Maui is the second largest island in the Hawaiian chain and is often called “The Valley Isle.” With towering peaks, lush valleys, and miles of pristine coastline, Maui has something for everyone. From swimming and sunbathing to windsurfing and parasailing, the beaches in Maui offer something for everyone.
The beaches in Maui are some of the most beautiful in the world. They offer stunning views, crystal-clear water, and white sand beaches. Visitors come to Maui for its incredible beaches, and there is plenty to see and do. Here are the 20 best beaches in Maui, based on top ratings on Google Maps.
The best beaches in Maui by region
Maui is a world-renowned destination for beach lovers, and with good reason. The island has miles of coastline with beaches of all different types, catering to everyone from sunbathers to surfers. Each has its own set of beaches that are worth visiting. Always check local conditions and the weather before going to the beaches. Here are the best beaches in Maui by region.
North (Central) Maui Beaches
The North Shore is home to some of the most famous surfing spots in the world, and the Maui beaches here are accordingly popular with surfers. The waves can be huge, so this is not the place for swimming or sunbathing – but it’s perfect for watching the pros in action. The area is relatively undeveloped, so there are plenty of secluded coves and stretches of sand to explore.
Ho’okipa Beach Park
Address : 179 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779, USA
Located in the north-west of Maui, Ho’okipa Beach Park stretches for over a mile along the coast and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It is well known as one of the best beaches in Maui for its incredible windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions. The waves at Ho’okipa are often large and gusty, making it a challenging spot for experienced surfers. Keep in mind that the waves at Ho’okipa can be quite powerful, so be careful if you decide to go swimming.
Visitors can reach the beach by car, and there are a few parking spots available. It’s worth noting that the waves at Ho’okipa can be quite large, so it’s not recommended for swimming. However, the beach is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and relaxing. There are also a few restaurants and cafes nearby, making it the perfect spot to spend a day or two.
The park is also home to a large number of marine animals, including green sea turtles and humpback whales. Visitors can enjoy whale watching from the shoreline or take a guided tour to see them up close.
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Baldwin Beach Park
Address : Baldwin Park, Paia, HI 96779, USA
Baldwin Beach Park is a beautiful place to spend a day in the sun. The location is perfect, just south of downtown Lahaina and right on the water. The beach is flanked by dramatic cliffs and a grassy park area, making it the perfect place for a picnic or afternoon stroll.
The beach on Maui here is lovely, with soft white sand and gentle waves that can make it a great spot for swimming, boating, sunbathing, and snorkeling. It’s well-known for its gorgeous sunsets, and it’s the best place in Hawaii to visit.
The park has a large grassy area for picnicking and playing games, as well as a number of palm trees for shade, and offers plenty of opportunities for fishing, hiking, and biking. There are also several pavilions that can be rented for parties or special events.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to Baldwin Beach Park:
- Arrive early to get a good spot on the beach.
- A small fee to enter the park.
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Kanaha Beach Park
Address : Amala Pl, Kahului, HI 96732, USA
Kanaha Beach Park is a beautiful and serene spot located on Maui’s north shore. This lovely beach park offers stunning views of the nearby islands of Molokai and Lanai, and it’s perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
The park is a great place for a family picnic, a day of swimming and sunbathing, or for simply taking in the stunning coastal views. The white sand beach stretches for over a mile, and is great for swimming, boogie boarding, and surfing.
There are also several grassy areas perfect for relaxing in the shade, and several hiking trails that offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. This beach on Maui is easily accessible by car, and there is plenty of parking available which is about a 30-minute drive from Lahaina
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Pāʻia Secret Beach
Address : Puna Rd, Paia, HI 96779, USA
Pāʻia Secret Beach is a secluded beach located in the town of Pa’ia on the north shore of Maui. The Maui beach can only be accessed by foot, and there is no public parking available.
