Can you swim in the North Shore Maui?

Maui's North Shore beaches are at their prime in July and August when the waves are swimmer-friendly and much smaller than during the island's renowned winter swells.



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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.

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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.

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Avoid the Ocean During Do 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.

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Maui's North Shore is less developed, less crowded, has cooler days, and is in a more natural state than the popular resort areas of South and West Maui.

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There's plenty of gorgeous water to be found at Maui's beach parks, but the clearest is in Honolua Bay, especially during the summer. Honolua is Hawaiian for “two harbors,” and the bay was originally used to receive ships and unload supplies.

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Kapalua Beach The 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.

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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.

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Water Temperatures in Maui In 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.

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For a more authentic feel, skip the mega-resorts of West and South Maui and head to the North Shore, East Maui, or Upcountry, where you're more likely to interact with locals than with tourists. Upcountry is the least touristy area.

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The south side of Maui, including the areas of Kihei, Wailea and Makena, is typically warm and dry, receiving less then 10 inches of rain per year. The west side, including Lahaina, Ka'anapali and Kapalua, receives more rain—nearly triple the amount.

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23 Things NOT To Do While Visiting Maui
  • Don't touch/get too close to wildlife. ...
  • Don't forget the reef-safe sunscreen. ...
  • Don't ignore ocean warning signs. ...
  • Don't leave your shoes on when entering someone else's house. ...
  • Don't call your slippers “flip flops.” ...
  • Don't over plan. ...
  • Don't stand on the reef.


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Makena beach is popularly known for its tiger sharks that hunt near shallow waters. The Makena point has seen the highest number of shark sightings, making it the most dangerous beach on Maui. The beach is beautiful but dangerous and has had 8 shark attacks including two fatalities.

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Hanakapi'iai Beach Located on the secluded Na Pali Coast, Hanakapi'ai Beach has been called the most dangerous beach in Hawaii. It's also one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii! The water often looks fine, but a dangerous rip current has swept several people out to sea.

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You might think not knowing how to swim would exclude you from being able to snorkel, but that just isn't the case! While knowing how to swim will certainly allow you to enjoy and experience more, you don't need it to snorkel! This is because you have the option of wearing a life vest.

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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.

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Hamoa Beach You might see this scenic spot if you take the popular Road to Hana drive, or if you're looking for a place to get in some snorkeling. The bright blue water draws surfers, swimmers, and snorkelers to its crystalline expanse. There's still plenty of sunbathing and camping to be done on shore, though.

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What is Maui's South Side like? Maui's South Side is known for some of the island's most expensive real estate and its ultra high-end Wailea resorts. Nearby Kihei, just north of Wailea, is known for its relaxed beach town vibe and long stretch of sand. Both tourists and locals intermingle in Kihei.

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Baby Beach (Lahaina) Baby Beach is a unique treasure for families because there are reliably fewer waves here compared with other beaches, and because Lahaina—which literally means relentless sun—is balmy and beautiful most days of the year.

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