Kaanapali Beach, Maui – Trip Highlights
May marked my first time visiting Maui, and it will certainly not be the last. The trip was full of so many special moments, stunning vistas, sea turtle sightings, good food, and unforgettable experiences. Maui is truly a magical place. The air just feels different—soft and floral, almost enchanted. The ocean is warm and swimmable, and the people are incredibly kind and generous.
If you're heading there this summer, you're in for a treat. We stayed on Kaanapali Beach, which, according to Travel & Leisure, is the #1 trending summer vacation spot in the U.S.
Read on for some of our favorite spots we visited during this epic trip!
STAY
Marriott Maui Ocean Club
Set directly on the sand at Kaanapali Beach, the Marriott Maui Ocean Club did not disappoint. We stayed in a room overlooking the pool and ocean beyond, with two master bedrooms, three baths, a living and kitchenette area, and three balconies. It made traveling in a group a breeze, allowing everyone to have their space.
The pool at the Marriott Maui Ocean Club was one of our favorite things about where we stayed. Including a water slide, volleyball area, hot tub, and a massive wrap-around swim and play area, it was a great place to spend the afternoon. Rent a pool cabana for a more private and exclusive experience or book a daybed down by the beach for easy ocean access when the sun gets too hot.
The hotel’s location is ideal—right on the Kaanapali Beachwalk, which stretches for miles along the west coast. Surrounded by other major resorts like the Westin and Hyatt, and with Whaler’s Village just a short walk away, we had easy access to restaurants, shops, and beautiful walking paths at all hours.
EAT
KeaLani Juice Company
Just steps from the hotel heading north, KeaLani Juice Company quickly became our go-to breakfast spot. Overlooking the beach and housed in a charming old VW bus, KeaLani’s acai bowls were among the best we’ve ever had—delicious, healthy, and topped with fresh fruit and crunchy granola. The friendly owners made each visit feel like a warm welcome, and enjoying our bowls in nearby lounge chairs while watching the waves made mornings feel extra special.
Japengo
Craving sushi with a view? Japengo, located in the Hyatt Regency overlooking Kaanapali Beach, hit the spot. We celebrated a birthday here and indulged in beautifully plated sushi (the Fujin Roll was our fave), flavorful noodle and rice dishes like their Japengo Fried Rice, and ultra-fresh seafood. The open-air ambiance, soft lighting, and ocean views made it feel both elegant and relaxed—the perfect setting for a special night out.
Monkeypod – Whaler’s Village
Monkeypod became a fast favorite, and we visited more than once. Their seasonal menu, upbeat staff, and lively setting made for the ideal post-beach dinner destination. A live ukulele and guitar duo played both nights we visited, offering unique takes on classics that had everyone jamming. The food was delish, and we feasted on hand tossed pizzas, salads, saimin noodles and shrimp & mushroom potstickers depending on the night, but the star of the show was their famous Monkeypod Mai Tai—topped with honey-lilikoi foam, it’s a must-order. For dessert, we topped it all off with a chocolate cream pie. A sweet end to a couple sweet nights.
Mala Tavern – Lahaina
Located just a five-minute drive south in Lahaina, Mala Tavern offered an incredible dining experience. Situated on Front Street, the restaurant was one of the first to reopen after the devastating fires and the spirit of resilience was strong. Mala was cheerful and full of life, with standout service and some of the freshest and most unique food we had while we were away. Every dish was memorable, and it felt meaningful to support a local business in the heart of a community rebuilding. We loved their Ahi Bruschetta (with local flavorful tomatoes and balsamic), Greek salad, Catch of the Day (which was outstanding), and a unique shrimp pappardelle pasta with cashew herb pesto, asparagus, blistered tomato and goat cheese. Fan of Mezcal like myself? Their Superfreak Cocktail - a blend of Lunazul tequila, strawberry, jalapeño, lime, mezcal rinse and sea salt hit the spot after a day spent by the ocean.
Maui Brewing Company
Another standout on Kaanapali Beach, Maui Brewing Company is the place to go for laid-back drinks and a lively atmosphere. With a large wraparound bar, ocean views, and live music under twinkling patio lights, we had a blast sipping local brews and watching the sky turn pink over the water.
Hale Moʻolelo
Tucked inside the Westin and just steps from the beach, Hale Mo’olelo was the perfect happy hour hangout. We enjoyed tasty appetizers like shrimp tacos and a round of refreshing cocktails. The open-air patio invited friendly conversation between guests and stunning views that made every sip more enjoyable.
A’A Roots
On our way to snorkel at Napili Bay, we stopped at A’A Roots and were blown away. This quaint, artsy café serves vegan and vegetarian fare that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The acai bowls topped with edible flower arrangements were almost too stunning to eat, and the avocado toast was perfectly seasoned with fresh tomatoes and herbs. If we were closer, this would be a return spot for sure.
DO
Snorkel Bob’s & Black Rock
One of the highlights of our trip was snorkeling at Black Rock, and Snorkel Bob’s made it incredibly easy. Just a short drive or walk from most of the resorts on Kaanapali Beach, Snorkel Bob’s offers affordable gear rentals by the day or week, with helpful staff who walk you through everything you need to know.
Black Rock, located at the north end of Kaanapali Beach, is a must-visit snorkeling spot.
The crystal-clear waters are calm and swimmable, making it ideal for all skill levels. As soon as we got into the water, we were greeted by a vibrant underwater world—schools of colorful fish, coral formations, and even sea turtles gliding gracefully past. It was like swimming in an aquarium. Don’t forget your GoPro or waterproof phone case—you’ll definitely want to capture the magic beneath the surface.
Teralani Sailing Adventures
We saved one of the best for last—a sunset cruise with Teralani Sailing Adventures. Seeing the island from offshore was breathtaking, with towering mountains giving way to the sea in the golden light. Onboard, we sipped cocktails, enjoyed a surprisingly tasty dinner, and even spotted a whale just before sunset. A rainbow over the hills capped off the evening and the trip in the most picture-perfect way. The crew was warm and fun, and the vibe was pure aloha.
Ahhh, take me back! Here are 5 fun facts about Maui that’ll have you itching to book your next trip:
Maui is known as the Valley Isle – It earned this nickname because it's nestled between two volcanoes: Haleakalā and the West Maui Mountains. The vast terrain is a geological wonderland and we delighted in beautiful vistas at every turn.
Maui is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, especially between December and April, when thousands of humpback whales migrate to its warm waters. We were lucky to spot one late in the season on our trip!
Lahaina was once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom before Honolulu took over in 1845—it’s about a five minute drive from Kaanapali Beach. Several restaurants are currently open, so please support them if you go visit.
Green sea turtles (honu) are commonly seen along the shores of Maui, especially near snorkeling spots like Black Rock—so keep your eyes peeled! We saw so many I lost count, truly a remarkable experience watching them gracefully swim just feet away.
Every evening at sunset, Kaanapali Beach hosts a traditional cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock (Puʻu Kekaʻa). A torch lighting and conch blowing ceremony ends with a local diver leaping into the ocean, honoring a legendary feat by King Kahekili, a revered Maui chief. Truly a sight to behold!
FINAL THOUGHTS
Maui captured my heart in a way few places ever have. The combination of natural beauty, warm hospitality, and unforgettable food and experiences made this trip one for the books. Whether you're craving beach days, island eats, or just time to unwind in paradise, Kaanapali Beach delivers on every front. I already can’t wait to go back. Until next time, Maui—mahalo for the memories.