Pāʻia Secret Beach is well known for its dramatic cliffs, crystal clear waters, and beautiful sunsets. The sand is white and the water is crystal clear. There are plenty of palm trees to provide shade and there are also some interesting rock formations to explore. Pāʻia Secret Beach is a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
The beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Visitors should note that there are no facilities or amenities available at Pāʻia Secret Beach.
Tips: To get to Pāʻia Secret Beach, take Highway 36 to Haʻikū and turn onto Hāna Highway (Route 360). Continue on Hāna Highway for about 11 miles until you reach the ʻĪao Valley Overlook. Park in the lot on the right and walk through the tunnel to find the beach.
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Waihee Beach Park
Address : 200 Halewaiu Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793, USA
There’s something about Waihee Beach Park that just makes it special. Maybe it’s the location – nestled between the West Maui Mountains and the ocean – or maybe it’s the fact that it’s one of the few beaches on Maui that you can access a short drive from the town of Wailuku by car.
This Maui beach is perfect for a peaceful day of relaxation, with its gentle waves and stunning landscape. It also is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. And if you’re looking for a little more excitement, there are plenty of interesting activities to keep you busy, like hiking, biking, and windsurfing.
There are several pavilions located throughout the park that guests can use for picnicking or just taking a break from the sun. The park also has restrooms, showers, a children’s play area, and a small parking lot. There are also several picnic areas and BBQ grills available for visitors.
Tips:
- The park is open from 7am to 7pm daily and admission is free. Just be sure to note the park’s hours of operation before you visit, as they can vary depending on the time of year.
- Visitors should note that the beach can get very crowded on weekends, so be sure to arrive early if you hope to find a spot.
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South Maui Beaches
The South Shore of Maui is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The South Shore is known for its wide variety of Maui beaches, including family-friendly options as well as more secluded spots for those who are looking for a little bit more privacy. It is much more developed, with major resorts and hotels lining the coast.
Chang’s Beach
Just a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of Seminyak, Chang’s Beach is a hidden oasis that offers stunning ocean views, gentle waves and white sand beaches. This is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun, with plenty of beach umbrellas and sun loungers available for hire.
The beach on Maui is known for its soft white sand and crystal clear waters. There are several interesting activities that visitors can enjoy such as swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Chang’s Beach is also a great place to watch the sunset over the horizon.
If you’re feeling active, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy too – swimming, surfing, paddle boarding and windsurfing are all popular here.
There are also several restaurants and bars located close by, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink or bite to eat while taking in the idyllic surroundings.
Tips:
- Bring along food and drinks due to there being no facilities available on the beach.
- The currents can be strong, so be careful when swimming.
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Charley Young Beach
Charley Young Beach is a beautiful white sand beach located on the southwestern coast of Maui. The drive from Kahului to the beach is very scenic, and there are plenty of interesting activities to keep you busy while you’re there.
This beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The water is crystal clear and the sand is white and soft. There are also several restaurants and bars located nearby, making it the perfect spot to spend the day.
Tips: Keep in mind that the surf can be a bit rough, so it’s not the best beach in Maui for swimming if you’re not a strong swimmer. There are also no lifeguards on duty, so please use caution when swimming and be aware of the many coral heads that are in the area.
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Keawakapu Beach
Keawakapu Beach is a stunning stretch of sand on Maui’s southern coastline. It’s well known for its dramatic sunsets and world-class snorkeling and diving. The clear waters are home to a wealth of marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins, colorful coral and tropical fish.
To get to the beach on Maui, take Highway 30 south to Kealia Road. Turn right and drive 2 miles to the beach park entrance. There are also several restaurants and bars in the area, making it a great spot to spend a day or evening.
Tips:
- The parking: No public parking available, so you’ll have to find a spot on the street, arrive early to snag a spot, and walk down.
- Be quite crowded during peak times.
- Just be careful not to get too close to the shoreline – the waves can be a bit rough.
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Mākena State Park (Big Beach/ Little Beach)
Address : 4670 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
Mākena State Park is a large, undeveloped state park on the dry side of the beach on Maui. The park is made up of two beaches – Big Beach and Little Beach.
