Maui boasts world-class beaches that are known for their unparalleled beauty. From black sand, red sand, and white sand beaches, to the best snorkel and surf beaches on the island. Keep reading to discover the best beaches in Maui, Hawaii!
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Best beaches in Maui
Table of Contents
- Best Snorkeling Beaches in Maui
- Best beaches for kids in Maui
- Best Boogie Boarding Beaches in Maui
- Most Beautiful Beaches in Maui
Best Snorkeling Beaches in Maui
Black Rock Beach
Black Rock Beach is one of the best places in Maui to snorkel with sea turtles.
This beach is located on the northern end of Ka’anapali Beach and can easily be identified by the prominent outcrop of black lava rock.
The lava rock attracts a variety of sea life that like to hang out in the cracks and crevices.
These include sea turtles, butterflyfish, parrotfish, surgeonfish, porcupinefish, and many more.
What makes this beach especially great for snorkeling is that you don’t have to venture out too deep to see incredible marine life. You can find a wide array of colorful fish and even turtles in the shallow water near the rocks.
Just keep in mind that the sea turtles are federally protected, meaning that it is illegal to touch them so be sure to give them their space.
If you continue out around the point of the rock, the depth is about 25 feet. The visibility is quite clear even in the deeper waters.
Back Rock Beach is also a great place to snorkel on windy days as the lava rock serves as a natural protection against the waves.
The lava rocks are also a popular spot for cliff jumping.
Just use caution if you are climbing up the rocks as the lava can be quite rough and unforgiving. Also, watch your step as spiny sea urchins like to hang out in the crevices of the rocks.
Black Rock also holds sacred significance as a place where the soul leaps into eternity. Each night at sunset, the Sheraton Resort lights torches as a cliff diver reenacts the Maui’s Chief Kahekili’s leap from the rock.
If you are looking to rent snorkel equipment, the Snorkel Store offers rentals for a flat rate of $35 for the duration of your vacation. They even send out a daily snorkel report with the best spots to snorkel on the island.
Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay boasts one of the best snorkeling destinations in Maui.
The sheltered bay offers calm waters, vibrant tropical fish, a colorful coral reef, and the opportunity to swim with sea turtles.
The trail leading to the bay is also an experience in and of itself. The 0.25-mile path cuts through the dense Honolua Forest with light filtering through the branches of monkeypod trees.
Once you reach the bay, make your way to the right side of the boulder-laden shore.
You won’t find much sand to relax on, but once you enter the water you’ll be greeted with an underwater wonderland.
The best place to snorkel is about 600 feet offshore on the right side of the bay where the reef begins. You’ll often see catamaran tour boats anchored here.
Honolua Bay is our favorite beach in the West Maui Mountains. For more great destinations, be sure to check out our guide 11 Most Beautiful Places in the West Maui Mountains!
Ahihi-Kinau Reserve
Ahihi-Kinau Reserve is not the usual idyllic palm tree-lined Maui beach that you imagine, instead you’ll find the shore covered with jagged lava rock.
However, this coastal lava field offers a unique beauty as it is the remains from the last eruption of Haleakala about 200-500 years ago.
The Ahihi-Kinau Reserve is also one of the best beaches in Maui for snorkeling.
in 1973, Ahihi-Kinau was the first area in Maui to be designated as a Natural Area Reserve.
This conservation district encompasses 1,238 acres, including 807 underwater acres. The purpose of the preserve is to protect the fragile marine ecosystem that has become a nursery and refuge for a variety of marine life.
As a result, testing has shown that the reef within the reserve is the only test site which is not declining. In an effort to continually protect the reef, please only use reef-safe sunscreen and never step on the coral.
The thriving coral is home to an abundance of marine life, much of which can be seen just off the shore.
You’ll find informational signs directing you to the safest points of entry into the water. Just look for the yellow fish signs!
Getting out of the water can be a bit of a challenge with all the lava rocks and incoming waves, so use caution.
There is also a walking trail along the shore, just be sure to wear tennis shoes as the sharp lava rock can wreak havoc on your feet.
There is a $5 parking fee, but the lot is large with ample parking spots.
