Maui Beaches | The Top 10 Beaches

La Perouse is actually a reserve and has limited beach access. Much of the area is surrounded by lava rock, but in between you can find some small beaches that offer pristine waters for snorkeling. In the area you will also see the remnants of the last lava flows on the island. A neat place to experience if you're in South Maui.

Charley Young is located centrally to things happening in Kihei. Right next to Cove Park, Charley Young serves as an easy access family-friendly beach. Charley Young makes the list for it's ease of access combined with low population. If in Kihei and looking for a beach to relax with the family, consider stopping by Charley Young. You can even check out a live web cam of the beach.

Located at Ka'anapali beach, Black rock can be for the adventurous. Lava rock formations allow for some fun cliff jumps. Surrounding reefs can make for good snorkeling and the shore break can make for some fun in the waves. It's location makes for a popular beach for visitors staying in Ka'anapali and Lahaina.

Another beautiful beach located in Hana - Red Sand Beach can be a little difficult to get to. A short five to ten minute hike around the ridge will get you into the beach. Park on the street near the Hana Ball Park and you can start making your way in. The beach gets its red color from the crumbling cliffs surrounding the beach. While swimming is not recommended, the view is certainly worth the hike.

If you're staying in Wailea, consider going to Polo Beach. Polo Beach is composed of sand and rock which poses for a day full of snorkeling. You can see turtles, fish, eels and more nestled in the nearby reefs. Polo Beach is another low key beach with plenty of nearby parking if you're looking for an easy way to relax.

While Sandy beach is limited, if you're looking for a place to try out some long board surfing or to just grill out this is a great place. Located on the outer edge of Lahaina, it's not too out of the way for visitors. Launiupoko is small and has limited parking but is great for a full day out. You can surf, swim, bbq and even hit the shade when needed.

Seeking a black sand beach? Look no further than the Honokalani Black Sand beach at the State Park in Hana. While located in the State Park, access and amenities including picnic areas, bathrooms, grills and beaches are still FREE. The Black Sand beach is formed by broken down pieces of lava rock. Remaining lava rock surrounding the beach makes for fun cave exploration and beautiful pictures.

Located in South Maui you'll find Makena beaches. Big beach is named appropriately, stretching almost a full mile along the coastline. Big Beach offers clear waters, soft sand and room to spread out. If you're looking for something a little more active like body or skim boarding, this is the place. Beware of getting caught up in Big Beach's shore breaks - they can get dangerously big. A short hike over the cliffs and you'll find yourself on Little Beach. Little Beach is much smaller and private and is considered Maui's go-to place for nude sunbathing. Please note that it is illegal to go nude, but the law is loosely enforced here. Sunday nights at Little Beach offer a different experience. Drum circles and fire dancers litter the sand as hundreds roll in before sunset to take part in the good times. Drug use and nudity comes in large quantity here, so while Big Beach is family-friendly, Little Beach Maui is recommended for mature audiences only.

In 1991, Kapalua Bay was ranked the number one beach out of 650 beaches. Kapalua is a beautiful soft sand and swell beach. The small waves make for a great setting for a tranquil day at the beach or fun with little ones. Another great place to snorkel.

Hamoa Beach is located just outside of Hana in West Maui. The ride alone via the road to Hana is breathtaking. Once there, you'll only find roadside parking. Make your way down the stairs off of Haneo'o Road and you'll find yourself stepping on a soft grey sand. The beach is surrounded by plenty of vegetation for the nestled away feel. You can picnic, snorkel and body surf but keep in mind there are no lifeguards on duty. Hamoa Beach has been voted one of the top beaches in the U.S. many times, but it can also be dangerous. Keep in mind the surf can get dangerous and the currents can be strong. Be conscious and this could be one of your best beach experiences on the island.

"The finest guidebook ever written for Maui and the only one written by Maui residents who anonymously review the island. They visit every beach, restaurant, activity and trail on the island. The result is this comprehensive, humorous and easy-to-read full color guide that will lead you to more adventures than any other book. A must for travelers."