Kaanapali Beach Tours

Kaanapali Beach which includes swimming, a hotel and a sandy beach
Kaanapali Beach featuring a beach, tropical scenes and swimming
Kaanapali Beach featuring a coastal town, a sandy beach and tropical scenes
Kaanapali Beach featuring a luxury hotel or resort, a sandy beach and mountains
Kaanapali Beach showing a sandy beach and boating


As one of the highest-ranking luxury beaches in the U.S., this stunning stretch of sand with crystal-clear water is lined with high-end hotels and shops.

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.

Plan a trip to see Kaanapali Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Kona Reef, A Raintree Vacation Club Resort
Ilikai by Luana Hawaii Vacation Rentals
Sands of Kahana

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Reviews of Kaanapali Beach

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
1629
5 - Excellent 65%
4 - Good
750
4 - Good 30%
3 - Okay
119
3 - Okay 5%
2 - Disappointing
19
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
4
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

For best swimming and Snorkeling check tide tables.

4/5 - Good

Matt

The sand is great but there are rocky areas in the water. Water socks ($5 at the local Walmart) provided the protection we needed.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

We were there in 1983. Now it’s just hotel after hotel. Still, a must to stop on your visit and walk along the beach.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

The sand is so soft its insane. All kinds of amenities. However, the water isn't all that safe to do much in. You gotta watch the kids very closely IMO. Fairly rough surf break, strong undertow at fairly steep dropoff. Lots of boats near the shore launching tours limits areas of "quiet" access, although there is plenty of room to roam to avoid that.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Watch for rocks if you swim. They can be very dangerous!

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Snorkle @ Black Rock is good

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Kaanapali Beach

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka'anapali

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka'anapali

4.5 out of 5
2365 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka'anapali
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

4 out of 5
Lahaina
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
OUTRIGGER Kaanapali Beach Resort

OUTRIGGER Kaanapali Beach Resort

3.5 out of 5
2525 Kaanapali Parkway, Lahaina, HI
OUTRIGGER Kaanapali Beach Resort
Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows

4 out of 5
2780 Kekaa Dr, Lahaina, HI
Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows
The Whaler Resort Kaanapali Beach

The Whaler Resort Kaanapali Beach

4 out of 5
2481 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI
The Whaler Resort Kaanapali Beach
Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas

Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas

3 out of 5
45 Kai Ala Dr, Lahaina, HI
Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas
Aston Kaanapali Shores

Aston Kaanapali Shores

3.5 out of 5
3445 Lower Honoapiilani Hwy, Lahaina, HI
Aston Kaanapali Shores
Hyatt Vacation Club at Ka'anapali Beach, Maui

Hyatt Vacation Club at Ka'anapali Beach, Maui

3.5 out of 5
180 Nohea Kai Dr, Lahaina, HI
Hyatt Vacation Club at Ka'anapali Beach, Maui
Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach

Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach

4 out of 5
2481 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI
Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach
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 Kaanapali Beach

Kaanapali Beach offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors, including breathtaking sunsets and thrilling surfing experiences. You can enjoy fantastic snorkeling opportunities, unwind at the Heavenly Spa, or embark on whale watching tours. For those seeking relaxation, yoga events are available, while adventurous spirits can try their hand at kite boarding. With so much to do, Kaanapali Beach promises an unforgettable Hawaiian getaway.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience, visit Whalers Village, just 0.3 miles from Kaanapali Beach, offering entertainment and local vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out Kihei Kalama Village and One Love Farmers Market, both about 20 miles away, featuring unique gifts and local offerings.

Recreation

At Kaanapali Kai Course, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes just 0.4 miles from the beach. For a more active experience, head to Maui War Memorial Center, 14 miles away, offering various sports facilities. The nearby Kaanapali Golf Courses also provide excellent golfing opportunities.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Shoreline Snuba, located 0.4 miles from Kaanapali Beach, where you can explore vibrant underwater life. For an exhilarating ride, try Skyline Eco Adventure, a zipline ropes course 0.7 miles away, or enjoy a competitive match at Lahaina Civic Center Tennis, 1 mile away.

Nightlife

Kaanapali Beach offers a vibrant nightlife scene. Enjoy live performances at the Iao Theater, just 13 miles away, filled with culture and family vibes. For a cozy movie night, head to Regal Maui Mall or Regency Kihei Cinemas, both offering romance and entertainment just a short drive away.

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

Find the best attractions near Kaanapali Beach

Kaanapali Beach offers a stunning blend of sun, sand, and scenery, making it a top destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the beautiful shoreline, enjoy the Kaanapali Beach Walk, or relax at nearby urban parks and bays. Whether you're soaking up the sun or seeking picturesque views, Kaanapali Beach is perfect for a memorable vacation experience.

  • Napili Bay: Located 6 miles from Kaanapali Beach, Napili Bay is a stunning paradise known for its picturesque scenery and tranquil atmosphere. The soft, golden sands and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling among vibrant marine life.
  • Black Rock: Just 0.6 miles away, Black Rock is a popular beach renowned for its dramatic cliffside and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach is ideal for sun-seekers and offers breathtaking sunset views, making it a must-visit for those wanting to relax by the ocean.
  • Hanakaoo Beach Park: Situated 0.7 miles from Kaanapali Beach, Hanakaoo Beach Park is an urban park that offers a family-friendly atmosphere. With picnic areas, shaded spots, and easy access to the beach, it’s perfect for a fun day out with loved ones or a leisurely stroll through nature.

Best time to go to Kaanapali Beach

The best time to visit Kaanapali Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. February and March are its coolest month on average. At the time of March, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January73.2°F (22.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February72.7°F (22.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March72.7°F (22.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April73.8°F (23.2°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May75.0°F (23.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
June76.3°F (24.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July77.2°F (25.1°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August77.9°F (25.5°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September78.1°F (25.6°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October77.7°F (25.4°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November76.3°F (24.6°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kaanapali Beach

To save money on your trip to Kaanapali Beach, consider visiting between September and November for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturday is the cheapest day to stay, while Wednesday tends to be the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and eco-friendly options. Combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings can also yield savings, and consider joining the One Key membership for exclusive discounts and cash rewards on future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kaanapali 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: Book your hotel around Kaanapali Beach about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kaanapali Beach is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Kaanapali Beach is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to easily find the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your Kaanapali Beach hotel reservations 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.

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