Red Sand Beach - Hana, Maui

A remote beach, Ka'ihalulu or Red Sand is very beautiful and peaceful, protected by a lava barrier from wave action. The burnt-red sand against turquoise waters, blue sky, and black lava is a fantastically vivid feast for the eyes. There are four different types of lava: basalt, andesite, dacite and rhyolite. The olivine is only found in basalt and andesite.

The trail itself was about a 7 minute walk but quite slippery in places with loose cinder cone, ironwood needles and crumbling bluff. At the end of it all, we were greeted by the stunning view of the red colored sand beach, getting its hues from the reddish cinder ash nearby. But if you want to try the crumbling, closed trail down to the beach, there's something else you may wish to have: good hiking shoes. Can you also put up with some occasional gusts of wind? The sand gets its red-black color from the crumbling cinder cone hill that surrounds the bay. Swimming is poor except when the ocean is very calm.

The toughest part of the trail is covered with small lava rocks on which it's easy to slip and fall the 30 feet. The path also is washed out at places, requiring you to hold on to the trees not to fall. The land is scattered with dusty earth and lava rock, resulting in a moon-like landscape. Yet here and there, hardy vegetation grows lush and wild, as if in denial of the harsh climate surrounding it. The lava outcropping protects the bay and makes it safe for swimming. Snorkeling is excellent, and there's a natural whirlpool area on the Hana Bay side of the cove.

Just outside of the beach is a lava sea wall that keeps the inside water less turbulent. Some homeless have taken over this area at night and don't care to share it for those of you who'd like to camp there. That was really neat, and while it probably didn't do the actual lava tube justice, it's a nice reminder of what I actually saw. Lava outcropping protects the bay making it safe for swimming.

The black lava cliffs at land's end have three canoe winches bolted to weathered scaffoldings. The sea is stunningly blue in the equatorial light, smashing in huge blue swells against the land. The exotic looking beach is often protected from the strong ocean currents by a large, jagged lava rock barrier that forms a natural sea wall. The only access to the beach is from a narrow, eroded cliff-hugging trail above the ocean. This large beach is set among lava cliffs and the sand is actually small, smooth, lava pebbles. A small sea arch, sea caves, and seaside lava tubes are located in the beach area.

Naked people?!! Yes! Ka'ihalulu or Red Beach is pretty nude. We found almost everyone laying out in the sun and a few in the water totally naked. So, be advised when you trek down there with the kiddos.

The turquoise blue waters, protected resolutely by tall jagged pillars of solidified lava rock are calm and welcoming compared to the frothy turbulence outside the bay. It's a bit tricky to get there, you must traipse down a steep path beside a Japanese cemetery then walk along a narrow wooded path before the bay opens up before you. The beach gets its red sand from lava cinders off Ka'uiki. The quickest way to access this beach is to take Ua'kea road past Hana Bay to where it dead ends at Hauoli Road. You'll experience a stunning array of climate zones as you pass through pasture land, exotic flower farms, and fragrant pine trees to reach the summit covered with lava flows. Then the magic begins, a 12 mile hike through the largest dormant volcano in the world.

Hana Black Beach - Hana, Maui

For most Maui tourists, the 210 kilometer round trip to Hana is an all-day adventure. If you are staying in Kaanapali or Lahaina, it's about a 50-kilometer drive to reach it. I am going to give you a breakdown of what I feel is one the best beaches in Maui. You may feel differently. The Hana side of Maui is considered the tropical side of the Island. This is a rain forest and rain can occur daily.

At the end of the Hana Highway, on the lush eastern coast of Maui, is the legendary Hotel Hana-Maui and Honua Spa, where tranquility is a way of life. The AAA Four Diamond luxury resort has long been known as a favorite Hawaiian vacation retreat for generations of travelers seeking a serene and enchanting escape. If you are determined to go to beach trails around Hana Beach, ask at the Hotel Hana-Maui. And ask about conditions on the trail (which drops several stories down to the ocean rocks).

The trail down to this beach has loose footing and should be walked with caution. At the bottom of the trail here you will find a sign which states "use at your own risk". Take a 15 minute walk down towards the ocean and then take a scenic walk towards the waterfalls. Be sure to bring a bathing suit so you can take a plunge! You can walk along the shore, but be cautious of the ocean at all times large waves can appear out of nowhere. Another short safari awaits just up the road at the Keanae Arboretum, which offers a tranquil stream and swimming pond, as well as an easy walk through lush gardens and into the rain forest.

