Maui — the Five Best Places to Catch the Perfect Sunset

Maui sunsets, in one word, are spectacular. If you’re heading to Maui on vacation, you probably know all about the beaches, snorkeling, surf spots, and where to catch a real Hawaiian hula. But do you know where to catch the best sunset?

Here are five killer spots that offer gorgeous sunsets. All you have to do is show up.

Kimo’s in Lahaina. Situated smack dab in the middle of Front Street, you’ll find Kimo’s, a landmark restaurant that serves up unforgettable food. It’s also a perfect spot for watching a Maui sunset. Get there early, snag a seat on their upper deck, order a Mai Tai and enjoy some pupus (appetizers) while you’re at it. You won’t be disappointed.

Launipoko Beach Park. If you want to feel like a local, head over to Launipoko Beach Park. It’s just three miles south of Lahaina and a great place to relax for the sunset. This is a popular daytime beach, but sunbathers and surfers tend to disappear as 5 o’clock rolls around. Chances are you could have the place almost to yourselves.

Malauka Beach at Makena. If you’re staying in Kihei or Wailea, this is the beach for a sunset, next to the Maui Prince Hotel. It’s not exactly hidden, but it’s not clearly marked, either. The best way to describe it is by the two unmarked parking lots side by side. Once you find it, you’ll be happy you came. It’s also a great place for body surfing. Along with beautiful sunsets in what feels like a remote atmosphere, plenty of green sea turtles play here at sunset, too.

Kaanapali Beach. Only four miles out of Lahaina you’ll find famous Kaanapali. With three miles of white sand, you can plunk yourself down almost anywhere here and enjoy a Maui sunset. If you’re staying at one of the upscale resorts, just head to the beach near sunset and get ready for a spectacular ending to another Maui day. If you’re at the north end, you’ll be free of resort traffic. No matter where you are on Kaanapali, you’ll catch stellar sunset views and you’ll also have a spectacular view of Lanai.

Napili Bay Beach. Known for its beautiful location just past Kahana and its views of Molokai, this is a great spot to catch the setting sun. You can hang out on the beach on your own or grab a Mai Tai at the nearby Napili Kai Resort. Either way, you can’t go wrong. It’s located just off Hui Drive.

Whatever your sunset pleasure may be, Maui will serve you something unforgettable. Your best bet for catching a great sunset though is on the west side. By late afternoon everyone is waiting for that ball of gold to drop below the horizon when another sky show begins.