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. The purest ocean, bright sunshine, palms swaying in the cooling breeze, and backdrop of volcanic mountains are just part of what makes Maui beaches so postcard perfect. So whether your preference is snorkeling a tranquil bay, kayaking along a volcanic coastline or surfing a clean south swell, you can find it here.
Here are some favorite Maui beaches and famous Maui surfing spots:
Legendary Kamaole is a long and picturesque Maui beach divided into three sections: Kam I, Kam II and Kam III. All of these soft golden sand Maui beaches are great for swimming and bodysurfing and Kam III is renowned for its thrilling snorkeling adventures. Each section of the beach has full beach facilities and life guards. There are grass fields behind the beaches, great for picnicking, grilling or tossing a Frisbee.
Within walking distance:
A classic Maui beach that is often photographed, Charlie Young's clear, warm, blue-green water makes it the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling or learning to surf. A gentle slope of golden sand, romantic sunsets and a grass field with picnic and other facilities combine to make Charlie Young one of the most famous and desirable beaches on Maui.
Within walking distance:
Located in an area rightfully renowned for having some of the best beaches in the world, Kalama Beach is a pristine and pretty place with a luscious palm tree shaded border. The waters of Kalama Beach are usually calmer than many other Maui beaches due to its location on Kailua Bay and the sunsets are not to be missed. For those looking for both surf and turf, Kalama Park is located right behind the beach. This 36-acre park has balls fields, tennis and volleyball courts, an in-line skating rink, picnic tables, rest rooms and showers.
Within walking distance:
Maui has some of the best breaks in the world, including its own Maalaea Pipeline, but smaller, gentler waves can be readily found for beginners. Below are some of our favorite Maui surfing breaks:
A world class point break that is fast and fun. It's best to get there in the morning before the wind comes up. In the afternoon, this turns into a windsurfer's paradise. It works best on a north, northwest swell.
For those who want to learn to surf, Cove Park is the place. The wave is long, gentle and ideal for beginners and small children. Board rentals and lessons are available right on the beach.
A classic Hawaiian wave that's gentle enough for beginners but enjoyable for all levels. Clean and fun, this wave can be surfed until your arms go limp. It works best on a west, southwest, south swell.
Located on the south side of Maalaea Bay, this hollow fast right is, simply put, one of the best waves on the planet. But don't take our word for it, check out Surfer magazine and see what they have to say. M-Pipe works best on a south swell.
A classic wave that suits all types of surfers. It is similar to Lahaina Harbor, but perhaps a little easier and gentler. Clean and fun with easy access. It works on west, southwest, south swells.
When Jaws is going off, you have to be a very skilled big wave surfer to attempt it, or crazy, or both. Truly an epic wave. On its best days it can break at fifty (50) plus feet. Something to see. Jaws works best on a big north swell.
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