Kapalua Bay

Kapalua Bay on Maui’s north shore is a prime snorkeling spot during the summer months when the south shores are experiencing frequent ocean swells and increased wave action. In the winter the reverse is generally true though good snorkeling conditions can occur at Kapalua Bay even then. The bay is protected by rocky outcrops on both sides which help break the ocean waves and provide a good environment for reef fish to congregate. The beach is a sandy crescent with lots of room for sunbathing. It is bordered by a grassy area with palm trees that provide a modest amount of shade. Behind the beach are the Ritz Carlton Club and Residences, adding to the general beauty of the bay area.

Snorkeling
Entry into the water can be made from any point on the beach, but is best at either end of the crescent. There is a rock shelf running along the center of the beach just into the water making getting in or out of the water slippery and generally difficult. The best snorkeling is along the rocks on both sides of the bay. The bay provides a relatively safe environment for beginners to enjoy the water and the beautiful tropical fish while improving their skills. You will see a variety of reef fish in the bay and may even see a squid family hovering near the surface. During my last swim in the bay, I saw a small barracuda and an orange and black juvenile wrasse that resembles a clown fish.

Facilities
There are outdoor showers at the south end of the beach and a hose at the north end. Also at the north end is an ocean activities vendor with beach rentals including snorkeling equipment. Restrooms and outdoor showers are located at the parking lot entrance to the beach. Since this is Kapalua, there is also an upscale restaurant located at the beach’s south end on the point overlooking the sea. Bring plenty of money if you go there after your swim.

Life Guards
There are no life guards at this beach. Remember to swim with a buddy.
Skill Level:Beginner to Advanced

Parking
There is a medium capacity parking lot located behind the south end of the beach. Parking is first come, first serve and fills up fast. Come early to get a spot. If the lot is full, you can park along the roadside on Lower Honoapiilani Rd., just outside the entrance to the parking lot.

Location and Driving Directions
Kapalua Bay is located on the north shore of the west Maui promontory. It is across from the Kapalua Golf Course, off the Lower Honoapiilani Hwy. To reach the beach, enter the parking lot and locate the restrooms. To the right and a little in front of the restroom building, there are stairs down to a walkway. Take the stairs to the walkway and continue through the pedestrian tunnel to the beach.

Driving Directions from Kapalua, HI to Kapalua Bay, about 1 mi – about 5 minutes
Drive southeast on the Lower Honoapiilani Hwy to Kapalua Bay, a mile or less depending on your starting point. Landmarks are the Kapalua sign on at the south entrance and the Napili Kai Resort.

Driving Directions from Lahaina Wharf in Lahaina, HI to Kapalua Bay
9.8 miles – about 20 minutes
Head northwest on Front Street for 243 feet; turn right at Dickenson Street for .3 miles. Take the 3rd left onto Honoapiilani Hwy/ State Hwy 30 and proceed for 8.3 miles. Turn left onto Napilihau St. for .3 miles. Turn right at Lower Honoapiilani Rd for .9 miles. Turn left into Kapalua Bay public parking lot immediately after the Napilii Kai Resort.

Driving Directions from Azeka Shopping Center in Kihei, HI to Kapalua Bay
31 miles – about 53 minutes
Head north on South Kihei Road for 2.5 miles. Turn left at the traffic light onto N. Kihei Road and proceed for 3.4 miles. Turn left onto Honoapiilani Hwy/ State Hwy 30 and proceed for 23.8 miles. Turn left onto Napilihau St. for .3 miles. Turn right at Lower Honoapiilani Rd for .9 miles. Turn left into Kapalua Bay public parking lot immediately after the Napilii Kai Resort.

Interesting Stuff
The Kapalua Coastal Trail access starts at the entrance to the Kapalua Bay. “The Kapalua Coastal Trail stretches 3.5 miles along the West Maui coastline. It links existing public shoreline access points and facilities into a continuous, linear trail, thereby greatly increasing lateral public shoreline access. Connected coastal recreational areas include: Kapalua Bay, Oneloa Bay, D.T. Fleming Beach Park, Mokule‘ia Bay, and Honolua Bay. Two spur trails allow trail users to detour off the main route to experience unique places, such as Hawea Point and Namalu Bay, and an arboretum of Hawaiian plants…
Rewards for Kapalua Coastal Trail users include dramatic vistas of the shoreline and neighboring
islands, and exposure to important aspects of Hawaiian culture, geology, and plant and animal
life.” 2007 APA Awards Program Hawaii Chapter, award announcement