Top 10 Beaches in Maui for Sunset

Hands down, there's nothing quite like a Maui sunset! As the sun dips behind the horizon, the sky bursts into layers of gold, rose, and lavender, casting a dreamy glow over the island. Whether it's your first time on Maui or your tenth, watching the sunset is a must-do tradition that captures the essence of island life, celebrating another day well-lived. From romantic sunset strolls to family-friendly beach picnics, watching the sunset is more than just a photo opportunity–it's a moment of pure aloha.

At Maui Resort Rentals, we know firsthand where to find the best Maui sunset spots. Our team is made up of local Hawaii residents who live and breathe the beauty of this island every day. As a locally owned and operated family business, we're passionate about helping our guests experience Maui the way we do—with genuine hospitality, insider knowledge, and access to the island's most magical moments.

In this guide, we'll take you to the top 10 beaches in Maui for sunset, all carefully selected by our local team. And because nothing completes a perfect Hawaiian sunset like a delicious meal, we've also included recommendations for nearby restaurants where you can enjoy a tasty Maui dinner.

1. Ka'anapali Beach

Just steps from many of our Maui Resort Rentals properties, Ka'anapali Beach, is one of the most iconic beaches on the island for many reasons! This west-facing stretch of coastline offers front-row seats to fire-bursting sunsets with views of both the outer islands of Lanai and Molokai across the channel. Walk along the beach walk trail, dip your toes in the ocean, or find a quiet spot near Black Rock (Puʻu Kekaʻa) to watch cliff divers soar into the ocean as the sun sets behind them.

Why it's so great:

• Walkable from most Ka'anapali vacation rentals
• Wide beach, perfect for couples and families
• Great for sunset photography and early evening swims

Nearby Restaurants:

• Hula Grill Ka'anapali – Beachfront dining with live music and local Hawaii flavors right on the beachwalk.
• Leilani's on the Beach – Fresh seafood, ocean views, and a great happy hour steps from the sand.
• Monkeypod Kitchen – Elevated island cuisine with craft cocktails and a lively setting in Whalers Village.

2. Wailea Beach

Nestled in the heart of South Maui's resort coastline, Wailea Beach offers a more refined sunset experience. With gently sloping sands and a backdrop of five-star resorts, it's ideal for a glass of wine at dusk or a peaceful shoreline stroll. If you're staying in one of our Wailea-area vacation rentals, you can walk to this beach in minutes.

Why it's so great:

• Walkable from Wailea vacation rentals
• Quiet, upscale vibe perfect for couples
• West-facing for full-sky sunset views

Nearby Restaurants:

• Humble Market Kitchin – A James Beard Award-winning restaurant by Roy Yamaguchi, located at the Wailea Beach Resort. It serves beautifully crafted Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
• Ferraro's Bar e Ristorante – Romantic Italian dining with an oceanfront view at the Four Seasons.
• Ko at Fairmont Kea Lani – Upscale Hawaiian cuisine rooted in plantation-era traditions, just a short stroll away.

3. Kapalua Bay

Framed by palm trees and lava rock outcroppings, Kapalua Bay feels like a scene from a postcard. Located just a short drive north of Ka'anapali, this sheltered cove is a favorite for swimmers and snorkelers by day and sunset watchers by evening. The natural framing of the coastline and wooded areas makes it ideal for snapping dramatic sunset photos.

Why it's so great:

• Ideal for sunset photography
• Calm, clear water
• Secluded feel despite its popularity

Nearby Restaurants:

• Taverna – An open-air "urban rustic" Italian bistro in the heart of Kapalua, offering handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere just steps from the bay.
• Merriman's Kapalua – Oceanfront fine dining with spectacular views and locally sourced ingredients.
• The Banyan Tree – Refined coastal cuisine at the Ritz-Carlton with a lovely sunset ambiance.

4. Napili Bay

A smaller, more intimate beach just south of Kapalua, Napili Bay offers calm waters, soft golden sand, and a tranquil vibe that's perfect for winding down the day. While it's just a short drive from Ka'anapali, it feels worlds away in the atmosphere. 

Why it's so great:

• Family-friendly, calm water
• Great for couples seeking peace and quiet
• A local favorite with turtles sunbathing on the sand

Nearby Restaurants:

• Kitchen 5315 Restaurant & Tiki Bar – A local favorite inside Napili Shores Resort offering island-style Hawaiian cuisine, tasty pupus, and tropical tiki‑bar vibes.
• Sea House Restaurant – Beachfront dining with panoramic ocean views right on Napili Bay.
• Sansei Kapalua – While slightly farther, this renowned sushi and Asian-fusion restaurant offers creative small plates and a fun, upbeat atmosphere—ideal if you’re up for a short drive after your sunset stroll.

5. Maluaka Beach

Tucked away in Makena, Maluaka Beach—often called “Turtle Town” for its frequent green sea turtle sightings—offers calm, clear waters and golden sand. With Haleakala in the distance and Molokini on the horizon, it’s a stunningly serene setting for a romantic or reflective sunset.

Why it's so great:

• Often secluded and intimate in the evenings
• Beautiful views of Molokini and Haleakalā
• Just south of Wailea

Nearby Restaurants:

• Gather on Maui – Contemporary Hawaiian comfort food made from locally sourced ingredients served in a warm, stylish setting just a short drive from Secret Beach.
• Morimoto Maui – A celebrity chef–helmed Japanese restaurant at the Andaz Maui Resort, offering sushi, robata, and a sleek ocean-view setting—great for an upscale dinner after sunset.
• Lineage Maui – A modern Hawaii local-style restaurant in Wailea, celebrating island-grown ingredients with a refined, farm-to-table menu. It is ideal for a relaxing post-sunset dinner in a stylish open-air setting.

