If you’re looking for a more refined upscale experience, few resort towns in Hawaii are less touristy than Kapalua. You won’t find shopping complexes or tiki-themed restaurants here, but you will find plenty of luxurious accommodations surrounded in the island’s natural beauty. There are also plenty of adventures and activities to take part in around Kapalua, so if you’re looking for more than leisure time, this is a great area to lodge, as well.
Weather
Kapalua is a bit wetter than other parts of Maui, but it still receives more days of sun than rain every month. The average monthly high temperatures stay in the 80s all year-round, as well. From November to July, you can expect 7-10 days of rain per month. August, September, and October receive about 5 or 6 days of rain each.
Hotels
If you’re looking for the pinnacle of luxury hotels, Montage Kapalua Bay gets pretty darn close with a price tag to match. The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua is also extremely upscale (and expensive). Napili Surf Beach Resort is right on the beach and specializes in surf clientele. Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger is also right on the water. For slightly more affordable accommodations in the area, check out Napili Sunset, The Kapalua Villas Maui, or Napili Kai Beach Resort.
Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Dana Edmunds
Restaurants
There are several delicious places to eat in Kapalua. Most work with American, Hawaiian, or seafood. Here are some of our favorite restaurants:
- Merriman’s Kapalua
- Cane & Canoe
- Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar
- The Gazebo
- Kitchen 5315
- Taverna Maui
- Burger Shack
- The Terrace
- The Banyan Tree
Airport
The Kapalua Airport is a regional, single-runway, private-use airport. There are no car rental services at the airport itself, but you can call these agencies to reserve a shuttle and rental car. The airport is about 5 minutes south of Kapalua town via Honoapiilani Hwy.
RELATED: Hawaii Airports: Everything You Need to Know
Kapalua Bay; Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)
Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay is one of the best beaches in the area and certainly features the best snorkeling. The waters at here are extremely calm thanks to protection from the cove, which makes it great for beginner snorkelers and children. You’re likely to see Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles, eels and tropical fish.
Kapalua Coastal Trail
If you want to take in as much of Kapalua’s beautiful shore as possible, the Kapalua Coastal Trail is a lovely 1.7-mile walk through Kapalua. At the end of the trail, you can continue up the 5.7-mile Mahana Ridge Trail for a more advanced hike.
Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
Golf and Tennis
There are excellent and popular golf courses and tennis courts in town. For golf, there are two courses to choose from. The Bay Course features views of the ocean, although it’s quite a bit smaller. The Plantation Course is much larger and has 18 holes.
For tennis, head to the Kapalua Tennis Garden. There are ten beautiful hard courts with awesome views of the landscape and ocean.
Other Things to Do
- Village Trails & Lake Loop Trail
- Zipline
- Kayak
- Snorkel
- Napili Bay
- Honokeana Bay
- Oneloa Beach
- Stand Up Paddleboard
- Surf at Oneloa Bay
And please remember...
When you're in Hawaii, remember that the beaches and marine life are fragile. Please show your aloha by wearing reef safe sunscreen, respecting the animals - don't get too close or touch them EVER - and by leaving the beach better than you found it. For more on how to be a safe and responsible traveler when you visit Hawaii, click here.
Visiting Maui? Shaka Guide has 6 tours on the island. Check them out here!