My family and I are headed to Maui for the very first time this august. We are still lagging on booking the vacation rental (2bed/2bath will do). I cannot decide what the difference is between staying on West Maui and South Maui. We are interested in being in walking distance of a nice, not too crowded, soft-sand beach, and a good spot for snorkeling for beginners. We'll have a rental car and be there for 1 week. If any one can give us insight on the pros/cons of staying in each region, we would appreciate it so much!

Also, is there a major difference in the weather between these two regions in the beginning of august?

South Maui in August will be much hotter than West Maui. Both areas have great soft sand beaches and good snorkeling.

We stayed in the Kaanapali beach area of Lahaina and loved it. There was great shopping at Whaler's Village and in Lahaina, and we were able to walk out of our hotel and snorkel off the beach right behind it. Black Rock was within walking distance, and there is great snorkeling there. I haven't stayed anywhere else on Maui but would highly recommend this area. Have a great trip!

"We are interested in being in walking distance of a nice, not too crowded, soft-sand beach, and a good spot for snorkeling for beginners."

Keawakapu Beach in South Kihei/North Wailea would be a great choice.

South Maui will be hotter than West Maui by a bit ... That time of year, I'd go West!

Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach as mentioned is a very good beginner snorkeling area with a fabulous white sand beach. The hotel that fronts that beach is the Sheraton. Time share condos are close by.

I agree with the recommendation of Keawakapu Beach. Nearby Kamaole III is also a great choice. I've stayed there in July and also in August and didn't find the heat all that oppressive. Boogie Boarding is also excellent. I like the smaller condo complexes of So. Kihei better than the mega-properties in Kaanapali. It has more of a local feel since it an area where people actually live...not just a resort destination full of other tourists. Good family restaurants and shops in the area. If you like more upscale, you can always visit (or stay in) Wailea.

You'll be in shorts and tanks, I doubt you will notice a big weather difference, if there is one. I myself prefer the West Maui area, Lahaina, Kaanapali. If you are looking for a vacation rental, I can recommend the Mahana. This is advertised on the VRBO site. It is all ocean front and lovely there. The swimming/snorkeling is not really available in front. I hear it is too rocky. But there is a nearby park with great swimming and some snorkeling. I do agree about Black Rock, I love that area. Aloha! enjoy