West, south, east, and central — Mauiʻs coasts are worlds apart.
The Hawaii Department of Health recommends staying out of the ocean for at least 72 hours after heavy rain. South Maui (Wailea, Kihei) is the dry side with consistently clean water. West Maui (Kaʻanapali) is mostly dry but post-fire runoff is a concern. East Maui (Hana) is wet with more advisory risk.
Beaches: Kaʻanapali Beach, Napili Bay, Kapalua Bay, D.T. Fleming Beach
Climate: Dry leeward coast, 15-20 inches of rain per year
Water quality: Generally good. Post-Lahaina fire runoff is a concern for southern West Maui beaches. Kapalua and Napili are well-protected bays with excellent quality. Full Kaʻanapali guide →
Beaches: Kamaole I/II/III, Keawakapu, Wailea Beach, Ulua Beach, Polo Beach, Makena (Big Beach)
Climate: Driest coast on Maui, 10-15 inches of rain per year
Water quality: Consistently the best on Maui. Minimal stream input, low cesspool density, strong ocean circulation. Full Wailea & Kihei guide →
Beaches: Waiʻanapanapa Black Sand Beach, Hamoa Beach, Red Sand Beach
Climate: Wet windward coast, 80+ inches of rain per year
Water quality: More variable due to high rainfall and numerous stream outlets. Black sand beaches near stream mouths can have elevated bacteria after rain.
Beaches: Kanaha Beach Park (windsurfing), Baldwin Beach (North Shore Maui)
Character: Airport area, town services, not tourist beaches. Kanaha is a world-class windsurfing/kiteboarding spot. Baldwin Beach is a local favorite.
Water quality: Variable. Kahului Harbor area is industrialized.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions.
Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