Maluaka Beach
You’ll often hear boat companies advertising snorkel tours to “Turtle Town”, however, you don’t need to pay for a tour in order to snorkel with sea turtles.
Turtle Town is actually not a single location. Instead, it is referring to the long stretch of coastline in the southern district of Makena between Nahuna Point and Black Sand Beach.
This whole area is known for its high population of Hawaiian green sea turtles, leading to the nickname ‘Turtle Town’.
While there are several spots where you can snorkel with sea turtles, the most popular place in Turtle Town is Maluaka Beach. This small white sand beach with calm blue water is a bit of a Maui hidden gem.
The best place to snorkel with sea turtles is on the south end of the beach where you’ll find a cluster of lava rocks. A coral reef also begins here where you’ll find tropical fish in addition to the sea turtles.
Maluaka Beach is located just south of Wailea at the end of Makena Road. There is a small public parking lot, but as this is a lesser-known beach you will usually not have any problems finding parking.
Best beaches for kids in Maui
Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay is a beautiful protected cove which boasts soft sand and calm clear water perfect for families.
This crescent-shaped bay is bookmarked by reefs at each end. These reefs are home to an abundance of sea life which also makes Kapalua Bay a great beach for snorkeling.
The water is fairly shallow so younger kids won’t need to go far to see colorful fish.
This is also one of the best beaches to catch a spectacular Maui sunset!
The public parking lot is located close to the beach where you’ll also find restrooms and showers.
When traveling with kids, it’s nice to not have a long trek to the beach, especially when hauling all the sand toys and beach equipment!
Ka’anapali Beach
Ka’anapali Beach stretches for 3 miles along the northwest coast of Maui.
The soft sand and clear water have earned Ka’anapali the title as one of the best beaches in the world by Conde Nast and other reputable travel publications.
While this is one of the most popular beaches in Maui, the long stretch of sand allows for plenty of space to still lay out towels and build sandcastles.
Many of Maui’s most popular resorts line the beach. Whaler’s Village can also be found about halfway down the beach.
Whaler’s Village is a collection of shops and beachfront restaurants that are great for families.
Try Hula Grill where you can watch a hula dancer perform on the outdoor stage while dining in the sand.
Leilani’s On The Beach is also a fun option for locally sourced dishes with ocean views. They also have a great kid’s menu.
Your kids will also like the Whaling Museum on the third floor where they have the skeleton of a sperm whale hanging from the ceiling.
A paved path runs along the entire length of Ka’anapali beach that is perfect for evening walks, bike rides, or scooters.
Black Rock Beach is also found on the north end of Ka’anapali where your kids will love snorkeling with sea turtles and cliff jumping if they are feeling brave!
There are showers located along the beach, but no public restrooms. There are also no lifeguards on duty, so keep that in mind.
Parking at Ka’anapali Beach can also be tricky if you are not a hotel guest.
There is a small public parking lot located at the ground level of the Sheraton Maui Resort at the north end of Ka’anapali Beach. The lot fills up quickly so plan to arrive early.
Paid parking is also available at Whaler’s Village for $2.50/hour. You can also get a parking validation for up to 3 hours if you shop or eat at the village.
Wailea Beach
Wailea Beach is a beautiful stretch of warm sand and crystal clear water near many popular beachfront resorts.
What we love most about Wailea Beach is that you’ll find several options for water sport rentals and tours.
We took an Outrigger Canoe and Snorkel Tour with Hawaiian Ocean Sports at Wailea Beach and it was one of our favorite family activities in Maui.
We learned some fascinating history about the Hawaiian culture before embarking on our canoe tour.
Our tour guide took us to his favorite snorkel spots where we were able to hold an octopus, sea cucumber, and sea star while learning some interesting facts about the different sea creatures.
We also paddled to a portion of Turtle Town where we were able to swim with sea turtles. It truly was such a fun and educational experience for our whole family!
And while you’re in the area, be sure to check out these 8 Awesome Things to do in Wailea!
Makena Beach State Park (Big Beach)
Makena Beach, also known as Big Beach, is a picturesque golden sand beach that extends almost two-thirds of a mile.
This is one of the largest beaches in Maui, as a result, it rarely feels crowded. This is the best beach for families to spread out and play in the sand.
