Kaanapali Beach

Located just north of the town of Lahaina this beach stretches for almost 3 miles and is lined with a series of Maui's best hotels. Although the water here is not ideal for swimming due to shallow reefs and sections of strong currents there are certain areas which provide good snorkeling.

Black Rock or Pu'u Keka'a marks the north end of this beach and hosts an excellent snorkeling spot on the south side of the point. A short swim around the point reveals another smaller cove with an even better display of reef. Its best to only attempt this during calmer days as currents can be unpredictble day to day.

Another great aspect of this beach is is sweeping views of the islands of Lanai and Molokai. During the winter months scores of humpback whales can easily be sighted playing just offshore in the Auau channel.

A impeccabley maintained beach walk fronts the numerous hotels which dot the coastline here. Many visitors are entertained by simply strolling through the grounds of some more affluent hotel chains inclding the Hyatt Regency, Sheraton and Westin hotels.

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