Oneloa (Big Beach) is the more well-known of the two, and is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. The beach is surrounded by cliffs, making it a beautiful and secluded spot.
Puu Olai (Little Beach) is smaller and more intimate, and is a popular spot for nude sunbathing.The park can be reached by car, but there is no parking lot – you have to park along the side of the road and walk in. The parking is open from 7am to 7pm.
The parks are a great place to go for a walk, run, surf, swim, sunbathe, and picnic. There are also lava tubes and blowholes to explore. The beach at Mākena State Park is big and beautiful, and it’s a great place to watch the sun set.
To get to the beach by car, take Highway 31 south from Wailea until you reach mile marker 18.5. The park entrance will be on your left.
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Ulua Beach Park & Mokapu Beach Park
Address : Bathroom, Wailea, HI 96753, USA
Ulua Beach and Mokapu Beach are two of the most popular beaches on Maui. They are both located in Kihei, which is a town in the south part of the island. The drive from the airport to these beaches takes about 30 minutes.
Ulua Beach Park, which is located on the north shore of Maui, is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. There are also a few restaurants and shops in the area. The park is open from 6am to 10pm, and offers parking, restrooms, showers, and a picnic area.
Mokapu Beach Park is known for its excellent snorkeling and surfing conditions and is located on the south shore, in the town of Kihei. It can be a bit dangerous to swim here because of the strong waves, but it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re an experienced surfer. Besides, this beaches on Maui offers parking, restrooms, showers, and a picnic area
Tips:
- Ulua Beach Park: the rocks can be a bit sharp, so it’s best to bring some water shoes if you plan on swimming or wading in the water.
- Mokapu Beach Park: check out the coral gardens near the shoreline.
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East Maui Beaches
East Maui beaches is home to some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in all of Hawaii. On the East Side, you’ll find black sand beaches and rugged cliffs. This area is also great for whale watching. While they may be harder to get to, the journey is well worth it.
Honomanū Bay
Honomanū Bay is a secluded beach located on the southwestern side of the island. The drive to the beach is scenic and offers views of the Pacific Ocean and the neighboring islands.
What makes this Maui beach so special is its pristine and undeveloped beauty. The white sand and clear blue waters make it a perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
There are also a number of hiking trails in the area that provide opportunities for exploration. Besides, a few small restaurants and shops in the area, that make it the perfect place to spend a day or two.
Tips: No public transportation available, so you will need to have a car or rent one if you plan on visiting this beach.
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Hamoa Beach
If you’re looking for a breathtaking place to relax, Hamoa Beach is the Maui beach for you. Hamoa Beach can be accessed by car and there is ample parking available.
The beach is known for its excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions. With its gentle waves and sandy shores, the beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the stunning view.
Hamoa Beach is located in Hana, which is about a two-hour drive from Kahului Airport. If you’re traveling by car, take Highway 36 to Hana. There are plenty of interesting activities to enjoy near the beach, such as hiking, horseback riding, and sightseeing.
Tips:
- The beach can get quite crowded during the summer months.
- The road is narrow and winding, so be prepared for a slow drive.
- Very little available parking, so it’s best to come early in the day.
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Kaihalulu Beach
Kaihalulu Beach is a secluded and hidden beach located in Haiku. The Maui beach can be accessed by car, it’s a gravel road that can be challenging to drive and a winding road that leads down to the ocean.
The sand is a deep red and the waves are incredibly powerful. It’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping. There are no shops or restaurants in the area, so make sure to bring everything you need with you.
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Koki Beach Park
Address : 175 Haneoo Rd, Hana, HI 96713, USA
Koki Beach Park is a serene and beautiful park located on the southwestern coast of Maui. The landscape is pristine and the location provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Lanai Island.
It is easy to get to the Maui beach by car, and there are plenty of parking spaces available. The park is a great place for a picnic, sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby, making it the perfect spot to spend a day or afternoon.
Tips:
- The waves can be quite strong, so be careful when swimming or surfing.
