1. Baldwin Beach Park - 15-minute walk from Paia
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Location:
Baldwin Beach Park, Paia, Maui, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Surfers, sunset seekers, families, and swimmers of all levels looking for a versatile and well-equipped beach on Maui’s North Shore.What I Love: ♥
The long sandy shoreline with spectacular sunset views, the powerful central surf zone, and the family-friendly swimming coves at both ends of the beach.- Visit Baldwin Beach Park, one of Maui’s most beloved North Shore destinations, popular with both locals and visitors.
- Surf the larger waves in the center of the beach—ideal for experienced surfers, especially in winter.
- Swim safely at the protected coves on either end, suitable for young children and cautious swimmers.
- Relax with full amenities including lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic tables, barbecues, and a first-come-first-served pavilion.
Cost:
Free public access. Parking available in the adjacent lot.Best time to visit:
Late afternoon for sunset views. Mornings for quieter conditions and swimming before the trade winds pick up.Local tips:
The central surf can be intense—stick to the ends of the beach for family swimming. Bring a picnic and enjoy the shaded pavilion. Nearby Baby Beach offers even calmer conditions for toddlers.Distance:
Just over 1 mile from downtown Paia—approximately a 3-minute drive or 15-minute walk.How to Get to Baldwin Beach Park:
Drive along Hana Highway past Paia town. Look for the well-marked entrance to the beach park and parking area near the shoreline.2. Baldwin Cove - 20-minute walk along the shoreline from Paia or Hana Highway
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Location:
Baldwin Cove, eastern end of Baldwin Beach Park, Paia, Maui, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Swimmers, sunbathers, and visitors seeking a more secluded, reef-sheltered cove with relaxed beach norms and scenic surroundings.What I Love: ♥
The sheltered swimming waters, the shifting sandy shoreline influenced by tides, and the laid-back atmosphere with topless sunbathing permitted.- Visit Baldwin Cove at the far eastern end of Baldwin Beach Park for a quieter coastal experience.
- Swim in the reef-protected waters, which remain accessible regardless of the tide level.
- Sunbathe on the sandy expanse during high tide, with topless sunbathing allowed for all visitors.
- Use the nearby restrooms and showers provided at Baldwin Beach Park for added convenience.
Cost:
Free public access. Parking available in the Baldwin Beach Park lot with a short walk to the cove.Best time to visit:
High tide, when more of the sand is exposed and the cove is at its most spacious and inviting.Local tips:
If visiting during low tide, expect a more limited beach area. This spot is ideal for quiet relaxation and gentle swimming away from the crowds of Baldwin’s main beach.Distance:
About 1.5 miles from downtown Paia—approximately a 5-minute drive or a 20-minute walk along the shoreline or Hana Highway.How to Get to Baldwin Cove:
Enter through Baldwin Beach Park on Hana Highway, then walk to the far eastern end of the park to reach the cove. Look for the reef-sheltered shoreline just beyond the main beach path. <Romantic Maui Beaches:
3. Black Rock
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Location:
Black Rock (Pu‘u Keka‘a), Ka‘anapali Beach, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Cliff jumpers, snorkelers, cultural travelers, and experienced swimmers looking for an iconic North Maui experience.What I Love: ♥
The dramatic lava rock formation at the edge of Ka‘anapali Beach, the sunset torch lighting ceremony, and the underwater world filled with sea turtles and tropical fish.- Visit Black Rock at the northern tip of Ka‘anapali Beach, where tradition and recreation meet in a stunning ocean setting.
- Cliff jump from the rock—a popular activity for brave swimmers, especially during calm conditions.
- Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters just offshore, known for frequent turtle sightings and vibrant marine life.
- Watch the torch lighting ceremony at sunset, a daily ritual honoring Hawaiian legends and history.
