5 day Maui Plan

Day 1: Kaʻanapali Beach

Kaʻanapali Beach runs three miles along Maui’s west side, fronted by a continuous line of resort hotels. The main swimming area near the Sheraton has a sandy bottom with gentle slope. Black Rock (Puʻu Kekaʻa) at the north end is the signature snorkeling spot — a volcanic outcrop where sea turtles and reef fish congregate. Cliff jumping from Black Rock happens daily at sunset. Morning conditions before 10 AM offer the calmest water and best visibility for snorkeling.

Water quality note: Check the Kaʻanapali Beach page for current advisories. Stormwater drains empty onto the beach at several points along the resort strip. After rain, avoid areas near visible runoff channels.

Day 2: Wailea Beach

Wailea Beach is a golden sand crescent on Maui’s dry south shore, fronted by the Grand Wailea and Four Seasons resorts. The beach faces southwest, which means morning light hits it early and afternoon sun lingers until sunset. A gentle sandy slope makes for easy wading. Snorkeling is best along the rocky south end where coral formations attract parrotfish and tangs. The Wailea Beach Path connects five beaches along 1.5 miles of coastline — walk north to Ulua Beach for a quieter alternative.

Water quality note: Check the Wailea Beach page for current status. Wailea’s arid climate means runoff events are infrequent, but south swells can stir up sand and reduce visibility.

Day 3: Big Beach (Makena)

Big Beach (Oneloa) in Makena State Park is one of the largest undeveloped beaches on Maui. The sand is golden and the beach stretches about a third of a mile. Shore break here is powerful — this is a popular body surfing and skimboarding spot, but the waves dump hard in shallow water. Enter with caution and watch conditions before going in. There are no lifeguards. The parking lot off Makena Alanui Rd holds about 100 cars and charges $10.

Day 4: Kapalua Bay

Kapalua Bay is a small, sheltered crescent at the north end of Maui’s west side. Rocky headlands on both sides block most wave energy, making this one of the calmest swimming spots on the island year round. Snorkeling along the left (south) rock point is excellent, with healthy coral and abundant reef fish. The bay is small enough that it fills quickly — the free parking lot has about 20 spaces and fills by 9 AM. Overflow onto the road shoulder gets ticketed. Morning visibility underwater is best.

Day 5: Napili Bay

Napili Bay is a small, sandy cove just south of Kapalua. The water is protected by the bay’s curved shape, staying calm through most conditions. Sea turtles frequently visit the inner bay to graze on algae growing on the rocks. No lifeguards or public restrooms — the only facilities are at beachfront vacation rentals. Park along Lower Honoapiilani Rd with care, as spaces are limited. This is a lovely final beach day — a quieter, more intimate setting compared to Kaʻanapali.

Snorkel gear: Kaʻanapali’s Black Rock and Kapalua Bay are the two best snorkeling stops on this itinerary. Rental shops in Lahaina charge $8–$15/day, or bring your own.

Beach umbrella or pop-up shade: Big Beach has zero natural shade. Wailea and Kaʻanapali have some resort shade, but the sun on Maui’s south and west sides is intense, especially midday.

Reef-safe sunscreen: Required by Hawaiʻi law. Reapply every 90 minutes — the Maui sun at 20° latitude is significantly stronger than mainland beaches.

How many days do I need on Maui?

5-7 days to see west and south Maui plus Road to Hana

What is the best order to visit Maui beaches?

Start in West Maui (Kaʻanapali/Kapalua), then South Maui (Wailea/Makena), save Road to Hana for a full day

What if it rains during my 5 day on Maui?

Rain alternatives on Maui: Maui Ocean Center, Lahaina shops, Iao Valley (rain makes the waterfall better), upcountry farms. Also check our brown water advisory guide — avoid the ocean for 72 hours after heavy rain.