- A great spot for whale watching, as humpback whales can often be seen swimming close to shore.
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Waiʻānapanapa State Park
Waiʻānapanapa State Park is located on the eastern side of Maui island. The park is made up of about 120 acres of land, with a black sand beach, sea cliffs, and a coral reef. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
The beach on Maui is also a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing and is noted for its natural features such as ancient sea cliffs, lava tubes, and black sand beaches There are also several hiking trails in the park that offer amazing views of the coastline.
Some tips for enjoying your visit:
- The park can be quite hot, so be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
- There are no services or restrooms available inside the park, so come prepared.
- Be aware of the dangers of hiking on black sand beaches – it can be quite slippery.
- Not parking being available.
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West Maui Beaches
The West Side has calm, clear waters and white sand beaches that stretch for miles. Each of West Maui beaches offers stunningly clear water and gorgeous views. It is a bit of a mix between the North and South Shores. It features both secluded coves and wide open beaches, as well as major resorts and hotels. Almost all the beaches on West Maui have no lifeguards on duty, so caution should be taken when swimming.
Oneloa Beach
Oneloa Beach, or “Gold Dust Beach” is a secluded beach located on the West Maui coastline. It has beautiful ironwood trees that create a natural canopy over the road. The golden sand and clear blue water make it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
The Maui beach is also great for whale watching; during the winter months, humpback whales can often be seen offshore. There are several restaurants and bars in the area, as well as a few small shops.
The beach can be accessed by car by following Honoapiilani Highway to mile marker 22 and then turning onto Lower Honoapiilani Road. The drive to the beach is lined with beautiful ironwood trees that create a natural canopy over the road
Tips:
- There are no lifeguards on duty at this beach and the surf can be dangerous.
- The beach can be quite windy, so be prepared if you’re planning to stay for a while.
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Honolua Bay
The Honolua Bay is a crescent-shaped bay in Maui, Hawaii. It is located on the north-west side and is a world-famous surf spot in Maui, Hawaii.
The Maui beach can be accessed by car and there are several activities that can be enjoyed there, such as swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The bay is also known for its excellent surfing conditions. Visitors should note that the water can be quite rough and there are no lifeguards on duty, so caution is advised. There are also a few shops and restaurants in Hawaii.
Kahekili Beach Park
Kahekili Beach Park is a secluded beach on Maui. The pristine white sand and clear blue waters make it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
The beach is known for its dramatic landscape and strong currents, which make it a popular spot for surfers. Snorkeling and swimming are also popular activities at Kahekili Beach Park, and there are several picnic areas and restrooms available.
The beach is also a great spot for whale watching during the winter months. Visitors can reach the beach by car, but should be aware that there is limited parking available. There are a few picnic tables and restrooms available at the park, but no other amenities.
Kapalua Bay Beach
Kapalua Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Maui. The beach is located in the Kapalua Resort area, which is about a 20 minute drive from the Kahului Airport. It’s well known for its clear turquoise waters and soft white sand.
The beach is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. There are also several restaurants and bars close by, making it the perfect spot to spend a day or weekend in Maui. The beach is also a popular spot for whale watching from December through April.
Tips:
- Very crowded during the summer months
- The parking can be difficult to find, so be prepared to walk a bit.
- The rocky shore can make it difficult to swim or enjoy the beach in certain areas.
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Launiupoko Beach Park
Address : Honoapiilani Hwy, Lahaina, HI 96761, USA
The Launiupoko Beach Park is located on the western side and is known for its beautiful landscape and secluded beaches on Maui. It can be accessed by car by taking the Honoapiilani Highway to the ninth mile marker and then following the signs.
Once you arrive, you’ll find a wide, sandy beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. There are also several palm trees providing shade, making it a perfect spot to spend a hot day.
You can go swimming, snorkeling, surfing, or suping; or take a walk along the beach trail that leads to some beautiful tide pools. And don’t forget to check out the nearby ruins of an old Hawaiian village.
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How to select the best beach on Maui?