You will first came to a very gravely area, but kept walking until you see the beach around the corner. The steep walk down from the road is very treacherous, and many accidents have occurred here. Many locals refuse to make the trip. In Hana proper, shopping and restaurants are close by (within walking distance). Hale Pau Hana has three buildings with a total of 77 units (70 one bedroom units, 6 two bedrooms units, and 1 three bedroom and den penthouse).

There are a ton of ocean activities including kayaking and sailing. The beach is very exposed to high surf during the winter. Swimming is poor except when the ocean is very calm. The path to the beach is slippery due to the crumbling cinder and pine needles from the ironwood trees.

The deep brown of the rocks that litter the shoreline, the white of the stretches of sands, the blue of the pristine ocean and the green of the trees, all elemental colors juxtapose to create an amazing ambiance. And there's a Secret Beach which can be accessed by a 15 min hike from a trail at the end of a red dirt road off Kalihiwai Road. I heard rumors of a red rock beach, just a small "hike".

Hamoa Beach Park - Hana, Maui

Hamoa Beach is on the west side of Maui near Hana, a less-developed part of this popular island. Hamoa Beach has sea cliffs and lush vegetation; the public beach shares some facilities with the Hotel Hana Maui. For a beach vacation that never lets up - Hamoa Beach is where you need to be. Hamoa Beach is a must visit if you plan to visit East Maui. As you approach the beach from the main road, you'll walk past colorful plants and palm trees surrounding Hamoa Beach.

Hamoa Beach is a short walk away. Unprotected from the open ocean, Hamoa Beach is often swept with powerful rip currents. The surf breaks offshore and rolls ashore.

With views of Alau Island and tropical foliage all around, Hamoa Beach is a favorite of anyone who visits it. Hamoa has been rated as one of the best body surfing beaches in Maui.

The Hana side of Maui is considered the tropical side of the Island. This is a rain forest and rain can occur daily. Hamoa is very beautiful in its own right, with its sandy white beaches visible from high above the cliffs on the Hana Highway. However, many surfers and sun worshipers flock here so it is much more crowded than the Waianapanapa beach and much harder to find a parking spot. The beach is about a 10 minutes drive from the town of Hana and isn't hard to find at all. It's a great drive too with lots of beautiful scenery on the way.

Although affiliated with the Hana Hotel, the beach and most of its amenities are open to the public. The beach itself is a crescent of black and gold sand backed by a grass area, palm trees, and cliffs. We not only survived the road to Hana, but I survived my swim at Hamoa Beach. Could it have been my "amakua" watching over me, the beautiful green sea turtle called a "honu". The beach is two miles long, 125 feet wide, and bordered by the Hanalei River to the east and the Waipa River to the west. The ocean bottom slopes gently to overhead depths, and there are large coral reefs at both ends of the bay.

East Maui offers few beaches along the Hana Highway, but makes up for it with a beautiful black sand beach at Wai'anapanapa State Park. Plus, beyond Hana town there is world renown Hamoa Beach (voted one of the finest anywhere). The beach is surrounded by private property owned by the Hotel Hana Maui. Most of the facilities are for the guests of the resort, but the Hotel Hana Maui is gracious enough to allow the use of some of the facilities. People like to jump into the water from the Hanalei Pier, the entry point for scuba divers heading for the spectacular reefs offshore.

If you'd like to read more about Hamoa Beach, voted the number 5 beach in the USA this year, hop on over to our blog right here. You'll find there more beaches and vital information about making plans for your trip to Hana.

Hookipa Beach Park - Paia, Maui

The beach itself is not that large, but it is large enough for the main activity, which is mostly watching the windsurfers, kite surfers, and surfers. The Ho'okipa Lookout is a small parking lot on a bluff overlooking the beach. The consistent trade winds and seasonally large surf make the Aloha Classic the most popular destination of the windsurfing media, spectators and athletes. This event is the crown-jewel of wave sailing. Be aware that access to windsurfing is denied at many beaches and certain restrictions may prevail at accessible beaches. Find out about the reef, tide and wave conditions before you go into the water.

Paia is also the unofficial hang town for most of the serious windsurfing contingent – legendary Ho’okipa Beach is among the sport's elite playgrounds. It's been the second home to some of the world's best windsurfing, surfing, and kite surfing athletes and even a few Hollywood stars! This beautiful property is the place to stay and relax on Maui's low key North Shore. When the winds pick up in the afternoon, you'll see the windsurfers flying across the water, doing aerials and putting on a spectacular show for all to enjoy. Kite boarders also come out when the winds are piping.

