Punalau Beach

Punalau Beach is a no frills beach hidden along Maui's Honoapiilani Highway.

Though the reef at this beach can be very sharp, making it less than ideal for swimming, the unsigned beach lies down a short 4WD from the road, so the vast majority of tourists will drive right by without even knowing it's here.

Passenger cars, or vehicles unfamiliar with the road down, may opt to park along the paved shoulder of the highway and walk down. The beach itself is sandy and empty of most people. It's a good spot to walk, or just just sit if you're looking to get away from the crowds.

There are no amenities of any type at the beach - no tables, water or bathrooms. And though the beach is signed as day use only, there's a chance you'll stumble across some vehicles camping out in the dirt parking area.