Cost:
Free beach access. Parking available at Ka‘anapali Beach public access lots or nearby resorts (some may charge). Snorkeling gear rentals available from a kiosk near the rock.Best time to visit:
Morning to midday for calmer waters and clearer visibility while snorkeling. Evening for the torch lighting and sunset views.Local tips:
Currents near the rock can be strong—only confident swimmers should snorkel or jump. Stay mindful of slippery rocks and follow posted safety signs.How to Get to Black Rock:
From Highway 30, turn onto Ka‘anapali Parkway and park at one of the public beach access lots. Walk along the sand or resort paths toward the northern end of the beach to reach Pu‘u Keka‘a.4. D. T. Fleming Beach Park, Kapalua Resort
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Location:
D.T. Fleming Beach Park, Lahaina, West Maui, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Swimmers, picnickers, shade-seekers, and surf enthusiasts looking for a scenic and spacious beach with facilities and lifeguard coverage.What I Love: ♥
The crescent-shaped white sand shoreline, the shade from ironwood trees, and the combination of relaxing beach time and adventurous surf conditions.- Visit D.T. Fleming Beach Park, named after the man who brought pineapple to West Maui, for a slice of local history and natural beauty.
- Swim or body surf during calm weather, and enjoy the oceanfront backed by trees and green lawn.
- Relax beneath the ironwood grove that lines the back of the beach—perfect for midday shade and reading.
- Use the picnic tables and barbecues for a laid-back meal with ocean views. Lifeguards are on duty during daylight hours.
Cost:
Free public access. On-site parking available.Best time to visit:
Morning and early afternoon for lighter winds and calmer surf. Winter months bring bigger waves, ideal for experienced surfers.Local tips:
Exercise caution during high surf—rip currents can be dangerous. Lifeguards provide up-to-date safety info. Great spot for beach picnics, shaded breaks, and coastal strolls.How to Get to D.T. Fleming Beach Park:
Take Highway 30 north past Ka‘anapali, then turn onto Lower Honoapiilani Road. Look for beach park signage and designated parking areas near Kapalua Resort.Family Beaches on Maui:
5. Hamona Beach - 10-minute drive from a Hana
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Location:
Hamoa Beach, Haneo‘o Road, Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Surfers, photographers, beach purists, and travelers seeking a secluded, foot-access-only crescent beach on the scenic Hana coastline.What I Love: ♥
The dramatic green cliffs framing the beach, the curving crescent of golden sand, and the classic surf breaks that attract seasoned riders.- Visit Hamoa Beach, long celebrated as one of Maui’s most beautiful and iconic beaches.
- Surf the renowned waves during swell season, or enjoy swimming and boogie boarding when the water is calm.
- Access the beach via two footpaths—one with stairs and one a dirt trail—from the street above.
- Relax on the sand or bring your own beach gear—though a nearby hotel offers amenities to its guests, the beach is open to the public.
Cost:
Free public access. Street parking only—limited availability.Best time to visit:
Early morning for parking and a peaceful shoreline. Surf is best during winter swells; calmest water typically occurs in summer.Local tips:
Come early to find parking along Haneo‘o Road. Bring supplies—there are no public restrooms or showers. Strong waves and currents can occur—use caution when swimming.Distance:
About 3 miles southeast of Hana town—roughly a 10-minute drive.How to Get to Hamoa Beach:
From Hana, follow Haneo‘o Road south along the coast. Park along the roadside and look for one of two signed public access points leading down to the beach.6. Kuau Cove - 5-minute drive from Paia
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Location:
Kuau Cove, Paia, Maui, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Tide pool explorers, beginner snorkelers, families with young children, and diners looking to pair a beach visit with a meal at Mama’s Fish House.What I Love: ♥
The soft white sand framed by a coconut grove, the calm tide pools ideal for young snorkelers, and the proximity to one of Maui’s most beloved restaurants.- Visit Kuau Cove, a small and scenic beach tucked next to Mama’s Fish House just outside Paia.
- Explore the tide pools that remain accessible throughout most of the day, perfect for hands-on marine discovery.
- Snorkel in the shallow, protected waters—ideal for children learning the basics.
- Dine at Mama’s Fish House for an upscale meal with incredible ocean views and access to restrooms.
