The swimming is poor due to the offshore reef, but they are sunnier, less crowded, and more protected from the wind than most other beaches on Maui. If it's raining in Kapalua or Napili, or windy on Ka'anapali Beach, 90 percent of the time it's going to be sunny and calm on the beaches of Lahaina.
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Avoid the Ocean DuringDo not swim in the ocean in the dark, and if you are a visitor and arrive at the beach early, do not enter the water until a lifeguard is on duty (at a designated State Beach Park). If it's time for the lifeguards to leave for the day, it's best to err on the side of caution and exit the ocean.
This stretch of heavenly white sand is everything you could ask for if you're interested in suntanning, swimming, and snorkeling. Pretty much all of Kaanapali Beach, Maui lies in front of the resort hotels of West Maui.
Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach located on Maui is known to have rough water and is reported to be one of a handful of red sand beaches around the world. Makena Beach in Maui has the nickname of “breakneck beach” because the surf breaks right on the shore, making it very dangerous to swim in.
Kapalua BeachThe shore has a gentle slope, so it's easy for young kids to splash around in the water. Long, sheltering outcrops at both ends of the bay make Kapalua Beach the safest year-round swimming spot on this coast.
There's plenty of time to swim and jump from waterfall ledges into deep freshwater pools and learn about the island along the way. Fun, easy, and great for families, or if you are limited on time. Swim (optional) in pools under two waterfalls—10 and 20 feet high.
Maui's leeward side inarguably presents the best beaches on the island—if by “best” you mean golden sand, perfectly-swimmable waters, outstanding snorkeling opportunities, lulling waves gentle enough for first-time surfers, and sunshine in spades.
After heavy rains, stay out of the ocean until the water clears. Don't swim in the mouths of rivers or streams or in any murky areas. Murky waters attract predators (think “shark”), and you don't want to be mistaken for a fish or turtle when they are looking for a snack. You'll find more Maui ocean safety tips here!
Water Temperatures in MauiIn June and July, when temperatures are at their highest, the water is generally about 78°F/25°C, making it perfect or Molokini snorkeling. In August and September, when temperatures may slide back a few degrees, the water has gotten really warm and may be 80°F/26.6°C.
Ka'anapali Beach stretches over 6.3 miles of West Maui coastline, just north of the Historic Town of Lahaina. The Ka'anapali Beach area is a popular resort area on Maui, with a variety of hotels and vacation condominiums, and a paved walking path that stretches from each far end.
One of Ka?anapali Beach's most famous attractions is the daily cliff diving ceremony off the beach's northernmost cliffs known as Pu?u Keka?a, or Black Rock. Held every evening at sunset, a cliff diver lights the torches along the cliff, diving off Black Rock in a reenactment of a feat by Maui's revered King Kahekili.
Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach located on Maui is known to have rough water and is reported to be one of a handful of red sand beaches around the world. Makena Beach in Maui has the nickname of “breakneck beach” because the surf breaks right on the shore, making it very dangerous to swim in.
Day or night, exploring LAHAINA on foot is a unique experience, one where you'll fi nd historic sites and modern hangouts dotting the landscape of this famous port city.