As such, Maui is considered the birthplace of kite boarding and its older cousin, windsurfing. Hundreds come to this "Wind Mecca" to experience the consistent side-shore trade winds, warm water and designated kite boarding areas. The reason is to keep kite surfers away from the swimming areas and the crowded windsurfing access. Please take care when launching at these areas because this beach is a very popular one and gets very busy especially on weekends. This beach has been called the windsurfing capital of the world and is popular with daredevil surfers as well. However, it is not recommended that you swim here.

Favorable surfing and wind surfing conditions here year-round makes it first-rate for visitors and local residents alike and it is home to the world-wide windsurfing competitions. A short coral reef nearby helps make the waters calm enough for excellent swimming in the mornings and the coconut trees here provide shade and relaxation - so swim in that area. By the 1980's windsurfing was an international sport and the world discovered the winds and waves on Maui and especially at Ho'okipa. The rest, as they say, is history.

As word got out to the international windsurfing community about the unbelievable windsurfing to be had in Maui, and Ho'okipa in particular, Maui became the premier vacation destination for windsurfers world wide, and Paia became their headquarters. Today, Paia is blessed with thriving boutiques and restaurants, and has a very enjoyable international atmosphere.

World-class windsurfing events are held here annually. After you're done at the lookout, your best bet is to get back on Highway 36 and continue your journey. For those new to the sport, do not fret - you can surf the way most non-surfers do - by body surfing or boogie boarding. It is the most popular break for windsurfing, and generally breaks as a right. With the prevailing trade wind direction being east to east-north-east, this is most frequently down-the-line sailing on starboard tack (wind from right when standing on the beach).

H A Baldwin Beach Park - Pa'ia

Bodyboarders and bodysurfers take to the waves at HA Baldwin Beach Park about a mile west of Pa'ia, at the 6-mile marker. The wide sandy beach drops off quickly and when the shore break is big unsuspecting swimmers can get slammed soundly. A favorite with local families, Hana Beach Park is not surprisingly one of the most popular. In addition, many local community events are held here. Ongoing recovery activities include: Vehicle barriers erected around public parking areas to control vehicle traffic access to beach, dune restoration, red fox control, and beach mouse population surveys.

This park offers great activities like wind surfing and kite surfing full services, you must try this park if your area of Maui is cloudy. It has a brown stone sand and good beach combing. It's a State Park, and is very popular - there are lots of amenities and activities, such as camping, kayaking, and fishing. The whole island is surrounded with beautiful beaches. Hana Hou has great Kalua pig, and the roadside taco stand in the Ha'iku Marketplace parking lot has the best tacos on the whole island. Really, I consider myself a taco expert and this place is absolutely amazing.

Don't be caught off guard, the waves in there can get pretty mean sometimes and the currents are strong enough to fold the flat ocean in peculiar ways. Boats have right of way in the marked channels, so get out of their way.

The rock and reef hazards also should be avoided and remember to wear shoes in the beach as the colored sands may get hot and it will be painful for the tourists. HA Baldwin Beach Park and Hamoa Beach which are not protected by reefs is more prone to promoting accidents and going for big surf during high tides is termed to be risky and the safest time to venture into surfing is during the summer.

We loved the sunsets and the chance to go watch the water crash against the rocks. Also the windsurfers make it a great place to complete a vacation.

The park has a large grassy picnic area with tables, grills, a pavilion and a protected swimming cove. A white sand beach fronts the park. This popular park has restrooms, showers, a pavilion, picnic tables and grills. A busy place on the weekends that still leaves plenty of empty beach for strolling or sunning. Many are easily accessible beach parks with lifeguards, picnic facilities and restrooms. Others are undeveloped, pristine, "secret spots" off the beaten path.

Kanaha Beach Park - Kahului, Maui

Kanaha Beach is a release sight for native seabirds that become grounded. Kanaha beach is fully protected from the outer reef and is an excellent place for beginners and intermediate sailors to learn and perfect their skills. It offers a shallow launch with light winds where sailors can easily transition to the next level.

Also included in Kanaha Beach Park is a large pond that hosts some of Hawaii's protected species in a wildlife sanctuary. Extensive trail system in the forest reserve, including through a forest reminiscent of the conifer forests of the Pacific Northwest coast. Pig and seasonal bird hunting. The clinics included tacking exercises and great tips. This summer we will be offering clinics on water starting, short board sailing efficiency, jibing, tacking, and wave riding.

