Maui's Kaanapali Beach is making waves in the travel industry after being ranked the best beach in the United States and 10th in the world by TripAdvisor. Boasting three miles of palm-tree-lined shore, gentle waves, luxurious accommodations and amenities, and endless activities, it's no wonder that millions of travelers from around the world have fallen in love with this picturesque beach.

Even more impressive, Kaanapali Beach climbed a whopping 16 places from last year's rankings to claim the top spot in the US list. This amazing accomplishment can be attributed to the beach's serene atmosphere and breathtaking beauty.

TripAdvisor analyzed tens of millions of reviews submitted by travelers from all around the globe over the past 12 months to determine these rankings. By looking at the quality and quantity of ratings for beach experiences, the travel guidance platform was able to provide travelers with the best guidance for planning their own beach trips this year.

Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Kaanapali Beach offers something for every traveler to enjoy. Find out what we love to do when visiting, below!

Top Things to Do on Kaanapali Beach

1. Snorkeling: The waters off of Kaanapali Beach are overflowing with marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional octopus. There are several snorkeling tours and rental shops in the area that can provide you with all the gear you need to explore the underwater world. Our favorite spot is located at the far north end of the beach, called Black Rock. 
2. Cliff Jumping: The historic Pu’u Keka’a, or Black Rock, is also a popular cliff-jumping destination. One of Maui’s most acclaimed high chiefs once jumped from these cliffs, gaining the respect of many warriors who were frightened by the spirits believed to live in the area. To this day, it is revered as a sacred spot known as the place where a soul leaps into eternity. Inspired by this ancient Maui tradition, the Sheraton puts on a nightly cliff diving ceremony in which a young diver climbs the rock, lighting torches along the way before jumping into the water. Head down to the north end of the beach around sunset to enjoy the show.
3. Whale watching: During the winter months (usually from December to May), humpback whales migrate to the warm waters off the coast of Maui. There are several whale-watching tours that depart from Kaanapali Beach, giving you a chance to see these majestic creatures up close.
4. Sunset watching: Kaanapali Beach is known for its stunning sunsets, which paint the sky in shades of pink, orange, and purple. You can enjoy the view from the beach or from one of the many beachfront restaurants or bars in the area. Some even offer special sunset cocktail hours and live music.
5. Shopping and dining: In addition to its beautiful beach, Kaanapali is home to several shopping and dining destinations. Whalers Village, located at the heart of Kaanapali Beach, just steps from the ocean, has over 90 shops and restaurants to explore. Your group can also join in on several complimentary activities and events offered by the mall each week, including ukulele lessons, hula shows, and traditional Hawaiian lei-making.
6. Stand-up paddle boarding: Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is a fun and relaxing way to explore the waters of Kaanapali Beach. You can rent a board from one of the many rental shops in the area and paddle around at your own pace. If you're lucky, you might even spot some sea turtles or dolphins!
7. Beachcombing: Take a leisurely stroll along the beach and discover some of the hidden treasures that wash up on shore. A palm-covered walking path also lines the entire beach, conveniently connecting each resort to the next and making it easy to access the many activities this area offers. Of course, you can always just relax, soak up the sun, and listen to the sound of the waves.

Stay Steps from Kaanapali Beach!

If you are looking for a truly magical beach experience, there is no better place to visit than Kaanapali Beach. With its stunning beauty, crystal-clear water, and serene atmosphere, this beach is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to Maui. 

Explore our collection of Kaanapali vacation rentals today and stay steps from the number-one beach in the US! For more information about things to do and places to visit during your next trip to Maui, take a look at our other blog posts here.