Depending on the conditions of the water, this beach is great for swimming and snorkeling. Lifeguards are on duty during park hours.
However, this beach is not safe for boogie boarding. It is known by the locals as “Break Neck Beach” due to the dangerous shore break. We didn’t find that out until after we went boogie boarding here.
Thankfully we didn’t get injured, but I wanted to pass along the information so that others can avoid potentially serious or even fatal injuries.
Ample free parking is available and amenities include picnic tables, restrooms, and food stands.
The island of Kaho’olawe, the smallest of the eight main Hawaiian islands, can be seen about 7 miles off in the horizon.
The Molokini Crater can also be spotted in the distance. This mostly submerged volcanic crater is a hot spot for snorkeling with several tour options departing daily.
Launiupoko Beach Park
Launiupoko Beach Park is centrally located a few miles south of downtown Lahaina where you’ll find a wide selection of shops and restaurants.
This beach is especially great for young kids. There is a small protected ocean pool with calm shallow water that is perfect to wade and splash in.
You’ll also find a playground and public restrooms on the shores of the beach.
The small rolling waves at Launiupoko Beach are also great for boogie boarding and beginning surfing.
The waves do vary during the year with the biggest waves hitting in the winter.
If your kids want to learn how to surf, there are several surf shops located in Lahaina that offer board rentals and surfing lessons at this beach.
Maui’s West Coast beaches are known for having the best sunsets, and Launiupoko Beach is no exception. The swaying palm trees against the cotton candy sky are the perfect ending to your day in paradise.
And if you’re looking for someplace to grab dinner after a long day at the beach, check out these 11 Best Places to Eat in Maui!
*Related post: Discover 9 of the Best Waterfalls in Maui!
Napili Bay
Napili Bay is a small beach that isn’t nearly as crowded as some of the other more popular beaches.
This bay is located a few miles north of Ka’anapali Beach and just south of Kapalua Bay.
Here you’ll find a pristine cove lined with palm trees similar to Kapalua Bay.
The water in the bay is generally pretty calm, but depending on the time of day and season, Napili has the perfect consistent roller waves for boogie boarding.
As always, use caution during the winter swells as the rip current can be dangerous.
Napili Bay is also a great snorkeling beach. Just head to the rocks at either end of the bay. You can often find sea turtles feeding here as well.
Best Boogie Boarding Beaches in Maui
The waves can vary depending on the time of year and time of day that you visit. The bigger waves can be found in the winter months, but they can also be more dangerous so use caution.
The best time of day to boogie board is in the afternoon when the wind and surf pick up.
DT Fleming
DT Fleming is a small county beach park that backs up to a forest of ironwood trees and the swanky Ritz Carlton hotel.
This beach is less developed and has more of a local feel.
You’ll find plenty of parking, amenities, shade trees, and fewer crowds.
It is also one of the only beaches in West Maui that is regularly monitored by lifeguards.
DT Fleming is one of the best beaches in Maui for boogie boarding as the waves tend to be pretty consistent, with the larger waves occurring in the winter months.
Dangerous rip currents can also occur in the winter months, so use caution and talk to the lifeguards before entering the water.
The afternoons can also be quite windy which makes for great boogie boarding waves.
Slaughterhouse Beach
Slaughterhouse Beach, also known as Mokule’ia Beach, lives up to its name.
While the name actually comes from the Honolua Ranch slaughterhouse that once sat on the cliff above the beach, it is also possible to get slaughtered by the waves at this beach.
The winter swell can produce waves that are even too dangerous for the most experienced boogie boarders.
However, during the summer months and on calmer days this beach produces the perfect boogie boarding waves.
The beach itself is a beautiful hidden cove backed by dramatic cliffs. You’ll find soft sand, clear water, and shade trees.
Parking on the street is limited. Be sure to lock your doors and hide any valuables as thieves often target this area.
Baldwin Beach
Baldwin Beach is a beautiful beach with a pine forest backdrop located on the northern shore of Maui near Paia.
Owen Wilson and Oprah have homes nearby and are known to frequent this beach. Owen especially loves going for an early morning surf session here.
Not only is this a great surf beach, but the waves are also ideal for boogie boarding.
