Kaanapali Beach

Ka'anapali Beach runs from Black Rock in the north, more than a mile south to Canoe Beach. Luxury resort hotels line the entire beach. If you're thinking high end beach vacation, this is the place. Cabanas and lounges line the entire strip of sand. Attendants scurry about to satisfy the needs of hotel guests. Ka'anapali is about the money, you'll need it to stay here.

But like nearly all beaches in Hawaii, Ka'anapali is open to the public. The cabanas and lounges belong to the hotels, but the beach belongs to everyone, and Ka'anapali is one of the best beaches you'll find anywhere on Maui.

All sorts of activities are available here. Diving, snorkeling, parasailing, sailing, and more are all available here, for a price. Sun worshiping, swimming, frolicking in the gentle waves and people watching are all free. Bring your snorkel gear and enjoy the views at Black Rock, one of the best snorkel locations on Maui.

A concrete path runs the length of the beach, from the Sheraton at Black Rock in the north to the Hyatt at the southern end. A sunset stroll along it can be unforgettable.

Several poorly marked public access parking areas are located along Ka'anapali Parkway and connecting streets. There's about 125 spaces in all, get there early. Pay parking is available at the parking garage at Whaler's Village.

Find this and other beaches on our Maui Beach Map

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters provides this aerial view of Ka'anipali Beach