Kiteboarding in Kihei is normally too challenging for beginners due to exposed coral in the shallow waters and the proximity to the road. The event will showcase the world's most progressive kiteboarders in what is regarded as the premier kiteboarding event of the season. Qualifying rounds take place at Kanaha Beach and then move up the road to Ho'okipa Beach for the main event where the north shore's infamous surf will add a major element to the competition. Action Sports Maui is a full service kiteboarding School, with lessons for every level of Kiteboarder. Their 3.5 hour lesson is the best introduction to the sport.

Any windsurfing shop will point you in the right direction for location and gear according to your skill level. Most are for day use only, where visitors swim, snorkel, surf, picnic, and sunbathe, but only Kanaha Beach Park in Kahului has overnight camping. Camping fees are quite reasonable at $3 per night per person, 50 cents for children with no more than three consecutive nights at the park. After a long day of sun, surf and exploration - relax in a shaded garden or on your private lanai.

Fortunately, when the wind is good for windsurfing, it's generally too strong for the surfers, so there is rarely any conflict. But none are likely to equal the crush expected at the United States Windsurfing Association national championships in Maui, Hawaii. At least 150 boardsailors -- or windsurfers, the terms are interchangeable -- are expected at the regatta. Several of Maui's beaches are known worldwide for unrivaled surfing and windsurfing conditions. Others are well suited for the beginning snorkeler, beachcombers, families and children.

This place is famous worldwide for its excellent windsurfing and great for scuba diving, swimming, and beach volleyball. There are many more wonderful beach hotel properties in Maui and you can find them all at the extensive listings of all kinds of hotels at our website Maui-Hotels.us. Depending on surf conditions and wind, you will be able to find a spot that is suitable for your taste. Lae'ula O Kai Canoe Club’s headquarters is located at the beachfront pavilion, and windsurfers are encouraged to take advantage of Kanaha's favorable offshore breezes.

Grand Wailea and Wailea Beach - Maui

Located 17 miles south of Kahului Airport, 27 miles southeast of Lahaina, on Wailea's famous stretch of sand, next to the more extravagant Grand Wailea Resort, this is the livelier sister of the Four Seasons Resort at Hualalai. Michael Dell (Dell Computers) owns them both, and though they sit at opposite sides of the social scale, they both provide unerring service, world-class dining and gracious accommodations with extraordinary amenities that put them at the top of their class, that is to say, "world class."

Unlike many hotels of this ilk, maintenance is taken very seriously. Grand Wailea offers a choice of six restaurants and a selection of distinctive cuisines. Humuhumunukunukuapua'a is an exotic oceanside restaurant where you can eat great seafood and enjoy a spectacular Hawaiian sunset. The Grand Wailea Resort offers 780 guest rooms with private balconies and sitting areas. Rooms include fully stocked minibars.

The Resort does not confirm reservations to the individual in writing. Rooms can be found at all five resorts for $300 to $400 a night. Some guests do nothing but relax at the resorts all day, which makes their stay relatively affordable because they have few other expenses for entertainment aside from food.

Golf courses, spas, shopping, restaurants, and all the wonders of this tropical paradise surround Wailea Beach Villas. Crescent-shaped and protected on each end by black lava points, the waters of Wailea Beach are exceptionally calm, with light waves that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling (and gentle enough for children). A nearby paved boardwalk offers a lovely stroll, and restrooms and showers are available. This strand was considered part of Wailea Beach by old-timers and never was given a Hawaiian name. Horses and cattle sauntered down the mountain from Ulupalakua Ranch to drink from the natural spring that emerged from the sand near the rocks.

This means that many of the most expensive resorts are in this area, and that includes the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel and Spa (part of the Waldorf Astoria family), which stakes out the primo beach location at Wailea Beach. This resort is shaped something like a crab or octopus - check out the aerial video. Wailea Beach is a large, wide, crescent, graced with lovely fine, golden sand. The beach is protected at both ends by large, black lava points, making the calm waters ideal for swimming.

If you're OK eating at hotel restaurants, there are plenty of places both at the hotel and in walking distance. Otherwise you'll need a car for eating out. You can stay either in a resort condominium with all the resort features like a pool and BBQ or you can stay at a luxury resort hotel with all the services you might expect.

