12 Best Beaches to Visit in Maui, Hawaii
This Hawaiian island packs more jaw-dropping coastline into one spot than some countries manage in their entire borders.
Surf, snorkel, or just sprawl out and soak up the sun—here are 15 of the best beaches in Maui.
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1. Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach ranks as one of the best beaches in Hawaii and recently snagged the top spot in the US.
Golden sand stretches for miles along Maui’s west coast, lined with swanky resorts and palm trees that look like they belong in a movie.
The northern end is where the beach really opens up—plenty of room to claim your spot.
Black Rock at the southern tip is a snorkeling hotspot with tropical fish and sea turtles popping in to say hi.
Best For: Swimming, snorkeling, resort perks, and every water sport you can think of—all in one place.
2. Wailea Beach
This crescent-shaped stunner sits between the Four Seasons and Grand Wailea resorts, earning its spot as one of the world’s best beaches.
Soft golden sand and water so clear it almost feels fake—yes, it’s that good.
Families love the mellow waves here, so it’s a safe bet for swimming with kids. The powdery sand and sheltered spot keep things calm, but there’s still solid snorkeling along the rocky edges.
Resort snacks and drinks are just a stroll away, and if you’re feeling restless, the oceanfront path links you to more beaches up and down the coast.
Best For: Families, luxury vibes, and beach amenities that are readily available.
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3. Napili Bay
With a classic crescent shape, Napili Bay hugs Maui’s northwest coast with calm turquoise water and soft white sand.
Sea turtles hang out here year-round. The bay’s shape keeps waves chill and swimmers safe from strong currents.
There are restaurants on both sides, so you can grab a bite without leaving the view. The sand is wide enough for families to spread out without stepping on each other’s towels.
Best For: Calm swimming, snorkeling with turtles, and sunsets that make you want to stay forever.
4. Makena Beach (Big Beach)
Makena Beach State Park is Maui’s big showstopper—massive stretches of golden sand and turquoise water. Locals call it Big Beach or Oneloa Beach.
The endless sand is perfect for long walks and sunbathing. Heads up: the beach drops off fast into the ocean, so check the waves before you dive in.
Best For: Sunbathing, swimming, and living your best beach life on Maui’s most iconic stretch.
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5. Baldwin Beach Park
This North Shore beauty hits the sweet spot between adventure and relaxation. The long white sand stretch links up with other beaches, so you can wander for more than a mile if you’re in the mood.
It’s a hotspot for boogie boarding and kite surfing, so expect to see some action. Green sea turtles sometimes nap on the sand, too.
Families love the picnic tables, restrooms, and showers. The west end, Baby Beach, is calm and perfect for little swimmers.
Best For: Water sports, family hangouts, turtle spotting, and long, sandy strolls.
6. Hamoa Beach
Hamoa Beach sits on Maui’s east coast near Hana. This crescent of sand, about 1,000 feet long, is hugged by dramatic cliffs and feels miles away from the crowds.
White sand, clear turquoise water—swimming and snorkeling here are a dream. James Michener called it the most beautiful beach in the Pacific.
There are actually two connected sections, so you can wander between them for different views and vibes.
Best For: Swimming, snorkeling, and escaping to one of Maui’s most scenic, secluded spots.
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7. Ho’okipa Beach
Ho’okipa Beach is where the windsurfing legends come out to play. Watching the pros tackle the waves is almost as fun as joining in—almost. The trade winds here are no joke, making it a magnet for water sports fans.
This north shore hotspot is also a turtle-viewing paradise. Accessible parking, restrooms, and picnic spots make it easy for everyone.
The lookout parking lot is the place to be for front-row seats to all the action below.
Best For: Catching epic windsurfing, and spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles sunning themselves on the sand.
8. Turtle Town Beach
Turtle Town Beach (Maluaka Beach) is where you go if you want to hang with Hawaii’s most famous locals. This tucked-away spot on the southwest side is blissfully less crowded than the usual tourist haunts.
The turquoise water and golden sand set the scene for some seriously good snorkeling. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles are pretty much regulars here.
Snorkeling feels like swimming in your own private aquarium. Calm conditions make it great for beginners, but even seasoned snorkelers keep coming back for more.
Best For: Swimming with turtles in chill, clear waters—if you’re looking to snorkel, this is your spot.
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9. Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa State Park
This volcanic black sand beach is pure drama on the Road to Hana. The jet-black sand came from hot lava hitting the ocean, and the contrast with the blue water is wild.
Lava caves, blowholes, and rugged coastal trails are all here for the exploring. The park requires advance reservations, so don’t leave it to the last minute if you want in.
Best For: Photographers, adventure seekers, and anyone after a beach day that’s a little out of the ordinary.
10. Kapalua Bay Beach
Kapalua Bay Beach has topped Dr. Beach’s annual list, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. Crescent-shaped, calm, and crystal clear, it’s built for families and anyone who likes their water gentle.
Tucked away on Maui’s northwest coast, the bay forms a cozy, sheltered cove with water so clear it doesn’t feel real.
Amenities are on point—bathrooms, showers, rentals, and easy parking. Palm trees line the sand for natural shade.
Best For: Swimming that lives up to the hype, relaxing snorkeling, and family days where you don’t have to stress about rough waves.
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11. Ulua Beach
Ulua Beach is snorkeling central—gentle, sandy entry, shallow cove, and water so clear you’ll want a waterproof camera. It’s got soft brown sand and just enough shade from the trees.
Go early for the best snorkeling (less crowded, better visibility). The point between Ulua and Mokapu Beach is teeming with coral and fish. When waves pick up, bodyboarders jump in.
Best For: Snorkeling with turtles, swimming, and mellow beach days in the Wailea resort zone.
12. Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay wears the crown as one of Maui’s best snorkeling spots, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why.
Because it’s a marine life conservation district, fishing here is off-limits—so the fish population is absolutely thriving.
The west side is where the magic happens. If you hug the rocky shoreline around Kalaepiha Point, you’ll hit those clear waters and sprawling coral reefs.
Best For: Snorkeling with a riot of tropical fish and exploring lively coral reefs, all in protected, crystal-clear water.
