One of Maui’s nicest swimming and snorkeling beaches, Napili Beach is known for its shimmering blue water and beautiful white sand. Located on Maui’s northwestern coast, Napili Bay is situated between two rocky points. The ocean bottom is sandy though it gets deep relatively quickly. A strong shore break during the winter months provides waves for surfers and bodyboarders but beginners should stay out of the water when the ocean is rough. Napili is often fairly busy from all the vacation rentals and hotels near the beach.
Great For
Swimming and snorkeling when water is calm. Sunbathing, bodysurfing, surfing, and walking.
Highlights
Napili is one of Maui’s prettiest bays with sparkling white and blue water. Monk seals are often seen here.
Need to Know
Keep an eye on children as the seafloor gets deep quickly. Beware of dangerous ocean conditions during times of high surf, particularly during the winter months. A strong rip current often forms near the northern point of the bay during times of high surf.
Facilities
No public restrooms. Restrooms and showers at nearby Napili Kai resort reserved for guests. Convenience stores nearby.
Lifeguard
No
Access
From Kihei take Hwy. 31 (Piilani Hwy.) north to the intersection with Hwy. 311 (Mokulele Hwy.) and Hwy. 310 turn onto Hwy. 310 (N. Kihei Rd.) which you take to the next intersection with Hwy. 30 (Honoapiilani Hwy.). Turn left and follow Hwy. 30 past Lahaina and Kaanapali, then turn into the Napili area on Napilihau Street, which is right beyond the 29-mile marker. Follow Napilihau to the end where you will turn right onto Lower Honoapiilani Rd. Parking may be found on the second left (Napili Pl.) or the third left (Hui Dr.).