Are you someone who’s always on the hunt for a great beach? On Maui, there are plenty of shorelines to choose from, each with their own unique vibe and views. If you’re unsure of which beach to start with or just need a general idea of where the beaches are, then this blog is for you. Consider this your ultimate guide to West Maui beaches. Learn about what each one offers and the best way to schedule your beach days for your upcoming trip to West Maui. You’ll also learn how booking a vacation rental from My Perfect Stays can keep you central to the coast, so you can soak up as much beach time as possible! Ready? Let’s explore the beaches of West Maui!
Kaanapali Beach (Including Black Rock)
Our list kicks off with Kaanapali Beach, which is popular choice for its warm, clear waters and soft sand that goes on for three golden miles. Many choose this beach to snorkel, swim and even scuba. If this is your first visit to Maui, consider booking a snorkeling excursion tour where an experienced guide can take out a bit further where the opportunities to see a variety of wildlife are plenty. Depending on the time of year too, you might see humpback whales making their migration. A unique part of Kaanapali Beach is Black Rock. Jump off into the turquoise waters below!
Napili Bay
Next up is a sandy cove with a laid back vibe. It’s one of the smaller beaches in West Maui, and is shaped like a crescent moon. You’ll feel safe here, like you’re nestled in the coastline. The waters are calm and clear. If you choose to snorkel here, you might be able to see majestic sea turtles swimming by. They like to frequent Napili Bay because of the coral formations and relaxed current. The Sea House Restaurant nearby can keep you full and happy for your best beach day.
Kapalua Bay
Now, even though all of Maui’s shores are picture perfect, our next West Maui beach is considered one of the most picturesque both from the shore and in the water. The types of sea creatures you can see during a snorkel session in Kapalua Bay is unreal! There are large colorful fish (some as long as your arm,) eels and big sea turtles. The water is shallow and perfect for young swimmers. If you need to rent gear for your beach day, there are plenty of vendors nearby where you can rent snorkels, paddleboards and kayaks for a fun day on the water. We suggest you getting an early start to enjoy Kapalua Bay. It tends to get very busy the later in the day you go, but if you get there early you can secure your perfect spot on the sand.
Puunoa Beach (Baby Beach)
Our next West Maui beach is Puunoa Beach. This beach that’s protected by an exposed stretch of coral reef, which means the water surrounding the shoreline is calm and shallow. It’s favorited by families, since the waters are calm and warm, the sand is smooth, and there aren’t any rocks. As with the previously mentioned beaches, there are also opportunities to see marine life in abundance here too, right off the shore! As you relax with your family on the shore, you can run and play freely without worrying about stepping on sharp coral or shells.
Fleming Beach
We’re switching things up a bit and taking you to a West Maui beach where the waves are high! It’s Fleming Beach, which has been ranked among America’s best beaches. Many flock to the shores of Fleming Beach for surfing and bodyboarding. The rolling waves keep things exciting for surfers and boogie boarders. It’s a great place to while away the hours since there are picnic tables and shaded area that keep you covered from the intense heat of midday. Keep in mind that the waves at Fleming Beach can get strong, so any in your group who aren’t confident swimmers should be monitored. When you get a little hungry, stop over to Burger Shack for some delicious burgers. Fleming Beach’s amenities like showers, grills, and attending lifeguards make it easy to spend your whole day here.
Slaughterhouse Beach (Mokuleia Bay)
Just east of Fleming Beach is Slaughterhouse Beach or Mokuleia Beach. Despite its interesting name, the beach is better known for its quiet shores and easygoing waves. The beach gets its name from an old slaughterhouse that used to be located on the cliffs above the beach. To get to this West Maui beach, keep in mind that you have to park at the top and then descend down 40 steps to reach the bottom. We mentioned that the waves are usually easygoing, but the ocean is unpredictable sometimes. The current can go from calm to rough in a manner of minutes. Be mindful of this when swimming. As a fun fact, there’s a cool cave you can explore if you visit during low tide!
Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park)
Airport Beach is one of those good all-around West Maui beaches. The waters are calm for swimming; however, the beach drops off quickly from the shore, so be aware of this. Come snorkel along the coral reef to see a variety of fish and turtles. After your water excursions, lay out on the soft sands of Airport Beach to work on your tan. There’s plenty of space to spread out on Airport Beach. If you start feeling hungry, there are three excellent restaurants nearby.
Choose A Rental from My Perfect Stays
It’s all in the name! When you stay with My Perfect Stays, you’ll be situated in prime locations that are just steps away from your chosen West Maui beach. This means you can spend as much time as possible by the beach without ever having to travel too far. It’s a win-win.
The interiors of your vacation rental from My Perfect Stays are inviting and luxurious, with full gourmet kitchens, relaxing bedrooms, and private outdoor spaces where you can look out onto the beach and feel inspired.
At My Perfect Stays, our goal is to make your vacation enjoyable and easy. That’s why we’re happy to offer Xplorie Activity packages that feature activities like snorkel/sailing trips, golfing, luau reservations or gear rentals.
Let’s Go to the Beach!
We can’t wait to see you at these top West Maui Beaches! Plan your perfect stay with My Perfect Stays today.
