THE BEST ACTIVITIES ON KĀʻANAPALI BEACH

Kāʻanapali Beach is one of those rare places where you can do as much or as little as you want and still feel like you’ve had the best day ever. With its golden sand, clear water, and incredible views of Lāna‘i and Moloka‘i, it’s no surprise that it’s a favorite for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re looking for heart-pumping adventure or chill time by the shore, here are some of the best things to do on this iconic stretch of West Maui.

1. Go Parasailing Above the Pacific

There’s nothing like seeing Kāʻanapali from 1,200 feet in the air. Parasailing with UFO Parasail is a must-do if you’re visiting during the summer months when whales have migrated and the ocean opens up for flight. It’s smooth, peaceful, and the views are unreal. You’ll float above the water with views of the West Maui Mountains, the outer islands, and the deep blue below. It’s one of those experiences that sticks with you long after your feet touch the sand again.

2. Ride a Banana Boat with Your Crew

For something fast, fun, and full of laughs, banana boat rides are where it’s at. You and your friends (or the whole family) hop on an inflatable banana-shaped raft and get towed behind a speed boat across the warm Maui waters. It’s wild in the best way. Expect splashes, smiles, and maybe a few wipeouts. The best part is, you’re right off Kāʻanapali Beach and it’s easy to hop on one of these rides with UFO Parasail between your other  Kāʻanapali beach adventures.

3. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

When the ocean is calm, paddleboarding is a solid way to explore the coastline and get in a little workout at the same time. The mornings are usually the best for light winds and glassy water. You might spot turtles cruising under your board or see reef fish swimming in the shallows. There are a few places right along the beach that rent out boards by the hour.

4. Book a Fishing Trip Off the West Side

If you want to spend a few hours on the water with a line in the water, check out the fishing charters with UFO. We offer both nearshore and sportfishing trips that launch directly from Kāʻanapali Beach or nearby Māla Boat Ramp in Lahaina. You can hook into snapper, trevally, or even mahi mahi depending on the day. Our captains know these waters inside and out, and you don’t need any experience to go. Just bring some sun protection and your sense of adventure. As a bonus, the crew will even cut and clean some of your catch so you can take it home and cook up a fresh, local-style dinner.

5. Snorkel Black Rock (Puʻu Kekaʻa)

Located at the north end of the beach, Black Rock is one of the best snorkeling spots around. The water is clear and full of life, and the lava rock formations create a natural habitat for everything from parrotfish to sea urchins. If you’re lucky, you might even catch sight of a honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle) cruising by. It’s also a great place to watch the torch lighting and cliff diving ceremony in the evening, a tradition that’s been around for decades.

6. Chill Out With a Drink and a Sunset

Of course, no day on Kāʻanapali Beach is complete without a little relaxation. Grab a drink at one of the beachside bars or bring your own and post up on the sand for sunset. The sky lights up in pinks, purples, and golds almost every night, and with the ocean in front of you and the sound of waves crashing, it’s the perfect way to wind down.

Kāʻanapali Beach really has it all. Whether you’re flying high, reeling in your dinner, or just soaking it all in from the shore, there’s something special here for everyone. If you’re planning your trip or just looking to try something new, make sure to check out the parasail flights, banana boat rides, and fishing trips with us at UFO. We’d love to see you out on the water.

See you at the beach.