Maui Island Beaches

Here's a question for you. Which are the best beaches in Maui? A. The ones with fine sand. B. The ones with awesome waves. C. The ones with great snorkeling. Hopefully you answered D. All of the above.

Finding an amazing beach in Maui requires little effort - all you need to do is walk toward the coastline. With more beaches suitable for swimming than any other Hawaiian island, Maui is the place to experience sun and sand.

One thing to keep in mind is that the ocean conditions differ based on the time of year and the location. In the summer months, the northern shore has the calmest conditions, and the opposite for the winter.

The winds can become intense in the afternoons, so consider getting an early start if you're wanting to go snorkeling or kayaking.

It's completely impossible to choose the best beach in Maui, but here are some of your options to help you decide:

Best for Swimming

  • Experienced swimmers will love Makena State Park, divided into Big Beach and Little Beach. The strong surf break here makes it a thrilling experience for confident swimmers.
  • In front of the Makena Beach & Golf Resort is Maluaka Beach, the perfect place to take a dip in the ocean and cool off in the summer.
  • The small cove on Ka'anapali Beach is protected for the wind and offers a nice, calm place to soak in Hawaiian life.

Best for Snorkeling

  • Swim out to the rocky cove on the right hand side of Mokulei'a Bay Beach, nicknamed the Slaughterhouse (don't let that deter you. Conditions tend to be calm in the summer: promise).
  • Grab your goggles and snorkel and head out to Kapalua Bay Beach, where the shelter from the wind makes this beach a must-see.
  • Make a day trip out to Kahekili Beach Park. After a day of snorkeling, you can sit and watch the sunset under their covered picnic pavilion.

Best for Land Activities

  • At the southern tip of Maui is Kama'ole I, a beach with a nice sandy cove and a beach volleyball court for all the sporty types among your family.
  • Whether you're building a sandcastle or watching the sunset at Keawakapu Beach, the bright yellow sand is extraordinarily inviting.
  • Go for a refreshing jog through the sand on Baldwin Beach.