Kaanapali Beach
Once the exclusive retreat of Hawaiian royalty and the training grounds for Hawaiian warriors, today Kaanapali is an oceanfront playground of international renown. Home to a variety of family-friendly resorts and hotels, as well as fantastic shopping and dining at popular destinations such as Whaler’s Village, this 3-mile stretch of sand truly offers something for everyone.
TIP:
Be sure to bring your snorkel gear! There are several rental companies in the area, and many hotels provide rentals for guests.
Consistently ranked among the best beaches in America, Kaanapali offers a virtually unlimited array of ocean-centered activities, including kayaking, surfing, body boarding, parasailing, diving, beach volleyball, and snorkeling as some of the island’s most colorful reefs. There are a number of public beach parks along the shore, including Hanakaoo and lovely Wahikuli, just off the main highway. And, should you be visiting from December to May, Kaanapali also happens to be Maui’s premier whale watching spot.
Separating Kaanapali and Kahekili Beaches is the majestic Puu Kekaa (or Black Rock.) The ancient Hawaiians believed the Black Rock to the departure point for spirits leaving this world, “jumping off” to join their ancestors. In commemoration of this legend, a not-to-be-missed cliff diving ceremony is performed nightly.