The sprawling Grand Wailea Resort is known for its long arcade of shops and galleries tailored to hefty pocketbooks. However, gift items in all price ranges can be found at Lahaina Printsellers (for old maps and prints), Dolphin Galleries. We made our reservation about 10 months prior to checking in to the Grand Wailea. When we made our reservation, we specifically requested a king room. If you are expecting glamor, plush accommodation and a setting that you will not want to leave consider the Grand Wailea in south Maui. Lush grounds, fantastic facilities.

Ulua Beach Park - Wailea - Maui

Once the surf (and sand) begins to rise, body surfing is the attraction at Ulua Beach. The facilities at this beach include: parking, showers and restrooms. Huge mounds of multi-colored coral stretch along the northern portion of Ulua Beach. The variety of sea life is amazing. Two beaches are accessed by the same path - the one on the right is Mokapu which fronts the Renaissance Wailea Beach Resort and the one on the left is Ulua Beach. Ulua is the most popular of the two and was named one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in America.

Ulua beach is less crowded than Wailea beach but there are no chairs. On Wailea beach we took chairs what belonged to the Grand Wailea resort and so did a lot of other Marriott guests. Ulua beach is only short stroll from the main part of this hotel and it is FABULOUS. It is not as crowded as the beach in front of Four Seasons, etc. Ulua beach is an alright spot, but it is dove frequently and the signs of diving pressure are evident in the fish behavior. Not sure if you are merely looking to free dive, or spear, but it still a good spot.

Ulua Beach is fine for snorkeling and introductory dives. You may see foot-long puffer fish, schools of goatfish, reef fish, shrimp (look under ledges).

Wailea Elua Village is a deluxe property located on the beach in Wailea and boasts 152 condos on 24 acres of lush tropical landscapes, luxury accommodations and breath-taking ocean views from low-rise clustered buildings. Located in the heart of Wailea, on Maui's sunny south shore, Wailea Elua is located on white sandy Ulua Beach, one of Wailea's premier snorkeling and dive beaches and is adjacent to Wailea's award winning Blue Golf Course just east of the Shops at Wailea . Wailea, an extensive resort complex, is a creation of Wailea Development Company (a subsidiary of Alexander and Baldwin Company) and covers 1,500 acres, including almost two miles of beaches and lava points. Begun in 1971 and still actively growing, it is comprised of home sites, condominiums and luxury hotels and a variety of recreational facilities, shops and restaurants.

Maui has Hawaii's best windsurfing beaches, thanks to brisk winds and dependable waves. In winter, windsurfers from around the world flock to Paia to ride the waves. Maui has 42 miles of sandy beaches along its 120 miles sunny coastline. With climate varies with average temperatures from 72F to 79F, Maui is a perfect place for outdoor sports and beach activities. Maui has 42 miles of uncrowded sandy beaches along its 120 miles sunny coastline.

Condominiums are a short walk away from the pristine waters of Ulua Beach, one of the best snorkeling beaches on Maui. Beautifully appointed two-bedroom condominiums are perfect for families, couples and friends. Beautiful Ulua Beach fronting properties is a well-known snorkeling destination and is great for watching dramatic sunsets, swimming, sunning and whale watching in the winter months. Wailea Elua is a gated centrally air-conditioned property that includes two swimming pools, Jacuzzi, beachfront pavilion with barbeques, putting green, paddle tennis court and free private parking.

The outer reef is home to a large green sea turtle colony, sometimes caller "turtle town". The offshore reef may be sharp and dangerous and should be approached with care. The beach provides parking and a boat ramp, and is also used by a canoe club. The reef is lively and really clear. Where you would normally enter doesn't have a sand beach, but rock and boulders that are great for enjoying the view.

Polo Beach Review - Wailea - Maui

Polo Beach is that nice secluded beach. To get there allow about 45 minutes. Polo Beach is at the south end of a wooden beach side path that starts at Mokapu Beach. The path meanders past five Wailea resorts. Polo Beach is at the bottom of the road.

Polo Beach is a conglomerate of all the beaches of Wailea. Backed by resorts and private homes, with covered lounge chairs scattered over the sand, Polo is the less glamorous sister of the resort beach Wailea.

Swimming and snorkeling are great here and it's a good place to whale-watch. As at Wailea Beach, private cabanas occupy prime sandy real estate, but there's plenty of room for you and your towel, and even a nice grass picnic area. Swimming and sunbathing are popular here. There is usually little or no wind and the wide beach quickly drops off shore to overhead depths.

