As one of the highest-ranking luxury beaches in the U.S., this stunning stretch of sand with crystal-clear water is lined with high-end hotels and shops.

Hawaiian kings once favored Kaanapali Beach, and now the whole world is in love with it. Kaanapali was the first planned resort in Hawaii and, because of its success, its formula has been copied around the world. Kaanapali has many comforts, and just over a decade ago it was voted “America’s Best Beach.” Come here to laze on the palm-fringed sand and bathe in the warm Pacific waters.

Book an adventurous water-based activity, such as scuba diving, snorkeling or kayaking to make the most of your stay. If you feel brave, you can even go parasailing. Golf enthusiasts should hit the Royal Kaanapali or the Kaanapali Kai, two local championship courses. If you feel like a walk, take the Kaanapali Historical Trail & History and Legends Tour. This free, self-guided walk educates you about the area’s geological past and takes you to some of the best places.

Shopaholics should head for the Whalers Village on Kaanapali Parkway, where you’ll find around 90 high-end shops and restaurants. Shop for jewelry, floral shirts or swimwear, and enjoy a local sweet treat or all-American fast food. Stay a while and join a free daily Hawaiian language class if you want to greet the locals with more than just “aloha.” Visit the museum dedicated to the humpback whales which frequent the waters. In winter, you can also join one of the whale-watching trips that depart from Kaanapali Beach.

A memorable way to end any day on Kaanapali Beach is to watch the daily cliff-diving ceremony. Head to Puu Kekaa (Black Rock) as the sun sets to watch the participants light torches along the cliff top before diving into the sea. The spectacle is in honor of King Kahekili, who once performed this feat.

Kaanapali Beach is in West Maui. The beach resort has no shortage of accommodation, with many five-star hotels taking up the prime spots along the oceanfront. The condos are a better deal for families. If you have kids in tow, ask at your reception if they have “keiki” programs, with games, arts and crafts.

Plan a trip to see Kaanapali Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

Ilikai by Luana Hawaii Vacation Rentals

Waikiki

￥247,400

per person

Sep 10 - Sep 16

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Tokyo (HND) to Honolulu (HNL)

8.8/10 Excellent! (58 reviews)

A bit dated room but good location. Amenities are great and beach access was very close.

Reviewed on Feb 23, 2026

Ala Moana Hotelcondo by Luana Vacation Rental

Ala Moana

￥636,343

per person

Aug 1 - Aug 7

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Tokyo (HND) to Honolulu (HNL)

7.6/10 Good! (258 reviews)

I had corner unit so I overlooked at Bay great firework show on Friday night from Balcony loud cruisers in evening with blaring music heard all the way up to 16th floor not in properties control, Shopping Ala Moana mall almost attached convenient bridge to walk across with out have to cross streets

Reviewed on Oct 6, 2025

Ka Laʻi Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Waikiki

Save 100% on your flight

￥343,286

per person

Sep 10 - Sep 16

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Tokyo (HND) to Honolulu (HNL)

9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,004 reviews)

Staffs were the best out of all.

Reviewed on Jun 9, 2026

Best Lodging Options Near Kaanapali Beach

Things to do near Kaanapali Beach

Shopping

Your shopping experience at Kaanapali Beach will be delightful. Whalers Village, only 483m away, offers a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting Kihei Kalama Village and One Love Farmers Market, located 20 and 33.8km away, respectively.

Recreation

At Kapalua Golf Club Plantation Course, enjoy breathtaking views while playing on one of Hawaii's premier golf courses, just 11.3km from Kaanapali Beach. For a cultural experience, visit Iao Theater, located 20.9km away, offering a blend of romance and entertainment for the whole family.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Shoreline Snuba, an underwater adventure only 644m from Kaanapali Beach, offering vibrant marine life exploration. For tennis enthusiasts, the Lahaina Civic Center Tennis, located 1.6km away, provides an energetic atmosphere. Don't miss Skyline Eco Adventure, a zipline ropes course 1.1km away, promising outdoor excitement.

Nightlife

Kaanapali Beach offers vibrant nightlife with beachfront bars and live entertainment. Enjoy tropical drinks at Leilani's on the Beach, or dance the night away at the Kaanapali Beach Club. Don't miss the mesmerizing sunset views while experiencing local music at the Whalers Village. The atmosphere is lively and inviting.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kaanapali Beach

Kaanapali Beach, Hawaii, offers a perfect blend of beautiful resorts, stunning beaches, and outdoor experiences for every traveler. Explore the vibrant Kaanapali Beach and nearby Keawakapu and Wailea beaches, all set against breathtaking scenery. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand or enjoy a round of golf at a nearby resort, Kaanapali Beach is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.

Napili Bay: Located 9.7km from Kaanapali Beach, Napili Bay offers a picturesque setting with soft sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing under the sun while surrounded by stunning natural beauty and lush greenery.
Kapalua Beach: Also 9.7km away, Kapalua Beach is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and pristine shoreline. It's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling, with gentle waves that make it family-friendly and ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
Nakalele Blowhole: About 16.1km from Kaanapali Beach, the Nakalele Blowhole is a must-see natural wonder. Witness powerful waves shooting water high into the air, creating a spectacular display, while enjoying the vibrant tropical surroundings and friendly local atmosphere.

Best time to go to Kaanapali Beach

The best time to visit Kaanapali Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. September is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. February and March are its coolest month on average. At the time of March, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	73.2°F (22.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	73.8°F (23.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	76.3°F (24.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	77.2°F (25.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	77.7°F (25.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	76.3°F (24.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Kaanapali Beach

Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Kaanapali Beach during the low season (September to November) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Kaanapali Beach Tours

Visit Kaanapali Beach

Plan a trip to see Kaanapali Beach

Ilikai by Luana Hawaii Vacation Rentals

Ala Moana Hotelcondo by Luana Vacation Rental

Ka Laʻi Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Browse tours and tickets to explore Kaanapali Beach

Tours & day trips

Original Sunset Cocktail Cruise with Appetizers & Open Bar from Ka'anapali

Water activities

Snorkeling Cruise to Molokini Crater & Turtle Town (Small Group)

History & culture

Myths of Maui Luau at the Royal Lahaina Resort

Classes & workshops

Maui: Epoxy Resin Cheeseboard Workshop 90 min

Adventure & outdoor

Waterfall & Rainforest Hiking Adventure

Popular places to visit

Whalers Village

Black Rock

Keka'a Beach

Iki Park Beach

Kahana Beach

Drums of the Pacific Lū‘au

Best Lodging Options Near Kaanapali Beach

Check availability on hotels close to Kaanapali Beach

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka'anapali

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows

OUTRIGGER Kaanapali Beach Resort

The Whaler Resort Kaanapali Beach

Kaanapali Alii-2 Bedroom Garden/Mountain Views

Kaanapali Alii-2 Bedroom Ocean Views

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

Marriott's Maui Ocean Club - Lahaina & Napili Towers

Things to do near Kaanapali Beach

Find the best attractions near Kaanapali Beach

Best time to go to Kaanapali Beach

Tips to save on your trip to Kaanapali Beach

Explore a world of travel with Expedia