Kapalua

Kapalua, Maui

Kapalua is a resort community on the northwestern tip of Maui, about 6 miles (9.7 km) north of Ka'anapali. A 23,000-acre resort complex developed by the Maui Land and Pineapple Company, Kapalua features upscale vacation condos and villas, shops, restaurants, golf courses and sandy beaches framed by hundred-year old Cook pines.

Kapalua's beaches have been considered some of the best in Hawaii. Kapalua Bay has earned several accolades. It has been named the “Best Beach in the World” by Condé Nast Traveler magazine readers, the “Best Beach in America” by Travel Channel and “America's #1 Beach” on Dr. Beach's first annual list of America's best beaches.

Kapalua also has world-class golf courses. Two of its golf courses, the Bay Course and the Plantation Course, were named the #1 golf course resort in Hawaii by Travel + Leisure Golf magazine.

Key Features

Northwest Maui setting: Upscale resort community north of Napili and Ka'anapali

Signature beach: Kapalua Bay is known for snorkeling, sunsets and sheltered cove scenery

Nearby shoreline: Close to Oneloa Beach, Napili Bay and DT Fleming Beach Park

Coastal trail: Scenic route linking beaches, lava rocks, dunes and resort areas

Golf destination: Known for the Plantation Course and Bay Course

Resort character: Villas, condos, dining, landscaped grounds and quiet roads

Visitor planning: Check ocean conditions, trail safety, parking and current golf access

Population: 495 at the 2020 Census

Zip code: 96761

Plan Your Visit

Use Kapalua as a quiet northwest Maui base for beaches, golf, coastal walks and sunset views. Check ocean conditions, parking, trail safety and current golf details before you go.

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Browse Kapalua photos featuring Kapalua Bay, beachfront homes, luxury villas, vacation villas, golf scenery, coastal trails and northwest Maui resort views.

Location, Parking and Directions

Kapalua is located on Maui's northwest coast, north of Napili and Ka'anapali. From Central Maui, follow Honoapiilani Highway toward West Maui, then continue north through the resort areas toward Kapalua. Parking varies by beach, trail access point, resort property and golf course.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kapalua on Maui?

Kapalua is on Maui's northwest coast, north of Napili and Ka'anapali. The resort community sits around bays, golf courses, coastal trails and ocean-view roads.

What is Kapalua known for?

Kapalua is known for Kapalua Bay, luxury villas, golf courses, the Kapalua Coastal Trail, Oneloa Beach, DT Fleming Beach Park and quiet West Maui scenery.

Is Kapalua Bay good for snorkeling?

Kapalua Bay can be good for snorkeling when the ocean is calm, but conditions can change. Check surf, visibility, currents and posted warnings before entering the water.

Can visitors walk the Kapalua Coastal Trail?

Yes. The coastal trail links several shoreline areas, including Kapalua Bay, Oneloa Bay and DT Fleming Beach Park. Wear sturdy shoes and stay back from rocky edges.

Is Kapalua a good place to stay?

Yes. Kapalua works well for visitors who want a quieter West Maui resort setting with beaches, golf, scenic trails, ocean views and upscale vacation rentals.