Heading out on a tropical vacation to Maui? We can’t think of anything better than endless rest, relaxation, good vibes, and beautiful views. Perhaps the best part of any Maui stay happens at the end of the day. Many visitors’ favorite way to unwind on vacation is watching a picturesque Maui sunset.
With picture-perfect beaches, crystal clear water, and clear skies, it’s no wonder why! Maui sunsets are among the best in the world. Imagine yourself on the beach, sand between your toes, surrounded by the ocean's soothing sounds and the most beautiful sunset you’ve ever seen. We bet you can’t wait to get to Maui for your vacation now!
If you're wondering where you should watch the sunset in Maui, you're not alone! There are many great options to choose from. Let's explore our top picks!
When Is Sunset on Maui?
As with anywhere, the time the sun sets depends on the time of year. The sun can set anywhere from 5:45 PM to 6:30 PM from September through March and 6:45 to 7:15 PM from April through August. Make sure you check on the times closer to (and during!) your trip, though. You don’t want to miss out on a sunset adventure because you got the time wrong!
Where is the Best Place to See the Sunset in Maui?
Well, you won’t catch a lousy sunset anywhere on the island. There are spectacular views island-wide! However, the west and south shores are highly recommended for impressive sunset views. Lucky for you, our vacation rentals are ideally situated so you can have the best vantage points possible.
Best Beaches to Watch a Maui Sunset
Of course, one of the first places you’ll think of when you want to see the sunset is the beach. There are so many beaches in Maui to choose from, too!
Here are a few great beaches where you can watch the sunset:
Maalaea Bay Beach Sunset
Maalaea Beach isn’t known as the most swimmer-friendly beach on Maui, but it does have spectacular views! There are several beaches along Maalaea Bay like Haycraft Beach Park and Kalepolepo Park that are great options, too. They're also all outfitted with picnic tables, so you can plan a romantic sunset date!
Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach is a popular beach in Maui for many reasons, and it’s a prime spot to see the sunset! There’s also a special evening celebration here that you won’t want to miss.
A few minutes before sunset, there’s a daily torch lighting and cliff diving ceremony (lele kawa) at the Black Rock (Puu Kekaa). The Black Rock is a sacred spot on Maui where, as legend says, souls depart the earth and leap into the spirit world. Listen to a narrator tell the story of Maui Chief Kahekili, the first person to jump off Puu Kekaa.
Since that first leap, locals have kept this sacred history alive by recreating Chief Kahekili’s famous actions every night at sunset. The cliff diving ceremony begins with a Hawaiian warrior blowing a conch shell to the four directions of the earth and making a lei offering. Watch as he sprints up the volcanic rock, lights the torches, and then takes a spectacular dive into the ocean as the grand finale. It’s an incredibly moving ceremony to watch!
Kapalua Bay
This Maui beach is another fantastic option for seeing a striking sunset. Plus, you can attend a Kapalua Bay Sunset Luau! As the sun disappears, the ceremony begins. Gather for delicious Hawaiian delicacies, traditional Polynesian entertainment, and an evening of community under the stars.
Overlooks: See the Sunset at Haleakalā Summit
Most well-known for its stargazing, Haleakalā Summit is a great place to catch a sunset! Plus, you can stick around afterward and get the best of both worlds when you witness the remarkable stargazing here. Many people enjoy seeing the sunrise here, too—you can take a sunrise tour to start your day in Maui off right!
Maui Sunset Activities
Viewing the sunset from the beach or an overlook is gorgeous. But what if you could add in some activity around your sunset viewing?
Many visitors love setting sail on a sunset cruise during their time in Maui. It’s a fantastic way to see a Maui sunset from a whole new perspective! Many cruises include dinner, an open bar, and entertainment that will give you a glimpse into Maui’s local culture.
Sail Trilogy has several Sunset Sail packages that depart from different parts of the island. They even have a sunset whale watch! See how many whales you can spot as the sun sinks over the Maui horizon on this delightful excursion out of Maalaea.
You could also go out to dinner and see the sunset right from your seat! Many Maui restaurants sit right on the ocean and offer outstanding views as the sun starts to sink.
Mama’s Fish House is one of the first restaurants that comes to mind when we think of dining next to a gorgeous sunset backdrop. You’ll need to make a reservation if you want to time it correctly, though—they’re quite popular! If you can, make your reservation for 30 minutes before the scheduled sunset time—you’ll be rewarded with more than just fantastic food. This is a great spot to head for a date night out!
Book Your Trip to Maui Directly with Maui Condo!
View just a short walk from our Maui Parkshore 302 unit.
If all else fails, you could always watch the sunset from the balcony of your Maui Condo vacation rental! We have many oceanfront and ocean-view units that provide magnificent sunset views—and you don’t even need to step out the front door of your rental.
Beyond the views, there are plenty of reasons to choose Maui Condo for your accommodations on your trip to Maui. Our condos come with perks, including amenities like unit pools, hot tubs, a fitness center, and tennis courts. Plus, you’ll be working with our dedicated local team—we’re here to help should any issue arise on your trip!
It’s time to book that trip so you can see some gorgeous Maui sunsets for yourself. Browse our available Maui rentals now and book your trip directly with us!