In a chain of islands known for having some of the best beaches in the world, I think Maui has the best. 

Unlike other islands where a lot of the best beaches are hard to find or don’t have the best swimming conditions, Maui beaches are plentiful, very accessible, and overall very good for swimming, snorkeling, and boogie boarding. 

Whether you’re looking for the best beaches for snorkeling, boogie boarding, long walks, colorful sand, or just laying out, I’ve got the perfect beach for you. 

Before I get into specific beaches, here’s something to know: There are NO PRIVATE BEACHES IN HAWAII. Yep, even those gorgeous beaches flanked with swanky beach resorts are open to the public. If there are resorts (or homes) built in front of the beaches, they’re required by law to provide a public access point to the beach. But that doesn’t mean they’re always super easy to find ; ) So here’s what you need to know: 

Best Beaches on Maui

This post may contain some affiliate links, which means I’ll make a little money on anything you choose to purchase. But of course, I only recommend my absolute favorites to you. Thank you for supporting the brands that make HulaLand possible.

Ulua & Mokapu Beach

Ulua Beach & Mokapu Beach sit at the north end of Wailea and of all of the “resort beaches” in Wailea, these are my favorites. 

They’re technically two beaches, but they share a parking lot and amenities and are pretty much connected. 

The snorkeling and diving here is great (a lot of diving companies take people right out from the beach). Ulua Beach (the beach to the north in front of the Andaz) is one of my favorite places to snorkel in Wailea. 

The reef is kind of protected and there are enough people from the resort taking advantage of the free snorkel gear that it always feels safe to me (I find safety in numbers in the ocean ; )

A good rule of thumb is to be finished snorkeling here by about 11 AM when it starts to get windy and the water gets choppy. 

I also love this beach because it’s pretty long and there’s plenty of room to spread out. I think because the Andaz sits on Ulua Beach (the northern beach), most of the local beachgoers favor Mokapu Beach (the southern beach), but Ulua is actually a much longer beach and connects to Keawakapu Beach (you could walk all the way to Kihei on this beach!) and it’s one of the best beaches in Hawaii if you like long walks on the beach. 

Ulua/Mokapu is also the northern edge of the Wailea Beach Walk. This coastal trail runs all the way from here south to Polo Beach. So another good option if you like to walk!

To find Ulua/Mokapu…the public parking lot and beach access (where the restrooms/showers are) is off Wailea Alanui Drive between the Andaz and the Wailea Elua Village. It’s vaguely marked with an arrow on a black granite sign on the street but it’s just south of the driveway for the Andaz. 

Kapalua Beach

Awarded “America’s Best Beach” in 2018, Kapalua Beach is definitely one of Maui’s treasures. 

It’s a bay so the snorkeling is decent (two reefs protect the bay) and the conditions are usually perfect for paddleboarding. 

There’s a gear rental stand at the far end of the beach that will hook you up. 

During whale season, it’s not uncommon to spot whales breeching in the distance in the channel between Maui and Molokai. 

This is also the start of the Kapalua Coastal Trail which is one of my favorite hikes on Maui. Start at Kapalua Beach and walk north all the way to DT Fleming Beach.

There’s a parking lot at Kapalua Beach but it’s not very big and fill  up fast so unless you get there early, you’ll end up having to park on the street and walk or pay to park at the tennis club. Kapalua has restrooms and outdoor showers.

Big Beach

Also called Makena State Park, or sometimes Makena Beach, this is one of Maui’s most beautiful beaches. It’s a long stretch of golden/white sand with beautiful blue water. There’s a strong shore break here (as the life guards will often remind you) so be careful when entering and exiting the water. 

At the far north end of Big Beach, there’s a rock formation you can climb up (the views are amazing!) and over to get to Little Beach which has the reputation for being a nude beach/party beach with locals. 

Before you reach the main parking lot for the State Park (at the north end), there’s a turn off for Oneuli Beach which is technically a black sand beach, but probably not the kind you’re thinking of. 

There are two parking lots at Makena State Park (and usually a few food trucks) and no restrooms or showers but there are porta-potties. 

In April 2021, entrance AND parking fees were introduced (although reservations are not required). $10/car to park plus $5/person (under 3 are free) to enter. Fees are paid at the pay station in the parking lot. 

I understand the reasoning for charging for parking and entry to some of the state parks in Hawaii, and I also understand that you might be hesitant to pay to go to a beach when there is an abundance of free beaches in the area. Totally get it. But I will say that Big Beach is hands down the most beautiful beach on Maui and I think climbing up the rocks at the north end to see the overlook is a don’t miss. But you decide. 

Secret Beach

Also called Pa’ako Beach, Secret Cove, and Makena Cove, this is where 98.9% of the weddings on Maui happen. Just kidding, but it seems like it sometimes. 

