The small crescent of golden sand that makes up Napili Beach is very popular with tourists, especially honeymooners and holidaying couples. Throughout the year, sunbathers and swimmers come to enjoy the turquoise waters in the bay or read a book under the waving palm trees. During the calmer summer months, conditions are perfect for snorkeling, with a chance to see Hawaiian green turtles. Come winter, the surfers arrive to ride the increasing waves.
Hotels and condos are plentiful in Napili Bay, but this accommodation hotspot has been designed to blend in with its surroundings, and no structure rises taller than the average palm tree. The result evokes the relaxed, natural atmosphere of “old Hawaii,” and Napili has a retro feel to it.
The beach at Napili Bay is flanked by two rocky outcrops, and the water in the bay is sheltered. Snorkelers flock to Napili Bay in the summer to explore the coral reefs on both the left and right side of the bay closer to the tips of the outcrops. It’s not teeming with fish, but there is enough to see underwater to keep you busy for an hour or so. Come early morning, when the visibility is better.
In winter, the surf swells up and surfers and body boarders arrive to ride the substantial waves. You can still swim and snorkel during this time, but be aware of the steep drop-off of the ocean floor and powerful undertow at this time of year. As with many of Maui’s beaches, there is often no lifeguard on duty. On such windy days, many people enjoy a swim in one of the resort pools instead.
For a romantic dining experience at sunset, treat yourself to a meal at one of the beachside restaurants.
Napili Bay is situated on the northwestern tip of Maui. There are many dining and drinking options here, but if you are on a budget, consider buying food from the local grocery store. A hotel room with sea view doesn’t come cheap at Napili Bay, but there are also less expensive studios to choose from.
Napili Bay Tours
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Ala Moana Hotelcondo by Luana Vacation Rental
Reviewed on Jul 31, 2025
Browse tours and tickets to explore Napili Bay
Water activities
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Snorkeling Cruise to Molokini Crater & Turtle Town
Tours & day trips
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Road to Hana Adventure Tour with Pickup, Breakfast & Lunch
History & culture
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Myths of Maui Luau at the Royal Lahaina Resort
Classes & workshops
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Group Surf Lessons from Kaanapali Beach
Private & custom tours
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Road To Hana: Maui Waterfall Hiking Tour in Private Jeep
Popular places to visit

Kapalua Coastal Trail
Enjoy a trip to Kapalua Coastal Trail and popular activities like snorkeling in Kapalua. Stroll along the seaside in this romantic area, or seek out the golf courses.

Kapalua Beach
Calm, luxurious, picturesque and visited by amazing marine life, this is one of West Maui’s more family-friendly swimming and snorkeling destinations.

Oneloa Beach
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Oneloa Beach during your travels in Lahaina? Discover the area's great live music, or seek out its snorkeling spots.

D.T. Fleming Beach Park
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, D.T. Fleming Beach Park might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Lahaina. In the area, take in the great live music and beautiful sunsets.

Kahana Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Kahana Beach during your trip to Kahana? Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.

Kapalua Golf Club Plantation Course
Play a round of golf at Kapalua Golf Club Plantation Course and enjoy other activities in Honolua such as snorkeling. Discover the area's beautiful sunsets and seafood restaurants.
Best Lodging Options Near Napili Bay
Check availability on hotels close to Napili Bay

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

Napili Kai Beach Resort

Napili Shores Maui by OUTRIGGER

Castle Napili Surf Beach Resort

The Mauian - Boutique Beach Studios on Napili Bay

The Gardens at West Maui

Napili Village Hotel

Napili Sunset on the Beach

Celebrity Home Across the Street From Beach! Pool With Slide, Pickleball, Gym!
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