"Let’s start big picture. What’s the vibe here? Kapalua Bay is a serene little cove just north of Lahaina. The beach here is public, as are all Hawaiian beaches, although this one is mostly used by local guests and visitors. It’s small, and its great snorkeling makes it a perfect spot for families. Fun! Any standout features or must-sees? The historic Cliff House, built in 1940, is now part of the luxurious Montage resort. But just beyond that, are some some cliffs that are perfect for, well, cliff-jumping. It's common to see people making a splash here; there’s even a ladder and handrails to pull yourself out of the water and back onto the rocks after your jump. Got it. Was it easy to get around? The Kapalua Coastal trail, which runs along this beach, is easy to access from the main road. That sounds cool. All said and done, what—and who—is this best for? The beach is free; you can rent snorkel gear and paddle boards from a small shack at the end. It’s a small and manageable spot to take the kids swimming and snorkeling. If you want more action and bigger waves, look elsewhere." - Juliana Shallcross
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