Pu’u Kukui (The West Maui Mountains) dominate the interior of this side of the island; the coastal area between their rainbow-crowned peaks and the ocean is made up of sandy beaches, resorts, golf courses, and a remote scenic drive. Kā’anapali was Maui’s first planned resort community, its hotels, shops, and golf courses bordering a three-mile, sparkling white sand beach. Dozens more resort complexes stretch through Honokōwai, Kahana, and Nāpili. Except for a small village, there is nothing but dramatic scenery past Kapalua, the last resort, from where the road hugs the coastline around the mountains on its way back to Wailuku.
For places to stay in West Maui (see the following: Luxury Resort Hotels and Spas; Other Luxury Accommodations; Mid-Price Hotels; Inns, Cottages, & Guest Houses; Budget Accommodations.-
So-called because of its proximity to a long-gone small airport. The beach has been upgraded in recent years, and now has picnic tables and restroom facilities.
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Early Afternoon
Head west along Route 30 from the Kā’anapali Resort area, and stock up on snacks and beverages at the quaint HonoluaStore in Kapalua (see Honolua Store).
Stop at either D.T. Fleming Beach or Honolua Bay (see Honolua Bay) for an invigorating swim in summer or the thrill of watching experienced surfers in winter. Drive carefully along narrow Route 30 from Kapalua all the way around to Wailuku. The road, barely wide enough for one car at points, twists and turns with the coastline, hugging the mountainside with sheer drop-offs to the ocean below.
Late Afternoon
After you travel through the lush Honokohau Valley,stop at Nākālele Point for a short hike to experience the awesome force of the blowhole. Here the vivid red-hued cliffs drop to the ocean below and trails along the bluffs offer terrific ocean views. The wide expanses of grassy bluffs are great for a picnic.
After another brief stop at Mile Marker 16 to try ringing the Bellstone, continue along the route through the tiny village of Kahakuloa. A few miles farther finds you at Kaukini Gallery (see Kaukini Gallery), which displays and sells the work of local artisans.
From here you will soon return to “civilization,” passing through the communities of Waihe’e and Waiehu. Continue “home” along the main highways.
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You can’t get closer to the beach than this, a bar where you can wiggle your toes in the sand. One of the island’s best for cocktails, appetizers, sunset, and checking out the beautiful people on “Dig Me” Beach.
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This large volcanic rock, sitting on the side of the road just before Mile Marker 16 on the road past Kapalua, is so named because it sounds like a bell when struck in exactly the right spot. Use another rock or stick to gently strike the stone – it will probably take several attempts to find the right spot. By way of a hint, if you hit the rock on the side facing the mountain, it should resound with a metallic clank.
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Burgers, salads, sandwiches, and plate lunches, along with yummy baked goods made right on the premises.
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This beach on Honokōhau Bay has parking, showers, barbecues, and good swimming off a long, wide beach complete with trees for shade. But watch out in the winter months, when the surf here can get very big.
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A reputable outlet, specializing in jewelry and sculpture, and with some two-dimensional art as well. Any purchase can be shipped home for you.
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From the whimsical to artistic, this gallery’s offerings include accessories, glass, and unusual Christmas ornaments.
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Maui’s only brewpub is a favorite hangout of west side residents who enjoy the nightly live music. The wine list has received the Award of Excellence for three years running. The beer is brewed in three large copper vats which can be seen by the patrons.
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This County Beach Park is actually the southernmost end of Kā’anapali Beach. Several canoe clubs call this beach home and host occasional paddling events.
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Restaurant price categories
Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
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