When planning your Maui vacation, you might be drawn to the island’s more famous beaches. However, savvy travelers know that sometimes the best experiences are found in less crowded, more secluded locations. Kahana Beach, nestled between Kaanapali and Napili on Maui’s western shore, is one such hidden gem that offers a quiet escape from some of the island’s busier beaches.
Is a stop at Kahana Beach worth adding to your itinerary? The team at Parrish Maui is here to help you decide that answer for yourself. Here is our guide on Kahana Beach.
Kahana Beach
Kahana Beach is an often overlooked beach, despite its close proximity to Lahaina and some of its resorts like Kahana Beach Resort and Royal Hana Maui by Outrigger. The lack of crowds make Kahana Beach a quaint, tranquil place to relax and soak up the sun.
One of Kahana Beach’s most appealing features is its golden sand, which slopes gently into the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific. This gradual entry makes it an excellent spot for swimming, especially for families with children or those who prefer calmer waters. There is a large reef offshore, which helps make the conditions ideal for swimming. Standup paddleboarding is another popular activity at Kahana Beach thanks to the calm conditions.
The beach is also well-suited for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply relaxing with a good book while listening to the soothing sound of waves lapping at the shore. In the winter months, Kahana Beach becomes a great lookout spot for whale watching. Grab your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales.
Unlike some more isolated beaches, Kahana is surrounded by a small community that offers convenient access to restaurants, shops, and other services. This makes it easy to plan a full day at the beach without having to venture far for food or supplies.
One thing to keep in mind when visiting Kahana Beach is the lack of facilities. There are no restrooms, picnic tables, outdoor showers, or lifeguards on duty. Still, the good swimming and paddling conditions, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to all of the activities and attractions that Lahaina has to offer make it a nice place to stop when in the area.
Maui Road Directions to Kahana Beach
Drive southeast on Lower Honoapiilani Road from the Kapalua Villas. Continue on Lower Honoapiilani Road for about 3-4 miles. Kahana Beach will be on your left side, along Lower Honoapiilani Road. In total, it is about a 10 to 15-minute drive from our vacation rentals in Kapalua.
Accommodations in Maui
When planning your visit to Kahana Beach and other Maui attractions, consider booking your accommodations with Parrish Maui. Our villa rentals are located in the nearby Kapalua area and offer easy access to Kahana Beach and other West Maui destinations. To secure the perfect vacation rental for your next trip to Maui, check availability online or call our team at 877-854-9070 for personalized assistance.