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Best West Maui Kayak Tours

Loads of sunshine and relatively rain-free months year round make West Maui an excellent place for kayaking. The waters surrounding West Maui are dense with life, and on any kayaking trip you might encounter Green Sea Turtles, tropical fish, and even Humpback Whales! There are short kayaking trips for novices, and those in strong physical shape can enjoy longer excursions to unique environments like the rugged sea cliffs of Pali.

West Maui kayaking is an excellent activity for families and couples, and singles can join a group tour and meet new friends. The island is dense with kayak excursion tour guides, so to help you find the best trip for your lifestyle, we’ve made a guide to the best West Maui Kayak tours.

Pali Sea Cliff Tour by South Pacific Kayaks Maui

The Pali Sea Cliff Tour is a longer kayaking tour, so it’s best for those in good physical shape. This five mile kayak trip is definately worth the paddle, taking you to the rugged sea cliffs of Pali. You’ll enjoy two to three snorkel stops on your trip, all in areas that are teeming with wildlife.

You can expect to see the infamous (and endangered) Green Sea Turtle, among other beautiful water dwellers. This tour can be booked in public (ages 16+) or private groups (ages 12+). If you’re looking to experience the natural beauty of West Maui, we highly recommend this kayaking excursion. 

More About South Pacific Kayaks Maui >

Kelii’s 2.5 Hour Kayak & Snorkeling Tour by Kelii’s Kayak Tours

The 2.5 Hour Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour by Kelii’s Kayak Tours is our top choice for those with children (although adults will love this tour just as much). You’ll paddle about two and a half miles, and snorkel for around 45 minutes. The waters are calm and all skill levels are welcome, which is why this tour is so great for those with kiddos.

Even with the shorter excursion length, you’ll get a chance to see tropical fish, Green Sea Turtles and Humpback Whales (if it’s the right time of year, as they come to West Maui seasonally). Kelii’s also offers a 3.5 to 4 hour kayaking trip, so you can experience two different reefs. 

More About Kelii’s Kayak Tours >

Kayak, Whale Watch & Snorkel Excursion by Maui Adventure Tours

West Maui Adventure Tours is our top choice for an exciting and educational kayak excursion. Each year, from December to May, the Humpback Whales take over Olowalu. They make grand entrances from below the surface, giving visitors the opportunity to view this magnificent creature in detail.

Your West Maui Adventure Tour guide will teach you all about this annual migration, as you watch from the center of the Hawaiian Islands National Whale Marine Sanctuary. West Maui Adventures also offers a Turtle Reef Kayak & Snorkel Excursion, which is a great choice when the whales aren’t in season.

More About Maui Adventure Tours >

Book Your West Maui Vacation Today

We hope our guide to the best West Maui kayak tours helped you find the perfect excursion. If you’re still not sure which tour is best for you, check out our guide to snorkeling, kayaking and water excursions in West Maui. Planning a vacation to West Maui? Don’t forget to book your Chase ‘N Rainbows vacation rental. Contact us today for more information. 

5 Best Maui Beaches

Maui is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the world. Whether you’re looking for an easily accessible beach for swimming and relaxing or an off-the-beaten-path locale for advanced surfing, Maui boasts stunning beaches for everyone. 

Best Maui Beaches at a Glance

Kā’anapali Beach

Kā’anapali Beach, also called Black Rock Beach, features golden white sand, pristine calm water, and a walking trail to explore the area. You can swim with the sea turtles, snorkel, view whales, and more. While the waters here are typically calm, there can be strong currents at times so be mindful of warnings. This is a popular beach with nearby shopping and dining within walking distance. There are no restrooms or a lifeguard on duty.

Napili Bay Beach

Napili Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the western shore of Maui, and it’s a great spot for snorkeling, swimming, and body surfing. It boasts white sand along the ocean bottom, which makes it easy to view tropical fish, sea turtles, and even seals. You’ll find shopping and amenities within walking distance of Napili Bay Beach. There is no lifeguard on-duty or on-site restrooms.

Kapalua Bay Beach

Kapalua Bay Beach is one of Maui’s best-known beaches, boasting golden sand, coconut palms, and fabulous views of Molokai on clear days. There are lava rock outcroppings on either side of the Kapalua Bay Beach, which helps creates calm conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Bring along a picnic to enjoy in the lawn area or stop by a nearby restaurant or shop for snacks. There is no lifeguard on duty, but there are restrooms, showers, and a changing area. 

