The 3 Best Beaches Around the Maui Area

Maui’s beaches shape how people experience the island, offering places to unwind, swim, explore tidepools or simply appreciate the changing light across the water. The Beach category in The Maui News’ Best of Maui readers’ choice contest highlights shorelines that residents return to again and again. These places offer scenery, space and a sense of calm that reflects the rhythm of island life.

Makena is home to some of Maui’s most striking coastal scenery, with wide stretches of sand and views that feel both open and dramatic. The Hawaii State Parks website describes Makena’s mix of beaches, each with its own character and conditions. Visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing in designated areas, along with opportunities for shoreline walks that showcase the rugged landscape. The park’s size allows for quiet pockets even on busier days.

Kapalua Bay offers a protected crescent-shaped beach framed by lava outcroppings, creating calm waters well suited for swimming and snorkeling. Its website highlights the bay’s gentle conditions and easy entry points, making it welcoming for families and beginners. The surrounding landscape gives the area a sheltered feel, and the bay’s clear water often makes it a favorite for spotting fish close to shore.

Napili Kai Beach Resort sits along a scenic stretch of shoreline where guests can enjoy soft sand and steady, swimmable conditions. The resort’s website outlines amenities, dining options and activities that complement time on the beach, while also emphasizing a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can move easily between the water, shaded areas and nearby conveniences, making the experience comfortable without losing the natural charm of the coastline.

Thanks, ChatGPT.