Black Rock Beach Reviews

Don’t bother with the advertised “Turtle Town” boat tours; see them here for free instead; they even swim right up to the shore around the tourists. A delight!

Beautiful beach, but the rocks are what made it worth the time as it was not as laid back and some of the other beaches on the island. The beach and rocks are nestled down in between a group of resorts so it can get crowded. When windy, as it was today, the wave break is not really swimmer friendly but tolerable. The rock climbers jumping off the rocks didn't seem to give a hoot about the wind or the waves and were seemingly having a good time.

I must assume that “Black Rock Beach” is the beach where Black Rock is located... actually named Kaanapali Beach.
Black Rock is a lava formation that the Sheraton Resort is built on and around. Black Rock often has turtles that come in and feed along the Rock.
Beyond the point is a cove where you can see many different types of fish.... yellow tangs, Sargent Fish, trigger fish, goat fish, trumpet fish, eels, convict tangs, moorish idols, puffer fish, ulua....
It is a very nice beach with a generally easy shorebreak, although the waves can sometimes get larger as storms come through the island chain.

It was enough for my family and I just to view it from afar. It was too hot to walk all the way there. Not regret it.

I’m a novice snorkel guy. Been out less than a dozen times. Not the strongest swimmer. This was a good spot for me. The rock area is a fantastic spot for turtle action.

It’s beautiful and historic. Somewhat busy for the area but not overcrowded like you find on the south side of the island.

There will be divers from the rocks, stay clear of that area or be cognizant. Plenty of other good spots.

Plenty of shallow area to get used to the waves and equipment.

Very kid friendly.

Was the best of the shore snorkeling spots we hit on our trip, out of 5 spots we managed to make.

Had a bad experience at the beach, I will not be returning ever again to this place or Hawaii ever!!

We stayed on Kannapali for 5 days and this was prob our fave beach. Not Rocky at all so it was easy to walk in the water. Sand is so soft!
My teen boys swam out and jumped the off the rock. They swam out and climbed up. Lots of kids doing it.

If you go at 6:30 at night, you’ll see a great cliff diving ceremony. Only about ten minutes but worth it. Then watch the most amazing sunset!

Black Rock Beach is a portion of Kaanapali Beach at the Western/Northern end. The entire beach is amazing. In particular, there is great snorkeling right from the beach in front of Black Rock. Great views of Lanai and all of the sailing/snorkeling adventures that leave from the middle of Kaanapali Beach. You can also jet ski and parasail from the beach as well.

We visited many beaches while spending a week on Maui. Black Rock Beach was our favorite. Unlike most beaches in Maui, it offered everything we were looking for. Beautiful stretch of sand beach with easy access to swim. At the north end of the beach lies the rock cliff for diving, below it the water is full of coral covered lava rocks. This area is excellent for snorkeling; teaming with fish, eels, octopus and turtles.
Several beautiful resorts line this area and their outdoor pool bars are open to the public…this comes in very handy on a warm, sunny day!

A very popular beach where snorkling is supposed to be good but we didn't do any of that. As seniors we just stayed close to the shore and swam and had a great time. This has a great view of the black rock and you see divers climbing up and jumping off all the time. I think all beaches are public in Maui and you can use the beach if not staying at the Sheraton. I enjoyed it.

Yes, it was very crowded. Yes, the reef is bleached. But there are still a ton of beautiful fish to see and turtles everywhere. There was also a huge pod of dolphins that we got to see from the shore. Park for free at Kahekili Beach Park and then walk the beach path all the way to Black Rock.

Great beach, good for anyone to swim, snorkel. Black Rock is great. It does get crowded, as its at end of beach and all other resorts folks come to area. Still worth a visit, but if you want to kick back and relax, lots of people.

We spent the day in the beach chilling. My daughter want to jump off the rock. So we did climb and did couple of jumps. It was nice but nothing great.

We saw turtle and few colorful fish in the morning - atleast few of them. Later in the day when my son went snorkeling, he saw only few small fish. Probably not much of reef left or crowd is chasing the animal life away. We stayed in Maui Eldora resort next to golf course. You can swim to Black rock if you are a good swimmer or go through Sheraton Hotel

Everyone walks down the Kaanapali beach path to Black Rock Beach. It’s also great for easy snorkeling.

