Top 10 Must Visit Beaches in Maui

Your Ultimate Guide to Paradise

Maui, Hawaii, is known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. Whether you're a beach enthusiast, an adventurer, or someone just looking to relax in paradise, Maui has a beach that will meet your desires. From family-friendly shores to hidden gems perfect for snorkeling or surfing, here are the top 10 must-visit beaches in Maui that should be on your travel list.

1. Wailea Beach

Best for: Luxury and Tranquility

Located in the upscale Wailea Resort area, Wailea Beach is the epitome of beauty and tranquility. The golden sand and calm, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The surrounding resorts, including the Four Seasons, offer incredible amenities, but it’s also accessible to the public. Wailea Beach is often regarded as one of the best beaches for a peaceful day by the ocean.

Why Visit:

• Beautiful sunsets
• Calm waters for swimming and snorkeling
• Close to luxurious resorts and restaurants

2. Kaanapali Beach

Best for: Family Fun and Water Sports

Kaanapali Beach, located along the western coastline of Maui, is a lively beach with plenty of activities for everyone. This three-mile stretch of sand is known for its clear water and consistent waves, making it a great spot for both beginner and seasoned surfers. There's also excellent snorkeling near Black Rock, and visitors can enjoy everything from paddleboarding to parasailing.

Why Visit:

• Ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts
• Great snorkeling opportunities at Black Rock
• Vibrant atmosphere with nearby shopping and dining

3. Makena Beach (Big Beach)

Best for: Space and Seclusion

Makena Beach, also known as Big Beach, is one of the largest beaches on the island and is perfect for those seeking solitude away from the crowds. The wide, sandy shore stretches nearly two-thirds of a mile, offering plenty of room to lay down a towel. While the surf can be rough at times, the clear blue water and pristine setting make it a must-visit beach in Maui.

Why Visit:

• Less crowded, wide-open beach
• Perfect for sunbathing and walking
• Spectacular views of the surrounding landscape

4. Baldwin Beach Park

Best for: Families and Swimming

Baldwin Beach Park is a family-friendly destination located on the north shore of Maui, offering soft sand, clear water, and a large park with picnic areas. This beach has a unique feature: a calm lagoon ideal for swimming and wading, even during the winter months when the surf is high elsewhere. It’s also a great spot for a relaxing day with local food trucks nearby.

Why Visit:

• Shallow lagoon perfect for kids
• Scenic surroundings with views of the West Maui mountains
• Ideal for a relaxing family outing

5. Napili Bay

Best for: Snorkeling and Relaxation

Napili Bay is a small crescent-shaped beach located on the west coast of Maui, known for its calm, clear waters perfect for snorkeling. The beach has a relaxed, laid-back vibe, making it a great spot for those looking to avoid large crowds. You can often find sea turtles swimming just offshore, and the beach is surrounded by charming resorts and restaurants.

Why Visit:

• Amazing snorkeling with sea turtles
• Calm waters and scenic views
• Ideal for couples or quiet beach days

6. Hamoa Beach

Best for: Beauty and Solitude

Hamoa Beach is a hidden gem tucked away on Maui's Hana Highway. This crescent-shaped beach is framed by lush vegetation and dramatic cliffs, offering a tranquil setting. While the water can be a bit more challenging for swimmers due to the waves, the beauty and seclusion of the area make it a must-see for visitors.

Why Visit:

• Secluded, quiet beach with stunning views
• Surrounded by lush tropical forest
• Great for photographers and nature lovers

7. Ironwoods Beach (Oneloa Beach)

Best for: Surfing and Sunset Views

Ironwoods Beach, also known as Oneloa Beach, is located on the western coast of Maui in the Kapalua area. It’s a favorite among local surfers due to its powerful waves, but it also attracts visitors for its breathtaking sunset views. The dramatic cliffs and golden sand add to the stunning backdrop, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Why Visit:

• Great for surfers and experienced swimmers
• Spectacular sunset views
• Secluded and serene location

8. Kamaole Beach Park III

Best for: Swimming and Picnics

Kamaole Beach Park III is a popular beach located in Kihei, known for its calm waters, making it perfect for swimming and picnicking. This family-friendly beach is a favorite for locals and tourists alike, offering spacious grassy areas, picnic tables, and BBQ grills. There are also walking paths that take you along the coastline for scenic views.

Why Visit:

• Family-friendly with picnic areas
• Calm, clear waters ideal for swimming
• Great for a relaxing day out with friends or family

9. Launiupoko Beach Park

Best for: Beginners and Surfing Lessons

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to surf, Launiupoko Beach Park is the place to go. Located on Maui’s west coast near Lahaina, this beach has gentle waves, perfect for beginners to take surf lessons. It’s a small but serene spot with views of the West Maui mountains, making it a great location to relax or practice water sports.

Why Visit:

• Ideal for beginner surfers
• Beautiful mountain backdrop
• Great for families and beginner water sports enthusiasts

10. DT Fleming Beach

Best for: Active Adventurers and Beach Sports

DT Fleming Beach is located on Maui's northwestern coast and is a popular spot for both surfers and beach volleyball enthusiasts. The waves here can be powerful, so it’s a good spot for experienced swimmers and surfers looking for some excitement. If you’re not into water sports, you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach or join a game of beach volleyball.

Why Visit:

• Great for surfing and beach activities
• Less crowded than other popular beaches
• Fantastic for sunset views

---

Conclusion

Maui offers a variety of beautiful beaches to explore, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind, a place to learn how to surf, or a family-friendly beach with calm waters, the island has it all. Be sure to check out these 10 must-visit beaches during your stay and discover the natural beauty that makes Maui a paradise on Earth.

Tags