Napili Bay

Napili Bay is a beautiful crescent shaped white sand beach that is located in the area of the island called Napili along the coast of West Maui. Napili Bay is very popular, particularly among people who are staying in Napili and are within walking distance of this seaside jewel of a beach. Those traveling to Napili Bay by car will have to find parking on the back streets behind the bay and on busy days this area can be packed. As is the case with most beaches along these northern areas of Maui the winter months will bring in the occasional big swells making Napili Bay an ideal location for experienced body boarders and surfers. These would not be ideal times for snorkelers or unproven swimmers so caution should be taken. During the summer months and days between high surf in the winter months Napili Bay is a great location for snorkelers, swimmers and sunbathers. The bottom is sandy in the middle areas of the crescent but there is often a steep drop off in the sand which will give you the impression that you just missed a step walking down a staircase so caution should advised with children as they could find themselves in water well over their head in short notice.

The ends of the beach provide the best areas for snorkeling. You will find coral formations and rock abutments in these areas and during low tides they can even be uncovered. There will be plenty of room for you to maneuver your way out however to areas that keep you safely above the ocean floor and coral formations and you will enjoy the marine life you will find at Napili Bay. Be sure to be on the lookout for some of the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles who are…

To the left is an example of what the rocks and coral can look like at low tide. These areas are often so shallow and the water is generally so clear that at the perimeters of the bay you can frequently observe the sea life from the shoreline.

Amenities at Napili Bay
The adjacent photo shows the entrance to Napili Bay from Hui Drive which is the small back street that feeds directly off Highway 30 in Napili. Parking is permitted on this small street but it is often fairly crowded. According to the information from the adrenaline.com. There are no public restrooms at the beach but there is a shower at the entrance of Hui Drive. All seating will be on the comfortable sand as there are no picnic tables and there are no public barbecues either. There are no lifeguards stationed at Napili Bay.

Ocean Caution
Please be advised that all beaches and ocean locations in Hawaii can be potentially dangerous including this location. Be completely aware of the ocean conditions prior to entering the water and of course, never turn your back on the ocean when you are on the shoreline. It should also be noted that all shorelines and beaches in Hawaii, including this one, can be frequented by sharks, jellyfish and other sea creatures which can provide potential harm to people entering the water.