Based on
630 reviews
About Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach stretches for three miles along Maui's west coast with calm, consistently warm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, protected by the offshore island of Lanai. The iconic black-sand beach is framed by volcanic cliffs and lined with resort properties and restaurants, creating a vibrant scene where you can watch windsurfers and outrigger canoes share the bay with leisurely swimmers. The area draws a mix of tourists and visitors seeking reliable weather and easy access to water sports, though the beach maintains a more upscale, developed atmosphere compared to Maui's quieter alternatives.
Visitor Reviews
There is a free parking plot for public to park as well as a separate beach access to enter kaanapali beach. Google free parking. Thisparking and entry is the one next to marriot. The beach is pretty rocky so wear water shoes. Turtles can be seen early morning.
Super nice resort location for families and people who want to get in the water and get out. We did not find parking easily. I came to surf and there were too many people around to actually ride :( overall beautiful location. Also I paid $10 for a medium size Starbucks pink drinkβ very overpriced!
OMG! The sand was so soft and smooth that I was surprised when my feet touched the sand. Totally loved this beach and went back to this beach for 3 days! Hungry? There are various food options nearby for dine in or take outs. Thirsty? Same, various places to get drinks but any alcohol ordered in restaurants CANNOT be brought off premises to enjoy. Shopping? Lots of options if someone doesnβt want to go to the beach and wanted to shop instead. Most stores do validation for parking but itβs only for two hours. You could trouble yourself to move your car in and out every two hours, pay for the additional few hours after the two hours, or if you have insider scoop, you can find some secret parking (sorry my lips or closed on this).
Itβs one of the most beautiful beaches in Maui. We saw a few turtles and some beautiful fish while swimming so snorkeling is great there. Tons of space and clear water. There are rocky cliffs on the right side of the beach for some cliff diving but be careful because itβs quite slippery.
KΔΚ»anapali Beach is nice to look at, but honestly not a must-see when visiting Maui. The surf was pretty rough and the entry into the water was rocky and not great for swimming. It felt overly hyped up compared to other beaches on the island. We did get to see a Hawaiian Mono Seal which is incredibly rare. My photo of the beach is also extremely edited. If youβre in the area, Iβd recommend heading just a little further north to Black Rock Beach β it has much better snorkeling, clearer water, and even some fun cliff jumping. Definitely a more memorable spot than KΔΚ»anapali.
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