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Before you go
Your trip to Wailea.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Wailea – Hawaii Destination Maui about 160 km from Honolulu
How to get there
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Kahului Airport (OGG) Kahului · 30 km
Approximate distances. Check flights and bus, train or boat schedules before you travel.
From Kahului Airport, take road 311 and the Piʻilani Highway (31); about 30 km and a half-hour drive. The island bus links Kahului with Kīhei and Wailea.
How many days
Two or three days for Wailea and Mākena beaches and a boat trip to Molokini. Many visitors use Wailea as a base for exploring the whole island.
When to go
All year: the south coast is the driest, sunniest side of Maui. The sea is usually calm in the morning. From December to April, humpback whales appear close to shore.
The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.
Do you need a car?
Yes, to leave the beach area and reach Mākena and other parts of the island. Within Wailea the seaside path connects the beaches on foot. Drive on the right.
Suggested itinerary
An order that works
Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.
One day in Wailea
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Morning
Wailea Beach
Snorkel at the lava headlands of Wailea Beach and walk the promenade to Ulua and Mōkapu.
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Afternoon
Mākena
Head to Big Beach in Mākena State Park and stay for sunset over Kahoʻolawe.
2 days in Wailea
Day 1
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All day
South coast beaches
Wailea in the morning, Mākena in the afternoon.
Day 2
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Morning
Molokini
Leave by boat from the Kīhei or Māʻalaea harbors to snorkel in Molokini’s crater.
Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.
Before you go
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Molokini from Wailea?
By boat, on early snorkel trips that depart from the Kīhei and Māʻalaea harbors. The islet is a protected area and landing is not allowed.
Is Wailea good for families?
Yes. The beaches are often calm in the morning, and the seaside path links the bays within walking distance.
What’s the difference between Wailea and Kīhei?
They are neighbors on the south coast. Kīhei is a town with more varied accommodation; Wailea is a planned resort and beach area.
Does it rain in Wailea?
Little. The south coast is sheltered from the wind by Haleakalā and is one of the driest areas on the island.