Wailea, located along the shores of South Maui, is a perfect getaway mixed with adventure and luxury. It is a place like no other, thanks to the best golf courses, beautiful beaches, and luxurious accommodations.
Whether you want to try all the local flavors, explore art galleries, or dive into thrilling adventures, Wailea has something for everyone. Discover seven fun things to do in Wailea that will make your trip truly unforgettable:
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1) Things To Do In Wailea Maui – Water Adventures Await!
For some, spending time on the water, diving to get a closeup of sea turtles, tropical fish, and the coral reefs is an adventure worth taking. Others, however, spend time on the water seeking relaxation. Regardless of your level of adventure, at Paddle On! Maui, we have unforgettable experiences for everyone.
Our expert guides are ready to take adventurers to see the ocean floor or get an up-close view of humpback whales. For those who are looking to relax, you will enjoy paddling around the Hawaiian green sea turtles or snorkeling to observe marine life. At Paddle On! Maui, we have thrilling adventures for all levels:
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Private Whale Watching Tour – This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see mama whales and their calves up close. Whether you choose to go by kayak or stand up paddleboard, it will be a memorable experience.
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Beginner Tours – So, you have never been on a standup paddleboard? Our experts will have you up paddling in no time. Warning: once you start, you are not going to want to stop.
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Private Kayak Snorkel Ocean Safari Tour – Many people come to Wailea for a chance to see the sea turtles. Imagine spending time snorkeling and spending one-on-one time with these special creatures.
At Paddle On! Maui, we do everything to ensure you have a wonderful time while on one of our tours. Explore all of our tours on our website and book your next unforgettable adventure!
2) Best Things To Do In Wailea – Head To The Beach
Wailea is home to some of Maui’s best beaches, each offering a unique blend of beauty and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for soft sands or snorkeling and scuba diving hotspots, Wailea’s beaches provide the perfect beach day escape.
Discover the best beaches in Wailea and experience the natural beauty that makes these beaches unforgettable:
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Wailea Beach – A crescent-shaped beach with soft golden sands and calm waters, the perfect beach for sunbathing and snorkeling. It is lined with luxury resorts for an iconic beach experience.
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Polo Beach – Polo Beach is located at the south end of the Waliea Coastal Walk and experiences small swells ideal for boogie boarding. The beach is a popular spot for snorkeling and sunbathing on the golden sand.
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Keawakapu Beach – Less crowded than other Wailea beaches, it is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The beach is on South Kihei Road, a convenient central location that makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors staying in nearby Wailea resorts and hotels.
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Ulua Beach – The ideal place for snorkeling, thanks to the vibrant coral reefs and clear waters. For beginners, it is a popular scuba diving location.
Pro Tip: Go early to avoid crowds and get a great spot. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a mat for the beach, and a dry bag to keep your phone and other valuables dry. Freeze some water to have cool drinks throughout the day.
3) Luxurious Accommodations – Wailea Resorts
Wailea is known for its luxury, relaxation, and world-class hospitality. Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront view, top-notch amenities, or the perfect blend of adventure and rest, Wailea’s top resorts deliver an unforgettable stay.
From award-winning spas to breathtaking beachfront views, these three premier resorts set the standard:
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Wailea Beach Resort – Set between Wailea and Ulua beaches, the resort has four pools, including the longest resort waterslide in Hawaii. It’s a perfect place for fun and relaxation with oceanfront accommodations and upscale amenities.
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Four Seasons Resort Maui – A five-star luxury retreat with large rooms and no resort fees, this resort sits on Wailea Beach. Guests can indulge in world-class dining, pools, golf, pickleball, and more.
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Grand Wailea Resort – A 40-acre oceanfront paradise, the resort is known for its lavish pools, award-winning spa, and beautiful beachfront location. Guests can enjoy one of Hawaii’s art galleries, cultural events, and other great activities.
Pro Tip: For the best experience, take advantage of resort amenities like spa treatments, photos, and beachfront dining. Also, many Wailea resorts offer free cultural experiences, including lei-making and ukulele lessons, so grab a schedule upon arrival.
4) Tee Off Under Abundant Sunshine – Wailea Golf Club
Ocean views, beautiful landscapes, and championship-caliber courses, Wailea is a golfer’s paradise. Whether you are a seasoned player or just looking to enjoy something new on your trip, Wailea’s world-class golf courses deliver the perfect blend of luxury and challenge:
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Wailea Gold – Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, Wailea’s most challenging golf course features rugged terrain, lava rock walls, and ocean views. The par-72, 18-hole course features a challenging layout that tests precision and power. Known for hosting major tournaments, the course is for the golfer looking to enjoy a scenic yet demanding round on Maui’s south shore.
