What is the best beach in Maui -for novice swimmers and snorkelers?

Question

What is the best beach in Maui -for novice swimmers and snorkelers?

Answer 1

I would say that you could go to Black Rock by the Sheraton in Maui, or off of the Four Seasons and Fairmont Kea hotels in Wailea. They are both fairly protected, and easy for beginners.

Answer 2

Since you mentioned novice swimmers AND snorkelers, I think Kaanapali Beach (located on West Maui, north of Lahaina) would be a fantastic choice.  Out of all the beaches my husband and I have ever been too, Kaanapali Beach is our absolute favourite!

For swimming, we liked the portion just north of Black Rock (in front of the Royal Lahaina Resort).  It was uncrowded, the ocean was calm, and once we got into the water, the sand sloped gently into the ocean.  We also liked that there weren't any rocks and stones underfoot once we got into the water - it was easy on the feet!  When we were there in December, we were even lucky enough to see dolphins swimming there!  They were too far out for us to get close to, but it was still pretty cool to see them there!

For snorkeling, Kaanapali beach has you covered too!  As one of the other posters mentioned, Black Rock is great for snorkeling. It's located right on Kaanapali Beach, in front of the Sheraton Maui Resort.  The snorkeling there is fantastic, as there are TONS of fish to see once you get in the water.  I would consider my husband and I to be fairly novice snorkelers, and we found Black Rock to be perfect.  They say you can even snorkel around the point of Black Rock, BUT, my husband and I stayed away from that part, as we've heard that there can be stronger currents in that area... we didn't want to risk it!  That being said, don't let that scare you, since as long as you stay away from the point, and closer to the beach, you should be fine.  

If you'd like more info about our impressions of Kaanapali Beach, feel free to check out this webpage:

http://www.paradise-found-in-maui.com/ka...

The site is still fairly new, but if you click on the "Beaches" button on the left side of the page, you'll find more info on Maui beaches that may be of interest to you.

Also, I've found this site for general info on Maui surf conditions, weather conditions, beach safety etc:

http://oceansafety.soest.hawaii.edu/?i=m...

I hope this helps!  Have a great trip to Maui!

Sheralyn

:)

Answer 3

Baby Beach in Lahaina has much calmer waters than most other beaches, because an offshore breakwater blocks many of the big waves from reaching the shore.  This makes it a good place for children to go in the ocean, though even here they of course need adult supervision.  Baby Beach is in the north part of Lahaina.  Park on Kai Pali Street, just off of Front Street.

Lots more info about Maui beaches and Maui activities (as well as hotels, condos, restaurants, sights) with photos and reviews is at  

http://www.mauihawaii.org/