Napili Bay

The small crescent of golden sand that makes up Napili Beach is very popular with tourists, especially honeymooners and holidaying couples. Throughout the year, sunbathers and swimmers come to enjoy the turquoise waters in the bay or read a book under the waving palm trees. During the calmer summer months, conditions are perfect for snorkeling, with a chance to see Hawaiian green turtles. Come winter, the surfers arrive to ride the increasing waves. Hotels and condos are plentiful in Napili Bay, but this accommodation hotspot has been designed to blend in with its surroundings, and no structure rises taller than the average palm tree. The result evokes the relaxed, natural atmosphere of “old Hawaii,” and Napili has a retro feel to it. The beach at Napili Bay is flanked by two rocky outcrops, and the water in the bay is sheltered. Snorkelers flock to Napili Bay in the summer to explore the coral reefs on both the left and right side of the bay closer to the tips of the outcrops. It’s not teeming with fish, but there is enough to see underwater to keep you busy for an hour or so. Come early morning, when the visibility is better. In winter, the surf swells up and surfers and body boarders arrive to ride the substantial waves. You can still swim and snorkel during this time, but be aware of the steep drop-off of the ocean floor and powerful undertow at this time of year. As with many of Maui’s beaches, there is often no lifeguard on duty. On such windy days, many people enjoy a swim in one of the resort pools instead.For a romantic dining experience at sunset, treat yourself to a meal at one of the beachside restaurants. Napili Bay is situated on the northwestern tip of Maui. There are many dining and drinking options here, but if you are on a budget, consider buying food from the local grocery store. A hotel room with sea view doesn’t come cheap at Napili Bay, but there are also less expensive studios to choose from.