Kapalua Beach

Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau


From white-sand beaches to green golf oases, this serene strip of Hawaiian coast is a treasure trove for tourists looking to relax and get in touch with nature.

Kapalua is a small tourist region located in the northwest of Maui. The beach is flanked on either side by rock formations that stretch out in a crescent shape like two arms hugging the warm waters. It's no wonder that its name means "embracing the sea". With its powdery sands and clear blue waters, you too will find yourself embracing this little slice of heaven on earth. This natural fortification acts as a defence against the elements, creating a calm and safe oasis that is perfect for swimming and snorkelling all year round.

Take a dive into the blue and explore the tropical underwater world. Colourful fish striped with hues of black, blue, red, yellow and orange create an ever-changing collage on a watery canvas. Sea turtles can sometimes be seen drifting calmly on the current and, on occasion, monk seals make their way ashore to bask in the sun even the wildlife like to take it easy in Kapalua.

Palm tree groves line the beachfront and provide the perfect amount of shade for a siesta on the sands. Indulge with a picnic on the shore before sitting back to relax and soak up the sun. The beach is very popular and can get quite busy at times, so make sure to arrive early to secure your place in paradise.

Kapalua is also great location for golf-enthusiasts. If the beaches become too busy, simply head to one of the nearby golf resorts and substitute the sandy beach for the sandy bunkers of the luxury courses. Tourists are welcome to enjoy a round of golf or simply watch the action unfold.

Browse the boutique shops for bargains and pick up some souvenirs for those back home. When your belly starts to rumble after all that shopping, you won't be left wanting. Many restaurants are located in the area offering a wide variety of dining options from European to local cuisines. Sample the seafood and unwind with a cool refreshing cocktail under the setting Hawaiian sun.

Popular places to visit


Top Kapalua Beach Hotel Deals

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
5 out of 5
1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Kapalua, HI
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Napili Kai Beach Resort
Napili Kai Beach Resort
3.5 out of 5
5900 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI
Napili Kai Beach Resort
The Mauian - Boutique Beach Studios on Napili Bay
The Mauian - Boutique Beach Studios on Napili Bay
3 out of 5
5441 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI
The Mauian - Boutique Beach Studios on Napili Bay
Kapalua Villas Maui
Kapalua Villas Maui
4 out of 5
300 Kapalua Drive, Lahaina, HI
Kapalua Villas Maui
Montage Kapalua Bay
Montage Kapalua Bay
5 out of 5
One Bay Drive, Lahaina, HI
Montage Kapalua Bay
Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER
Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER
3 out of 5
5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI
Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER
Napili Sunset on the Beach
Napili Sunset on the Beach
2.5 out of 5
46 Hui Drive, Lahaina, HI
Napili Sunset on the Beach
Hale Napili
Hale Napili
4 out of 5
65 Hui Drive, Lahaina, HI
Hale Napili
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Beautiful view of the beach with palm trees

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Members save 30%+ on selected hotels until 4 Dec (property time) with our Black Friday deals. Stay by 15 Dec 2025.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.