Please just use caution when you are here . It’s swarming with people and you can be swept under in an instant . It’s nothing like the pictures show you , that’s all a myth

Some nice fish - a bit rough in the ocean - some cliff jumping - good to get into the water - sandy beach

As others mentioned parking is a challenge. Small Parking lot was full both days. We ended up parking in the Whaler’s Village and having lunch there later - they validate for 3 hours free parking. Cliff jumping was super exciting for my teen boys, equally nerve-wracking for mom. A must do for the adventurers in your life.

We went to black rock not expecting to see turtles but we saw 5 turtles together swimming next to the rocks! I was in turtle heaven - haven’t seen this many turtles all in one place. They were definitely friendly. We went there in the afternoon around 4pm. I would agree with the others that there isn’t much by way of fish but if you’re lucky you may be able to see some turtles.

We have visited Maui approximately 10 times over the past decade and always make time for a visit to Black Rock, even for a quick visit. The water is clear and usually calm (more so in the morning). Snorkeling is a main draw with frequent turtles sightings, but the main draw is the climb and jump!

We took our family of 7 to Black Rock. Our children range in ages from 6-23. The 6 year old loved playing in the ocean and jumping in the waves while all the old kids snorkeled and jumped off Black Rock. My husband and I took turns snorkeling and playing with the little guy. It was fun for all!

Black Rock is a great place to snorkel or to spend the day on the beach. I recommend you get there early because it does get crowded and the water is often calmer in the morning for snorkelling. There are a handful of free parking spots but if these are taken, you will have to pay for parking. Buy something at any of the stores and they will validate your parking for 3 hours. There is plenty to see close to shore but the best snorkelling is around the point. There's a shallow (2 to 4 ft) bed with lots of coral and fish. However, be careful of the surf. The current can be very strong here. It's great when calm but I don't recommend you go out in strong surf. It's a bit of a swim so I recommend wearing a floatie or a lifevest. The snorkelling was so great that I lost track of time (4 hours and 3 camera batteries later) and burned my back so I also recommend wearing a swim shirt. We saw turtles, trumpetfish, needlefish and all the standard reef fish. Because it was so shallow, I got some great pics. Overall a great trip, just be careful of the surf.

We snorkeled with a sea turtle. Need I say more. It was amazing! If you want to go snorkeling get there early. This beach is located by several large hotels. It gets packed pretty quickly. So if you want some good snorkeling go early. It is also a really nice walk to the beach.

Aloha,
I’m writing to inform you that the beach you so call "Black Rock Beach" does not exist and is made up. The point you call "Black Rock" has a proper name in hawaiian and its called Pu'u Keka'a. This area is know as a leina which is a spot designated as a leaping spot for spirit to transition into the afterlife. Furthermore, The beach that it sits upon is named Hanakaoo beach park not Ka'anapali! They call this side of the beach Ka'anapali as a marketing pitch for big corporate hotels to entice their guest to stay on property. Please get educated about these places we call wahi pana or sacred places and use the proper names for the beaches and landmarks when you are informing guest not from here or you are no better than them.
Kapu Aloha

What an incredibly beautiful beach. The sand is golden and soft, the beach is wide and beautiful and there is a fabulous outcropping of rock for cliff diving....you have to do it!!! So much fun.

Arrive early as parking is tough to find. There are 15 spots in the parade and they go quickly. If you are not there before 9am you will have no luck parking.

The snorkeling is good if you go past the point of rocks on the cliff but watch the waves as they will push you towards the rocks.

The Sheraton has public restrooms and a great Hot Dog spot that has been on Triple D so no need to pack lunch or leave the beach for lunch.

Worth the early rise for a spot and our favourite beach on Maui.

Be careful of the current and wave strength! I accidentally got caught in the rocks as I was diving to see a sea cucumber up close. Oops!

great place for boogie boarding and snorkeling! in the resort area so parking can be a slight pain, as there’s only a small garage for free parking (look for “beach acces parking” sign).

Black rock beach has been discovered
It is discovered
It’s not hidden or unspoiled.
What it is, it’s close to the major hotels in Kaanapali.
It’s easy accessible.
We are talking about walking distance.
The water is crystal clear.
It’s at the end of the bay.
So pretty safe.
If rock jumping.
Swimming
Watching the turtles
Or just relaxing is your thing.
Cruze to Black Rock Beach.

