Best Sunset Maui: Where Will You Find the Island’s Most Picture-Perfect Evenings?

When you think of the best sunset in Maui, you’re picturing skies set on fire with shades of orange, pink, and violet, mirrored by waves rolling against white sand beaches. It’s not just a view—it’s a full-blown experience that makes you forget about everything except the magic unfolding on the horizon.

The best sunset Maui spots range from remote coves where you’ll find turtles lounging in the sand to luxe resort beaches where golden hour feels like a nightly performance. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, these locations promise jaw-dropping moments that linger in memory long after your tan fades.

Adventure seekers will love chasing the glow from rugged spots like the Lahaina Pali Trail, where winding paths lead to panoramic ridgeline views of the coast. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, nothing compares to watching the sun dip below a sea of clouds at Haleakala National Park.

Keep reading to discover exactly where to find them, because missing these views would be a travel crime you’ll never forgive yourself for!

Haleakala National Park

Located at Haleakala National Park, this towering volcano peak is nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, making it one of the most dramatic sunset vantage points in the world. You’ll need to pay an entry fee and drive winding roads to the summit, so plan at least 2–3 hours of travel from most areas of Maui.

The views are unforgettable, with the sun sinking below a sea of clouds and casting fiery colors across the jagged lava rocks. Because of the high elevation, temperatures can drop to near-freezing even in summer, so bring warm layers and closed-toe shoes.

For a stress-free option, the Haleakala Sunset Tour on Maui includes hotel pick-up, a scenic 38-mile ascent, and expert narration during the 7.5-hour trip. Guests enjoy chilled bottled water, local treats, and a to-go dinner from Kula Bistro before settling in at 9,740 feet to watch the sky transform. The tour is family-friendly, free for children under 2, and ADA accessible with advance notice. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain health conditions.

Hoʻokipa Beach Park

Located off Hana Highway in Pāʻia, Hoʻokipa Beach Park is the North Shore’s famous surf spot and one of the best places to experience sunset Maui with fewer crowds. There’s free parking available, and it’s just steps from the sand or cliffs overlooking the water.

Sunsets here come with a rugged backdrop of cliffs and crashing waves, plus you may even spot green sea turtles resting onshore. This isn’t a beach for swimming due to strong currents, but it’s fantastic for photos, watching surfers, or simply relaxing on the grassy park area.

Expect a more laid-back, local vibe compared to the resort-heavy west coast beaches. Bring a picnic blanket, light jacket, and your camera—you’ll want to capture the way the sky transforms above the endless horizon.

Keawakapu Beach

Keawakapu Beach sits at the end of South Kihei Road, and it’s easy to find with street parking and nearby access points along luxury resorts. This beach is the definition of where to watch sunset Maui, with wide sandy shores, a long boardwalk trail, and a front-row seat to the glowing Pacific.

The view is wide open, with fiery skies meeting the ocean and Molokini Crater visible in the distance. It’s less crowded than Wailea, so it feels like a hidden gem while still being convenient for families and couples. You can take a walk along the boardwalk, spot sea turtles, or just sink into the sand while waiting for the sun to dip. Arrive early for parking, and bring drinks or snacks since amenities are more limited compared to bigger beaches.

Kaʻanapali Beach

Kaʻanapali Beach stretches for three miles along Maui’s west coast, with plenty of resort access and public parking near Whalers Village. The Maui sunset time here is best enjoyed from Puu Kekaa, also known as Black Rock, where you’ll find nightly cliff-diving ceremonies just before the sun dips below the horizon.

Expect wide sandy shores, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and the Pacific glowing with shades of orange and pink. This area gets busy thanks to nearby resorts, restaurants, and bars, but that means easy access to food and drinks if you want to turn sunset into happy hour.

Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will love the mix of energy and relaxation here. Arrive about 30 minutes before sunset to grab a good spot on the sand, and stick around for the torch-lighting ceremony afterward.

Hanakaoʻo Beach Park

Known locally as Canoe Beach, Hanakaoʻo Beach Park is located just south of Lahaina on Honoapiilani Highway, with free parking and plenty of space to spread out. It’s one of the best sunset spots in Maui, offering unobstructed views of the horizon without the heavy resort crowds.

