North Ka'anapali Beach

Ka’anapali Beach is one of Maui’s most famous—3 miles of turquoise water framed by soft, white sand simply can’t be beat. Once named America’s best beach, this pristine stretch is notably punctuated by Black Rock, a long, dark lava flow that ventures several hundred feet into the water.

This area is separated into two sections, the south and the north beach. To the south of Black Rock, or South Ka’anapali Beach, you’ll find the majority of the bustle. Shops shoulder together along the street as fancy high-rise hotels tower overhead. To the north of Black Rock, you’ll find a bit more peace and quiet and seriously premiere snorkeling. Many claim that this is one of the best spots in Maui to see a sea turtle. For more on snorkeling from North Ka’anapali Beach, visit Ka’anapali Beach + Black Rock.

Once part of a massive sugar plantation, Ka’anapali was set aside in 1956 to become the first resort in all of the Hawaiian islands. After its opening in 1962, it’s been one of the premiere vacation spots in the islands—further adding to the allure of North Ka’anapali’s surprisingly uncrowded beaches. There are many public access points on the south beach, but you’ll have to venture a bit farther north to Halawai Drive to access the north beach. Parking can be a challenge, though sites are typically well marked. A (relatively) sure bet is braving the crowds and parking at Whaler’s Village Shopping Center and walking north along the Ka’anapali Beachwalk. Any store along the way will validate your parking if you spend $20—a feat that can practically be achieved with a scoop of ice cream.