Black Rock Beach is one of the famous attractions in Maui for families. Historically, there was no beach named as such. In reality it is Kaanapali Beach which has a black rock on its northern side. As the popularity of Kaanapali Beach grew, the northern part of Kaanapali beach started to get its name as black rock beach from the Maui tourists. The name originates from the black lava cliff where you will see young adults jumping off the cliff. It is located in the north western part of Maui closer to Sheraton resort.

Challenges for black rock beach visitors

Some visitors to Kaanapali beach visiting for first time, would be disappointed to see that major part of the beach has huge resorts all around, which makes it difficult to access the natural beauty. Free parking is only for 16 cars and later comers have to use payed parking which is very expensive.  It is a public beach and has no lifeguard. Another challenge is finding a public changing and rest room.

Kaanapali beach parking tips

According to locals, if you plan to spend one day at black rock beach Maui, you should arrive early on your car and park it in Whaler’s Village which is 20 mins walk from it. Whaler’s village offers parking at 3$ per half hour and has over 500 parking spots. Parking garage entrance is possible with Kaanapali Parkway. With validation you can get complimentary parking for 3 hours or even more.

Validation means, that you have to spent a minimum amount of money in the shops or restaurants around and get your parking waved off to a certain limit. You can also pay on the exit at the ticket machines.

In case you are staying at Sheraton, then, you do not have to care about parking. You can even buy cheap food stuff from the grocery stores in Whaler’s village if you plan to stay for longer time at the beach. Just keep in mind, the hotel representative may sell you drinks at higher prices.

Black Rock beach activities

Visitors to Black Rock Beach have different opinions about the experiences, as it is dependent upon the time and weather. Some were able to have the best snorkelling experience, watching fish and turtles, while others complained about the overcrowded beach where they could hardly snorkel. Some praised the variety of fish, while others complain about lack of coral reefs for snorkelling. Some admire the water sports activities, beach beauty and kindness of people, and could listen to the songs of whales during the whale season.

If you happen to stay at the Kaanapali beach until sunset, make sure to visit tiki lighting ceremony. Sunset at black rock beach features great views of Molokai and Lanai. Here, you will see people snorkelling in pristine turquoise blue water at one end, while at the other end of beach, children are jumping off the black lava rock. Are you scared of sharks for your next Maui trip. You would be glad to know in last 7 years, there has been no shark attack at Black Rock Beach. Black Rock beach is safe in terms of shark attacks.

The mixed reviews about snorkelling experience at Black rock beach Maui may confuse some. It still hold best reviews from the first time Maui visitors for jumping off the 20 ft lava rock. The point of jumping requires some serious effort walking on the lava rock if you are coming from the beach side. However, if you are climbing up from the water directly, you will experience less difficulty. Some people recommend wearing special water shoes to walk on the lava rock if you plan to jump multiple times from the black rock Maui. Be ware of some spots where jelly fish is found.

Here are the highlights of black rock beach in Maui.

  • Mixed reviews for snorkelling.
  • Mixed reviews about variety of fish and turtles.
  • Sand is soft and colour is off-white.
  • Visibility is great under water.
  • Snorkel rental places are available but you can also bring your own.
  • Jumping of the lava rock gives unique experience.
  • Sunset is awesome.

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