Kaanapali Beach and Black Rock, West Maui

Kaanapali Beach is the main tourist area of West Maui, located along the Highway 30 drive. The beach itself is perfection, with crystal clear water that looks like gelatin as tiny waves curl to the shore. For some reason the water is much clearer than the water in Wailea. Black Rock looks pretty on the north end of the beach, and attracts experienced snorkelers. Older resorts with lovely grounds of established trees back the beach. Busy cafes with ocean breezes can be found at each hotel. Come early for each meal so you don't have to wait in line. During whale season, December to April, you can see whales quite often, as they hang out safely in this sheltered area between the four islands of Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kaho'olawe. A wonderful beachfront path called Kaanapali Beach Walk runs for 1.4 miles from the Hyatt Maui Resort in the south to Black Rock in the north. Then you have to cut through the Sheraton in order to continue to another beach path which runs 1.3 miles from Black Rock Pier in the south to Honua Kai Resort in the north. You can walk to Whalers Village, an outdoor mall with casual eating options and shops.

Parking is difficult at Kaanapali Beach. There are a few small public parking lots, so come early, or wait to find a space. We didn't try this option but people say there are not very many public parking spaces. I will check it out for you next time!
If you eat at one of the hotel cafes you can often get your parking validated. We ate at Maui Brewing Company at Kaanapali Beach Resort, with nice seating in the ocean breeze looking out at the sea. Food was typical fare (too sweet and salty). You must bring the parking ticket to the hostess counter after your meal and then at the end of your visit to the valet parking counter at the front of the hotel. You have two hours to stay but it says something on the ticket about not using it for visiting the beach or resort grounds. It's all quite complicated and not relaxing, especially if you want to go for a swim, since you have to walk through the parking structure which is like a maze.
West Maui is quite different to South Maui as a place to stay. The roads are worse in West Maui than South Maui, with one lane in each direction and no divider, lots of traffic, and frustrated drivers. The ocean is more clear in West Maui, better for a perfect swim. South Maui seems to have more parking at the beaches. I will need to visit again to form an opinion on which area is best!

Kaanapali Beach and Black Rock, West Maui

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