Kaanapali Beach Guide to Maui Beaches

Located at the heart of the iconic Kaanapali Beach, north of Lahaina, is the unique oceanfront Maui Kai Resort. Instantly step into vacation mode in one of our Maui vacation rentals and enjoy a home from home with uninterrupted ocean views – perfect for catching the famous Maui sunsets night after night.

Just feet from your bed, step out onto your own lanai and experience a coastline that’s frequently crowned winner of “America’s Best Beach”. Stretching an impressive three miles along the Maui Coast, Kaanapali is one of the island’s most prominent and popular beaches – and you can’t get closer than our Maui Kai Resort.

Things to do at Kaanapali Beach

There’s no destination in the world quite like Kaanapali Beach to kick back, relax and really feel like you’re escaping it all on vacation.

By day there’s nothing more meditational than sinking into the crystal-clear waters and experiencing that unique weightlessness and freedom that only the ocean can offer. Or laying back on the sand under the Hawaiian sun with a book in one hand and your favorite cocktail in the other. By night, enjoy a large glass of wine while you watch the humpback whales swim under the sunset for an unforgettable way to unwind in one of the best places in Maui to simply “hang out”.

Relaxing makes you restless? Why not try snorkeling or scuba diving at the famous Black Rock or diverse Coral Gardens reef? For the adrenaline seekers among you, the cliff diving at sunset will really take your breath away – and if you’re not willing to become a cliff diver yourself, you can watch the professionals every night at sunset. A surf lesson, parasailing and stand-up-paddle as well as a multitude of other water activities can all be organized during your stay – helping you to make the most of “island life” throughout your stay.

Want to try something different? The Whaling Museum offers a unique insight into the history of whaling in Hawaii, while the famous boardwalk is the best way to get to know the beach and resort better. The Whalers Village is fully equipped for everything you might need throughout your vacation – from grocery shopping to picking up souvenirs for your friends and family stuck at home.

Love food? Then Kaanapali Beach is the perfect place to be. Whether you choose a dinner cruise, or an unforgettable meal in one of the many local fine dining restaurants – your condo is just moments away from all the best dishes the island has to offer.

Golf and Maui go together and a trip to the resort wouldn’t be complete without at least one round on the champion Maui golf course. There are 14 courses on the island – some of which are listed in the top percentage on the list of “world’s best golf courses” – an experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Kaanapali isn’t the only beautiful place on Maui and to make the most of the island and really get a taste for what is on offer, we recommend visiting Kapalua, Napili, Honokowai and Lahaina during your stay.

History of Kaanapali Beach

They say immersion is the best way to learn, and the Kaanapali Walking Trail is a great way to lose yourself in the local history and get to know the true history and the legends that paint the colorful history of Maui.

The walking trail provides a glimpse into the local culture, linking ten points of interest including, a lava rock Heiau, the Kekaa Landing Pier, and Puu Kekaa – a sacred promontory lava rock. The self-guided walk begins at the Plantation Farm and finishes in the Ancient Village of Kekaa – early morning is the best time to enjoy the two hour trail, to avoid the heat of the day.

Where to Park at Kaanapali Beach

There are a handful of small public lots and facilities within walking distance of both the beach and the Kaanapali Parkway; simply look for “beach access” signs. At the Whaler’s Village patrons can park for up to six hours with a minimum purchase, and $3 for every 30 minutes thereafter.

Your Maui vacation is our top priority and serving you with Aloha is our pleasure. To plan your Maui vacation, call our reservation office at 1-800-367-5635 or book online at Maui Kai.

Our Maui Kai Resort is an oceanfront resort overlooking the famous Kaanapali Beach. Each condo is uniquely decorated, offering its own charm and ambience. All our condos come with a private lanai and uninterrupted floor-to ceiling views across the ocean towards where the sun sets in the west. What are you waiting for? We’re ready for you.