Where to Park When Visiting Kaanapali Beach
Kāʻanapali Beach is one of Maui’s most iconic stretches of sand, famous for its crystal-clear waters, golden shoreline, and epic sunsets. Whether you're here for a morning swim, a snorkeling adventure at Black Rock, or a full beach day, knowing where to park can make your visit much smoother.
Since Kāʻanapali is home to several resorts and shopping areas, parking options range from free beach access lots to paid garage parking. In this guide, we’ll break down the best places to park near Kāʻanapali Beach so you can spend less time searching for a spot and more time soaking up the Maui sun.
1. Free Public Beach Parking Lots
The best way to park for free near Kāʻanapali Beach is to use the designated public beach access lots. These are limited but a great option if you arrive early.
Best Free Parking Locations:
Hanakaʻōʻō Beach Park (Canoe Beach)
Located just south of Kāʻanapali, Hanakaʻōʻō Beach Park offers a free parking lot with plenty of spaces. It’s about a 10-minute walk along the beach to Black Rock and the heart of Kāʻanapali. Bonus: this park has restrooms and showers.Whalers Village Parking (Validation Required)
Whalers Village offers parking in its garage, and if you make a purchase at one of the shops or restaurants, you can get your ticket validated for up to three hours of free parking. Without validation, rates are around $6 per 30 minutes.Kahekili Beach Park (Airport Beach)
Just north of Kāʻanapali Beach, Kahekili Beach Park offers free parking and tends to be less crowded. It’s a fantastic spot for snorkeling and has picnic tables, restrooms, and showers. You can walk along the shoreline to access the main Kāʻanapali Beach area.
2. Paid Parking Options
If free parking is full or you prefer a more convenient option, there are several paid parking garages near Kāʻanapali Beach.
Best Paid Parking Locations:
Sheraton Maui Parking Garage
Located near Black Rock, this garage offers hourly and daily rates. It’s a short walk to the best snorkeling and cliff diving spots.Hyatt Regency Maui Parking
This lot is on the south end of Kāʻanapali Beach and provides easy access to Hanakaʻōʻō Beach Park.Westin Resort Parking
Close to Whalers Village, this parking option is ideal if you’re spending time in the central part of Kāʻanapali Beach.
3. Insider Tips for Parking at Kāʻanapali Beach
Arrive Early – Free parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive before 9 AM for the best chance at a free spot.
Use Validation – If you're planning to grab a bite at Whalers Village, make sure to ask for parking validation to save on fees.
Consider Walking - If you're staying nearby, walking is a great way to avoid parking hassles altogether.
Fuel Up for Your Beach Day at Choice Health Bar
Before hitting the beach, stop by Choice Health Bar for a delicious and energizing breakfast. Our açaí bowls, superfood smoothies, and organic cold-pressed juices are the perfect way to fuel your beach day. If you're exploring Kāʻanapali, our Lahaina location is a quick stop for something fresh, local, and nourishing.
Looking for a healthy lunch after the beach? Try our Macro Bowl or Buddha Bowl – packed with fresh, locally sourced ingredients to keep you feeling great all day.
Enjoy Your Time at Kāʻanapali Beach!
Now that you know where to park, you can relax and enjoy one of Maui’s most beautiful beaches without the stress of searching for a spot. Whether you’re here for a quick dip, a sunset stroll, or a full beach day, Kāʻanapali Beach is a must-visit destination.
And don’t forget—good beach days start with good food. Stop by Choice Health Bar for a healthy meal before or after your Kāʻanapali adventure!