🏝 Mokapu Beach (Maui): The Complete 2024 Guide

Mokapu Beach Maui blog post cover image.  Text overlaying an image of two beach chairs on Mokapu Beach during golden hour

Mokapu Beach is an idyllic, golden-sand shoreline in the Wailea-Makena region of Maui.

It is located directly in front of the Andaz Resort Maui and is a premier destination for sunset, whale watching, and the nightly “Feast of Mokapu Luau.”

This is one of our favorite beaches in the Wailea region and one we have spent many sunsets at sipping Mai Tais and photographing the sunset. It is always a magical experience.

In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about visiting Mokapu Beach, including photo inspiration and directions on how to book the incredible sunset luau that takes place nearby.

🌴 About Mokapu Beach: Overview

🌺 SERVICES

  • Nearest Town: Wailea
  • Parking? Yes, a shared parking lot with Ulua Beach.
  • Public Bathrooms? Yes.
  • Picnic Benches? No.
  • Showers? Yes.
  • Grills? No.
  • Lifeguard? No.

πŸ– DESCRIPTION

Located at the base of the Andaz Resort, Mokapu Beach is a beautiful golden-sand beach similar to many others you will discover along the Wailea shoreline.

What makes it special and unique from nearby options is the nightly sunset luau, the adorning lava rock, and the greenery that separates it from nearby Ulua Beach. This section of lush vegetation also provides a stage for large, healthy palm trees that are perfect for framing sunset.

During the day, this quarter-mile sandy beach is the perfect spot for lounging and enjoying the tropical Maui weather, as well as offering excellent snorkeling and bodyboarding offshore.

Due to its close proximity to some of the best honeymoon hotels in Maui, it is particularly popular with couples on a romantic getaway.

Mokapu Beach is also considered one of the Top 10 places for watching sunset in Maui.

πŸ“ How to Get to Mokapu Beach

Satellite view of the location of Mokapu Beach.

With Navigation: Set navigation to “Ulua Beach Public Parking.” This is the access point for both Ulua Beach and Mokapu Beach.

General Directions: Driving south along Wailea Alanui Drive from Kihei, turn right onto Ulua Beach Road after passing Andaz Resort Maui. The public parking area will be your first right turn.

πŸŒ… When to Visit Mokapu Beach

The best time to visit Mokapu Beach is at sunset. The views to the west are completely unobstructed, and there are a handful of palms majestically staged to frame some incredible Hawaii sunset shots.

Additionally, lava rock adorns the shoreline to add visual interest to the scenery.

As Mokapu Beach is basically connected to Andaz, it can be quite crowded on sunny days with hotel guests and other tourists staying nearby. Still, it is a large enough beach that you should have no trouble finding a place to call home any time of day.

The Feast at Mokapu Luau also begins at sunset and can be viewed even if you are not a hotel guest.

That said, partaking in the meal and total experience is highly recommended and was voted one of the best things to do for sunset in Maui.

πŸ’ƒ The Feast at Mokapu Luau

Every night at sunset, native Hawaiians perform an authentic luau that tells the story of Maui’s history according to legend.

This cultural delight is paired with authentic Hawaiian food, tropical cocktails, music, and usually a beautiful sky.

The Feast at Mokapu is hosted by the Andaz Resort, but you do not need to be a guest to attend. You will need to book tickets in advance for this popular show and can do so here.

At no cost to you, we receive a small amount for any bookings made using the links below.

🍍 More Maui Beaches & Travel Guides

A swimmer walking the shore of Red Sand Beach, Maui.
Do not miss any hidden gems like Red Sand Beach! Check out our complete Maui Itinerary for more information.

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Before you go, you may want to skim some of the titles for other relevant Maui guides below to ensure you do not miss any epic beaches, sunset destinations, or noteworthy things to do during your visit to the Valley Isle!

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Written by
Adam Marland is a professional travel blogger and landscape photographer from Oregon. After over a decade of experience as a freelance travel photographer, Adam found national acclaim when he became the National Park Foundation's β€œChief Exploration Officer” in 2021.

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