Kapalua Coastal Trail — Attraction in Maui

Interesting mix of beaches, cliffs, rock formations, and resorts.

Going from the south the coastal trail begins with a family beach, continues through large scale resorts, cuts into a grassy knoll connected to interesting rock formations, goes along a cliff with big drops and crashing waves, winds through exclusive golf resorts, goes on a regular street for a while, and then ends up at the public access path to the "Dragon's Teeth" that's on the edge of a golf course.

The contrasts between nature & development, public & exclusivity were both interesting to understand both the geographical and economical diversity of Maui on this trail.

Finding the free, public parking that has access to the Kapalua beach is the first trial. Using Google Maps to navigate to "Kapalua Coastal Trail Free Public Parking" would be a good guide, but it's easy to turn into the Bay Club Place by mistake that's north of the access road.

Most likely there won't be any parking left but you'd be able to park on the eastern side of the Lower Honoapiilani Road, south of the beach...

This is a long hiking trail but snorkeling starts right at Kapalua Bay. You park then walk for about 2 minutes from the parking lot to Kapalua Bay which is part of the trail. We only did the snorkeling part and it was the best place to snorkel from the several places we went swimming and snorkeling. The water was very clear more than other places, if that’s possible in Hawaii and lots of corrals exist here so there were more colorful fish and we even saw turtles swim right under our feet. We went there in early September 2022 so there may be slight change in temperatures throughout the year but the weather was fantastic as it always is in Hawaii. Once again, seizing fish begins right as soon as you get in the water. It may be a good idea to bring along a pair of water shoes as you may come across some rocks while getting in the water. Regular snorkeling gear purchased at the store will of course make it more fun to be in the water to watch the fish under water.

All I have to say is that this place is a MUST visit but especially if you...

Beautiful area. If you're a PGA fan, you'll appreciate driving through the golf grounds before reaching the trail.

We have 3 kids under 8 (June 2023). The trail was easy and great up until the last stretch, where it felt somewhat dangerous for young children. The wide trail path became very narrow and rocky, with the ocean far below straight off the trail path. The maze is at the end of this narrowed path. If your kids are very coordinated, then maybe this isn't a concern. 2 of 3 of our kids are somewhat clumsy, so we turned around at the point the path narrowed. But it was also at that point when the views really opened up, and we were able to enjoy the magnificent unobstructed panoramic views.

Also, the trail is in the midst of native sacred land. There are signs all along the trail explaining how this is sacred land, and warning people to stay on the trail. I honestly felt a spiritual vibe while on certain parts of the trail. The spiritual vibes weren't "scary" at all, but actually calming. There is definitely deep history and...