Sunset on Maui: Best Places, Times, and Photo Spots
With the sound of the waves crashing against the shore and the smell of salt in the air, watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean from a stunning beachfront location will be a highlight of your Maui vacation.
Picture yourself standing on a stretch of white sand beach, palm trees swaying gently in the breeze, as the sun dips below the horizon in a blaze of orange and pink. This is what sunsets in Maui are all about — natural beauty, tranquility, and awe-inspiring vistas.
Follow along to discover the best places to see a sunset in Maui!
From the top of the Haleakala volcano filled with jagged lava rock at the Haleakala National Park to the winding roads of the Lahaina Pali Trail, giving breathtaking peaks of the Lahaina sunset. This Hawaiian island offers an abundance of incredible photo spots to capture envy-inducing Maui sunset photos.
Keep reading and prepare to soak up the magic of spectacular Maui sunsets from one of these sun-kissed beaches!
Maui: Best Places
Ka Anapali Beach – Address: Kaanapali Beach, Kaanapali, HI 96761, United States
When it comes to where to watch the sunset in Maui, few places can compare to the breathtaking beauty of Ka Anapali Beach on Maui’s west coast. Witness how the sky transforms into a palette of oranges, pinks, and purples as the day starts to wind down at this stunning three-mile stretch of golden sand beach.
The best place to catch the Maui beach sunset at Ka Anapali Beach is on the striking landmark Puu Kekaa (Black Rock), where you can also watch the iconic cliff jumping ceremony.
Looking for the perfect accommodations to complement your sunset experience at Kaanapali Beach? We got you covered!
From the sophisticated condo-style resort of Aston Kaanapali Shores, to the kid-friendly activities and picture-perfect views of Marriott Maui Ocean Club to sunset/whale watching cruises and indigenous Hawaiian cultural activities of Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, these hotels offer an extraordinary Maui experience.
Book through Tripster for a seamless and stress-free experience!
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Ho Okipa Beach Park – Address: Ho’okipa Beach Park, 179 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779, United States
If you’re looking for a more secluded sunset spot Maui, Ho Okipa Beach Park is a perfect choice thanks to the panoramic views of the ocean and towering cliffs. Located on the island’s north shore, this sunset beach Maui is a mecca for surfers, windsurfers, and kiteboarders seeking the ultimate thrill.
We also have it on good authority that green sea turtles enjoy hanging out along the shore of this remote Maui sunset location. Are you more of an early riser? Due to its north-facing location, it’s also one of the most beautiful sunrise spots on the island as well.
Keawakapu Beach – Address: Keawakapu Beach, South Kihei Road &, Kilohana Dr, Kihei, HI 96753, United States
Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Keawakapu Beach, another best place to watch sunset Maui, with its majestic stretch of sugar sand that offers an unparalleled view of the horizon.
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Also known as Wedding Beach, it is a popular spot for holding intimate wedding ceremonies as it provides a scenic backdrop for couples exchanging vows.
Looking to get your sweat on before watching the sunset? Don’t miss the chance to hike the Keawakapu Beach Trail. Wind your way along a boardwalk as you pass lush green foliage, luxury resorts, and sea turtle-frequented sections of the beach while you make your way to the trail’s end.
Try not to let your mouth hang open as you take in sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean as it’s painted fiery shades of scarlet, ocher, and peach.
Hanakao O Beach Park – Address: Hanakaoʻo Park, 2501 HI-30, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States
Make sure to add Hanakao’o Beach Park to your list of where to watch sunset Maui. Also known as Canoe Beach, this beach is a local favorite and offers a more peaceful and less crowded option for admiring the sunset in Maui.
Here, you’ll be rewarded with a unique perspective of the sun sinking below the waves. It’s truly the best place to watch sunset in Maui, where the peacefulness of the water will make you feel like you’re in your own private paradise.
With ample parking, covered tables, and BBQs, it’s also the ideal spot to have a family picnic or grill up some fresh seafood while soaking up the sun. Join the locals and make a day of it at Hanakao’o Beach Park!
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Po Olenalena Beach Park – Address: Po‘olenalena Beach Park, 95-63 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753, United States
Nestled on the south shore of Maui, Po’olenalena Beach Park is among the top contenders for the best spots where to see sunset in Maui. The vibrant colors of the sunset casting a magical glow over the ocean are a sight to behold.
Immerse yourself in the perfect family-friendly beach experience at this paradise where you can sink your toes into the soft sandy shore, and spot sea turtles and fish swimming in its crystal-clear waters.
The beach is less crowded during weekdays or during the later hours of the day, offering a more secluded and intimate experience of watching the best sunset Maui.
