PHOTO BY: Douglas Peebles/Getty Images
Ka’anapali Coast, Maui, Hawaii
As soon as you step foot on the coconut palm-dotted shores of Ka’anapali, you’ll understand why this white-sand beach on Maui’s west side was once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty. In the 1960s, it was developed to postcard perfection, becoming the first master-planned resort in the state of Hawaii. Today, the 3 miles of beach remain the epitome of paradise. Calm, crystal clear waters are great for snorkeling, swimming and traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe paddling. And every night at sunset, a cliff diving ceremony is held off of Pu’u Keka’a, the beach’s northernmost cliffs, in honor of Maui’s last ruling chief, who was an avid cliff jumper. Offshore you’ll find two fantastic golf courses with ocean views, some of the island’s top hotels and Whalers Village, a beachfront hub of retail stores and restaurants.
Stay: The Westin Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali, recently completed a $120 million transformation, including the addition of Hokupa’a, a 217-room tower with special guest perks including access to a private bar, infinity pool and free cultural activities like ukulele lessons. Rates start at $599.
Insider Tip: The Kapalua Coastal Trail is a mellow hike of around 3.5 miles, out and back, that departs from neighboring Kapalua Bay Beach. Plan your departure so you can grab a well-earned burger and shake at the Burger Shack at D.T. Fleming Beach, your turn-around point.
