Kaanapali is one of the smallest towns on Maui. It started in the 60s as a resort town to, a sought after location due to its mile-long beach. Major hotel chains moved in, as did condos, making this predominantly visitor-occupied. From Kaanapali, you can enjoy local entertainment as well as visit Lahaina Town (only 5 minutes away). Shopping, luaus and water sports are all waiting for you and your family. Whether you like to shop, see whales and turtles, or spend time relaxing at the resort—Ka’anapali is your spot!
Royal Lahaina Luau
The Royal Lahaina Luau, also known as the Myths of Maui, has often been featured in TV and movies. Visitors will walk through the gates leading to the stage, where they are met with a Mai Tai or fruit punch. The sounds of the conch, drums, and Hawaiian chants will fill the evening air as Polynesian experts narrate throughout. Indulge in Hawaiian cuisine, which includes an open bar, dessert choices, and an all-you-can-eat buffet. Visitors will enjoy traditional chants, Hawaiian Hula, and even a fire dancing finish. The Myths of Maui Luau is one of many great Luaus in Maui.
Maui Whale Watch
Humpback whales migrate between Hawaii and Alaska every year. During the summer, the whales are in the warm waters of Alaska, and in winter they are frolicking off the coast of Maui. There are many boats that leave from West Maui, most of which depart Lahaina Harbor. From December to April, you can book a Maui whale watching trip, which includes onboard naturalists, hydrophones to hear the whales, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Walk the Boardwalk
The Boardwalk in Kaanapali is 1.5 miles, stretching from the Sheraton Maui Resort at black rock past many hotels, restaurants, shopping, and condos. The Sheraton is on the North end of the island, while the Hyatt is on the Southside. While walking the boardwalk, you may see whales breaching, parasailers, and people surfing, and beachgoers laying out. Along the path, you’ll find Whalers Village, the Westin Snack Shack, and other dining establishments. You can take a walk on the boardwalk at any time of day or night with your best views and most comfort at sunset and sunrise.
Leilani’s Restaurant
Leilani’s Restaurant, like many places to eat in Kaanapali, is located right up against white sandy beach, beautiful grass areas, and has outdoor seating. Visitors can watch sunsets while enjoying a delicious meal. Leilani’s has a dining room, beachside grill, and aloha bar menu. Items featured on the menu include poke, Sashimi, Shrimp, spareribs, chowder, salads, and the fresh catch of the day. All the food, including produce and fish, are purchased from 40+ family-owned places on Maui.
Snorkel Black Rock
Kaanapali Beach offers miles of white sand, but that’s not all! Black Rock is a section of rocky beach towards the north end and is one of Maui’s top snorkeling spots for visitors and islanders. You can choose from a variety of local dive shops and resorts to rent snorkel equipment. The water around Black Rock is eight feet deep and will become twenty-five feet as you get closer to the point. Visibility allows snorkelers to see the ocean floor along with a lava rock ledge. Plenty of different fish species hang out in this area, including trigger, snapper, jacks, and wrasse. On occasion, you can spot sea turtles. Just be careful of cliff divers! They may not see you below.
Sunset on Kaanapali Beach
If you’re looking for free entertainment to wrap up a busy day of sightseeing, then sunset on Kaanapali Beach is the perfect option. Grab a chair at your resort or walk over to Black Rock with a towel or chair. You can sit back and relax, while boats come in from their day at sea and sea creatures frolic in the waves. Every night, there’s also a torch lighting ceremony on Black Rock where a man lights all torches from the Sheraton up to the cliff then dives in!
Shop at Whalers Village
Whalers Village is the place to shop in Kaanapali. Whether you are in the market for fashion, food, or home décor, the shops at Whalers Village provide anything you might need. Choice Health Bar is a new and welcome addition, as well as Lululemon for yoga classes and gear. MonkeyPod Kitchen took over Cane and Taro and is doing an amazing job. If you have kids, they have a really cool climbing towner near the street entrance.
Golf
Don’t forget to check out our guide to watch the Sunrise at Haleakala Crater if you’re in Maui.
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