Maui's diversity will amaze and delight you. You'll marvel at cascading waterfalls, the remote village called heavenly Hana, the picturesque Lahaina, a National Historic District, where history and fun combine to create a 'must see'. Maui was beautiful, the unit we stayed in was anything but. The carpets were stained and the unit was filthy.

Maui beaches are some of the finest beaches in the world. Maui beaches are infinitely varied, endlessly photographed and rightfully famous. There are white sand beaches, black sand beaches, red sand beaches, and golden sand beaches, small and large, open and protected.

South Maui can be considered the driest and hottest area on Maui. So, it’s very popular with sun lovers. South Maui's beaches are wonderful for beach walking, trails, swimming, boogie boarding, swimming, paddle boarding, fishing and even kite surfing and surfing when the big storm swells and wind are cooperating. South Maui Beaches are family friendly and sunny most of the year, making Maui's sunny south shore the perfect place for your vacation! You will see Kihei and Wailea rental homes located in the best areas of Maui.

South Maui beaches are much drier and appropriately less windy for your wedding. Spring is off-season, and less crowded, with the exception of Easter and Spring Break.

Kihei is the home of the Maui Research & Technology Center and the surrounding high-tech industrial park. Its purpose is to provide business assistance to technology-oriented businesses through business assistance programs, shared resources, and reasonably priced office space. Kihei and Wailea boast some of the best beaches in the world. Some are miles long, like Maui's Sugar Beach, which is also graced by gestating sea turtles (Honu we call them).

Mokapu Beach - Wailea - Maui

Mokapu Beach is a place where at the resorts you can watch spectacular Maui sunsets right from your room. View humpback whales breeching and spouting with their calves when they return to the warm waters of Maalaea Bay. A fantastic experience and a beautiful hotels - no others like it. "We booked the Renaissance because we had two extra days in Maui after our stay in a favorite condo in the same area in Wailea. We upgraded the room to an ocean view on the 4th floor. One of Maui's best snorkel or scuba spots. Abundant marine life including many turtles".

Nestled along Maui's spectacular southern coastline, Wailea is home to world-class resorts, nationally acclaimed beaches like Mokapu Beach, challenging golf courses and first-rate dining and shopping venues. The Wendy's Champions Skins Game is held in beautiful Wailea and brings together some of today's top golfers. Hotel rooms with air-conditioning are remarkably affordable for the location. A pretty Maui wedding location with a lush grassy area, located at the South end of the Maui Prince Hotel beach. Most ceremonies take place on the lawn area, which has some palm trees, and various tropical vegetation.

We prefer South Maui over West Maui because it is drier and less windy, and also because West Maui is too remote and crowded for our tastes.

Haleakala crater creates an exotic landscape at the resorts. And most resorts amenities include championship golf on five 18-hole courses, tennis on two courts, and access to five beaches. There are water sports, hot tubs, swimming pools, and four restaurants and lounges on site. Fronting the resort, the soft sands of Mokapu Beach offer a safe haven for swimming, sunbathing and a variety of water activities.

Continue straight to the parking lot. Facilities include restrooms and an outdoor shower. Sparkling white crescent beaches, brilliant sunsets and some of nature's most breathtaking natural wonders create the unforgettable setting for the Renaissance Wailea Beach Resort. This 345-room deluxe resort is located on more than fifteen acres of tropical paradise on pristine Mokapu Beach.

The beautiful arboretum is to display and identify tropical trees in a natural setting. The climate is warm and humid with frequent showers. The water teams with tropical fish and other marine life. No kayak launching is permitted here. This 345-room resort is located on more than 15 acres of tropical paradise, on pristine Mokapu Beach. Lush gardens, waterfalls, and a view of the soaring, 10,000-foot-high Mt. Haleakala.

On calm days, the snorkeling here can rival that of Ulua and Keawakapu, and when the surf is up the offshore body boarding can be as good as anywhere in the area. Facilities here are top notch, with shaded parking and paved walkways. At Ulua/Mokapu Beach you can enter on either side of the rocky point and snorkel along the reef. The dive is good for both beginner snorkeling or scuba diving. The area around the rocky point at the south end of Ulua is the best.

Maui Maluaka Beach Park Review

One of the beauties of Maluaka is the variety of activities for which the beach is suited. Maluaka is protected from Hawaii's predominant trade winds because it's hidden behind the mountain of Haleakala. This is a beautiful, wide sandy beach that gently slopes into the ocean. It is one of four beaches that surround Makena Bay. Among the familiar piscine beauties, I discover several species that are new to me. To me, this is marine nirvana.