This beach was a great walk from our hotel past Whaler's village.
There were lots of people raving about the snorkeling right off the shore and a small business renting out gear if you needed it.

This is a safe beach for various activities. It's great for snorkeling. You will see 3-4 types of fish and even turtles. Then there is a rocky area, which is popular among divers.

The Sheraton hotel is right behind and can offer you drinks and gear.

The beach is usually crowded but that's because it's safe and fun.

The beach is gorgeous and we always jump off Black Rock at the end of Kaanapali Beach. Bring water shoes with good soles because there is sharp coral that can cut your feet. The rocks range from 15’ to 35 feet above the ocean. Every trip we make it a must to jump off Black Rock. Just make sure there are no turtles swimming around below you before you jump. Enjoy! Steve Concialdi

Great snorkeling! We also saw sea turtles and Hawaiian Monk Seals! We also saw a double rainbow while there. Was hard to find parking but we ended up parking in the paid ramp. It was worth it for what we saw while there.

This was our 2nd time here. Went over spring break last time. Went over Christmas break this time. It was too busy to peacefully enjoy the snorkeling experience.

There are no restrooms or even showers. $12 to park in very cramped parking spaces at the Sheraton for a couple of hours.

We did see one sea turtle, and a few fish, but my guess is that there was too much activity for wildlife to want to hang around there.

this place holds up to its reputation.
great snorkeling location.
several turtles and lots of fish.
found a shady spot and lots of sandy beach.

This is a wonderful, wide beach in the resort area (the beach is public). It’s supposed to be one of the better beaches to go snorkeling. Parking can be a little tricky. We parked a ways away and had to walk about 3/4 of a mile to get near Black Rock.

You can go cliff jumping, watch others cliff jump, and wait around for sunset to watch the daily cliff jumping ceremony. The sunset in this area is amazing!

Nice beach with lots of people around, swimming, snorkeling & jumping off black rock. Saw a sea turtle.

This is a public beach, despite all the people and the hotel behind us, we were watched and as soon as we went into the water our bag was stolen with our phones, IDs & credit cards in it. This could happen anywhere but I share so it hopefully won’t happen to you.

Better reef/fish/sea turtles for snorkeling 1/2 mile north.

We walked down to Black Rock via the boardwalk from the Hyatt Regency Resort. It took at least 30 minutes to walk there but we did not have to worry about finding a parking spot. We spent all afternoon there snorkeling. The snorkeling was decent, but due to waves and surges, we were unable to go out around the point of black rock. We stayed to watch the time honored tradition of Maui's Chief Kahekili's leap from the rock. Legend tells us that the last Chief of Maui proved his spiritual stength by leaping off of the sacred Pu'u Keka'a, Black Rock, into the waters below. We caught an amazing sunset while walking back on the beach.

Nice place to snorkel if you are staying in the area. Easy in and out. Lots of good fish and clear water. I also got to swim with a turtle.

Although I did swim here 7 years ago (turtles!) and found it great, this time we just relaxed on the beach and watched the sunset. There are blue adorondak chairs you can sit on by the beach bar at the Sheraton. It's very nice at night. We watched the sunset and then had a drink in the bar. We're older so there was no cliff jumping etc.... but it can and is done here. Enjoy!

The Black Rock is at the western end of Kaanapali Beach. It's considered a sacred rock (site) and it divides that Beach from Airport Beach. The old Landing Pier next to it forms a small inlet that is full of large fish; people snorkel around the rock. Intriguing history tied to it.

This is a great snorkeling spot. Honestly, it was the best spot for snorkeling during our stay (we also snorkeled Molokini crater, turtle town and Kapalua Bay). More fish and turtles here than anywhere else....which I am sure changes day to day. Also, lots of people jumping off the rocks, which looked fun but we didnt do that. Highly recommend this spot.

It is beautiful and we like to watch the cliff divers and the night lighting of the torches, but that is about all. A nice Bar is right near the viewing area.

I was hoping it would have been better. Parking is scarce! The beach was ok. There are much better beaches on the island. I’m a snorkeler and was not impressed by the waters around black rock and at the beach in general. It’s extremely obvious that lots of novice people go there to snorkel. The coral is all but dead and there is algae all over it. I assume most people do not use eco friendly sun screen and it’s killing the coral.

