America’s No. 1 Summer Hot Spot Has a Beach You’ll Dream About
A beach that once topped the list of America’s best has once again become the talk of summer. Kaanapali, a coastal gem on the island of Maui, is now the most searched vacation spot in the country. Here’s what makes this Hawaiian favorite the kind of place travelers dream about long after their tan fades.
It’s Home to One of America’s Top Beaches
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Kaanapali Beach didn’t get its reputation by accident. Its three miles of soft white sand and calm, clear water helped it earn the title of “Best Beach in America” from coastal geologist Dr. Stephen Leatherman, aka “Dr. Beach.”
This Was Hawaii’s First Master-Planned Resort Area
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Long before the rest of the world caught on, Hawaii laid the groundwork for destination-style tourism with Kaanapali. In the 1960s, it became the state’s first fully planned resort area by combining luxury hotels, shopping, golf courses, and beach access in one walkable location.
Outrigger, Hyatt, And Westin Line The Shoreline
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The beachfront is stacked with recognizable hotel names. The Outrigger, Hyatt Regency, and Westin all sit along the coast and give guests front-row ocean views. Each is within steps, and it’s part of what keeps the area top of mind for travelers craving oceanfront luxury.
Snorkeling Off Black Rock Is Practically A Tradition
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At the north end of Kaanapali Beach sits Black Rock, a lava outcropping that draws snorkelers by the dozens. It is known for sea turtles, schools of fish, and incredible underwater clarity. That’s why this spot is consistently listed among Maui’s best snorkeling locations.
It’s Seeing One Of The Biggest Travel Search Surges Of The Year
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The spot made its way to the top of 2025’s summer travel trend list, with searches on HometoGo shooting up to 242 percent. Hawaii itself saw a 132 percent increase overall, but this beach town outpaced the rest. The surge reflects a growing traveler preference for warm, scenic coastal getaways.
Whalers Village Keeps the Area Buzzing
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Just steps from the beach, Whalers Village has become the unofficial social hub of Kaanapali. Visitors swing by for surf shops, island-inspired boutiques, and open-air restaurants where ocean breezes keep things casual. The museum inside even tells the story of Maui’s whaling history.
Sunsets Feel Like a Daily Ritual Here
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When the sky starts changing colors, everyone drifts toward the water. There’s no official schedule, but it feels like a routine: stand near Black Rock, wait for the torch to be lit, and watch the sun disappear. Somehow, it never gets old.
The Beach Walk Connects Everything Without A Car
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Stretching along the coast, the Kaanapali Beach Walk links hotels, restaurants, shops, and the beach itself. It’s perfect for morning strolls, jogs at sunrise, or even just a barefoot wander between meals. You can skip the Uber and just walk barefoot to dinner.
Golfers Come for the Views, Not Just the Greens
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Royal Kaanapali and Kaanapali Kai bring championship-level golf, but let’s be honest: half the appeal is the view. Lanai and Molokai hover in the distance, palm trees line the greens, and ocean breezes cool things off. Golfers don’t mind losing a few balls with scenery like that.
It’s A Short Drive From Lahaina—With Big Contrasts
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The historic town of Lahaina is just south of Kaanapali. Once a whaling village, it now hosts art galleries, harbor cruises, and quiet waterfront spots. The short drive between the two makes it easy to bounce between high-end resort life and low-key island history in the same afternoon.
Luaus Here Lean Into Local Culture
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Plenty of people show up for the hula and fire-knife dancing, but the Legends of Ka’anapali Luau also bring storytelling, local food, and cultural context. It’s entertainment, sure, but it’s also a genuine peek into Hawaiian tradition.
Sea Turtles Like The Area Just As Much As Tourists
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Green sea turtles are regulars around Kaanapali, especially near Black Rock. While snorkeling or paddleboarding, don’t be surprised if one glides past. Federal protections keep them safe, and respectful observation is encouraged.
The Airport Is Closer Than You Think
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Most visitors fly into Kahului Airport, but West Maui has its own regional airport just a short drive away. Though smaller, it’s convenient for inter-island flights and charters. This proximity makes it easier to pair Kaanapali with another island or keep the focus local with minimal travel stress.
It’s A Beach That Works For Families, Couples, Or Solo Travelers
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Families with kids, honeymooners, and solo adventurers all fit right in here. You can snorkel, golf, nap on the beach, or browse shops without breaking your routine. It’s one of those rare places where laid-back and luxurious can exist at the same time.
You Can Still Find Deals—If You Plan Early
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Kaanapali may be trending, but it hasn’t completely priced out budget-conscious travelers. Condos offer better rates than hotels, and off-season bookings cut costs without sacrificing the sun. Planning ahead is key, though, especially now that the destination sits at the top of so many summer travel lists.