Relax and Unwind With a Maui Beach Vacation

Underwater Adventures

You know you're on vacation when you don't care what time your watch reads—or even if it's waterproof. Diving into the crystal blue expanse of the surrounding Pacific can sink all your worries and offer limitless opportunities for ocean explorers of all skill levels. Black Rock Beach is a favorite among both beginner snorkelers and certified SCUBA divers for its throngs of brilliantly colored tropical fish and coral labyrinths. Wahikuli State Park's warm, gentle waves are ideal for novice snorkelers, swimmers and boogie boarders, while the waves at Puamana Beach County Park provide an ideal playground for surfers both experienced and green. Speaking of green, keep your goggles peeled while snorkeling at Maluaka Beach, where ancient sea turtles abound.

Sea Level

If it's above water adventure you're after, then west Maui's signature beach, Kaanapali Beach, offers a myriad of ways to bob delightfully along the waves or feel the rejuvenating salty spray on your skin. Play the millionaire adventurer for a day and take a local catamaran cruise over the ocean blue, or slice through the waves on a windsurfing board, complete with lessons. And if you really love feeling the wind rip through the old cobwebs, Mai Poina ‘Oe Ia‘u Beach Park's unique wind and kitesurfing-friendly waves may just do the trick. And for the youngest vacationers, Launiupoko Beach Park boasts a favorite sunny spot among the locals, with its natural pool encased in lava rock walls, perfect for splashing around in.

Sun and Sand

Sometimes it's best to leave the boards and flippers to those in search of something new to write home about. If this is your Maui beach vacation motto, then unroll your oversized towel along any one of Maui's spectacular sunning spots. Or, if after a few hours of lounging you're itching to shake out the sand, slap on your beachcomber's hat and take a stroll along Keawakapu Beach's shoreline. Take the leisurely half-mile walk to the nearest resort and refresh yourself with a cool drink or two. And known for it's (slightly illegal but generally tolerated) clothing optional reputation, Makena Beach State Park will take care of those unsightly tan lines.

About the Author

Gust A. Lenglet is an accomplished author and financial advisor and has written many articles in the fields of investments, education, law, travel, as well as taxation. He is President and CEO of Crown Financial Concepts, Ltd. and offers budgeting software with mvelopes as well as timely advice on tax planning and investments. He also is the CEO of 5 Star Travel, Ltd. and offers information on finding excellent beach vacations to unwind.