The calmest beach on Maui is Puunoa Beach, commonly known as Baby Beach in Lahaina. The beach is protected by an offshore reef, so large waves and strong currents aren't generally a problem. Read more about visiting Baby Beach in Lahaina.
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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.
Maui's beach parks are spectacular on any side of the island, but the beaches on the leeward side are generally considered to be the most beautiful. To save you a Google search, “leeward” is a term that refers to the side sheltered from the wind.
There is a wet and a dry side to the Island. 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.
Both areas have their own unique charm and attractions. West Maui is known for its historical landmarks, cultural entertainment and surf, while South Maui offers a more transient casual vibe, both with luxury resorts and pristine beaches. Each area also has its own distinct weather patterns and natural scenery.
Kihei, Maui's Eternally Sunny Beach Town, Tops List of Maui “Hotspots” If there were one word to describe Kihei that word would definitely be “beaches.” There are no fewer than ten different beaches to choose from when visiting Kihei, a town where the sun nearly always shines on Maui's southern coast.
Having a humid climate, Maui is also home to many bugs and mosquitoes. If you don't want to get pestered with these insects, then a mosquito repellant is a must-have for you. If you have an anti-itch ointment, throw it in your bag too.
General SafetyDon't go into any city park at night unless there's an event that attracts a crowd. Generally speaking, you can feel safe in areas where there are many people and open establishments. Avoid carrying valuables with you on the street, and don't display expensive cameras or electronic equipment.
The best times to visit Maui are April through May and September through November. The spring and fall shoulder seasons provide the pleasant weather Hawaii vacationers seek without the high rates and heavy crowds that accompany the summer and winter.
As it happens, the same concept applies to islands. Since Maui's tradewinds blow out of the northeasterly quadrant for the majority of the year, Maui's north and east shores are classified as the “windward” side, and the south and west shores are classified as the “leeward” side.
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.
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.