6. Big Beach (Makena Beach)

Known for its dramatic size and natural beauty, Big Beach, or Makena Beach, offers one of Maui's most expansive stretches of sand. The wide horizon and lack of development give you a completely unobstructed view of the setting sun. It's a bit farther south of Wailea but well worth the short drive for a more grandiose and unforgettable sunset experience. If you'll be swimming here, don't turn your back on the ocean because there are frequent rogue waves. 

Why it's so great:

• Huge beach with room to spread out
• Incredible panoramic sunset views
• Raw, undeveloped natural scenery

Nearby Restaurants:

• Spago Maui – Wolfgang Puck’s high-end restaurant at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, featuring California-Hawaiian fusion cuisine with ocean-view seating and spectacular sunset vistas.
• Ka'ana Kitchen at Andaz Maui – Contemporary Hawaiian dining and shareable plates.
• Island Gourmet Markets (Wailea) – Perfect for grabbing poke or plate lunches to enjoy as a beach picnic.

7. Polo Beach

Nestled at the south end of the Wailea Beach Walk, Polo Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenience. The sandy shoreline slopes gently into the ocean, making it family-friendly for swimming and snorkeling on calm days. With stunning views of Molokini and Kahoʻolawe, it’s also a fantastic spot to spread out a beach blanket and watch the sunset.

Why it's so great:

• Convenient amenities including restrooms and showers
• Breathtaking sunset views with easy resort access
• Easy access and parking

Nearby Restaurants:

• Ko Restaurant – Upscale dining at the Fairmont Kea Lani featuring island-inspired cuisine.
• Nick’s Fishmarket – Renowned seafood restaurant also at the Fairmont, perfect for a special evening.
• Matteo's Osteria – Cozy Italian trattoria offering pasta and wine pairings in Wailea town center.

8. Charley Young Beach

Located at the north end of Kamaole I Beach Park in Kihei, Charley Young Beach is a favorite among South Maui locals. Its central location makes it easy to reach and offers a mellow, family-friendly vibe. The sand glows a soft orange in the late afternoon light, and there's plenty of room to lay out a towel or bring a picnic.

Why it's so great:

• Casual and relaxed, loved by locals
• Great for families or low-key travelers
• Gorgeous pastel sunsets over the ocean

Nearby Restaurants:

• Maui Brewing Co. Kihei – Locally crafted beers and a farm-to-table menu in a lively taproom setting. Perfect for sunset sips, beer lovers, and casual bites.
• Coconut's Fish Café – Family-friendly and famous for their fresh fish tacos and coconut shrimp.
• Nalu's South Shore Grill – Relaxed, live music spot with Hawaiian comfort food and open-air seating.

9. Olowalu Beach

Often overlooked by visitors rushing through the Honoapiilani Highway, Olowalu Beach is a calm, reef-protected shoreline known for its shallow water and tranquil atmosphere. It's part of the Olowalu Reef, a designated Blue Hope Spot recognized for its critical role in marine biodiversity and coral conservation. It's not uncommon to spot sea turtles here, and the sunsets—especially with the tide pools in the foreground—are completely mesmerizing. Just a quick drive from Lahaina and Kaʻanapali, it's a peaceful, meaningful place to end your day on Maui.

Why it's so great:

• Peaceful and uncrowded
• Great for a romantic picnic or sunset swim
• Unique photo opportunities with tide pools

Nearby Restaurants:

• Leoda's Kitchen and Pie Shop – A must-stop for savory pies, sandwiches, and fresh-baked desserts right across the street.
• Coco Deck Lahaina – Lively oceanfront dining on Lahaina's Front Street, offering Mexican, American, and seafood dishes in a family-friendly, casual atmosphere perfect for post-sunset meals.
• Honu Oceanside – Oceanfront dining near Mala Wharf offering upscale seafood, steaks, and island fare with panoramic water views.

10. Baldwin Beach Park

On the North Shore near Paia, Baldwin Beach Park is a wide, breezy, and epic place to watch the sun dip low after a day exploring the Road to Hana or nearby Paia Town shops. While this area isn't near resort zones, it's a favorite for adventurous travelers, photographers, and runners who want a more laid-back experience.

Why it's so great:

• Big sky views and room to roam and take a run
• Less crowded during golden hour
• It is an excellent stop before heading back to South or West Maui

Nearby Restaurants:

• Flatbread Company (Paia) – Wood-fired pizzas with organic local toppings in a laid-back setting.
• Mama's Fish House – One of Maui's most celebrated restaurants, perfect for a memorable dinner post-sunset.
• Paia Fish Market – Quick, casual, and flavorful—perfect for families or grab-and-go meals.

Watching the sun setting on Maui is more than a beautiful view—it's a ritual, a memory, and often, the perfect way to end a day in paradise. Whether you're toasting with a loved one on the shores of Ka'anapali Beach, taking family photos at Po'olenalena, or grabbing dinner after a golden hour walk at Wailea Beach, each of these top 10 beaches in Maui for sunset offers a unique moment to slow down and connect with the island.

Pairing a sunset with a great local meal only enhances the experience, and with so many nearby restaurants, it's easy to turn your sunset outing into a memorable Maui evening.

At Maui Resort Rentals, we're here to help you make the most of your time on island—from where you stay to how you experience each day. With a team of local experts, professionally managed vacation rentals, and insider tips you won't find in the guidebooks, we're your trusted partner in planning an unforgettable Hawaii getaway on Maui.

Ready to make your Maui sunset dreams a reality?

Book your next stay with Maui Resort Rentals, or contact us to list your property with a locally trusted team that delivers exceptional service and aloha every step of the way.