Pu’unoa Beach

Lāhainā’s Baby Beach, or Pu’unoa Beach, is one of the best family-friendly beaches in Maui. Calm and shallow waters are perfect for small children. Snorkeling is popular here as well, especially for beginners. Located near Lāhainā and Front Street, this beach is easily accessible. Baby Beach is also known for its beautiful sunsets and whale watching. There are no public restrooms and no lifeguards on duty here. 

Windmills Beach

Located north of the Honolua Bay, Windmills Beach is a secluded and off-the-beaten-path spot great for sunbathing, shelling, and avoiding crowds. Experienced surfers will find great conditions here, but if you’re not a surfer you will love to watch the pros ride the waves. This beach is beautiful and easily accessible, but there are no restrooms or a lifeguard on duty.

Visit These 5 Maui Museums

Maui has a deep-rooted history and West Maui is home to many notable sights and museums. Whether you’re going on a family vacation to Maui or traveling for your honeymoon, these cultural institutions are must-visits. 

Wo Hing Museum

The Wo Hing Museum in Lāhainā was built in 1912 as a social meeting hall for the Wo Hing Society. The building is known for its ornate wood details and bronze bust and marble pedestal monument in the front yard for Dr. Sun Yat-sen. Today, the downstairs is a museum with historic artifacts and a gift shop, but it was once a social space for the society. The upstairs is a temple for religious ceremonies and features the only public Taoist altar on Maui. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Baldwin Home Museum

The Baldwin Home Museum is the oldest house still standing on Maui located in the center of Historic Lāhainā. The home was originally built in 1834 and 1835, and it underwent two additions. It was owned and occupied by local missionary Reverend Ephraim Spaulding and his family. The home, which now stands at two stories, was specifically constructed to withstand the high winds off the ocean.

Lāhainā Heritage Museum

The Lāhainā Heritage Museum in the Old Lāhainā Courthouse features displays and artifacts dating back hundreds of years. You’ll find stories from the whaling period, Plantation era, early tourism, and more. The museum’s “Always Lāhainā” tells the entire Lāhainā history. There is also an interactive topographical map of Maui on the second floor.

Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House Museum

Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House Museum is the largest collection of Hawaiian antiques on Maui. The museum is run by the Maui Historical Society. Located in Wailuku, the museum features a rotating selection of programs and exhibits featuring Pre-European artifacts, modern art, paintings, sculptures, textiles, and more.

Humpback National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center

The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary offers an ideal location to whale watch on land or water. The Visitor Center features rotating exhibits documenting the culture and preservation of marine animals and all aquatic life. You can also learn about tips for whale watching, local regulations and safety, and coastal forecasts.

Plan Your West Maui Vacation

West Maui offers insight into Hawaii’s history and is home to some incredible displays of history and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Maui, consider learning about the past and present of the culture on Maui. Let us help you find the best things to do for your interests. Plus, we offer a wide variety of Maui vacation rentals for groups of all sizes.

6 Things to do in Paia

Paia is Maui’s most walkable neighborhood, and one of the most walkable neighborhoods in all of Hawaii. Paia Maui is known for its dining scene and easy access to the north shore beaches and surf spots. If you’re looking to get out of your Maui vacation rental for the day, consider a trip to the laid-back surf town of Paia.

Paia Fish Market

The Paia Fish Market has been a community staple since 1989. The casual spot is considered to have the best seafood in Hawaii, serving affordable and fresh fish daily. The first location was in Paia, but the company has since expanded to Lāhainā, Waikiki, and Kihei.

Mana Foods

Mana Foods is a local favorite for organic and local produce in Paia. Planning to cook a meal in your Maui vacation rental kitchen? Mana Foods is the place to pick up all the ingredients you need, and then some. Mana Foods also has a solid selection of health and beauty products and other eco-friendly household items.

Paia Bay Coffee

It’s no secret that Hawaii is known for its coffee. Paia Bay Coffee is among the best of the best. Paia Bay Coffee & Bar is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, serving local and organic ingredients including Maui coffee beans. Beyond cuisine, Paia Bay Coffee is known for its tropical garden patio.