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Wailea Emerald – Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, known for its women and couples-friendly features, is a fun and approachable course for all golfers. Remember to pause at the 10 and 17 greens to enjoy the beautiful views.
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Wailea Blue – The Wailea Blue Golf Course is Wailea’s first course. Arthur Jack Snyder designed the par-71, 18-hole course with wide fairways, coral sand bunkers, and views of Mt. Haleakalā and the Pacific Ocean. The Blue Course provides a fun and relaxed experience, making it a good choice for seasoned and casual players.
Pro Tip: Early morning tee times offer cooler temperatures and calmer winds, making for a smoother round. Plus, booking your tee time in advance, especially during peak season, helps to get times without crowds.
5) Wailea’s Food Adventures – From Coffee To Coastal Cuisine Restaurants
Wailea’s culinary scene offers everything from oceanfront restaurants to hidden favorites serving authentic island flavors.
Whether you are craving an artisan coffee, fresh seafood, or a casual food truck bite, these restaurants will satisfy everyone’s taste buds:
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Gather on Maui – Sitting on top of the Wailea Gold and Emerald Golf Courses, the restaurant offers views of the Pacific Ocean, Haleakalā, and Molokini Crater. They feature modern cuisine with a twist of Hawaiian flavors; it is a great place to enjoy a scenic meal.
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Akamai Coffee – Known for its 100% Maui-grown coffee, Akamai Coffee serves rich, aromatic blends, focusing on quality and sustainability. Whether you prefer a strong espresso or an iced pour-over coffee, this favorite is a must-stop when visiting Maui.
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Kinaole Grill Food Truck – This food truck serves classic Hawaiian favorites, including coconut shrimp, grilled mahi mahi, and seared ahi. Located steps from Kamaole One Beach, tables with an ocean view are available.
Fun Fact: One of Maui’s most famous dishes is Loco Moco. It is considered to be hearty comfort food served with rice, a hamburger patty, brown gravy, and a fried egg. In the 1940s, the dish was an affordable way to feed families.
6) Molokini Crater – Adventures Are Calling
Molokini is a trip for those who want to spend time in clear waters while experiencing all types of marine life. This area is one of the best spots for watching wildlife and to go snorkeling and scuba diving, thanks to water visibility extending approximately 150 feet deep.
Getting to Molokini Crater is easy with numerous boat tours departing from Wailea and nearby Maalaea Harbor, offering convenient access to this stunning marine sanctuary. Its unique crescent shape and vibrant underwater ecosystem make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Maui’s natural wonders.
Here are some must-try activities at Molokini Crater:
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Snorkeling – Dive into clear waters and explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with over 250 colorful fish species unique to Hawaii.
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Scuba Diving – Experience the thrill of diving deeper to swim alongside graceful eels, majestic manta rays, and curious reef sharks in crystal waters.
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Bird Watching – Spot tropical birds nesting peacefully on the crater’s rocky edges, offering a delightful experience for nature lovers and photographers.
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Glass-Bottom Boat Tours – Stay dry while enjoying a fun boat ride that reveals the stunning underwater world through clear glass panels.
Pro Tip: Head to the crater early in the morning when the water is at its calmest and its visibility is at its greatest. The crater keeps rough waves away, making it ideal for beginner divers and other water adventures.
7) Wailea Coastal Walk – A Scenic Shoreline Escape
Stretching along Maui’s coastline, the walking path offers ocean views, lush landscapes, and easy access to the beautiful beaches. The 1.5-mile paved trail is perfect for a variety of activities:
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The Beach Connection – This scenic path links Wailea Beach, Ulua Beach, and Polo Beach, making beach hopping easy and fun.
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Wildlife Watching – Keep an eye out for sea turtles and playful dolphins; in winter, you might even spot majestic humpback whales.
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Sunrise or Sunset Walks – Enjoy peaceful strolls with stunning views of the sky and ocean, perfect for catching vibrant sunrises or sunsets.
Fun Fact: Originally, the purpose of the Coastal Walk was to connect Maui’s most luxurious resort. However, over time, locals and visitors found the path a great way to get outside for exercise and to enjoy the view.
Wailea Wonders – Fun In The Sun Awaits
Wailea is packed with exciting adventures, making it easy to fill your days and nights with unforgettable experiences. From beach hopping and championship golf to breathtaking ocean excursions, there’s no shortage of ways to explore this tropical paradise.
No trip to Maui is complete without spending time in its beautiful waters. If you have always wanted to learn how to paddleboard or are an expert diver looking for a thrilling ocean adventure, Paddle On! Maui is ready to guide you all the way.
Book your next adventure today and experience Wailea from the water!
