Aloha !

Best Maui Beaches for Windy Days

Did you know that Maui is the windiest of all Hawaiian Islands?

When you visit Maui, you’ll have to contend with the prevailing north-east tradewinds. These

tradewinds blow about 80 percent of the time, year-round. Some parts of the island are more protected, while other parts of the island feel these tradewinds more intensely.

On most days, tradewinds are mild, keeping us cool and bringing occasional passing showers. But extra windy days can disrupt beach days, sending sand, towels, and beach umbrellas flying.

If the tradewinds pick up during your stay, these beaches below can offer refuge from the gusts.

A quick disclaimer!:

Sometimes strong winds can be destructive or cause dangerous conditions. Pay attention to

weather warnings like small craft advisories or high wind warnings. Skip the beach day if

conditions are dangerous. Avoid activities like snorkeling, stand-up paddling, or kayaking during high wind warnings, small craft advisories, or if it’s noticeably choppy.


The beaches below can be more sheltered than others on extra breezy days, but they may not be totally protected if winds are at warning-level.

Ulua Beach

Wailea’s Ulua Beach is a quarter-mile-long sandy strip bookended by rocky points. You’ll find

relatively protected snorkeling on the inside north point, where the reef starts in just a few feet of water. This is a great spot for families to come to boogie board or play in the sand.

On most days, the wind will start picking up around 11 am. However, Haleakala blocks most of the prevailing tradewinds, and the cove-like structure of the beach keeps it more protected than most. We highly recommend a stay at Wailea Elua Village, which fronts this beautiful beach.

Wailea Beach

There’s a reason why some of Maui’s top resorts are centered around Wailea Beach! Conditions are routinely excellent here. If you’re seeking refuge from gusty breezes, Wailea Beach is a good place to start.

Even if the winds are too strong to enjoy the beach, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Wailea,

where activities abound. Explore the Wailea Beach Walk, grab a drink at one of the resort lobby bars, or head to the Shops at Wailea for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Kapalua Bay

On Maui’s west side, Kapalua Bay is among the more protected sandy coves on the island.

Thanks to a rocky bank that blocks the prevailing tradewinds, snorkeling is possible even on

breezy days, as long as you stay close to shore. This beach was named America’s Best Beach

in 2018, and its sheltered sands have a lot to do with its high ranking. When whitecaps start

popping up elsewhere, Kapalua often remains calm enough for a mellow swim or float.

Napili Bay

Just south of Kapalua, Napili Bay offers another wind-friendly escape thanks to its crescent

shape and surrounding headlands. The bay is naturally tucked in, which helps deflect

tradewinds and keep conditions manageable even when it’s gusty. On windy days, Napili is a

great option for bodyboarding, swimming, or simply enjoying the beach without battling blowing sand.

Wind is a part of daily life on Maui, but breezes don’t need to put a pin in your beach day!

Knowing where to go can make all the difference between being caught in a sandstorm and

actually enjoying the breeze.

Wind or not, we hope you enjoy these beaches, and we hope to see you here on the island

soon. A hui hou!



Warmest Aloha,

The Ali'i Resorts Ohana