This beautiful white sand beach is a long narrow strand which extends for several miles all the way to Lydgate State Park in Wailua. The beach is ideal for morning or afternoon weddings and provides more secluded sections which parallel the picturesque Wailua Golf Course. The water is beautiful and bright blue. A monk seal has made this beach his home. Beach glass jewelry is created from discarded materials that are pounded and smoothed by the waves and sand until they become smooth and beautiful pieces of glass that can be created into beautiful pieces of jewelry. A destination wedding on a beach is the perfect location to exchange rings made of beach glass jewelry.

And, you can launch yourself off one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Don't be surprised to see a wedding party at the landing or the church. Makena Beach offers plenty of shady areas for those who want to escape the sun and hiking trails for those who want to explore the beautiful terrain. There are three entrances to the beach, each with portable toilets, paved parking lots, and plenty of picnic tables for an afternoon snack. So when you say those two enchanting words "I DO", you'll be saying them in the most beautiful place on Earth!

Be sure to try the shore excursions to see beautiful natural sites and partake in activities you never thought you could accomplish, such as snuba, a modified version of scuba diving for novices. Cruises in and around Hawaii can last around a week, while those that leave from North America usually last longer because of increased travel time. There are historic venues, fragrant gardens, waterfalls, cruises, and endless miles of beach available to you if you are looking to tie the knot whilst on this beautiful Hawaiian Island.

Hawaii is the perfect destination for vacationers of all tastes and preferences. The Big Island has active volcanoes and two of the world's largest mountains, the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa that arouse interest among active vacationers. Hawaiian rock walls remain where they were found and natural gullies and stream beds are left intact. With its natural rolling fairways undulating greens and breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains the South Course is a favorite among many Maui golfers.

Maui offers an abundance of everything, and we experienced a lot of it. From the lush rain forest and waterfall country on the Road to Heavenly Hana to the nightlife in Lahaina; from snorkeling Molokini to watching surfers in Pa'ia, the nicest little strip of paradise I found was right outside my door. Maui Prince rarely has a crowded feel, even when it's full. That's partially because you're less likely to spend as much time at the resort than at some others in Wailea.

Kihei Beach and Resorts - Kihei Maui

Kihei Beach is a moderately sized, six story beach front property centrally located in North Kihei. It offers sweeping views of Kahoolawe, Molokini and the dazzling Pacific Ocean and a friendly, casual atmosphere. Kihei Beach is ideally located on one of Maui's longest white sand beaches. Each of the one and two bedroom condominiums are complimented by a large, private, beach front lanai.

Kihei Beach is so comfortable and casual that you'll find yourself just as content to stay indoors as you will be when you decide to take a stroll down the white sandy beaches. Your view from your rented condo will either be of beautiful Hawaiian mountainsides or extensive views of the Pacific Ocean .

Maui Revealed actually gets it right when it says the winds start at the South and North ends and meet up somewhere in middle by the afternoon. North Kihei will get windier than South on most days, but again if you do your beach time early you'll be fine. Maui's golden beaches are among the best in the world with two million people visiting annually. Most of the tourism is concentrated on the stretch of coastline known as Maui's "forehead".

Many of Kihei's other hotels are situated across the street from the beach, so we considered ourselves fortunate to reside a mere coconut's toss away from the surf. The beach directly in front of the condo is fine for swimming and walking, but you'll want to travel south for a couple of miles to the Kamaole beaches, or a bit further to Wailea or Makena, to soak in the island's coveted crystal-clear turquoise waters. There is parking - but try to arrive early. With its hip eateries along Front Street, colorful boutiques, historic museums and contemporary art galleries, Lahaina is a great place to hang out in the evenings. Further south along the coast is the resort oasis of Wailea.

In the Kihei area, about 5,500 feet of shoreline are severely eroded. This shoreline was once a well-nourished sandy beach, but parts of the beach have been lost to seawalls and revetments.

While in the water, be careful of the slippery rocks. The beach is long and wide with sand dunes located inland. Charlie Young Beach is perfect for early morning walks, swimming and snorkeling. Cove Park is the ideal place for surf lessons, canoing, and watching the sunset. Located on Maui's western shores, Kihei offers the perfect ambiance for enjoying a vacation amid picturesque surroundings, doing nothing except relaxing on the sun-drenched beaches and enjoying your favorite activities. What mainly attracts vacationers to Kihei is the fact that though it is located on the second largest of all the Hawaiian Islands, it offers you a chance to enjoy a vacation in Hawaii without being a part of the tourist crowds that throng these exotic islands yearly.

