Kapalua

The basics

Kapalua is just 20 minutes from Lahaina and about 45 minutes from Wailuku, Maui's capital, by car, making it a top road-trip destination for travelers not staying at one of the tony resorts in town. The award-winning Kapalua Bay Beach, a graceful sliver of sand with calm waters in a protected cove, is a popular destination for snorkeling with sea turtles and a favorite among flight tours that soar above Maui's top sights and beaches.

Things to know before you go

• There is public parking at Kapalua Bay and DT Fleming Beach Park.

• Bring a rain jacket—local exposure to the trade winds means cooler weather and more rain, although the showers usually only fall as short, passing bursts.

• The Kapalua Bay Beach has public restrooms and an outdoor shower.

• The Bay and Plantation golf courses are open to the public but typically require high fees.

How to get there

Kapalua is best reached by car. From Lahaina, it's a short, picturesque drive north on Highway 30. From Kahului Airport, Maui's main airport, take Route 380 to Highway 30, then follow signs for Lahaina and Kapalua. The drive takes about 45 minutes, covering roughly 30 miles (48 kilometers). The #28 West Maui Island Route bus runs between Lahaina and Kapalua, and other commuter bus routes connect much of the island.

When to get there

For pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates, visit Kapalua during the shoulder seasons in spring (April to May) or fall (September to October). Winter, the driest season, is busy with first-rate bodysurfing and whale watching, while summer is hot, crowded, and packed with visitors. The PGA Sentry Tour of Champions typically rolls into town in January.

Hiking in Kapalua

After you've hit the beach, try hiking Kapalua's trails. These include the Mahana Ridge Trail, connecting Maunalei Arboretum to the Kapalua Resort; the Coastal Trail from Kapalua Bay Beach to D.T. Fleming Beach Park; and the Village Walking Trails running along the cart paths in the former Village Golf Course.

What is Kapalua known for?

Located in a picturesque corner of northwest Maui, Kapalua is best known today for 5-star coastal resorts like the Ritz-Carlton. You’ll also find golf courses, high-end boutiques, and luxurious restaurants in keeping with the moneyed vibe. According to Hawaii’s traditional belief system, Kapalua is also considered an important spiritual vortex.

How long should I spend in Kapalua?

Most people recommend basing yourself in Maui for around a week—10 days if you’re lucky. You’ll want to allot a few days to Kapalua within that timeframe. The best way to enjoy a Hawaiian vacation is to unplug and unwind. Try not to rush your itinerary.

How long does it take to walk the Kapalua Coastal Trail?

This scenic hiking path, considered one of Maui’s top attractions, takes one to four hours to walk. Open year-round, the trail extends 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) out and back. Mostly paved, the Kapalua Coastal Trail is an easy walk that passes waterfront landmarks like Kapalua Bay Beach.

What kind of tours can I book in Kapalua?

Snorkeling and scuba diving are two popular activities in Kapalua. Travelers can find plenty of options for joining escorted excursions—ideal for beginning or advanced divers. Beach bums will enjoy beach-hopping itineraries, while adventure lovers can do an e-bike tour. Try renting if you prefer to explore independently.

Where can I surf and swim in Kapalua?

Honolua Bay is known for its mega waves and draws big crowds. But it’s rocky, so not great for swimming. There’s also D.T. Fleming Beach Park—with its sandy coastline, it's a compromise for travelers looking for both swimming and surfing. Kapalua Beach has calm water that’s good for families.

What time of year is best for visiting Kapalua?

Surfers should plan on coming from October to April when winter winds are strong and the big waves pick up. For everyone else, summer (between May and September) is the best window for sunny weather and calm water, ideal for snorkeling. Some travelers swear by the shoulder months.

Ways to explore

Kapalua is most often explored as part of guided tours from West Maui, including zipline canopy adventures through lush ridges or snorkeling excursions in Kapalua Bay, often led by local marine guides. Some tours combine coastal activities with cultural storytelling or transportation from Lahaina and Kaʻanapali.

Independent visitors can drive into Kapalua to explore its beaches, hiking trails, or scenic coastal lookout points. The Kapalua Coastal Trail is free and open to the public, offering a walkable route past tide pools and bays. Many experiences are seasonal or weather-dependent, so book activities in advance whenever possible.

Accessibility

Most areas are accessible, although some parts of the Kapalua Coastal Trail may be difficult to navigate with a wheelchair.

Age limits

None; attractions are family‑friendly, including beaches, coastal walks, and resort‑based activities.

What to pack

Reef‑safe sunscreen, water bottle, sunglasses, hat; pack snacks if planning time on the beach or trail (on‑site food options are limited)

What to wear

Comfortable sandals or walking shoes, swimwear for beach visits, light layers for breezy coastal weather

Not allowed

Collecting marine life or disturbing tide‑pool habitat; drones in wildlife areas

Amenities

Public parking, restrooms and outdoor showers at Kapalua Bay Beach; picnic tables, shady seating, and rental gear (available nearby)

Address

Kapalua is located on Maui’s northwest coast, roughly one hour from Kahului Airport. You can reach it via car or guided tours departing from Lahaina, Ka‘anapali, or Wailuku. The area is renowned for its beaches, coastal trail, and resort amenities.

Driving

From Lahaina, take the Honoapiʻilani Highway (Route 30) north for about 10 miles until you reach Kapalua. Head toward either Kapalua Bay Beach or The Ritz-Carlton, where parking is available and trail access begins.

Public transportation

Maui Bus operates the Route 29 West Maui Express, which runs from Kahului Transit Center through Lahaina, Ka’anapali, Napili, and terminates in Kapalua. Buses run roughly every hour from early morning until about 8:30pm.

Best times to visit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer cooler temperatures on the trail.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, especially at public beaches and trail entry points, where parking can fill up quickly.

Best months to visit

Spring through early fall (April–October) delivers dry, stable weather, perfect for hiking, beach days, and outdoor dining. Winter (December–March) brings whale migration.

Special events

Wine lovers should consider a summer visit to coincide with the annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival, an adults-only weekend event celebrating wine and the culinary arts.