An obvious perk of being on an island is that no matter which direction you head towards, you’ll soon run into a beach. When you’re on Maui, it doesn’t really matter which beach you happen upon since they’re all beautiful in their own way. Yet, some are more suited to surfing, some to swimming and snorkeling, and others just for taking a timeout while reading and listening to the waves. Here are a few notable picks from around the island.
South Side
KAMA‘OLE BEACHES 1, 2, 3
This trio of Kīhei beaches is very popular with both residents and visitors. They’re great for snorkeling and frolicking with your family. Strong tradewinds tend to pick up in the afternoon, so be prepared to weigh down your blanket and other loose items. Phones, restrooms, showers available.
MĀKENA BEACH (BIG BEACH)
Also known as Oneloa Beach and Big Beach, this stretch of soft sand is 1.5 miles long and more than 100 ft. wide. Swimming, bodyboarding and snorkeling are all popular activities here. Restrooms are available.
West Side
KAPALUA BAY
Enjoy aquatic activities at this sheltered and picturesque white sand beach that’s good for snorkeling and diving. There are shaded areas to cool off under as well as restrooms,
showers and parking.
KĀ‘ANAPALI BEACH
Stretching from the Sheraton Maui to Hyatt Regency Maui, this beach is great for strolling and people-watching. It’s also ideal for for snorkeling, swimming and enjoying spectacular sunset views. Restrooms, showers are available.
North Shore
HO‘OKIPA BEACH PARK
Ho‘okipa is world-famous for windsurfing, but not-so-great for swimming due to the currents. Use caution if you head into the water here. Phones, restrooms, showers and picnic areas are available at the park.
From boogie boards to beach chairs, snorkel gear to wetsuits, if you need to get some gear for your beach outing, look no further than Snorkel Bob’s. Snorkel Bob himself designs and engineers snorkel gear for rent or sale. Snorkel Bob’s has seven locations total in Maui’s west and south sides, including their newest storefront in Kahana Gateway Shopping Center, just minutes from the hotels of Ka‘anapali Beach and world-class snorkeling.
If you’re going to the beach, you better dress the part. Look good and feel great with help from Maui Clothing Company. This island-based company offers an extensive designer swimwear collection in addition to its private label line, Maui WaterWear. Browse through mix-and-match tops and bottoms in all styles including bandeau, halter, push-up underwire, string side bottoms and boy shorts. You can also find a wide array of casual apparel that will take you from day to night!
[A version of this article appears in print in the pages of This Week Maui]