Keawakapu Beach and Condos - Kihei Maui

Keawakapu beach is a gentle beach - great for children - and there is excellent snorkeling on the underwater reef just off the right side of the beach. The photos above and to the right are the views from our lanai. Keawakapu Beach is a short stroll from the Palms at Wailea where you can snorkel along its rocky northern terminus, boogie board or take long tropical beach walks. Wireless internet is available at most club houses and pools. Keawakapu Beach is just minutes away, offering terrific boogie-boarding and long, tropical- fantasy walks. The Kam can take you there.

Keawakapu Beach is an awesome beach for kids, with really fine sand and a nice snorkeling area on one end. I saw sea turtles and lots of cool fish snorkeling around the reef next to the Mana Kai. Keawakapu Beach is regarded as one of the most scenic beaches on Maui. Keawakapu beach is one mile long with white sand for swimming, and a lava flow at one end for snorkeling. There is a beautiful free-form swimming pool by the ocean with lounge chairs.

Snorkeling is popular as the water is teeming with turtles and fish, while sunbathing is pleasant and relaxing on the sparkling water sand. For those traveling with children, the water is safe for swimming and if you decide to venture into the water while your children play in the sand, you can keep a close eye on them since the entire beach is visible from the water. Snorkeling is fair around the rocky outcroppings and best enjoyed in the summer when water conditions are calm. Lying in the offshore waters of south Keawakapu Beach is an artificial reef. Snorkeling to see the sea turtles wasn't necessary. They were three or four feet from shore surfing in the waves.

Maui has a wonderful resource of coastal areas and beaches that are the gateway to the ocean, The Hawaiian culture respected the Aina (land) and the Kai (ocean). There has been a system of rules (Kapu) that have governed the use of these resources, and to protect the resources from overuse. Maui has 42 miles of uncrowded sandy beaches along its 120 miles sunny coastline. With climate varies with average temperatures from 72 F to 79 F, it is a perfect place for outdoor sports and beach activities. Maui's wonders never cease You can't get much better than this Hawaiian island, with its sunny western coast lined with gorgeous white-sand beaches, and its warm ocean waters teeming with humpback whales. What's more, you can drive among jungle and waterfalls, windsurf with the pros at Hookipa Beach or enjoy a drink at Lahaina's historic taverns - the options are dizzying and endless.

Maui Beach Vacation Recommendations

Who wants the most spectacular beach vacation in America? OK, close your eyes and dream of the base of the Waianae Mountain range. See the Pacific Ocean in the distance? You're barefoot in well manicured gardens. And this quiet area along with the spectacular mountain and ocean views makes this an ideal place to unwind.

Welcome to Maui.

But there's too much to do here. The beach is where we always start on a Maui Beach Vacation. Then there's the art and garden tours, hula lessons, lei making, and catamaran sailing - just some of the daily activities. And if you're in the mood to explore, Hana is hands down the best drive on the island and unique for small weddings, honeymoons, and romantic getaways.

But we're going too fast. Take it slow and enjoy the "buffet" of choices - then design your Maui Beach Vacation how you want it. Start at the nearby resort area of Kapalua. It has the top resorts in the United States and some of the most challenging golf courses in Hawaii.

This island has everything. There's a rugged area on West Maui's back end. Rental car agencies will tell you it's a supposed no-go-area for tourist due to the dangerous narrow and winding road. As you travel, don't miss the concession stand right off the beach, run by the Westin Maui Prince Resort. As you enjoy the beach in this area, you can rent all sorts of beach equipment. This beach is absolutely beautiful has incredible sand just asking to be walked in bare foot.

And did we mention this is a very cool family beach? We spent the day here and even took in a Maui Sunset. These resort areas are on the western, or leeward shore so, guess what - that's where a lot of the spectacular beaches are. On this special island surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and spectacular sunsets create a serenely gorgeous way of life.

We also drove to lush, green and meticulously manicured, Wailea. A premier resort area on Maui, with splendid weather, five heavenly beaches, clear water and outstanding views of Molokini and Kaho'olawe - who found this place? Breathtaking!

Wailea is the perfect destination for your Maui Beach Vacation in Hawaii. Many of the Maui condo accommodations are owner occupied or managed "by owner." What this means is that you can negotiate a great deal - especially in today's market - for a beach side vacation in Maui.