Maui Beach Guide

Namalu Bay

Namalu Bay is a rocky Kapalua shoreline below the resort cliffs, with clear calm-day water, tide-pool scenery, coastal path views and no lifeguards.

Plan Your Visit
Namalu Bay
Near Kapalua

Namalu Bay, Maui

Namalu Bay is located just north of Kapalua Bay on Maui's northwestern shore. There is no sandy beach here, only a rocky shoreline and sea cliffs. The clear water and rugged coastline make it a scenic place to view from the rocks, but the area requires caution.

Cliff jumping is known to happen at Namalu Bay, with jumpers entering the water from the rocks and using a ladder to climb back up. This is a risky activity because surf, depth, currents, slippery rocks and changing ocean conditions can all create hazards. There are no facilities or lifeguards here.

Key Features

Rocky Kapalua shoreline on Maui's northwest coast
Located near the resort and coastal path area below Kapalua cliffs
Clear calm-day water and tide-pool textures appear around the lava rock
No lifeguards are stationed at Namalu Bay
Rocky footing makes shoes or sandals a good idea
Swimming and snorkeling depend on calm, clear water
Turtles may be seen near the rocks from time to time
Nearby Kapalua Bay Beach has a more traditional sandy beach setting
Coastal path views make this a good short shoreline visit
Namalu Bay is known for lava-rock scenery, tide-pool views, photos, calm-day water and Kapalua coastal path access

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the shoreline like at Namalu Bay?

Namalu Bay has lava rock, small pocket areas, tide-pool textures and clear water on calm days rather than a broad sandy beach.

How does Namalu Bay compare with Kapalua Bay Beach?

Kapalua Bay Beach has a sandy beach setting that is easier for a longer beach day, while Namalu Bay is more about rocky shoreline views and a shorter coastal-path visit.

What makes Namalu Bay good for photos?

The mix of lava rock, blue water, resort cliffs, coastal path views and west Maui light gives the bay a textured Kapalua shoreline look.

Are turtles seen at Namalu Bay?

Turtles may pass through the rocky nearshore water or rest in the area. Keep distance and never block their path to or from the ocean.

What should visitors know about the coastal path nearby?

The Kapalua coastal path gives visitors a way to see several shoreline sections nearby, including rocky points, resort-front views and neighboring beaches.