The park has BBQ grills, picnic tables, and restrooms, making it ideal for families or groups looking to make an evening out of it. Expect calm waters with the occasional outrigger canoe launch, adding a unique cultural touch to your sunset photos. It’s much quieter than nearby Kaʻanapali, so you can enjoy the colors in peace. Arrive about an hour before sunset to snag a picnic table, and bring dinner to grill while the sun goes down.

Wailea Beach

Located in front of Wailea’s luxury resorts, Wailea Beach is one of the most famous spots in South Maui with easy parking and paved beach access. Watching the sunset time Maui here feels like a red-carpet event, complete with postcard views of Molokini Crater, Lānaʻi, and Kahoʻolawe in the distance.

The calm waves and soft sand make it great for swimming before the evening show begins. Expect plenty of people, from honeymooners to families, but the energy is part of what makes it special. You can grab dinner or drinks nearby to pair with your sunset viewing, making it one of the most convenient spots on the island. Arrive early for parking, bring your camera, and enjoy one of Maui’s most glamorous sunset experiences.

Poʻolenalena Beach Park

Poʻolenalena Beach Park, located off Makena Alanui in Kihei, is a south shore gem with a wide sandy shoreline and decent parking options. It’s a fantastic place to watch the sunset, thanks to its quieter vibe and fewer crowds compared to more famous beaches.

Sunsets here are framed by lava rocks and open ocean, and you may even spot sea turtles swimming close to shore. This spot is family-friendly, perfect for couples, and great for photographers looking for less “touristy” backdrops. Weekdays are especially calm, so it’s easy to find a private-feeling stretch of sand. Arrive with a beach chair, snacks, and maybe a blanket—it’s a simple, no-frills location but one of Maui’s most underrated sunset spots.

Big Beach (Makena State Park)

Big Beach, officially Makena State Park, is located just south of Wailea with a large parking lot and a small entrance fee. Known for its massive stretch of golden sand, it’s widely considered the perfect sunset location for those who love open, uninterrupted views.

The waves here can be powerful, so swimming isn’t always safe, but the backdrop of Haleakalā and the endless horizon make up for it. Expect crowds on weekends, but the beach is so wide that it never feels overly packed.

It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or photographers looking for that classic Maui beach sunset shot. Arrive at least an hour before sunset to grab a good spot and bring water, snacks, and plenty of sunscreen if you come earlier in the day.

Makena Cove Beach

Also called Secret Beach, Makena Cove Beach is tucked off Makena Alanui, hidden behind a stone wall with street parking nearby. This spot delivers jaw-dropping views of Maui with rocky outcrops, turquoise waters, and a small but gorgeous strip of soft sand.

Sunsets here are extra dramatic, with cliffs framing the horizon and colors bouncing off the waves. It’s popular for wedding ceremonies and photoshoots, so don’t be shocked if you stumble onto a bridal party striking a pose. The beach itself is small and can get crowded, but it’s worth the squeeze for such a spectacular setting. Bring reef shoes for the rocks, arrive early to claim a spot, and pack light—there are no restrooms or amenities here.

Kapalua Bay

Situated on the northwest coast, Kapalua Bay is easy to access via the public beach parking lot near Merriman’s restaurant. Known for its pristine white sand, this bay has been ranked among the best beaches in America and is one of the island’s top places to catch a sunset.

The gentle waves make it perfect for a swim before golden hour, and the curved bay creates natural framing for epic photos. It’s popular for weddings, anniversaries, and family photoshoots, so don’t be surprised if you see a tripod or two on the beach. Families, couples, and groups will all feel at home here thanks to calm waters and nearby amenities. Arrive early in the afternoon, swim or snorkel, and then stay for a front-row seat to the evening light show.

Ready to Chase the Best Sunset in Maui for Yourself?

Now that you know where to catch the best sunset in Maui, the only thing left is deciding which spot to hit first. Whether you want rugged trails, resort luxury, or a quiet sandy cove, Maui delivers it all in technicolor skies.

The smartest way to plan your adventure is by securing vacation packages through Tripster, which makes it simple to bundle in one easy step. You’ll also score great deals on Maui attractions and hotels, ensuring your trip is unforgettable without blowing the budget. With your sunset bucket list ready, you can start planning the ultimate mix of relaxation and adventure. Don’t wait—Maui’s golden hour magic is calling, and you need to answer!

What Are the Best Sunset in Maui FAQs?