Maui has some of the most accessible and beautiful beaches out of all of the Hawaiian Islands. It's no wonder why the locals are on "island time." It's easy to let your worries slip away just as fast as the tide washes away your footprints from the sand. Take a look for yourself...
Mai Poina Beach Park
This beach is located in North Kihei. Parking is easy to find and you can walk for what seems like miles before you come across anyone. The sunsets are beautiful. You'll get the scenic view that you thought only existed on postcards. Don't miss out on this one.
Waianapanapa State Park
This beach alone would make the Road to Hana well-worth your time. After all, it's rated one of the top beaches in America. This beach is located near mile marker 32 off of Hana Highway. The black sand provides a sharp contrast against the luscious greenery and aquamarine waters. Be careful, though. The tide can rise fairly quickly. So, it's not one where you want to lounge around and sunbathe.
Waianapanapa State Park - Black Sand Beach
Makena State Park
If you're looking for a good place to lounge around and catch some rays, this is your spot. Makena State Park is located south of Wailea and entry is free. The park consists of Big Beach and Little Beach. If you are with little ones, stay on Big Beach. Little Beach is just north of Big Beach. It is one of the few Hawaiian beaches where local police tolerate nudity.
Makena Beach
Makena Beach- If you take the short hike up this lava outcropping, you'll stumble upon Little Beach.
Makena Beach
Makena Beach- Little Beach (left) and Big Beach (right)
Secret Cove Beach
This little beach is easy to miss if you don't know what you're looking for. It's located in a residential area that's just a short distance from Makena State Park. There's parallel parking on the street and a small blue beach access sign marking it's entrance.
The small walkway to Secret Cove Beach
Secret Cove Beach
Secret Cove Beach
Kaanapali Beach
This beach was once named America's Best Beach. It's a bit harder to get to since it's surrounded by several large hotels and condominiums. However, we were able to find free "beach access" parking that was located in between the hotels. Make sure to bring your water shoes (and/or a first aid kit) as the reef is deceptively close to the shore.
Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach
They say a day at the beach can restore the soul. Would you agree? Grab your favorite book, picnic, or person and see for yourself. Lose track of time. You're probably not missing out on anything important, just ask the locals.