Kapalua Beach

The picture-perfect Kapalua Beach gets the seal of approval! Not only do tourists sun on the beach here, but endangered monk seals sometimes haul out to snooze the afternoon away on the soft white sand.

And what good taste they have. This crescent-shaped beach, with its clear view of Moloka'i across the channel, offers everything you need for a day at the beach. Long rocky outcrops at both ends of the bay make Kapalua Beach the safest year-round swimming spot on this coast. You'll find good snorkeling on the right side of the beach, with lots of large tangs, butterfly fish and orange slate-pencil sea urchins.

Take the drive immediately north of Napili Kai Beach Resort to get to the beach parking area, where there are rest rooms and showers. Look for the tunnel that leads from the parking lot north to the beach.