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The 5 Best Beaches on Maui
There are so many beautiful beaches on Maui that you might ask how do we choose just 5 to be the best? We are basing our opinion on how many activities you can do at the beach, water conditions, facilities, and parking options not to mention gorgeous ocean and sunset views!
Big Beach
Also known as Makena Beach, Big Beach is almost 2/3 of a mile long and 100 feet wide with stunning water colors, a fantastic view of Molokini Crater, beautiful sunsets, and gorgeous soft sand. Heavy surf breaks, be cautious.
Boogie Boarding • Wave Jumping • Sunbathing • Portable bathrooms • Food Trucks • Lifeguards
There are 3 entrances into Big Beach, the first two are paved parking lots and the 3rd entrance is reached by parking along the side of the road. Big Beach is a State Park and the two parking lot fees are $5.
Ka'anapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach is a long stretch of sand between Black Rock and Canoe Beach. Gorgeous shades of blue water, spinner dolphins out in the ocean, perfect waves for learning to surf, and great snorkeling near Black Rock (watch for strong currents in the deeper areas) makes this beach a great place to spend the day.
Surfing lessons • Paddleboarding • Swimming • Snorkeling • Sunbathing • Facilities & Restaurants
Five small public parking lots can be found scattered along the Kaanapali Parkway. If not spots are available, you can park at Whalers Village for a small fee or have 3 hours of parking validated with a purchase from the shops.
Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay is protected by two reefs that reach out at both ends creating a calm area that is great for first time snorkelers. There is great snorkeling all over the bay but especially around the edges near the rocky areas.
Snorkeling • Paddleboarding • Swimming • Showers & Restrooms • Vendor for equipment rentals
To get here, take Lower Honoapiilani Rd to Bay Club Pl. Parking fills up early. You may find parking nearby along the road, just pay attention to private property signs and don't block driveways.
Ulua Beach
On calm days Ulua Beach is great for snorkeling especially around the middle outcropping of rocks. You'll see quite a few divers head into the water from this beach and on windy days this is a favorite for boogie boarders. These beaches get really busy starting around 10am. As with all the South Maui beaches, this is another great spot for watching sunsets!
Snorkeling • Diving • Swimming • Boogie Boarding • Showers & Restrooms • Paddleboarding
Watch for the sign on Wailea Alanui Dr for Ulua Beach & Mokapu Beach that has a public parking lot to reach both of these beaches. The parking lot will fill up early though we have found spaces available throughout the day and especially later in the afternoon closer to sunset.
Kamaole Beach III
Kam III is one of three beaches right next to each other off S Kihei Rd. Stick to the rocky points at each end of the beach for good snorkeling. You can walk or jog the length of all three beachs, crossing over the rocky points or picnic areas. Popular with locals on the weekends, parties are held on the large grassy areas. The sand slopes out into the water making it great for wading.
Swimming • Snorkeling • Paddle Boarding • Boogie Boarding • Picnics •
Showers & Restrooms • Lifeguards
Watch for the yellow or red flags posted on all three Kam beaches to let you know if rip currents are active. Kam III has a good size parking lot and there is also parking along S Kihei Rd.
