Exploring Maui Day 4 -Best of Maui in ten days guide

Day 4 West Maui

The west shores have the most resorts (and people) so arriving early is a must. The 2 most popular beaches are Kaanapali and Kapalua Bay. On our first trip to West Maui we will head to Kapalua Bay for great snorkeling. Next head north to Honolua Bay. Here you can hike through a tropical forest to beautiful bay with a rocky shoreline. DT Fleming Park is one of Maui's best family beaches . Although it can get crowded there are plenty of parking spaces. Olowalu beach offers the best coral viewing in Maui, as well as turtles, and some tropical fish. Finish off the day with a spectacular luau at the Grand Wailea .

Kapalua Bay

Kapalua Bay is a horseshoe shaped bay well protected from the surf with a sandy bottom. The entire area is excellent for snorkeling and swimming. You must get here by 8:00am to ensure a parking spot as there is no alterative parking. More Info...

Alternate Beach: Napili Bay

If you do arrive late and can not find parking, head down to Napili Bay. You can find parking on the side streets (Nili Place etc.) While this is a very nice beach, the water can be murky at shore. The water clears up as you swim out. There are plenty of tide pools to the left to explore. More Info...

Honolua Bay

Out next stop is Honolua Bay. Located further north Honolua Bay offers great snorkeling most of the time. Local streams run into the river and can make the bay very murky and lousy for snorkeling (ask the locals about conditions). The hike to the bay is the best part, as it takes you through a dense tropical jungle. The beach itself is all rocks and boulders, and not suited for sun bathers. This is well worth the trip, even if you don't snorkel. Honolua Bay is located north of DT Fleming Park. Park along the highway (you will see the cars) and take any trail (they all lead to the bay). There is a dirt parking lot further east, but it is usually filled up. More Info...

Lunch: DT Fleming Park

Pack a lunch for this trip as DT Fleming Park is a great spot for picnics. There are tables, rest rooms, life guard, bbq pits, play areas and more. This is not a good snorkeling beach because of a strong surf. Afternoon winds can make surfing and boogie boarding enjoyable. More Info...

On your way back to Kihei you can stop in the town of Lahaina for lunch or some shopping. There are plenty of stores, restaurants, and museums to visit.

Beach Option: Olowalu beach

Olowalu Beach is a huge protected reef that extends over a mile out to sea. This area has the largest amount of beautiful live coral on the island. This is a great afternoon beach as the reef is well protected from swells and waves. There is a maze of coral to navigate through and sandy channels to stand up and rest. You can be a 1/4 mile off shore and still be only waist deep in water. If you are too tired try this beach on the 2nd trip to the West Shores. More Info...

Dinner: Grand Wailea Luau

The Grand Wailea Luau is probably the best luau in the south area (the west shores has a few excellent choices as well). The food and entertainment are both top notch. I recommend paying extra for preferred seating and showing up 1 1/2 hours early. Check-in is an hour early. You can pick out your seat, and then explore the resort or head to the bar for drinks until it is time to start. More Info... Day Five