Hawaiian kings once favored Kaanapali Beach, and now the whole world is in love with it. Kaanapali was the first planned resort in Hawaii and, because of its success, its formula has been copied around the world. Kaanapali has many comforts, and just over a decade ago it was voted “America’s Best Beach.” Come here to laze on the palm-fringed sand and bathe in the warm Pacific waters.
Book an adventurous water-based activity, such as scuba diving, snorkeling or kayaking to make the most of your stay. If you feel brave, you can even go parasailing. Golf enthusiasts should hit the Royal Kaanapali or the Kaanapali Kai, two local championship courses. If you feel like a walk, take the Kaanapali Historical Trail & History and Legends Tour. This free, self-guided walk educates you about the area’s geological past and takes you to some of the best places.
Shopaholics should head for the Whalers Village on Kaanapali Parkway, where you’ll find around 90 high-end shops and restaurants. Shop for jewelry, floral shirts or swimwear, and enjoy a local sweet treat or all-American fast food. Stay a while and join a free daily Hawaiian language class if you want to greet the locals with more than just “aloha.” Visit the museum dedicated to the humpback whales which frequent the waters. In winter, you can also join one of the whale-watching trips that depart from Kaanapali Beach.
A memorable way to end any day on Kaanapali Beach is to watch the daily cliff-diving ceremony. Head to Puu Kekaa (Black Rock) as the sun sets to watch the participants light torches along the cliff top before diving into the sea. The spectacle is in honor of King Kahekili, who once performed this feat.
Kaanapali Beach is in West Maui. The beach resort has no shortage of accommodation, with many five-star hotels taking up the prime spots along the oceanfront. The condos are a better deal for families. If you have kids in tow, ask at your reception if they have “keiki” programs, with games, arts and crafts.
Kaanapali Beach Tours and Activities
Visit Kaanapali Beach
Plan a trip to see Kaanapali Beach
Paradise Bay Resort
Reviewed on Dec. 18, 2024
Ilikai by Luana Hawaii Vacation Rentals
Reviewed on Dec. 9, 2024
Hono Koa Vacation Club
Reviewed on Nov. 15, 2024
Shows & concerts
See all 4 activitiesOpens in new tabMyths of Maui Luau at the Royal Lahaina Resort
Tours & day trips
See all 50 activitiesOpens in new tabWaterfall & Rainforest Hiking Adventure
Adventure & outdoor
See all 9 activitiesOpens in new tabWaterfall & Rainforest Hiking Adventure
Wildlife & nature
See all 32 activitiesOpens in new tabSnorkelling Cruise to Molokini Crater & Turtle Town
Classes & workshops
See all 15 activitiesOpens in new tabMaui: Deluxe Whale Watch Sail & Lunch from Ma`alaea Harbour
Reviews of Kaanapali Beach
4/5 - Good
tough to find parking
4/5 - Good
Really hard to find parking. They are blocked my huge hotels. I liked the beaches in Kihei and Wailea/Makena better.
3/5 - Okay
beach access parking here is a pain. arrive early to get parking!
5/5 - Excellent
Bring you sea -shoes as parts are rocky
3/5 - Okay
Limited parking. Went elsewhere.
Popular places to visit
Whalers Village
You can do some window-shopping at Whalers Village during your stay in Kaanapali. Amble around this romantic area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Kaanapali Golf Courses
Play a round of golf at Kaanapali Golf Courses and enjoy other activities in Kaanapali such as snorkeling. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this romantic area.
Kahana Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Kahana Beach during your trip to Kahana? Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Napili Bay
This vacation accommodation hotspot has everything you need. Its protected waters attract swimmers and snorkelers in summer, and surfers and body boarders in winter.
Drums of the Pacific Lū‘au
You can enjoy a show at Drums of the Pacific Lū‘au on your trip to Kaanapali. Make time for the spas and snorkeling spots in this romantic area.
Kaanapali Kai Course at Kaanapali Golf Resort
Play a round of golf at Kaanapali Kai Course at Kaanapali Golf Resort and enjoy other activities in Kaanapali such as snorkeling. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the beautiful sunsets in this romantic area.
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