West Maui
Black Rock Beach
Earning its name because of the large, black lava rock which divides the beach in half, Black Rock has become legendary for easy, albeit magnificent, swimming and snorkeling.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Sandy beach
- Terrific snorkeling/swimming
- Lifeguards
- Numerous hotels fronting beach area
- No public restrooms/facilities
SAFETY:
- Use caution if swimming around rock -- currents are sometimes strong.
- Obey all posted rules.
Launiupoko State Park
This tranquil park is ideal for young families and features a fantastic view of neighboring islands Kahololauie, Molokai, and Lanai.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Wading pool for children
- Picnic area with grills
- Paved access/parking
- Sandy beach
- Restrooms
- Telephones
- Swimming/snorkeling/surfing
Papalaua Beach - Thousand Peaks
A great beach for "one last swim" or "one last sunset" before heading toward the airport. Beacuse of its convenient access to the road, this beach is not for you if you are irritated by traffic or noise. It is for you, however, if you are interested in camping (by permit), snorkeling, surfing, or kayaking.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- "Port-A-John" restrooms
- Telephones
- Picnic tables
- Shaded tree area
- NO lifeguards
SAFETY:
-
Do not visit when windy unless you are surfing.
-
Exercise caution during low tides: coral heads may become exposed.
 South Maui
Ulua Beach
Voted one of the "Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in America," this area is sure to leave lasting impressions. With a sandy bottom, this beach is great for swimming! The area around the rocky point is favorited most by guests.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- NO lifeguards
- Swimming/snorkeling/diving
- Small, paved parking area
- Showers
- Restrooms
- Occassional high surf
SAFETY:
- Monitor ocean conditions carefully.
- Strong current and high tides may occur at any time.
- Rock hazards present.
- Obey all posted rules.
Kamaole Beach
With both grassy and white sandy areas, it is no surprise that this beach is frequented by young children who enjoy kite flying, boogie boarding, and picnicing with family.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- NO lifeguards
- Restrooms
- Picnic tables
- Showers
- Swimming/boogie boarding
SAFETY:
- Always monitor ocean conditions.
- Possibility of high surf and strong currents at all times.
- Obey all posted rules.
Charley Young Beach
This beach is known for its smooth feeling sand that slopes into the ocean. It is a comfortable area due to the fact that it is sheltered from the wind and is close to a nearby town.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- NO lifeguards
- Portable toilets
- Limited roadside parking
- Sandy beach
- Showers
- Swimming/boogie boarding/wind surfing
SAFETY:
- Always monitor ocean conditions.
- Strong currents, high surf, or riptides may seasonally occur.
- Obey all posted rules.
Black Sand Beach
This beach, as a result of volcanic rock mixing with the movement of the ocean, is covered with black sand. Not only that but the water here is swarming with giant sea turtles!
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Camping areas nearby
- Shaded picnic area
- Hiking trails
- Shore fishing
- Limited facilities
SAFETY:
- Wear sandals/water shoes to protect your feet.
- Do not leave anything valuable in your car or trunk.
- Watch your step while exploring; many people break ankles here.
- Dangerous swimming area.
- Do NOT take sand from here -- it is a precious resource that cannot be replaced.
Launiupoko State Park
This tranquil park is ideal for young families and features a fantastic view of neighboring islands Kahololauie, Molokai, and Lanai.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Wading pool for children
- Picnic area with grills
- Paved access/parking
- Sandy beach
- Restrooms
- Telephones
- Swimming/snorkeling/surfing
Little Beach and Big Beach
LITTLE BEACH: The "big" thing about "little" beach is that it is known as Maui's "unofficial clothing optional" beach. Isolated, this beach is crowded yet very beautiful.
BIG BEACH: There is so much to enjoy on this estimated 2/3 of a mile long beach. It is often regarded as "the beach" in Maui.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
- Portable toilets only at Big Beach
- NO lifeguards
- Paved parking lots
- Shady areas
- Sandy beaches
- Hiking trails
- Swimming/snorkeling/body boarding
SAFETY:
- Strong currents and high surf always possible.
- Do not leave anything valuable in your car or trunk.
- Obey all posted rules.
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