Kapalua Beach Tours

Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau


Calm, luxurious, picturesque and visited by amazing marine life, this is one of West Maui’s more family-friendly swimming and snorkeling destinations.

Kapalua roughly translates into “arms embracing the sea,” and this perfectly describes the pretty, crescent-shaped beach that’s flanked by two rocky outcrops. As a result of this natural barrier, the water in this area is very sheltered and calm, making Kapalua Beach ideal for a gentle swim or snorkel. It’s one of the few northern beaches where children can safely splash around in the shallows.Palm-tree-lined Kapalua Beach is one of West Maui’s best snorkeling spots, even in winter. You may see surgeon fish, damsel fish, jacks and goat fish. You can even swim with a sea turtle if you are lucky. For optimal conditions, head to the north end of the beach. This is rockier, but has the advantage of better visibility. Occasionally, rare monk seals drag themselves up on to the rocks to rest. Bring your camera, just in case this happens while you are there!Golf is a favorite activity in Hawaii and especially so in Kapalua the Plantation Course and the Bay Course both host professional tournaments. These courses also welcome passing tourists, so go and watch the action if you appreciate a good game of golf. A range of boutique shops can be found in the center of Kapalua, including a handful of high-end jewelry stores. If you happen to visit in June, you’ll be delighted by the annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival. Learn all about wine tastings and sample the treats that the local restaurants serve up to showcase their menus.Kapalua Beach in northwest Maui is relatively crowded compared to other Maui beaches, but since it has a lot to offer, it’s fun to visit at least once. Kapalua has its own private airport, and a luxury resort that straddles the beach offers accommodation options. There is little catering along the beach, so pack a picnic if you plan to spend the day. A parking lot is located close to the beach, but can fill up fast. Get there early to avoid a longer trek to and from the car.

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Best Lodging Options Near Kapalua Beach

Napili Kai Beach Resort

Napili Kai Beach Resort

3.5 out of 5
5900 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI
Napili Kai Beach Resort
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

5 out of 5
1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Kapalua, HI
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Montage Kapalua Bay

Montage Kapalua Bay

5 out of 5
One Bay Drive, Lahaina, HI
Montage Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Villas Maui

Kapalua Villas Maui

4 out of 5
300 Kapalua Drive, Lahaina, HI
Kapalua Villas Maui
Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER

Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER

3 out of 5
5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI
Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER
The Gardens at West Maui

The Gardens at West Maui

3 out of 5
5500 Lower Honoapiilani Highway, Lahaina, HI
The Gardens at West Maui
Montage Kapalua Bay Collection by KBM - 2 Units (2204/2206)

Montage Kapalua Bay Collection by KBM - 2 Units (2204/2206)

5 out of 5
1 Bay Drive, Kapalua, HI
Montage Kapalua Bay Collection by KBM - 2 Units (2204/2206)
Montage Kapalua Bay by KBM

Montage Kapalua Bay by KBM

4 out of 5
1 Bay Drive, Kapalua, HI
Montage Kapalua Bay by KBM
Montage Kapalua Bay Collection by KBM - 2 Units (6301/6401)

Montage Kapalua Bay Collection by KBM - 2 Units (6301/6401)

5 out of 5
1 Bay Drive, Kapalua, HI
Montage Kapalua Bay Collection by KBM - 2 Units (6301/6401)
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Kapalua Beach

Kapalua Beach offers a range of exciting activities for tourists, including snorkeling in its vibrant waters. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic golf courses nearby, while recreational activities abound for those seeking adventure. Don't miss the opportunity for incredible whale watching experiences and a memorable sunset lūʻau. For a more personalized experience, consider booking private excursions to explore the beauty of the area.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Whalers Village, just 6 miles away, offering a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment and diverse shops. If you're up for a drive, head to One Love Farmers Market, 20 miles away, or Kihei Kalama Village, 23 miles away, both featuring local goods and unique finds.

Recreation

The Kapalua Golf Club Plantation Course offers stunning ocean views and challenging holes, perfect for golf enthusiasts. Experience the vibrant sports atmosphere at the Maui War Memorial Center, ideal for various recreational activities. The Kaanapali Kai Course at Kaanapali Golf Resort boasts beautiful landscapes and is great for outdoor fun.

Adventure

Explore the Kapalua Coastal Trail, located 0.1 mile from Kapalua Beach, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery while hiking. For underwater excitement, visit Jean Michele Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment, situated 0.8 mile away. For thrill-seekers, the Skyline Eco Adventure zipline ropes course is 5 miles away, offering exhilarating views.

Nightlife

At Kapalua Beach, the nightlife offers charming experiences. The Iao Theater, 13 miles away, showcases cultural performances for family fun. Regal Maui Mall, 15 miles distant, features romantic cinema outings, while Regency Kihei Cinemas, 23 miles away, provides more entertainment for couples seeking a cozy night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kapalua Beach

Kapalua Beach offers a stunning array of attractions for visitors seeking beautiful scenery and outdoor experiences. You can explore the pristine Kapalua Beach, enjoy the lively atmosphere at Kaanapali Beach, or relax at Kapalua Bay Beach and Namalu Bay. The picturesque Kapalua coastline is also perfect for taking in breathtaking views, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

  • Kaanapali Beach: Located 6 miles from Kapalua Beach, Kaanapali Beach is a vibrant stretch of golden sand perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports. It offers a lively atmosphere with beach bars and restaurants nearby, ensuring a full day of fun and relaxation.
  • Napili Bay: Just 0.3 miles away, Napili Bay is a picturesque spot known for its calm waters and stunning scenery. This serene cove is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing, making it a perfect getaway for families and couples looking for a peaceful beach experience.
  • Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course: A mere 0.2 miles from Kapalua Beach, this golf course offers breathtaking tropical views and a romantic setting. With its challenging holes and lush landscapes, it’s a must-visit for golf enthusiasts seeking both excitement and relaxation.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kapalua Beach

To save money on your trip to Kapalua Beach, consider visiting between September and November for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on sites like Expedia. Saturdays are typically the cheapest nights to stay, while Wednesdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly, eco-certified hotels and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and earn you rewards for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kapalua Beach are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Kapalua Beach is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kapalua Beach is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Kapalua Beach is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Explore Expedia’s search tool to customize your travel preferences, such as budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly accommodations currently available. To find the best offers and lowest prices, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Kapalua Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.