Baldwin Beach is adjacent to Baby Beach which is a great option for families. You’ll find a protected pool with shallow water for kids and sea turtles lounging in the sun.
This beach offers full amenities with public restrooms, showers, BBQ grills, picnic tables, covered pavilions, and lifeguards on duty.
Most Beautiful Beaches in Maui
Secret Beach
Just south of Makena Beach, you’ll discover a hidden cove that is aptly named Secret Cove. It is also referred to as Little Beach, as it is separated from Big Beach by only an outcropping of lava rocks.
To get to Secret Cove, follow Makena Road about a half-mile south of the Makena Beach parking lot.
You’ll come to a residential neighborhood where you’ll see a stone wall. Keep your eye out for this cute aqua blue door.
Just to the right of this door, you’ll see a short pathway leading to the beach.
You’ll know you’re getting close when you see cars parked along the road. As you find a parking spot, pay attention to the ‘no parking’ signs and be respectful of the residents.
The short pathway will lead you to a pristine beach bookmarked by lava rocks and palm trees.
This small cove is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Maui.
Secret Beach is not ideal for swimming, but it is the perfect beach to bring a book and relax in the shade as you listen to the waves crash.
Just keep in mind that this is also one of Maui’s unofficial nudist beaches.
And for another Maui hidden gem, be sure to check out the Makamakaole Falls located in the West Maui Mountains!
Black Sand Beach
Maui’s iconic Black Sand Beach, also known as Pa’iola Beach, is located within the 120-acre Waianapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana.
The wild untamed beauty of the black lava rock, rich tropical vegetation, and deep blue turquoise water is truly intoxicating.
Take time to walk along the trail through the lava beds that were created several hundred years ago.
Along the trail, you’ll discover powerful blowholes spraying ocean water high into the air. As you explore, you’ll also find two spring-fed ocean caves with freshwater pools, a sea arch, and hidden beaches.
Just keep in mind that reservations are required if you plan to visit this beach. Reservations are for 2 1/2 hour time slots and can be made up to 14 days in advance.
This was one of our favorite stops on the Road to Hana. If you’re looking for more recommendations, be sure to check out our guide to the 15 Best Road to Hana Stops!
Red Sand Beach
Red Sand Beach, also known as Kaihalulu Beach, is a bit of a hidden gem along the Road to Hana. It is located about 3 miles past Waianapanapa State Park and Black Sand Beach.
The trail can be found at the end of Uakea Road where you’ll walk across the Hana Community Center grassy field to reach the path leading into the trees.
Limited street parking is available, alternately you can park at Hana Ballpark and walk the short distance to the trail.
I had read that this hike is possibly located on private property. When we visited, there were no “private property” or “no trespassing” signs.
The only sign that was posted was one stating that the trail is dangerous and the landowner is not responsible for any injuries.
That was our experience, but do your own research and never trespass on private property.
The trail down to the beach is only about 1/4 mile long, but it can be quite dangerous as the area is prone to mudslides.
The narrow trail follows along a steep ledge with sheer drop-offs in some portions. The trail is also covered in loose cinders and ironwood pine needles, which can be quite slippery. Wear sturdy shoes and use extreme caution.
As you come around the bend towards the end of the trail, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the beach.
At the base of the dramatic Ka’uiki Head cinder cone cliffs, you’ll find a small crescent-shaped beach made of deep red sand that stands in stark contrast to the cobalt blue ocean water. The scene is truly mesmerizing.
An outcrop of jagged lava rock stands as a barrier against the relentless waves creating a placid shallow pool where swimmers can take a refreshing dip.
Just be sure to wear water shoes as the cinder cone sand is made of small pebbles and is quite rough on your feet.
Red Sand Beach is also considered one of Maui’s unofficial nudist beaches, so consider yourself warned!
This area also holds cultural significance as Ka’uiki Head is the birthplace of Queen Ka’ahumanu.
And while you’re driving the Road to Hana, be sure to hike the Pipiwai Trail, the best waterfall hike in Maui!
While there are still countless more incredible beaches to explore, I hope that this guide has helped you discover some of the best beaches in Maui, Hawaii!
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