Cost:
Free beach access. Limited parking available at the restaurant—beach access may require dining at Mama’s.Best time to visit:
Mid-morning to early afternoon for optimal tide pool access and lighting. Reservations are recommended for the restaurant.Local tips:
There are no public facilities, but the restaurant provides restrooms for guests. It’s a great spot to combine a short beach outing with a memorable dining experience.Distance:
About 1.5 miles east of Paia—roughly a 5-minute drive.How to Get to Kuau Cove:
From Paia, take Hana Highway east and turn onto Poho Place. Kuau Cove is located directly in front of Mama’s Fish House at 799 Poho Pl, Paia, HI 96779.If you are a photographer, don't miss:
7. Ho'okipa Beach Park - 5-minute drive along Hana Highway east of Paia
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Location:
Ho‘okipa Beach, Hana Highway, Paia, Maui, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers, surf spectators, photographers, and those seeking dramatic coastal scenery on Maui’s North Shore.What I Love: ♥
The world-class windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions, the cliffside lookout for surf watching, and the majestic waves that draw elite athletes and curious spectators alike.- Visit Ho‘okipa Beach for Maui’s premier wind and surf experience, just minutes from Paia town.
- Watch pros tackle massive waves and perform aerial tricks from the lookout on the eastern cliff.
- Explore the beach's sandy coves for sunbathing or occasional swimming under calm conditions (check safety signs).
- Photograph the action and scenic cliffs, especially during the late afternoon golden hour when lighting is ideal.
Cost:
Free public access. Parking available at the lookout and along beach entrances.Best time to visit:
Midday to late afternoon for the most consistent winds and best surfing action. Mornings are calmer and better for photos or beach walks.Local tips:
Swimming is limited and not recommended in most areas due to strong currents. The lookout is great for whale watching in season and sea turtle sightings onshore in the late afternoon.Distance:
About 2.5 miles east of Paia—roughly a 5-minute drive along Hana Highway.How to Get to Ho‘okipa Beach:
Take Hana Highway east past Paia. Look for signs for Ho‘okipa Beach Park just after Mile Marker 9. Parking and a lookout point are located on the cliff above the beach.8. Kaanapali Beach
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Location:
Ka?anapali Beach, West Maui, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Resort-goers, shoppers, casual swimmers, and beachwalkers looking for a lively beachfront with modern amenities and ocean access.What I Love: ♥
The mile-long stretch of golden sand, the convenient access to shops and restaurants, and the resort-maintained facilities available for public use.- Visit Ka?anapali Beach, Maui’s original planned resort destination with a vibrant mix of beach and retail experiences.
- Swim in the gentle surf near shore when conditions are calm, but watch for stronger currents further out.
- Walk the paved beach path to explore the many shops, restaurants, and beachfront bars.
- Use the resort-owned showers along the beach, accessible to public visitors enjoying the shoreline.
Cost:
Free beach access. Paid parking available at nearby resorts and public access lots.Best time to visit:
Mornings for quieter walks and swimming; late afternoon for sunset dining and shopping.Local tips:
There are no lifeguards, so swim with caution. For fewer crowds, explore the northern stretch of the beach closer to Black Rock.How to Get to Ka?anapali Beach:
From Highway 30, turn onto Ka?anapali Parkway. Park at any public access lot or resort parking garage, then follow the beach path to your preferred spot.9. Kahekili Beach Park
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Location:
Kahekili Beach Park, Lahaina, West Maui, Hawaii, USARecommended For:
Snorkelers, scuba divers, sea turtle watchers, and families or groups looking for a quieter beach with excellent amenities.What I Love: ♥
The reef that begins at the shoreline, the calm, shallow waters filled with marine life, and the well-equipped picnic and pavilion areas—all in a less commercial setting.- Visit Kahekili Beach Park, a local favorite for easy-access snorkeling and diving just north of Ka?anapali Beach.
- Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles just steps from shore.
- Listen for humpback whale songs underwater during whale season—an unforgettable experience for divers and snorkelers alike.
- Relax with the convenience of restrooms, showers, picnic tables, barbecue grills, and a covered pavilion ideal for groups and gatherings.
Cost:
Free public access. Ample parking available on-site.Best time to visit:
Morning for the calmest waters and clearest snorkeling conditions. Winter is best for whale song encounters.Local tips:
While less touristy than nearby Ka?anapali, this beach still gets busy midday—arrive early for the best snorkeling visibility and a shady picnic spot.How to Get to Kahekili Beach Park:
From Highway 30, turn west onto Kai Ala Drive. Follow signs to Kahekili Beach Park and parking area near the pavilion and beach access point.Plan Your Trip