Ka'anapali Beach

Ka'anapali Beach is Maui's premier family beach -- three miles of golden sand on the west shore backed by resort hotels and fronted by warm, clear Pacific water. Consistently ranked among America's best beaches, it delivers the full Hawaii beach experience: swimming, snorkeling, sunset watching, and the distinctive aloha atmosphere that makes Maui special.

Black Rock (Pu'u Keka'a) at the north end is the beach's signature feature. This volcanic rock outcropping creates a natural snorkeling reef where sea turtles, tropical fish (parrotfish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish), and coral thrive in clear, shallow water. Morning snorkeling when the water is calm and clear offers the best experience.

Kids with basic snorkel skills can see an underwater world within 20 feet of shore.

At sunset, the Sheraton's nightly cliff-diving ceremony draws crowds to Black Rock. An employee lights torches along the cliff, performs a traditional Hawaiian chant, and dives 30 feet into the water below. It is free to watch from the beach and is one of Maui's most memorable nightly events.

The beach itself is wide, sandy, and gently sloping -- suitable for all ages from wading toddlers to bodysurfing teens. Conditions are typically calm, especially in the morning and during the summer months. Winter swells can create larger waves at times -- check conditions. The beachfront walkway connects the resorts and Whalers Village, a shopping and dining complex mid-beach.

During whale season (December through April), humpback whales are visible from Ka'anapali Beach. Spouts, breaches, and tail slaps can be spotted without binoculars. Bring binoculars and you will see whale activity constantly -- Maui's west shore is a primary humpback breeding ground.

All Hawaii beaches are public by law, including Ka'anapali. Public access points between the resorts provide free parking and beach access. Do not pay resort parking rates unless you are a guest.