This tiny postage stamp of a beach is the first “shoreline access” sign you’ll see after you pass Big Beach headed south. There’s limited street parking in the area. 

It requires climbing down a little path to get to it, so it feels like a “secret” once you find it. Makena Cove is lovely (although very small) but the “secret beach” is actually around the corner to the right. You’ll need water shoes to climb along the lava rocks to get there but once you do, you’ll usually have it all to yourself. And from there you can keep making your way north and you’ll connect to the south end of Big Beach. 

***Want to save major $$$ on your trip to Hawaii? I get asked ALL the time how I’m able to travel so often to Hawaii and stay at really nice resorts. Well, my favorite travel hack is cashing in points to score free airfare and free nights at some of Hawaii’s most high end resorts. Read my full guide on the exact system I use to max out credit card rewards here. Seriously, it’s going to save you soooo much money.

Ka’anapali Beach

Kaanapali Beach is Maui’s most iconic beach. Stretching for about three miles, the beach is known for its golden sand, clear turquoise waters, and stunning views of the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai. 

Kaanapali is a great blend of natural beauty and resort amenities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from snorkeling and whale watching to parasailing and simply lounging under the sun. 

The beach is also home to the famous Black Rock, a popular spot for cliff diving and snorkeling. 

Ka’anapali has a pretty strong shore break (the waves break shallow right on the sand) so be careful when entering and exiting the water. 

There is some free parking for beach access in some of the resort parking garages, but it’s limited and first come first serve. I usually try for a spot in the Sheraton’s parking garage (it has its own entrance off the main street – it’s not where you enter the paid garage). There are about 20 parking spots in that garage and I like it best because it’s closest to Black Rock. The Marriott Maui Ocean Club has 30 or so spots and the Hyatt Regency has about 70, but it’s at the opposite end of the beach so it’s quite a walk. 

You can also pay to park at Whalers Village or the Sheraton (and they’ll validate parking to a point with a purchase). 

Wailea Beach

Home to some of the island’ s most famous luxury beach resorts, Wailea is a laid back and lovely beach. 

The beach is wide, if not long, and the water is perfect for swimming and boogie boarding. 

The Four Seasons and the Grand Wailea both sit on Wailea Beach and while the Wailea Beach Resort (Marriott) isn’t beachfront, they also have chair and umbrella set up on Wailea Beach. Sometimes there’s an independent company renting out set ups for the day near the public entrance. 

If you’re looking for a deserted beach, this isn’t it but I personally never think it feels too crowded. There’s also a LOT of public parking available. 

The public parking lot and beach access for Wailea Beach is between the Grand Wailea and Four Seasons. Once you turn off Wailea Alanui Drive and go down the hill, you’ll see that there’s a second overflow parking area down there closer to the Grand Wailea. 

Waianapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach)

This dramatic black sand beach is STUNNING and it’s easily the #1 don’t miss stop along the Road to Hana. As you near Hana, this is the first “epic” stop you’ll make and besides the beach, you can easily spend an hour or so hiking around here. 

Take the hike up around the other side of the beach to see another black sand beach and a good view of the blowhole. 

And don’t miss the sea cave which is just to the right of the beach as you’re facing the ocean. 

WARNING: Don’t forget to make reservations or you WILL be turned away at the gate. You can make reservations 30 in advance (and no later than the day before) here. Parking is $10/vehicle and there’s a $5/person entry fee that all has to be registered and paid for when you make your reservation. You’ll make your reservation for one of four time slots (they vary slightly throughout the year): 7AM-10AM, 10AM-12:30PM, 12:30PM-3PM, and 3PM-6PM. 

They are strict with the entry times. The two time slots in the middle of the day are the ones that sell out first. I prefer the second time slot and always pace myself to show up right when it opens (10AM). 

Baldwin Beach & Baby Beach

Right in Paia town, this gorgeous white sand beach is usually too rough for swimming, but it’s fun to watch the wind and kite surfers. 

The far west end of Baldwin beach has a protective shelf that makes for good swimming conditions plus a strong current if you get further out that makes for a good resistance pool. It’s called “Baby Beach” and on a good day (sunny, no wind) it’s packed with local families. While it’s possible to park at the main lot of Baldwin beach and walk down to Baby beach, it’s quite a hike! 

This beach is better accessed through the neighborhood. If you’re heading into Paia from Kahului, it’s the last “shoreline access” sign you’ll see before you come to Paia. It’s not marked coming the other direction. There are no amenities at Baby beach.

Napili Beach

One of Maui’s most popular beaches, Napili Beach is a picturesque little protected bay with great snorkeling (it’s a sea turtle hang out) and tide pools for exploring during low tide.