The waves are pretty rough there as well. The waves can be rough in many areas but at black rock, it seemed worse then other areas. No yellow or red flags that day so I assume that day was normal.

There are plenty of other areas to go that are much better. That whole area is inundated with hotels and the area and waters are taking a brunt of it.

Had an appetizer at a nearby hotel, and the view of the torch lighting and nightly diving was visable.

Secluded away from the crowded resort areas. Morning walks are great. Now and then, you'll see turtles. Relaxing place.

This is what you don’t read about on those lists of the best snorkeling sites or what don’t you see on those TikTok videos of tours of Maui.

We stayed at a hotel along the wide expanse of the beach and asked about its safety, including any sudden drop offs. Hotel staff said it was safe enough for kids and that the slope of the sands was gradual. In the morning, we checked out the beach, and saw one couple with their rented gear and followed them to the end of the beach where the black rock outcropping was, and saw them enter the water and swim around for a bit. The woman had one of those underwater cases for her phone, so we knew they were going to be checking out ocean life just like we wanted to. There were some average sized waves but the couple seemed to be doing all right. We decided we would go rent equipment at one of the stores close by (Snorkel Bob’s or Boss Frog).

Next day, around 2p, we walked to the same spot. Lots of people swimming and wading, some snorkeling. Sand was scorching under our feet. We put on our gear and entered the water and started swimming/floating. At one point, we took a break, and some idiot jumped off the cliff, landing not ten feet away from my companion. Apart from that, at least for the next ten minutes, the snorkeling was cool and we saw a baby tortoise swimming underwater - cool until me and my companion both got tossed by a surprise rough wave. I found myself being thrown into the lava rocks at the base of the cliff, struggled to hold onto the rocks so as not to get buffeted again but could not move away from the pounding, kept getting sucked out and hitting rocks on the way out, and when the wave came pounding back, thrown back against them like a rag doll. As I tried to pull myself up between poundings, I heard my lower right rib snap. Thought that was the end for me. Finally, by pure luck, one of the waves pushed me closer to the shore where I could shuffle to away from the waves and the rocks.

Went back to the hotel and drove to the emergency department at the hospital in Wailuku to get checked out.

We visited Black Rock Beach on our last full day in Maui. We arrived about 9:00 AM and parked in the free parking area. We walked to the beach and set up our beach chairs and mats. The snorkeling along Black Rock was fantastic. The water was clear and we saw Lots of colorful fish and 4 turtles. The wind was down so the waves were minimal. We enjoyed a nice long walk along the beach after snorkeling.

I really enjoyed snorkeling here. Be sure to swim around the Black Rocks to the cove (on the right). The snorkeling is better over there. More fish and greater variety than the paid snorkeling trip to Molokini Crater....but still not as much sealife as I expected.

Snorkeling amazing!! Go early in the morning. Plenty of sea turtles! You can rent snorkeling equipment right on the beach.

This place is amazing. It is a little crowded though. But take that out and it is amazing. The large rock is perfect for jumping off and really safe. The waves are great for boogie boarding. And the snorkeling is fantastic. We swam with sea turtles.

Very large public beach with a gorgeous view. Snorkeling available right off the beach ... turtles and fish.

Great place to snorkel. Especially on windy days! The cove protects the waves and the fish are great! Lots of people and must find the way through the resorts. The parking situation is difficult but highly recommend the beach!!

There is one beach name that keeps getting recommended when you ask about it in this area. The water can be calmer in certain areas and during different tides. We were told to snorkel there, but the water was very rough while we were at the beach, so we decided against it. However on other parts of the beach we swam with sea turtles as they went up and down the coast. We saw a few fish, but not as much as you would near the black rock edges. It's a great beach with lots of space for other beach activities.

Nice sandy beach. A bit crowded as there are several hotels right there. Tiny public parking garage and a good walk to get to the beach. Good swimming water and we where there when the sun was going down so we caught part of the Maui's Chief Kahekili's leap from the rock. If you are staying up by this beach its good one.

Protected by a promontory, there is plenty of fish to observe, and frequent turtle visits. Don't harass the turtles, and do not go beyond the promontory - there are very strong currents and far too many people drown: Don't be one of them!

