This west-coast community has several nice resorts, an excellent beach and two fine golf courses (one designed by Robert Trent Jones, the other by Jack Snyder).
Though the lovely beach at Ka'anapali is lined with resort hotels, the general public is guaranteed access to the shore under state law. There are entrance points between many of the hotels. You can go snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing and parasailing, or just relax and listen to the waves.
North of Ka'anapali are the coastal towns of Kahana and Honokowai, where rows of condominiums and beachfront apartments provide relatively inexpensive accommodations in western Maui. A little farther up the coast, in the Kapalua area, are upscale hotels and resorts, beaches and golf courses.
North of Kapalua, Honolua Bay is a marine-life conservation area with a beautiful, undeveloped inlet surrounded by cliffs. It has a natural harbor to drop anchor in, as well as a tranquil beach and good water for snorkeling. If you are willing to travel 25 mi/40 km on a windy and, in some places, single-lane road, you'll pass through the west coast's most dramatic scenery and circle back to Maui's central valley.
Note: There is currently a good deal of debate concerning the development of this area. Possible changes in the next few years may include more parking, restrooms and paved paths, and/or blocked access because of private homes, construction and golf courses.
