Black Rock
Kaanapali Beach Black Rock
At the northern end of Kaanapali Beach lies a rocky outcrop jutting into the ocean, named Pu’u Keka’a, but more commonly known as Black Rock.
Ancient Hawaiians believed Black Rock to be the jumping-off point for spirits departing the physical world, a kind of portal into the spiritual afterlife.

Planning to visit Kaanapali Beach? Visit our Kaanapali Beach home page for the complete rundown on every single detail!
First time to Maui and no time to plan? You can’t go wrong selecting from these 5-star rated, immensely popular experiences! Reserve now (with free cancellation) before they get filled.
Snorkeling at Black Rock
The waters around Black Rock are teeming with marine life, sheltered by the coral reefs and underwater ledges.
Some of the best snorkeling at Kaanapali Beach is in this area, catering to all abilities of snorkelers.
Beginning snorkelers should stay close to the shores near Black Rock, with depths of around 6 feet.
Intermediate swimmers can head a bit further up off the shore where the depths move up towards 20 feet. Flotation devices and fins are strongly advised.

Experienced and expert snorkelers can head deeper to depths of more than 30 feet, but be warned strong rip currents are always present, especially around the tip!
Cliff Diving at Black Rock
Black Rock is also a popular haunt for thrill seekers, those seeking to dive into the ocean waters below.
During peak times, you’ll find a line of adrenaline junkies, usually teenage kids, climbing to various heights and diving down.
At sunset though, a more serious and traditional Hawaiian ritual takes place, where a local Hawaiian greets the sunset with a Polynesian tiki torch lighting ceremony followed by an amazing cliff dive from the peak!

Kaanapali Beach Sunset at Black Rock

Apart from the cliff jumping ritual, Kaanapali Beach is an excellent vantage point for watching stunning sunsets, where Black Rock’s silhouette against spectacular tropical sunset colors are an amateur photographer’s dream!