Baldwin Beach
We love this dog-friendly Paia beach for its long stretch of white sand, calming ocean views, and family friendly vibe. It is a good place to walk along the sand, watching the body surfers and boogey boarders during large winter swells. Swimming can be dangerous here, but you can head to the east or west side of the beach to find calmer waters at Baldwin Cove and Beach.
D.T. Fleming Beach Park
Located in Kapalua, this beach is a must for experienced bodysurfing and boogey boarding with its high surf during winter swells. The sandy beach backs up to ironwood trees providing excellent shade for those not too keen on spending all day in the sun.
Hamoa Beach
Hamoa Beach has been named one of America’s best beaches and is certainly a gem amongst Hana beaches. The soft white sand is peppered with black sand from lava rocks, the water is calm and perfect for snorkeling and swimming making it a good destination for families.
Kaanapali Beach
It’s easy to see why this west Maui beach has been named America’s Best Beach. With three miles of sandy coast, there is plenty of room to spread out, soak up the sun, and enjoy the scenic ocean views at Kaanapali Beach. Snorkeling, whale watching, sunbathing, and swimming are all popular activities at Kaanapali. While the shallow water is normally calm, the current can be strong so be careful when swimming. More of a thrill seeker than a sun bather? Be sure to cliff jump off of Puu Kekaa at the north end of the beach.
Makena Beach
Makena Beach is located on Maui’s south side and is adequately known as the Big Beach. The white sand beach stretches over 1/2 mile long and you can expect to find postcard perfect views from most places on the beach. When there is not a large swell, the water is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing however once the swell picks up we recommend that only experienced swimmers venture out into the water.
Napili Bay
This white sand beach is a smaller and serene beach just outside of Lahaina. The water is usually calm and there can be good snorkeling just off the coast where the sand turns into an active reef bustling with marine life.