Kaanapali
Turquoise waters, tropical flavors, and priceless family memories await
Highlights
A world-class stretch of sugary soft sand with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling with sea turtles
An iconic 600+ turn coastal drive featuring waterfalls, black sand beaches, and lush eucalyptus forests
The highest point in Maui offering breathtaking views from the crater's edge and a chance to watch sunset above the clouds
A stunning 120-acre coastal park with dramatic black sand beaches and oceanfront hiking trails
A beginner-friendly snorkeling paradise teeming with tropical fish like parrotfish and yellow tangs
Magical evening sails from Kaanapali Beach featuring cocktails, live entertainment, and stunning ocean views
Where to Stay
3 picks
The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
Beachfront luxury resort with direct Ka'anapali Beach access, multiple pools, and on-site restaurants. Family suites available with kids' clubs and interactive entertainment.
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa at Ka'anapali Beach
Oceanfront resort featuring lagoon-style pools, spa facilities, and on-site luau performances. Offers beachfront dining and direct access to beach activities.
Outrigger Ka'anapali Beach Resort
Mid-luxury beachfront property with contemporary rooms, oceanview dining, and the lively Maui Brewing Company on-site. Excellent location for beach access.
Where to Eat
12 picks
Beach Bar at Outrigger Ka'anapali Beach Resort
Fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and casual dining with direct beach access and sunset views
Seaside Grill at The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
Farm-to-table Mediterranean cuisine with ocean views, perfect for casual to upscale dining
Island Vintage Coffee
Famous for acai bowls, freshly roasted coffee, and healthy breakfast options that fuel your day
Maui Brewing Company
Craft beers, casual pub fare, and a lively atmosphere with firepit seating overlooking the beach
Leoda's Maui Pie Company
Famous for savory hand pies, sweet desserts, and fresh local pastries—perfect for grab-and-go meals
Pailolo Fish Market and Kitchen
Fresh-caught local fish prepared with simple island flavors and vibrant poke selections
Maui Ku'ia Estate Guided Cacao Farm Tour and Tasting
Farm-to-table chocolate experience with guided tours, chocolate tastings, and farm fresh refreshments
Honolua Store
Local deli and market with made-to-order sandwiches, plate lunches, and island groceries
Mama's Fish House
Fresh-caught seafood, Hawaiian specialties, and vegetarian options in a beachfront setting with ocean views
Nalu's South Shore Grill
Casual Hawaiian poke bowls, Korean-inspired bulgogi burgers, and fresh local ingredients
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa - Sunset Terrace
Upscale Hawaiian cuisine with ocean views, perfect for special occasion dinners
Blue Ginger Cafe
Local favorite with Hawaiian breakfast specialties, Portuguese sausage, and fresh tropical juices
What to Do
14 picks
Ka'anapali Beach
Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and watch sea turtles in crystal-clear waters surrounded by swaying palms
Papawai Scenic Lookout
Elevated viewpoint perfect for spotting whales (seasonal), scanning the coastline, and taking family photos
Blue Maui Snorkeling and Whale Watching Cruise
30-foot vessel offering snorkeling opportunities and seasonal whale watching (November-April)
Kapalua Bay Snorkeling
Beginner-friendly bay with abundant tropical fish, coral, and gear rental available on-site
Original Sunset Cruise with Open Bar from Ka'anapali Beach
2-hour catamaran sail with cocktails, live music, and spectacular ocean sunset views
Ka'anapali Beach Walking Path
Scenic beachfront path connecting resorts with shops, restaurants, and coastal views perfect for evening strolls
UFO Parasail or Ka'anapali Beach Parasail
Thrilling parasailing experience with views of the Maui coastline and nearby islands from above
Wai'anapanapa State Park
Explore 120 acres featuring dramatic black sand beaches, oceanfront trails, and sea caves
Road to Hana Adventure Tour
Guided small-group tour with 600+ turns, waterfall stops, and local insights included
Haleakala National Park - Pipiwai Trail
Moderate hike through bamboo forest to stunning 400-foot Waimoku Falls with multiple photo opportunities
Haleakala Crater Summit
Drive to Maui's highest point (10,000 ft) for breathtaking crater views and sunset experiences
Wailele Luau at The Westin Maui Resort
Interactive outdoor dinner show with traditional Hawaiian performances, fire dancing, and local cuisine
Honolua Bay Lookout
Scenic overlook featuring dramatic coastal views, marine life watching, and pristine snorkeling access
Coast of Ka'anapali Beach Sunset Dinner Sail
Premium 2-hour sunset experience with three-course dinner, cocktails, and romantic ocean views
Good to Know
8 picks
Rent a Car from Day One
Pick up your rental car immediately at Kahului Airport. Kaanapali and surrounding attractions are spread across the island, and public transportation is minimal. A car is essential for accessing Hana, Haleakala, and other highlights.
Book Water Activities and Tours in Advance
Sunset cruises, Road to Hana tours, and snorkeling excursions fill quickly, especially during peak seasons (December-March and June-August). Book online before you arrive or call ahead.
Plan Your Road to Hana Strategically
The Road to Hana is a full-day or overnight adventure (8-10 hours round trip). Either book a guided tour to avoid driving stress, stay overnight in Hana, or dedicate an entire day. Don't attempt it in a few hours—you'll miss the best stops.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen and Bring Water Shoes
Regular sunscreen damages coral and marine ecosystems. Pack reef-safe sunscreen (zinc-based, no oxybenzone) and water shoes to protect feet on rocky beaches and during snorkeling.
Visit Restaurants Early to Avoid Crowds and Closures
Many local restaurants close between 2-5pm for staff breaks and switch between lunch and dinner service. Arrive for dinner by 5:30pm or plan lunch before 2pm to avoid disappointment.
Check Ocean Conditions Before Water Activities
Surf conditions, currents, and water temperatures vary by season and daily conditions. Check local forecasts and ask your resort or activity provider about safe conditions before heading out.
Bring Cash for Small Vendors and Activities
Many small food trucks, local shops, and activity vendors don't accept cards and prefer cash. ATMs are available but can have limited hours. Bring extra cash for tips and unexpected opportunities.
Download Maps and Reserve Parking Ahead of Time
Cell service can be spotty, especially on the Road to Hana. Download Google Maps offline, get your parking validated at resorts when possible, and arrive at popular attractions early to secure parking.
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