


Kāʻanapali Beachwalk
About
The Kāʻanapali Beachwalk is a scenic, stroller-friendly paved pathway that stretches along one of Maui's most beautiful beaches, connecting multiple resorts and offering easy beach access at various points. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk with stunning ocean views, stop at beach access points for sandcastle building and swimming, grab a bite at beachfront restaurants, and catch the famous nightly cliff diving ceremony at Puu Kekaa (Black Rock).
Highlights
- ✓Nightly cliff diving ceremony at Puu Kekaa (Black Rock) with torch lighting at sunset
- ✓Multiple beach access points perfect for spontaneous sand play and ocean swimming
- ✓Sea turtle spotting opportunities, especially near Black Rock
- ✓Smooth, wide paved path ideal for strollers, bikes, and learning riders
- ✓Beachfront shops and restaurants with family-friendly options at Whalers Village
Pro Tips
- 1.Time your walk to end at Puu Kekaa (Black Rock) around sunset to catch the ceremonial torch lighting and cliff diving ceremony, which kids find absolutely thrilling
- 2.Bring a stroller with good sun coverage as shade is limited along the beachwalk, and pack plenty of water and sunscreen
- 3.The beachwalk has multiple beach access points with showers and restrooms near Whalers Village and various resorts, making it easy to take breaks
- 4.Visit early morning (7-9am) for the calmest crowds and best chance to spot sea turtles near Black Rock
- 5.Non-resort guests can park at Whalers Village shopping center (paid parking) for easiest access to the beachwalk's midpoint
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (7-9am) offers the coolest temperatures and smallest crowds, but late afternoon into sunset (4-7pm) is magical for the cliff diving ceremony and gorgeous golden hour lighting. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
What to Know
The beachwalk is completely free to use and fully paved for easy stroller and wheelchair access. Parking is available at Whalers Village or resort parking lots (fees vary). Numerous restaurants and shops line the route, with public restrooms available at beach access points.
Seasonal Notes
The beachwalk is open year-round with consistently beautiful weather. Winter months (December-March) offer the best whale watching opportunities from the path. Summer provides calmer ocean conditions for young swimmers at beach access points. The cliff diving ceremony occurs nightly at sunset year-round, weather permitting.
Nearby Eats
Whalers Village offers multiple family-friendly options including Hula Grill (Hawaiian cuisine with kids' menu and beachfront seating) and Joey's Kitchen (casual comfort food with generous portions). For a quick bite, stop at Maui Coffee Roasters for smoothies and pastries.
More Activities Near Maui
Mākena State Park
Mākena State Park, often called 'Big Beach,' offers families over two-thirds of a mile of golden sand and calm, gentle waves perfect for little ones learning to splash and play. The wide-open beach gives kids plenty of room to build sandcastles, try bodyboarding, and explore tide pools, while parents can relax knowing the gradual slope into the water is ideal for young swimmers.
Kapalua Bay Beach
Kapalua Bay Beach is a picture-perfect crescent of soft sand and calm, protected waters that's ideal for families with young children. The gentle waves and excellent visibility make it one of Maui's best beaches for introducing kids to snorkeling, while the sheltered bay provides peace of mind for parents watching little ones splash and play.
Baby Beach
Baby Beach in Lahaina is a hidden gem for families with young children, featuring a protected shallow cove where toddlers and early swimmers can safely splash and play. The calm, gentle waters are naturally shielded from waves, making it ideal for little ones getting comfortable in the ocean, plus there's a playground right nearby for when kids need a break from the water.
Hana Highway
The legendary Hana Highway is a thrilling full-day adventure that takes families along 64 miles of winding coastal road past jungle waterfalls, hidden swimming holes, and black sand beaches. Kids will be mesmerized by the 600+ curves, one-lane bridges, and countless stops for banana bread, fresh fruit stands, and incredible photo opportunities at panoramic ocean viewpoints.