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Beach · Wailea, Hawaii
Wailea Beach
A crescent beach of light sand on Maui’s south coast, with sea usually calm in the morning, reefs for snorkeling at the headlands, and views of the islands Kahoʻolawe, Molokini and Lānaʻi. A seaside promenade links the neighboring beaches.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Wailea Beach
Wailea Beach is the best-known beach in a series of small light-sand bays on Maui’s south coast, between Kīhei and Mākena. It lies on the island’s sheltered side, where rainfall is low and the sea is usually calm in the morning, with winds increasing in the afternoon.
The lava headlands that close the bay have reefs with fish and often green sea turtles, sought by snorkelers. On the horizon are the islet of Molokini, a half-moon crater, and the islands of Kahoʻolawe and Lānaʻi. From December to April it’s common to see the spouts of humpback whales from the promenade itself.
The Wailea Beach Path, a roughly 2.5 km seaside trail, links Wailea Beach with Ulua, Mōkapu and Polo, passing through native plant gardens. The sand is public, with signed public access points and parking, although the shoreline is occupied by resorts.
At neighboring Ulua and Mōkapu, the reef in the middle of the bay forms another good snorkel spot. Boats to Molokini depart from the Kīhei and Māʻalaea harbors.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day at the beach; add an extra hour to walk the promenade to the neighboring beaches.
Best time
In the morning, when the sea is usually calmer and clearer for snorkeling. The wind picks up in the afternoon. Sunset is seen facing out over the ocean and the islands.
How to get there
In Wailea, about 30 km from Kahului Airport, roughly a 30-minute drive. Public parking is at the Wailea Alanui Drive access and fills up early.
Tip
Snorkel at the lava headlands early, before the wind. Use reef-safe sunscreen and keep a distance from turtles.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Wailea Beach
Is Wailea Beach public?
Yes. All Hawaiian beaches are public, and Wailea has signed public access points and parking.
Can you snorkel at Wailea Beach?
Yes, at the lava headlands that enclose the bay, preferably in the morning when the sea is usually calmer.
What is the Wailea Beach Path?
A seaside path of about 2.5 km that links Wailea Beach with Ulua, Mōkapu and Polo.