Maui’s Best Beaches

More than 60 beaches hug Maui’s coastline, including four that have been named “Best Beach in America” by environmental scientist and author Steven “Dr. Beach” Leatherman. Choosing which stretch of sand to visit is an inviting tropical challenge, and it could take months — or even years — to leave your footprints on all of them. Here’s a starter kit of beaches we recommend for the attractions they offer — from sunup to sundown.

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Oneloa beach sunset Maui

Best Beach for Watching the Sunset
Oneloa Beach, Mākena State Park

While there’s no such thing as a bad beach on Maui for watching the end-of-day light show, Oneloa has some exceptional evening magic. Known locally — and affectionately — as “Big Beach,” Oneloa stretches for nearly a mile and is spectacularly wide. Because it’s completely undeveloped, it offers a peaceful allure and a sense of serene seclusion backed by the soundtrack of surf — regardless of how full the parking lot gets. In the hour before sunset, a surreal calm envelops Oneloa as the sun dips toward Molokini Crater and suffuses the beach in soft orange hues. The park’s gates close after sunset, but if you’re not ready for the evening to end, drive to neighboring Maluaka Beach and watch the stars come out.

Runner-up: Keawakapu Beach, Kīhei

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