Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Canada
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Beach · Kāʻanapali, Hawaii
Kapalua Bay
Small crescent bay on northwest Maui, protected by two lava points, with light sand, generally calm water and reefs for snorkeling. It’s the start of the Kapalua coastal trail.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay lies at Maui’s northwest tip, about 10 km north of Kaanapali. Two lava points enclose the bay and shelter the water from swell, keeping the sea calm most of the year, particularly in summer. The sand is light and the beach is short, shaded by coconut trees.
The reefs by the points have reef fish, moray eels and turtles, and the bay is one of Maui’s best spots for beginner snorkelers. On calm days the water is transparent and shallow near the sand.
The coastal trail departs from the beach, running about 3 km over lava rock and paved paths to Oneloa Bay and Makaluapuna Point, with views of Molokaʻi. Further north is Honolua Bay, a marine conservation area.
The beach has restrooms and outdoor showers and a small public parking lot that fills early.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours for beach and snorkeling; add an hour for the coastal trail.
Best time
In the morning, when parking still has spaces and the water is usually calmer. In winter, with north swell, the water can become rougher and murkier.
How to get there
Via road 30, about 10 km north of Kaanapali, following Lower Honoapiʻilani Road. The public parking lot is next to the beach access.
Tip
Arrive early to get a spot. Snorkel by the left-hand point, facing the sea, where the reef is richest.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kapalua Bay
Is Kapalua Bay good for beginner snorkelers?
Yes. The lava points shelter the bay, and the water is usually calm and shallow near the sand.
Where to park for Kapalua Bay?
In the small public parking lot next to the beach access, which fills up quickly. Arrive early.
What is the Kapalua Coastal Trail?
A roughly 3 km seaside path, over lava and paved walkways, that starts at Kapalua Bay and heads north.