Kapalua Bay – Address: Kapalua Bay Beach, Kapalua, HI 96761, United States
Looking for the best sunset beach Maui? You’ve found it! With its tranquil turquoise waters and pristine white sand, it’s no wonder Kapalua Bay has earned a reputation as one of the top Maui sunset spots.
In fact, in 2018, Kapalua Bay was ranked “America’s Best Beach” due to its gentle breaking waves and vibrant atmosphere.
Whether you’re on the island for a wedding, anniversary, or family vacation, we must share that Kapalua Bay is a popular spot for photo shoots. Capture your best sunsets Maui pictures and make your friends jealous at this prime location!
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Makena Cove Beach – Address: Makena Cove, 6468 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753, United States
Makena Cove Beach is not only one of the best places to see sunset in Maui, but it’s also a paradise for beachgoers of all ages. With its two small coves and soft, silky sand, Makena Cove is a little slice of heaven tucked away between towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
Despite its nickname, Maui’s Secret Beach, it is a popular spot for beachfront wedding ceremonies and photoshoots. Capture the breathtaking beauty of a Makena Beach sunset in Maui with your camera lens.
Although there isn’t a parking lot or signage, visitors can easily access the beach by leaving their cars on the street and hopping over a small stone wall. Walk along the shoreline with the warm sand between your toes as the sky explodes in a riot of colors overhead at Makena Cove Beach.
Wailea Beach – Address: Wailea Beach, Kihei, HI 96753, United States
Glamorous Wailea Beach isn’t just a haven for A-listers from around the world — it also happens to be one of the most spectacular place to watch sunset in Maui. This picture-perfect paradise is a world-renowned beach destination located in the upscale Wailea resort area in south Maui.
With its astonishing views of Kaho’olawe, Molokini Crater, and Lāna’i, it’s the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and soak up the jaw-dropping scenery. Meanwhile, witnessing a Wailea Beach sunset.
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Looking for some fun before the sun begins to set over its crystal-clear waters? Embark on an adventure of a lifetime with a Wailea Kayak and Snorkeling Tour! Explore the abundant sea life and magnificent coral-sea gardens just minutes from shore.
Best Sunset Time in Maui
Curious about what time does the sun set in Maui? The time of sunset in Maui varies throughout the year but generally falls between 5:30 and 7:00 pm.
Now, you may be interested to know exactly what time does the sunset in Maui? The exact Maui sunset time depends on the season, with the longest days in the summer and the shortest days in the winter.
Wondering about the best sunset time in Lahaina Maui? You’ll find it generally around 6:45 pm in the summer and 5:45 pm in the winter.
Keep in mind that weather conditions and cloud cover can also affect what time is the sunset in Maui and quality of the sunset. So, it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before planning your viewing experience of the best sunset spots Maui.
Maui Sunsets: How to Get The Best Photos
To capture the best sunsets in Maui in photographs, timing is crucial. Aim for the “golden hour,” roughly the hour before sunset, when the sun casts a warm glow and softer light.
Head west along Maui’s south shore for unobstructed views at spots like Keawakapu Beach and Kapalua Bay. Compose your shot with interesting foreground elements like palm trees or surfers to add depth.
Utilize Maui’s calm waters to capture reflections of the vibrant sky. Experiment with silhouettes for added drama, and adjust camera settings for optimal results. And voila! Now you have the perfect photos of the best sunset in Maui to share and cherish forever!
Sunset in Maui FAQs
What Part of Hawaii Has the Best Sunsets?
Many people consider Maui's South Shore to have the best sunsets in all of Hawaii. Here you'll find long stretches of beach facing west, offering unobstructed views of the sun dipping below the horizon and painting the sky in a dazzling array of colors.
Keep in mind that sunsets are beautiful all over Hawaii, so wherever you end up on your trip you're sure to be amazed by the natural beauty!
Why Are Sunsets in Hawaii So Beautiful?
Hawaii's sunsets are legendary for their vibrant colors, and there's a scientific reason behind it. Water vapor, dust, and other gases in the atmosphere spread and magnify the blue and violet light colors in the sky, creating a stunning canvas for the fiery oranges, pinks, and reds as the sun dips below the horizon.
Experience Maui: One Breathtaking Sunset at a Time
Maui is undoubtedly a slice of paradise, especially when it comes to sunset views. From the secluded shores of Wailea Beach to the picturesque Makena Cove, Maui beaches offer an intimate and tranquil setting to witness the natural wonder of the setting sun.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the sunset in Maui today. Trade the crowds and tourist traps by exploring any of these best places to see sunset in Maui!
What Maui Best Sunset Spots Did We Miss?
How stunning was the sunset Maui today? Share them with us in the comments below!
