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Kapalua Beach on Maui
Located in Kapalua Bay in Northwest Maui
When you think of Hawaii, Kapalua Beach is probably the scene that comes to mind. Several years ago (back in the early 1990s and again in 2018), this beach won the title of 'America's Best Beach,' and it's not hard to see why once you visit here. With gorgeous scenic views, an abundance of palm trees lining the shoreline, and lots of soft sand with great swimming available, it's no wonder this is one of the gems of northwest Maui.
Kapalua Beach is great for families and provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling, though be advised there is no lifeguard on duty here. However, the beach can be crowded, so be sure and plan accordingly - and try to visit earlier in the day, especially if you want the best spots along the shoreline.
The beach is ultimately great for snorkeling, swimming, and even scuba-diving. Sea life is abundant here, including several tropical fish and honu (green sea turtles). Public restrooms are also available at the beach trailhead.
Kapalua Bay Beach in Northwest Maui
Parking for Kapalua Beach is available in front of the beach path, along the back rows of the nearby Tennis Club, or at the lot located at the end of Kapalua Place.
If you're looking to make a day of beach hopping, nearby, to the south, you'll find Napili Bay Beach, and to the north of Kapalua beach, you'll discover Oneloa (Ironwoods) Beach and D.T. Fleming Beach. Napili Bay is great for snorkeling, thanks to a protective offshore reef. Fleming Beach is the best beach for boogie boarding and bodysurfing, and it also offers an abundance of shade courtesy of the ironwood trees along the shore. Oneloa Beach is similarly graced by a lot of Ironwood trees, often earning it the nickname of 'Ironwoods' beach.
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