Nestled in the northwest corner of Maui lies Kapalua Bay, a sheltered, crescent-shaped escape for many seeking a relaxing Maui experience. While there’s plenty to experience when it comes to beach time, luxurious five-star resorts call this part of our island home. With dining and local spots to explore, Kapalua Bay blends beauty, luxury, and adventure into one experience.
We wanted to create a one-stop shop for all visitors who desire this unique destination. Whether or not you choose to stay in the area, you’ll certainly spend at least one of your days here.
The History of Kapalua Bay
Once called Honokahua, Kapalua Bay was home to an ancient Hawaiian community that lived on fertile land. Missionaries arrived in the 1800s, bringing new practices and beliefs, and soon after, a prominent missionary, Dr. Dwight Baldwin, received a land grant that included Kapalua. By the 1900s, the area became Honolua Ranch, transitioning to pineapple production, led by the Maui Land & Pineapple Company.
As time went on, real estate visionaries saw the area as one of luxury, and the construction of a Ritz-Carlton hotel soon took shape. When Native Hawaiian burials were discovered on the site, the hotel was relocated to a different area. Kapalua Bay now stands as a world-renowned resort destination, but balances development with environmental and cultural preservation to honor the history of the island.
Activities on Kapalua Bay
The best part about Kapalua Bay is that there is an activity for everyone, whether it be lounging on the beach, experiencing life under the water, or exploring what the neighborhood has to offer.
From the Beach
Soaking up some sun is never a bad option, but if you’d like to partake in water activities, you’re just steps from a sheltered cove to do just that. Snorkeling allows you to see our beautiful coral reefs, amazing fish species, and the occasional honu (green sea turtle) that swims by. Paddleboarding and kayaking are also fun activities given the calmness of the water. Depending on when you’re there, you may even catch a glimpse of a humpback whale for an impromptu whale watching experience.
On the Land
If you prefer to stay dry, don’t worry, we have options. Kapalua offers the scenic Kapalua Coastal Trail, a unique path that winds along the coastline. This hike is a fun way to immerse yourself with the island and navigate your way to secluded beaches and hidden tide pools. Golfers will find their own version of paradise at The Plantation Course—known for hosting the PGA Tour’s Sentry Tournament of Champions—and The Bay Course. There are also great restaurants and shops to explore in the area so you can try local Hawaiian cuisine and support our amazing local businesses.
Kapalua Bay Directions and Parking
Kapalua Bay is around 45 minutes from Kahului Airport (OGG). Your resort address will change your destination, but if you’re heading for beach parking, you’ll end up on Lower Honoapiʻilani Road. Look for Nāpili Kai Beach Resort and just past the entrance will be the parking lot on the left.
There are limited parking spots, so planning to get there early is your best bet to get parking. You may be able to find street parking but depending on the time of year, this may also fill up quickly. An alternative option is to park at the Kapalua Tennis Garden and walk to the beach. There may be a parking fee for this option.
What Else to Know About Kapalua Bay
Public Amenities
Kapalua Bay actually provides a host of public amenities to make your beach experience even better. There are public restrooms and a water foundation near the entrance to the park. Outdoor showers are also available. There are vendors on the beach if you want to rent equipment, like snorkeling gear or paddleboards, and picnic tables are placed beachfront for an enjoyable lunch. Because Kapalua Bay wants to be accessible for everyone, some of the amenities are wheelchair accessible.
What to Bring
Everyone’s beach needs are different, but we wanted to help lay out of the essentials, including:
- Towels, or at least one towel so you’re dry and comfortable.
- Reef-safe sunscreen, to protect both yourself and our environment. This is extra important if you plan to snorkel among our reefs.
- Sun protection, like a hat or sunglasses.
- Water bottle, as you can refill it at the fountain by the main entrance.
- Beach bag, to not only carry all your belongings, but also take any trash with you (although there are trash bins placed around the beach).
Conservation Efforts
As with all beaches and protected areas of Maui, we do our absolute best to protect and conserve. Using reef-safe sunscreen and picking up trash helps protect our beautiful coral reefs and the marine life that call them home. When snorkeling, please don’t touch the coral, and we ask that you leave all wildlife alone. It is possible to have the best experience when visiting Kapalua Bay while also protecting our environment.
After you’ve spent the day enjoying your Kapalua Bay adventure, please come by and see us at the Maui Ocean Center. Whether you’re exploring our exhibits, dining at our Seascape Restaurant, or shopping at our Maui Ocean Treasures gift shop, we’re here to enhance your overall Hawaiian experience.
When traveling to Maui there will never be a shortage of things and places to see. Make sure you’re always abiding by local and cultural laws when exploring the natural beauty of Maui and most importantly, relax! That’s what you came to do after all.