The crescent shaped beach slopes down to the calm turquoise waters, making it an excellent swimming beach. 

The downside to Napili is that it can feel a little crowded with all the guests from the condos and small hotels that are built up around it, and there’s not much public parking. The best parking option is actually the Kapalua Beach parking lot. It’s a pretty short walk from there. 

I like to get to Napili Bay early to have breakfast at the Gazebo or Seahouse and then walk on the beach, but if I’m setting up for a full beach day, I usually go to Kapalua. 

Kaihalulu Beach (Red Sand Beach)

When I’m driving the Road to Hana, I almost love the stop at the red sand beach even more than the black sand beach, and it’s mostly because of how you have to get there. 

As you’re coming into Hana town, take a left on Hauoli road (you’ll pass a church and some tennis courts) and then turn right when the road dead ends at the Hana Community Center. Park along this street and walk across the open lawn of the Community Center. You should be able to pick up a trail through the bushes. Depending on how overgrown the vegetation is sometimes it’s easier to find than others. If this sounds downright crazy to you, you might be better off to wait for people who look like they know where they’re going and follow them!

You’ll go down the trail for a bit towards the water before you have to make a choice…you can either take a left and go across the high part of the trail (it’s a little quicker and more straight forward, but it’s kind of high and when it’s covered in pine needles it can be slick) or keep going down to the water. 

 Whichever you decide to do, just remember that after your initial descent down to the trail, keep going to the left. There will be a narrow beach of rock and red sand below you and a lot of people stop here but keep going. I like to go all the way down to the water and pick my way along the rocks until you start climbing up the rock formation and make your way up and over into the cove. You’ll know it when you see it. You will be floored.

A bit about the technicalities: Hiking to the red sand beach in Hana is kind of controversial. A lot of locals don’t want hoards of tourists visiting it (they consider it a special place and rightly so).

The beach IS on private property but the owners have made it accessible to the public under a law that releases them from liability. So, go at your own risk (like anywhere). Whether or not the trail is too dangerous is also a contentious topic (again, you’re going AT YOUR OWN RISK). First of all, you absolutely should only do this trail if you’re wearing shoes that are strapped onto your feet. I’ve never felt like I need hiking boots or closed toe shoes, but I like to wear Tevas, Keens, etc. 

Also, while you can eliminate some of the risk by walking along the shoreline instead of taking the high trail (like I mentioned above), you reach a point where the only way into the cove is down a trail that’s probably three feet wide with the mountain on one side and a pretty steep drop off on the other. When wearing appropriate shoes, going slowly, and being very aware of my surroundings (namely other people), I’ve never felt uncomfortable doing this trail. But that’s not to say that that’s the case for everyone. 

This isn’t a well maintained trail, and while it’s well frequented, you definitely go at your own risk. 

White Rock

Officially called Palauea Beach, this is a lesser-known Wailea beach more popular with locals since there are no resorts on it and therefore fewer crowds. 

The beach is gorgeous and perfect for swimming. 

To find it, turn just south of the Fairmont (same place as Polo Beach) but turn left at the end of Kaukahi St onto Makena Road. Drive a ways until you see cars parked on one side of the street and you’ve found it. You’ll have to park on the side of the street and find a path between the houses to get to the beach. Wear shoes because the kiawe thorns are brutal on the path. There aren’t any amenities here.

For all of you whale spotters…one February I was laying out on this beach with a bunch of friends and several whales came up and started breaching right off shore! We felt the ground moving before we even spotted them!

Ho’okipa Beach

Ho’okipa beach is a resting area for the Hawaiian green sea turtles. Every afternoon they will swim up onto the beach (the far East end) to sun themselves while they nap. A volunteer group has taken it upon itself to protect the turtles by enforcing a perimeter around them, but this is the perfect spot to see a whole herd of turtles (usually around 20) both in and out of the water. 

Ho’okipa is also a popular surfing beach and on good days you’re guaranteed a show from the outlook where there are usually at least a couple of food trucks parked. Ho’okipa isn’t a good beach for swimming but the rocks/reef create some tide pools, which can be a good place for kids to play.

Tavares (Kuau) Bay 

Ho’okipa is the most famous place for spotting turtles, but there’s an even better spot close by. Tavares (Kuau) Bay is just east of Paia town. There’s a small parking lot and you’ll know you’re in the right spot when you see the big blue tile house. 

You’re almost always guaranteed to see turtles here and the view isn’t obstructed like it is at Ho’okipa. But keep your distance! Don’t get closer than 10 feet from these turtles as they’re protected by law. 

