Napili, Kahana, and Honokowai are three distinct neighborhoods on the west coast of Maui, between Kaanapali and Kapalua. They offer gold-sand beaches, scenic views, and cooler temperatures. The first town of Napili originated when Canadian investors purchased and built on the land in 1960. Strict zoning laws kept the area from being overly developed. It has slowly expanded into a small resort community with low-density properties throughout and has preserved much of its natural beauty and paradise charms.
Living spaces range from beachside condominiums to large oceanfront estates. Older condominiums have been updated with remodeled master suites, new floorings, stainless steel appliances, and modern fixtures. Estate homes have deluxe bedrooms, oversized lanais overlooking the sea, and gazebos on the beach.
Napili is tucked away from the main road. It’s all residential, so it’s the quietest of the three neighborhoods. Kahana and Honokowai are right by the sea, with a few resort villas and boutique hotels. This area is definitely more slower-paced than other resort towns while still offering excellent dining and shopping, so you get the best of both worlds.
There’s a variety of excellent dining options. In the Napili Shores condo complex, The Gazebo is famous for its macadamia nut pancakes and serves other American fares. Be prepared to wait for seating, especially during breakfast hours. Sea House Restaurant in the Napili Kai Beach Resort is highly-rated for its Pacific Rim cuisine and has a popular happy hour. Kitchen 5315 Restaurant and Tiki Bar serves American classics and international dishes in a lively, decorated setting. China Boat Restaurant has a mix of Chinese and Japanese dishes. Honokowai Okazuya and Deli have generous combination plates.
Fond specializes in New American cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients. It’s located in Napili Plaza among several retailers, the Napili Market - which sells meats, produce, baked goods, sushi, and wine – and numerous other eateries, including Mama’s Ribs and Rotisserie, Maui Tacos, Joey’s Kitchen, and vegan restaurant AA Roots.
For craft beers, Maui Brewing Co. serves up their own original beers plus Hawaiian pub grub. It’s in the Kahana Gateway Shopping Center with Miso Phat Sushi, Dollie’s Pub and Café, and numerous unique retailer stores. A west Maui staple since 2012, the Napili Farmers’ Markets has specialty food products, baked goods, organic produce, and live music. It’s twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Protected by an outer reef, Napili Bay is popular with tourists and local residents. It’s an excellent place for snorkeling and swimming. You can also head to Honolua Bay, which is part of the Marine Life Conservation District. It’s great for snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving further out from the shore. You’ll see corals, lots of fish and even sea turtles. For golf enthusiasts, Kapalua Golf is 5 minutes away. It offers two championship courses that overlook the Pacific Ocean, a driving range, tennis courts, and dining options. To the south of Napili, Kaanapali Golf Course offers 36 holes of golf and practice facilities. The golf course and onsite restaurant, Roy’s, are also part of the annual Hawaii Food and Wine Festival.
Hawaii Department of Education proudly serves Napili, Kahana, and Honokowai. Some of these neighborhoods' fine schools include:
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