Ka'anapali Beach

Kaanapali, Maui

The largest and longest resort area beach on island, Maui's Ka'anapali region is famous for its beautiful azure seas and soft light sand. Each resort is a world unto itself, each offering visitors many options for activities and refreshments all along the popular beachfront paved walkway that stretches the full length of this beach. The hustle and bustle of the oceanfront is more reminiscent of Waikiki than the Old Hawaii feel of the beach parks further north. This beach is very long and very wide in its northern portion by the Black Rock, tapering off further south into a narrow strip of sand by the Hyatt hotel at its southern end. There are several "public beach access" parking areas along its length off Ka'anapali parkway, as well as Nohea Kai Road that leads to the Hyatt. If you prefer your beach to be sheltered from the winds and well-populated, this is your West side beach. The water quality is quite clear, and surf is minimal, except for a distinct outer break to the left of the Whalers Village shopping center. AT A GLANCE: HIGHLIGHTS: Easy swimming beach, great winter whale watching, many commercial sports and activities,long paved walking path stretches the length of beach, restaurants and shopping. ACTIVITIES: Swimming, snorkeling near Black Rock (north end), stand-up paddling, surfing lessons, sailing cruises launching off the beach (center part), parasailing, walking, jogging, people-watching, volleyball (north end). LIFEGUARD: NO WARNINGS!: Watch out for shore break and water depth dropping to overhead quickly. AMENITIES: Very resort-oriented, no official public facilities except restrooms at the Whalers Village shopping center (central part of the beach) and beachfront restaurants (but a well-behaved visitor can certainly access a hotel's! ). South end by the Hyatt has a shower by the boardwalk. Even though this beach fronts only resort properties, there are many positive aspects that make for a great experience. From the international melting pot "people-watching" aspect of the crowd here to the soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, there is a special draw to this place. Whale watching just off-shore highlights the late-December to early March months. Swim a little distance out past the wave noise during these months and you can hear whale songs live under water. This beach is sheltered by the West Maui Mountains from the dominant island "trade winds", making it balmy but also hot from noon through the early afternoon. Luckily there are nearby resorts and restaurants offering refreshing drinks. No alcohol is allowed on the beach, but resorts welcome guests at a number of the locations. Parking and beach access is widespread, so here is a breakdown of the 3 main areas of parking and access. Sheraton parking access: Snorkeling Black Rock The big black cliff on the north end of the beach fronting the Sheraton hotel is known as Black Rock or "Pu'u Ke Keka'a"…