The stretch of clean golden sands paired with luscious blue waters is by far the perfect site to experience paradise here on the island of Maui. Kaanapali beach is lined with seven of Maui’s luxurious hotels and resorts, along with Whalers Village Mall. All of these stops are homes to amazing restaurants where you can enjoy an outdoor dinner as the sun sets next to the beach’s very own Black Rock.
Black Rock, named Pu’u Keka’a, in Hawaiian, is Kaanapali Beach’s iconic landmark and adds ambiance to the gorgeous sands and clear waters. Black Rock is located at the north end of the beach, right outside of Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa, which provides a number of water activities for customers to experience during their stay.
Black rock, a cliff formed by an old lava flow, was used by Maui’s last ruling chief, King Kahekili, where he would jump off of the rock right into ocean. Every day at sunset, the conch shell blows as a cliff diver lights the torches that stand on the cliff. He then jumps off into the ocean. This little show is meant to reenact the jumping of King Kahekili. Many Black Rock visitors jump off of this cliff as well, whether they want to show off a back flip into the ocean, or just feel the thrill of diving into the cool waters.
Besides showing your daredevil side as you jump off the cliff, be sure to spend some time snorkeling at Black Rock. As one of the better snorkel spots on Maui. This will help you make the most of your trip to Kaanapali beach. Be sure to stay close to the rock where the marine life hide. The depth of the water goes from 8 feet to 25 feet as you come closer to the point of the rock. Below the surface of the waters, you will find a wide variety of fish and even turtles that stop by every once in a while.
No lifeguards on duty! Treading water is required near Black Rock, so make sure to know your swimming ability to be as safe as possible. If you just want to relax and watch the cliff divers do their thing, make sure to pack your floaties! Also note that there is a beach access parking garage under the Sheraton Hotel, for those not staying at any of the hotels down the beach.
Anyone staying on Maui should add a visit to Kaanapali Beach and Black Rock onto their bucket list for their vacation. Named America’s best beach in 2003, Kaanapali Beach is west Maui’s signature beach. Spend some time with both family and friends, experiencing the breathtaking views any time of the day. Kaanapali beach easily lets you cherish your time in paradise.