The 9 Best Beaches in Lahaina and West Maui

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Looking for a beach close to where you’re staying in Lahaina? We have you covered with the 9 best beaches in Lahaina and West Maui. 

Does Lahaina Have Good Beaches?

While West Maui has some of the most spectacular beaches on the island, you won’t find many great beaches within downtown Lahaina. There are a couple of beaches that are worth a stop and plenty of excellent beaches within a short drive of downtown Lahaina. 

Our list of beaches below includes two beaches in downtown Lahaina as well as seven other beaches that are within a short drive of downtown. 

If you’re looking for the best beaches on Maui, regardless of the drive, check out our list of the 17 best beaches on Maui. These beaches are definitely worth a long drive. We include tips, directions, and more to make your beach experience even better. 

Lahaina and West Maui Beach Map

The 9 Best Beaches in Lahaina and West Maui

Ready to hit the beach? We have the nine best beaches in Lahaina and West Maui listed here from north to south. 

1. DT Fleming Beach

A popular surfing and bodyboarding destination, this beach nearby the Ritz Carlton Kapalua offers a 1,500 square foot beach. Because you’re getting to the northwest side of Maui at this point, you’ll notice that the weather conditions, trees, and surf begin to change. 

D.T. Fleming can have a powerful shore break that should keep swimmers out of the water. Make sure to take into consideration any lifeguard flags and warnings before you enter the water. 

Distance from Lahaina: 10 miles

2. Kapalua Bay

Named the best beach in America by Dr. Beach in 2018, Kapalua Bay is a crescent-shaped beach that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The bay offers a mostly protected area from strong ocean currents and is a favorite spot for spotting turtles and spending the day. The beach has restrooms and a parking lot but as it’s so popular, plan on getting there early to snag a parking spot. 

Get more information on Kapalua Bay including where to park, where to eat, and tips for enjoying your day. 

Distance from Lahaina: 9 miles

3. Napili Bay

Just south of Kapalua is another gem, Napili Bay. A little larger than its neighbor Kapalua Bay, Napili offers much of the same: a protected bay, stunningly clear water, soft sand, and excellent snorkeling. You’ll also find two great restaurants at either end of the bay: The Gazebo and The Sea House. Some of our favorite Lahaina area accommodations are also located on Napili Bay, like the Napili Kai Beach Resort and the Napili Shores.

Distance from Lahaina: 9 miles

4. Pohaku Park

This is a small, pretty beach that isn’t necessarily worth the drive but if you’re staying nearby, it’s a great place to spend time. It’s a laid-back spot to enjoy the sand and take a quick dip, but be aware that it does get runoff so it’s best to avoid this area after it rains. Bring some chairs and sit back and relax here during whale season and watch them breaching offshore. 

Distance from Lahaina: 6.5 miles

5. Honokowai Beach

A steller spot for the kids, this beach is great for anyone staying in the area that wants to enjoy a little beach time without the threat of big waves. There is a reef that creates a very small, shallow swimming area. During low tide, there can be just enough water for kids to splash around and look at the small fish. During high tide, the water in the protected area is deep enough for young kids to enjoy wading and swimming in. The beach isn’t huge, but it’s big enough to make it a delightful stop for families. 

There’s also a park and playground as well as a coffee shop and grocery store across the street. 

Distance from Lahaina: 6 miles

6. Kahekili Beach (Airport Beach)

Located in north Ka’anapali, Kahekili Beach (also known as Airport Beach) offers a slightly quieter beachgoing experience than the main Ka’anapali beach. You won’t find solitude here, but you’ll find plenty of space to stretch out on the soft sand, take a walk, and swim. There’s also a large parking lot, a grassy area, and restrooms to make your stay more enjoyable. 

See our Airport Beach Guide for more details!

When heading to Ka’anapali, we often head straight for Kahekili Beach because it’s just as beautiful as Ka’anapali beach but with a fraction of the crowds. 

7. Black Rock Beach and Ka’anapali Beach

Ka’anapali Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in Hawaii. And for good reason. With an endless sandy beach (ok, well it feels endless when you’re walking it), unbelievably blue water, and a fantastic snorkeling spot, this beach is what your Maui dreams are made of. Ka’anapali is a resort development that was built on one of the most beautiful stretches of beach on the island. This is by no means a remote or deserted beach, but if you can get past the crowds and the parking challenges, you’ll find a perfect beach for your beach day. Plus you have plenty of restaurants and shopping within walking distance. 

See our Black Rock Beach Guide for more details on snorkeling and swimming at Black Rock.

Stay to the north end of the beach, near Black Rock for fewer crowds and more sand. 

8. Baby Beach

Another spot that is perfect for the kids is Baby Beach in Lahaina. While in town in Lahaina doesn’t have as many great beaches as you’ll find just a short car trip away, Baby Beach offers something special for families. Right in town, you’ll find this beach, which offers very calm water and protection from waves thanks to a reef that is well offshore. You can walk out very far from shore and never be more than waist-deep. Plus, you might just get lucky and see a passing turtle or monk seal here (remember to give animals plenty of space!). 

We have a full article with more information about getting to Baby Beach, where to park, and how to enjoy the day. 

9. Kamehameha Iki Park Beach

Also in the heart of Lahaina, this beach is popular with surfers and surf schools. In fact, if you take a surf lesson in Lahaina, chances are you’ll end up surfing here. The beach isn’t huge but it’s large enough to stretch out and enjoy the view. On most days, you’ll be able to watch the surfers, gaze out over Lana’i, and enjoy a swim. There is parking in a small lot in front of the beach, with additional street parking. 

You might also hear this area referred to as Breakwall or the Beach at 505.

While you’re in the Lahaina area, you won’t want to miss out on the best restaurants, snorkeling spots, and activities. We’ve got you covered with these complete guides:

• The best snorkeling spots in Lahaina and West Maui
• ReefDancer vs Atlantis Submarine Review
• Where to see turtles on west Maui (there are so many spots)
• The best restaurants in Lahaina — something for everyone
• Our full Maui Guide to help you plan your perfect vacation