Easily accessed, sandy beach, with decent snorkeling and more space than popular neighbor Ulua.
Mokapu Beach
Mokapu Beach is a beautiful and relatively quiet beach located in the Wailea area of South Maui. It is known for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a serene atmosphere, making it a popular destination for those looking for a peaceful beach experience.
Mokapu Beach is situated in the upscale resort community of Wailea, approximately a 10 minute drive south from Auntie Snorkel Kihei. It is conveniently accessible and is close to various luxury resorts, restaurants, and shopping areas.
Parking and Access
As you head south on Wailea Alanui Drive, pass the Andaz Resort, and take a right at the sign for Ulua and Mokapu Beaches. You’ll see the parking lot down the hill a bit on the right side. This lot fills up regularly, so arrive early to beat the crowd.
To access Mokapu, follow the sidewalk past the restrooms and to the right.
Facilities and Amenities
While Mokapu Beach is relatively undeveloped, the park provides basic amenities such as restrooms and outdoor showers.
Check conditions on a live webcam at neighboring Ulua Beach here.
The rocky areas on the southern end of the beach offer some beautiful snorkeling. These rocky areas are connected to the more popular Ulua Beach for snorkeling opportunities. Dive under water during peak whale season to listen for whale songs!
The waters at Mokapu Beach are typically calm and clear, making it suitable for swimming and wading. The beach offers a gently sloping shoreline, which is ideal for families with children.
Summer south swells can bring some shore break to this beach, making for fun boogie boarding or body surfing. Please always exercise extra caution with waves, and if in doubt, don’t go out!
On calm mornings, stand-up paddle boarding is a great option at Mokapu. Drive up to the restroom area to unload your board before parking for a shorter walk to the water. The long stretch of beach and crystal clear waters make for a beautiful paddle. Just be aware that the wind can pick up strongly and quickly from late morning through the day, so the earlier you go out the better.
Mokapu from the south end, looking north.
Environment and Seasonal Variation
Mokapu is calm and beautiful most mornings year round. It is common for the wind to become strong and gusty from the middle of the day, so this beach is best early.
Summer south swells are most likely to bring waves. Winter will have more flat, calm water days.
It’s important for visitors to respect the local rules and regulations, including not touching or damaging the coral, not collecting or harassing marine life, and not disturbing the natural habitat.
Remember to respect the natural beauty and environment of Mokapu Beach by leaving no trace and following any posted rules and regulations. Whether you’re looking to snorkel, paddle board, swim, or simply enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of the area, Mokapu Beach provides an unspoiled and relaxed beach experience on Maui’s southern coast.
About
Auntie Snorkel
Auntie Snorkel shop has been serving Maui’s fun seekers since 1985. We're the original South Maui Snorkel Shop. When I bought the shop 10 years ago from Auntie, we decided to keep the name. The name "Auntie" is a term of respect here in Hawaii. I'm living my dream. I get to meet awesome people from all over the world and share with them my love and knowledge of this magical island that I get to call home. We know all the spots. I have lived here since 2001. We're the true definition of a family owned and operated shop. I answer the phones and work the shop along with my family. When you shop with us you're supporting my ohana and for that I thank you!! Why go anywhere else? We're the friendliest, fastest, cheapest and our location is the most epic! Mahalo and Aloha”. ~Mark Noble (Owner & Maui Fun Expert)
Easy, painless rental service. Book online to save money, and then go in to get sized and get your gear. Sarah was incredibly helpful when we came in, and gave us some great tips on how to work around my husband's facial hair, as well as suggestions on where to snorkel. Even got to swim with a sea turtle on my first go at it! Well-stocked shop with great customer service.
Rick L.
This place treats you like a valued customer. It was refreshing as some of the Maui locals weren’t the most pleasant on our vacation here. I was extremely impressed by the service level we received and quality of the gear. We will definitely be back and will go straight here for our rentals. I’m also sending any friends headed to the island to these guys for great service. Thanks again auntys! See ya on the next trip. Mahalo!
Victor C.
Our family rented snorkel gear and boogie boards and the process could not be any more pleasant or smooth. The equipment was in great condition, worked as advertised and very reasonably priced. Burton was extremely thorough in helping us get fitted and identifying all the great snorkeling spots with patience and care. It’s obvious that he knew what he was talking about. If I could give a higher recommendation for Auntie Snorkel’s I would. You can’t go wrong here!
Claire D.
Auntie Snorkel is perfect! Was able to rent all that we needed for the perfect beach day. Very affordable/reasonable. Quick and easy pick up/drop off. Kyle helped us and he was great!! Highly recommend this place for your beach rental needs.
Durian M.
Extremely friendly and helpful staff! Gave lots of tips and even filled out a map of the island for us indicating the best hiking spots. Would recommend
Kanchi C.
Mark and Burton were super helpful and suggested us amazing snorkeling spots around Maui
Lora H.
Jean was awesome. We got A great deal on snorkel, boogie boards, and beach chairs for the week. She was very helpful and getting us fitted for the right size of snorkel gear. Very pleasant person.