Baldwin Beach Park

Baldwin Beach Park is about two miles west of Paia town. Known for its bodysurfing and bodyboarding, Baldwin Beach Park has wide-open sandy shores to relax and unwind. The beach is fully equipped with on-site showers, barbecue pits, picnic tables, bathrooms, and on-duty lifeguards. Ho’okipa Beach Park is about 3.5 miles from town, and it’s a great spot to watch kite surfers, explore tide pools, and see sea turtles.

Paia Bowls

Paia Bowls are as colorful as they are delicious. The tropical and trendy spot serves up smoothies, acai bowls, coffee, and some small plates. Paia Bowls is the perfect pre- or post-beach stop to fuel up and keep cool.

Maui Hands

Maui Hands is a one-stop shop for art, gifts, and knick-knacks from more than 300 local artists. Maui Hands is a consignment shop and gallery selling paintings, photography, glass, ceramics, wood, and more.

Plan Your West Maui Vacation

If you’re planning your stay in a Maui vacation rental, a day trip to Paia is worth considering. The charming and historic town remains a favorite for locals and travelers alike. Discover the history of Maui and enjoy the pristine nature on the island. Contact us today for more information. 

7 Luxury Beachfront Vacation Rentals in Maui

Planning a trip to Maui? Maui luxury vacation rentals beachfront or oceanfront allow immediate access to water and all the mysteries below. Vacation rentals in Maui offer the space and comfort of home, and these units put you in the best location possible. If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, consider one of these luxury oceanfront condos in Maui.

Mahana Resort 804

Take in oceanfront views from eight floors up at Mahana Resort. Located right on Kaanapali’s stunning North Beach, this Mahana Resort unit features all the bells and whistles inside, like a state-of-the-art kitchen, a private lanai, and telescope. This Maui luxury beachfront condo is also close to Airport Beach and Honokōwai Beach Park. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom vacation rental sleeps four people comfortably.

luxury Maui vacation rental near the beach

Lāhainā Shores 505

This beachfront condo in Maui doesn’t sacrifice proximity to area amenities and attractions. Lāhainā Shores is near the historic town of Lāhainā, as well as other beaches such as Shark Pit, Baby Beach. And Wahikuli State Park. Gaze out onto the reef-protected beach from this stunning studio condo.

luxury Maui vacation rental near the beach

Lāhainā Shores 225

Also located at Lahania Shores, this unit is located on the second floor overlooking the sprawling lawn and oceanfront. This luxury Maui vacation rental fits two people comfortably, offering high-end kitchen appliances and a private lanai to sip morning coffee and dine alfresco. This beach resort is perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway without being too far from dining and shopping.

luxury beachfront Maui vacation rental

Whaler 656

Located on Kaanapali Beach, The Whaler offers Maui luxury vacation rentals beachfront to Black Rock. Wahikuli State Park and Airport Beach are also both within reach. Whaler features a large beachside pool and hot tub area and sprawling views of distant islands. This one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit has enough space to sleep six people.

luxury Maui vacation rental near the beach

Kahana Outrigger 4B2

Located on the shores of Kahana, Kahana Outrigger is a laid-back community near the area’s best restaurants, golf, and shopping. Kahuna Outrigger 4B2 features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, offering enough space for eight people. This bright and sunny unit offers views of the ocean and close proximity to the shared pool.

beachfront maui vacation rental

Mahana Resort 1205

Maui luxury vacation rentals beachfront on Kaanapali’s North Beach provide access to miles of pristine shoreline. This Mahana Resort unit sleeps two people in a one-bedroom one-bathroom layout. This deluxe condo has been completely renovated and offers unmatched views of the water. It feels like you’re floating on water here.

luxury Maui vacation rental near the beach

Valley Isle 208

Wake up to the sounds of the ocean at Valley Isle. This renovated condo features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as luxe kitchen appliances, including a wine cooler. Take your meals to the private lanai overlooking the lush gardens and beachfront below. This luxury Maui vacation rental is also within close proximity to area amenities like China Boast, Maui Brewing Co., and more.

Our Maui luxury vacation rentals allow you and your group to experience everything the island has to offer, all within steps of the beach. Browse our selection of a condo, penthouse, or townhome units.

beachfront maui vacation rental

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