What is the best beach overall in Maui?
Makena Beach State Park is the best beach overall in Maui, based on Pride Of Maui because of its seclusion, beauty, and amenities. Once you arrive, you will find a beautiful crescent-shaped beach on Maui with crystal clear water and plenty of space to relax. The park also features restrooms, showers, and a small picnic area.
What are the best family-friendly beaches?
- Waihee Beach Park: the water is usually calm, making it a great place for swimming and snorkeling. There are also several restaurants and shops nearby.
- Kanaha Beach Park: several grassy areas perfect for relaxing in the shade, and several hiking trails that offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Kapalua Bay Beach: is located in a sheltered cove, which makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling, the sand is very soft.
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What are the best quiet Maui beaches for vacation?
- Chang’s Beach: a more secluded spot, it is tucked away in small coves, making them perfect for those who want to escape the crowds.
- Honomanū Bay: its pristine and undeveloped beauty. The white sand and clear blue waters.
- Kapalua Bay: is calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
What is the best beach to go snorkeling on Maui?
- Honolua Bay: has a large coral reef system.
- Kaihalulu Beach: a deep red and the waves are incredibly powerful.
- Kapalua Bay Beach: the white sand and clear water make it a perfect place to explore marine life.
- Keawakapu Beach: home to a wealth of marine life, including sea turtles and dolphins, colorful coral and tropical fish.
- Makena Beach State Park: is great for spotting sea urchins and eels.
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What is the best beach to go surfing on Maui?
- Ho’okipa Beach Park: the waves at Ho’okipa are often large and gusty, making it a challenging spot for experienced surfers.
- Honolua Bay: a more beginner-friendly surf spot.
- Kapalua Bay Beach: has gentle waves that make it perfect for beginners
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What is the best bodyboarding Maui beach?
- Hamoa Beach: has gentle waves and sandy shores
- Baldwin Beach Park: has a wide variety of waves, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced borders.
- Wailea Beach: great waves for bodyboarding, as well as plenty of sand to relax on and soak up the sun.
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Advises for who gonna plan to these beaches on Maui
Tips for making the most of your trip to Maui’s beaches
- Checking the weather forecast: The ocean can be deceivingly calm one minute and roiling with waves the next.
- The off-season: Try to avoid visiting the beaches during peak tourist season, from December through April: the beaches will be packed with people and it can be difficult to find a spot to relax. From May through November, the weather is a bit cooler and the beaches aren’t as crowded.
- Sunscreen, water, and snacks: Make sure to bring plenty! The sun is incredibly strong in Hawaii and you’ll want to protect your skin from getting burned, and there are few places to buy supplies on the island.
- Pack your swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes: You’ll likely want to spend time swimming, sunbathing, and exploring all that Maui has to offer.
- Secluded beaches: If you’re looking for a quiet beach to relax on, try taking a drive down the Road to Hana. There are plenty of secluded beaches tucked away among the cliffs and forests.
- Obey all posted signs and regulations while at the beach. Keep an eye out for areas that are closed off due to safety concerns, and respect the privacy of others who are enjoying the beach.
- Always note the dangers: There are many coral reefs and rocks in the water, so it’s important to be careful when swimming. There are also strong currents and sharks in the area, so please use caution when entering the water.
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Keep in mind how to stay safe when go to beaches on Maui
- Always swim in areas that are supervised by lifeguards, and heed their warnings.
- Never swim alone.
- Be aware of the surf conditions and never swim when there is a strong current.
- Some beaches have dangerous currents and waves, so never turn your back to waves.
- Make sure to wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water while
- Always leave the beach clean by packing out everything that you brought in with you.
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Maps of beaches on Maui
Conclusion
Maui is known for its beautiful beaches, and with good reason. From the black sand of Waiʻānapanapa State Park to the dramatic cliffs of Wailea Beach, there’s a beach on Maui for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up the sun or you want to explore some of Hawaii’s legendary surf spots, the 20 best beaches on Maui are sure to please.
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