This is an amazing very unusual black Rock beach. A huge lava rock just out into the sea from where people jump off into the ocean!
A good place to snorkel and see turtles too ..
The beach approach is right behind hotels and not very accessible;
The best way to get to it is to park in KAHEKILI Beach park , north of Black Rock and walk south on the beach walk ..
Or park at Whalers Village and walk north ; but the parking here is more expensive!

Definitely worth getting to it .. a beautiful place to be!

Great snorkel beach with easy access and protection from waves. Saw turtles as well as fish. I did like Airport Beach better though for the variety of fish and a bigger area to explore. Easy to park near golf course near beach access sign and walk to beach.

Enjoyed our walk around the beach and the beautiful grounds. Relaxing and peaceful, loved the sounds of the ocean crashing.

Amazing cliff diving and fun roller waves. Young kids Sat on the beach while older kids went diving. Bring some keens or a sandal for a better hiking experience on the black rock. However plenty were barefoot. Super fun experience. It's a bit of a walk from parking garage. Bring your chairs and umbrella.

Such a beautiful spot for pictures, swimming, snorkeling, jumping off the black rock if you are brave, great place to whale watch during the season, excellent views just to sit and relax!

15 minute walk from Hyatt. Great sand, good snorkeling and fun cliff diving. Saw several turtles. Big beach so it never felt crowded.

TURTLES!! Caught your attention! There are many curious and social turtles here. I found a few out past the point of Black Rock towards the East. They will come up and check you out, but please do not touch them. Besides Turtles, there is cliff diving, a beautiful beach, and plenty of sea life to see. It is a bit busy around the rock itself but that does not deter the fish from hanging out in the area. A really enjoyable and fun day to be had with the family.

Living on its legend and legacy...

The magic of black rock is over. I was there in august of 2018 and there is no reef for speak of and few fish worth seeing. the people traffic has done away with it. What you have now is a swell of people all swimming over each other to get to the black rock for the fun of climbing it and jumping off.

It is still beautiful from the beach and there is a pleasant torch lighting and diving ceremony every night. There are some fish as well, some. But don't waste any time thinking you will see the rainbow under water. It's pretty barren.

Visited beach on our quest to find the best snorkel spots.

The beach itself is great! The sand is super soft, the views are great and you're right in front of the back of a hotel, so you can certainly rent snorkel gear or get some drinks from there (at least I imagine you can).

This is a great spot for the family. The water is great and doesn't get deep very fast. The snorkel is descent. We did some a few fish and an eel, however not as impressed as I'd like.

Overall, this was probably one of my favorite beaches we visited while on our trip, however if you're looking for a good place to dive or snorkel, there are better locations.

Beautiful beach located on the north end of Ka'anapali in front of the Sheraton Maui Resort. There is a promontory of lava rock which has long been a sacred site for native people. Every night at sunset, the hotel has a torch lighting and cliff diving ceremony from the rock. It is somewhat underwhelming in truth. You can also join others making the cliff dive during the day. This is a beautiful spot with a sandy beach but can get busy throughout the day. However, the snorkeling here is excellent especially if you go beyond the buoy and swim around to the right into the cove on the other side of the rocks. There is a bit of a tow when swimming this far out so wearing fins, and a snorkel vest is a good idea. In addition to many colorful fish, I saw a few sea turtles. Definitely one of my favorite snorkeling experiences.

So maybe just a very busy day when we went (Friday in July)... but, really took away from our experience - we don't like crowds and typically avoid them. My son didn't want to snorkel as it was too crowded and he getting kicked. But, he did climb up the cliff and jump quite a few times!! My husband even did once too.... you really need to keep watch for those below snorkeling and unaware, etc... it is quite deep and quite a swim around to the 'zero entry' way to climb up. My son is an excellent swimmer so no issue - but, I got tired treading water waiting on him to jump (as there was a line,etc)... so a floating device is probably advisable.
As I mentioned we did see a turtle - so many were crowding him I felt bad and just swam away to give him space... other fish are to be seen as well but honestly so many kicking and swimming it was not enjoyable.
I also advise to NOT stay at the Sheraton right there as many walk through there and crowd up the beach there in front.