west Maui
Kapalua Coastal Trail & Beach
One of West Maui’s most scenic walks, followed by snorkeling and a waterfront lunch.
Best Time to Go
Arrive by 9 AM — free parking fills fast and there’s no shade on the trail at midday.
Kapalua Coastal Trail
3.5-mile out-and-back along the coastline. Mostly flat and unpaved. Optional side trip to Dragon’s Teeth — stay back from edges and wet rocks, waves are unpredictable.
Bring Water
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Kapalua Bay
Protected bay with frequent turtle sightings and easy beach entry. Best snorkeling near the rocky outcrops on either side. Restrooms and showers on site.
Turtle sightings
Easy entry
Need Gear?
Sea House Restaurant
Oceanfront views of Napili Bay. All-day dining with a great happy hour. Our top pick.
$$
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west Maui
Kapalua Coastal Trail & Beach
One of West Maui’s most scenic walks, followed by snorkeling and a waterfront lunch.
Sugar Beach
Beginners welcome
Closed-toe shoes required
Reservations required
Sugar Beach Bake Shop — North Kihei
Walk south along the shoreline
Whale Sanctuary — ~1.5 miles, then turn back
One of Maui’s longest beaches — flat, peaceful, and ideal for walking. Go the full 3 miles or just turn back whenever you like.
Best at low tide — check tides before you go
Humpback Whale Sanctuary
Sanctuary headquarters at the south end of the beach with outdoor whale education displays, an ocean viewing area, and a small visitor center.
Dec–April: Watch for whales breaching and tail-slapping offshore from the viewing area.
Kihei Canoe Club
Join a visitor paddle with one of Maui’s active outrigger canoe clubs. Open to visitors twice weekly year-round — a memorable way to experience the ocean.
Sugar Beach Bake Shop
Right across from beach parking — grab coffee and pastries before you head out. Get the malasadas. Go early; they sell out.
Morning only
Ululani’s Shave Ice
Right across from beach parking — grab coffee and pastries before you head out. Get the malasadas. Go early; they sell out.