Ka’anapoli
Distance to the airport: Located about 16 miles from Kahului Airport. Major carriers offer direct mainland service to Maui’s Kahului Airport. Or you can get to Honolulu International and transfer to an inter-island flight to Kahului.
Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended, as there is no public transportation system. (Maui has one of the least expensive car-rental rates in the country.)
In 1957 the cane fields of Ka’anapali, along the northwest shore of Maui, were transformed into a luxury tourist resort. The superb white-sand beach (more desirable than what Lahaina can offer) gradually became a prime destination for half a million visitors each year. Ka’anapali Beach is divided into two separate long strands by the daunting 300-foot cinder cone of Pu’u Keka’a, known as the Black Rock.
- The rugged lava coastline around the rock is one of the best snorkeling spots on Maui.
- Ka’anapali boasts two excellent golf courses, which offer sunset views of the island of Lanai.
- When you’re ready for a break from the sun, visit Whalers Village — a collection of over 65 shops and restaurants located on the oceanfront.
- The Whale Museum here is home to the world’s best scrimshaw collections (various carved or engraved articles made originally by American whalers, usually from baleen or whale ivory).
- Don’t waste time or money with boat operators. Snorkeling equipment can be rented for $10-15 a week (we recommend renting from local legend Snorkel Bob. The local shops have maps and instructions to guide you to some great spots all around the island.
- Snorkeling on Black Rock reef (located on the beach at the Sheraton in north Ka’anapoli) is best for beginners. This is an afternoon activity, because illumination is better when the sun is high and the reef is out of the shadow of Black Rock. Stay for the sunset torch lighting ceremony and dinner.