Kapalua Beach is consistently rated among the best beaches in the United States. It is a sheltered crescent at the north end of the Kapalua resort area, calm enough for good snorkelling and protected from the heavy north swell that batters more exposed beaches in winter. Coral and reef fish are visible close to shore; sea turtles are a regular sighting.
The beach has toilets, showers, and limited parking (arrive early or walk in from the Kapalua Bay Hotel). It stays relatively uncrowded by Maui standards. The snorkelling is best along the rocky headlands at either end of the bay.