Maluaka Beach

Maluaka Beach, located on the southern coast of Maui near Makena, is lesser-known gem that offers a more tranquil alternative to some of the island’s busier beaches. Known for its soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, Maluaka is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and beach bumming the day away. 

The beach is often less crowded, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter beach day. 

The big draw here are the turtles that are often found swimming along the reef offshore. 

Part of the reason why this beach is a little under the radar is because it’s not right off the main road. If you’re driving south through Wailea, turn right onto Makena road (you’ll see signs for the landing) and continue on until you see a parking lot on your left. The beach access is actually a few hundred feet past the parking lot on your right. There’s a drop off area right at the beach so you can unload everything and then send someone back to park if you think it’s too far to walk.

Side Note: If you’re looking for a rental car for your trip, I LOVE Discount Hawaii Car Rentals. They’re seriously the only company I ever use. They’ll give you the very best prices, you don’t have to reserve with a credit card or pay until you show up, you can cancel and re-book anytime if you find a better rate, and they usually have a special that adds additional drivers for no fee. It’s a no brainer. Click here to check rates for your trip.

Kamaole I, II, III

These three beaches in the heart of Kihei are some of the most popular on the island. There are no big resorts or hotels on these beaches but they’re a stones throw from about a gazillion condos plus a lot of locals live in Kihei so that accounts for a lot of their popularity. They’re all very accessible (you can see them from the road), have decent parking, have pretty good amenities, and they’re right across the street from plenty of restaurants. The sand at all three is golden and the water is good for swimming. All three beaches have life guards. 

Kam I has a small parking lot at the entrance as well as overflow parking in a dirt lot across the street next to the Texaco. The northern end of Kam I is also called Charlie Young Beach and it’s a favorite with locals because it’s usually less crowded than the main part of the beach (farther from the lifeguards, etc.). There’s parking and a pathway down to Charlie Young Beach on Kaiau St. The best snorkeling around the Kam beaches is up at Charlie Young Beach around the rocks. 

Kam II has the trickiest parking. It’s mostly street parking so it’s a beach that’s more popular with people within walking distance. 

Kam III has the most parking and best amenities of all three Kam beaches. In addition to restrooms and showers, there’s a full playground and a huge lawn with plenty of shade that attracts a lot of locals. It can get crowded on the weekends and holidays, but it also has the most parking available.  

While they’re three distinct beaches, they’re actually all connected. One of my favorite things is to start either at Kam I or Kam II and walk from beach to beach. Each beach is connected with a little path (you don’t need to use the sidewalk up by the road) and there’s a public right of way across the lawn at the Royal Mauian. It’s a fun little scenic walk. 

Keawakapu Beach

This long stretch of sand bridges Kihei and Wailea. The Mana Kai Resort (5 Palms Restaurant) sits at the north end of the beach and there’s a public parking lot and access on Kilohana Drive (also a shower). 

It’s a long beach and it’s mostly fronted by houses so it never feels very crowded. This beach is perfect for sunset strolls. It also has some nice lava beds perfect for beach combing. The beach is so long that it actually connects to Mokapu (where the Andaz Maui sits) on the south end. 

Launiupoko Beach

Located south of Lahaina, Launiupoko is more of a local’s beach mostly because it’s a great surf spot. There’s a decent parking lot but on busy days you may have to park across the street. The facilities here are good (showers, bathrooms, picnic tables, etc.) and there’s a protected little cove that’s a perfect place for the kids to play.

Olowalu Beach

You’ll find Olowalu right across from Leoda’s Pie Shop (south of Lahaina), but this whole stretch has great beaches that you can see right from the road. The snorkeling is amazing in this area but you won’t find many amenities. You can pull your car right up to the beach though which is convenient and you’ll have the beautiful West Maui Mountains directly behind you.

P.S. I travel to Hawaii multiple times a year, and let me tell you a secret…I do most of it for FREE using credit card points and miles. 

I have a somewhat intricate system that I’ve fine tuned over the years to maximize earning points and how I cash them in, but the short version is:

I use THIS Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card for free Marriott nights. The sign up bonus alone on this card will get you 3 (sometimes 5!) free nights at hotels in Hawaii like the Sheraton Maui, Royal Hawaiian (Oahu), Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort, and the Waikoloa Beach Marriott (Kona). 

And I use THIS Southwest Premier Rapid Rewards card for free flights on Southwest. The sign up bonus will get you at least one round trip flight to Hawaii (possibly two depending on where you’re flying from). 

The combo of these two cards will have you most of the way to a free trip to Hawaii right out of the gate. Again, you can sign up for the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless >> HERE and the Southwest Premier Rapid Rewards >> HERE
And if you’re really serious about getting into the travel hacking game, read this post for a more in depth look at how I maximize credit card points to book travel.