for its striking black sand beach formed by volcanic activity. Located along the Road to Hana, it offers dramatic coastal scenery.
Maui Beach Comparison
| Beach | Best For | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Kaanapali Beach | Popular beach activities | Snorkeling, resorts |
| Kapalua Bay | Snorkeling | Calm water, coral reefs |
| Wailea Beach | Luxury resorts | Scenic coastline |
| Napili Bay | Families | Gentle waves |
| Waiʻanapanapa | Unique scenery | Black sand beach |
Maui Beach Areas
- West Maui: Kaanapali and Kapalua beaches
- South Maui: Wailea and Makena beaches
- North Shore: Windsurfing beaches
- Road to Hana: Scenic and unique beaches
Best Time to Visit Maui Beaches
Maui beaches can be enjoyed year-round thanks to the island’s warm tropical climate. Summer usually offers calmer ocean conditions while winter brings larger waves.
Tips for Visiting Maui Beaches
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs.
- Arrive early at popular beaches.
- Watch for strong currents during winter months.
- Respect marine wildlife such as sea turtles.
Plan Your Beach Trip
Turn your beach search into a complete trip — book stays, discover experiences, and prepare like a pro.
FAQs About Maui Beaches
What is the most famous beach in Maui?
Kaanapali Beach is the most famous beach in Maui thanks to its long golden sand and snorkeling areas.
Which Maui beach has black sand?
Waiʻanapanapa State Park features Maui’s most famous black sand beach.
Are Maui beaches good for snorkeling?
Yes. Kapalua Bay and areas around Black Rock are among the best snorkeling beaches on Maui.
Discover More Beaches in Hawaii Below
Poipu Beach – Kauaʻi, Hawaii, USA
- +1 (808) 245-3971
- 2179 Hoone Rd, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
- gohawaii.com/kauai
Kailua Beach – Kailua, Oʻahu, Hawaii, USA
- +1 (808) 768-3003
- 526 Kawailoa Rd, Kailua, HI 96734, USA
- honolulu.gov/parks
Kāʻanapali Beach – Maui, Hawaii, USA
- Kāʻanapali Beach Whalers Village, 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy Lahaina, HI 96761, USA
Waikiki Beach – Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
- Waikiki Beach Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA
Lanikai Beach – Oahu, Hawaii, USA
- Lanikai Beach (Access via residential streets) Mokulua Drive, Kailua, HI 96734, USA
Honolua Bay — Maui, Hawaii
- Hawaii 96761
Turtle Bay — Kahuku, Hawaii
- Kahuku, HI 96731
ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve — Maui, Hawaii
- End of the Road, Kanahena/Keone, Wailea, HI 96753
- https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/ecosystems/nars/maui/ahihi-kinau-2/
Salt Pond Beach Park
- Salt Pond Rd, Eleele, HI 96705
- https://www.kauai.gov/parks
Anahola Beach Park
- +18006528248
- Anahola, Kauaʻi County, Hawaii, United States
- http://www.kauai.com/anahola-beach#location