Ka'anapali Beach

Kaanapali Beach is a famous west Maui resort beach with golden sand, Black Rock, snorkeling, beachwalk access, sunset views and clear-water days.

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Ka'anapali Beach

Ka'anapali Beach, Maui

Ka'anapali Beach is one of Maui's most popular beaches, fronting the Ka'anapali resort hotels. At the north end of the beach is Pu'u Keka'a, or Black Rock, a large black lava rock that attracts adventurous cliff-jumpers. The snorkeling conditions around Black Rock are excellent when the ocean is calm. In ancient Hawaii, Black Rock was considered a significant location where the souls of the recently departed leapt to the next realm.

The area south of Black Rock is where most of the Ka'anapali resorts as well as Whalers Village shopping center are located. A paved path runs along this entire stretch of beach, from the Hyatt in the south to the Sheraton at Black Rock. Many oceanfront restaurants are located here as well. A stroll along this beach promenade is nice, especially around sunset.

Ka'anapali Beach also offers good bodyboarding and surfing conditions when the waves are right. However, the ocean bottom drops off quickly to overhead depths, so when the surf is up, swimming is not recommended as this is when rip currents may occur. The farther south you walk along the beach, the more rocks you'll find in the water, especially around Hanaka'o'o Point.

Key Features

Long west Maui resort beach with golden sand, clear-water days and a busy hotel-front setting
Black Rock, also known as Pu'u Keka'a, anchors the north end of the beach
Popular for swimming, snorkeling near Black Rock, paddleboarding, beach walks and sunset views
Kaanapali Beachwalk connects hotels, restaurants, shops and public beach access points
Sunset cliff-diving ceremony at Black Rock is one of the beach's signature evening traditions
No lifeguards along much of the beach, so ocean conditions should be checked before entering
Current, boat traffic and cliff jumpers can make the water around Black Rock more complicated
Public access is available, but free beach parking is limited and fills quickly
Close to Whalers Village, Lahaina, Napili and the Kapalua side of west Maui
Bring sunscreen and water if you plan to spend time on the sand or walk the resort path

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach?

Black Rock, also known as Pu'u Keka'a, is the lava-rock point at the north end of Kaanapali Beach. It is one of the beach's main landmarks and a popular area for snorkeling, sunset watching and cliff-jump viewing.

What happens at Black Rock around sunset?

A sunset cliff-diving ceremony is held near Black Rock, honoring the story of Maui chief Kahekili. Visitors often gather along the beach and resort walkway to watch the torch-lighting and jump.

Is there a beachwalk at Kaanapali Beach?

Yes. The Kaanapali Beachwalk runs behind much of the beach, linking resorts, restaurants, shops and beach access points. It is one of the easiest ways to move along the shoreline without driving.

Is Kaanapali Beach good for snorkeling?

Snorkeling is most common around Black Rock when the ocean is calm and visibility is clear. Stay aware of current, cliff jumpers, boats and other swimmers, and avoid touching coral or marine life.

What should visitors know about public parking?

Public parking exists in limited areas around Kaanapali, but spaces can fill quickly. Hotel guests often walk from their resorts, while day visitors should arrive earlier or expect to use paid parking nearby.