Staying in Wailea Maui for your next Hawaiian vacation? Scroll to find out the best things to do in Wailea for families, couples, adventurers, and more!
This things to do in Wailea Maui post was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Wailea is hands down one of the swankiest spots on Maui, and honestly, I can’t get enough of it.
Picture this: pristine beaches, designer shopping, world-class restaurants, and those ridiculously gorgeous sunsets where you just stop and stare.
That’s Wailea in a nutshell.
I’ve been coming to Wailea for years as a professional tourist (40+ trips to Hawaii will do that to you), and this South Shore gem never gets old.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family beach day, or just want to feel fancy for a weekend, Wailea delivers.
Let me show you exactly what to do, where to eat, and how to make the most of this luxury resort area.
Why Wailea?
Here’s what makes Wailea special: it’s about 25 minutes south of Kahului Airport, so you’re not dealing with a crazy long drive after your flight.
The beaches are absolutely stunning (seriously, some of the best on Maui), and the whole area just feels… upscale without being stuffy.
Plus, Wailea totally avoided the 2023 Lahaina fires, so everything here is operating normally. It’s a great base for exploring South Maui.
Ready to plan your trip? Let’s get into it.
1. Shop at The Shops at Wailea
Okay, I’m starting with shopping because The Shops at Wailea is genuinely one of my favorite places on the island.
This outdoor mall is gorgeous. Palm trees, open-air walkways, that perfect Maui weather.
You’ll find luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton if that’s your thing, but also more accessible stores like Lululemon, Faherty, and Lilly Pulitzer.
The best part? Honolulu Cookie Company is here (those pineapple-shaped cookies are dangerously good), plus Lappert’s Ice Cream for when you need a break from shopping.
Hours: 10am-9pm daily
Location: 3750 Wailea Alanui Drive
Pro tip: They have free cultural activities like lei-making and hula classes throughout the week, plus live entertainment. Check their schedule when you visit.
Book hotels near The Shops at Wailea on Expedia
2. Ulua Beach and Wailea Beach
Let me tell you about Ulua Beach. I did a solo Flytographer session here, and the photos turned out absolutely gorgeous.
The beach itself is stunning with golden sand and those iconic palm trees.
Ulua Beach is perfect for snorkeling when the water’s calm. You’ll spot tropical fish and might even see sea turtles hanging out near the rocks.
Wailea Beach (just next door) sits between the Grand Wailea and Four Seasons resorts. It gets busier because of the resort access, but it’s still beautiful.
You can see Kahoolawe Island and Molokini Crater from the shore, and in winter, you might spot humpback whales breaching offshore.
Both beaches have:
- Free parking (get there early!)
- Restrooms and showers
- Great boogie boarding and body surfing
- Easy access to the Wailea Coastal Walkway
Want to capture your Wailea memories? Save $20 on your Flytographer session here.
3. Wailea Coastal Walkway
This 1.5-mile paved pathway is perfect for sunset walks, morning jogs, or just taking in the scenery.
The walkway connects five beaches and passes eight luxury resorts, all with ocean views the entire way.
In winter (December through April), you can watch whales from the path. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve walked this route, and it never disappoints.
It’s completely free, totally flat, and stroller-friendly. You can start at any beach access point and walk as much or as little as you want.
Best time to go: Early morning for sunrise or late afternoon for sunset. Trust me on the sunset timing.
4. Eat at Monkeypod Kitchen
Monkeypod Kitchen is where locals and tourists happily coexist, which tells you everything you need to know.
Chef Peter Merriman focuses on locally sourced ingredients, so you’re getting Maui beef, Kauai shrimp, and fresh island fish prepared incredibly well. The kalua pork pizza is ridiculously good, and their mai tais are legendary.
Here’s what I love: they offer free noodles and cheese for kids under 3, plus a solid kids menu for older children. The happy hour (3:30-5pm daily) has half-price appetizers and $12 pizzas.
Location: Wailea Gateway Center (uphill from The Shops at Wailea)
Hours: 11am-10pm daily
Reservations: Highly recommended
The vibe is casual but elevated. Live music most nights. It’s the perfect spot after a beach day.
5. Snorkel Molokini Crater
If you only do one ocean activity in Maui, make it Molokini Crater snorkeling.
This crescent-shaped volcanic crater sits about 3 miles offshore and has some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen.
Visibility often exceeds 100 feet, and you’ll spot tons of tropical fish, eels, and maybe even a whale shark if you’re lucky.
Most tours depart from Maalaea Harbor (about 20 minutes north of Wailea) and include:
- Two snorkel stops (usually Molokini plus Turtle Town)
- All snorkel gear and instruction
- Breakfast and lunch
- Open bar after snorkeling
Current Pricing: $150-200 per adult, $100-150 for kids
Tour Length: 4-5 hours
Best Time: Morning tours have calmer water
The boats fill up fast, especially in summer. Book at least a week ahead if possible.
Book your Molokini snorkeling tour on Viator or Get Your Guide
Want more Maui snorkeling tips? Check out my complete guide to snorkeling in Maui.
6. Polo Beach
Polo Beach is tucked between the Fairmont Kea Lani and Polo Beach Club condos, and it’s one of those spots that feels a bit more local despite being in the resort area.
The parking lot is huge (unlike most Wailea beaches), and there are lots of shaded spots for your car.
The beach itself has all the amenities: showers, bathrooms, picnic tables, barbecue grills, and a small grassy park.
When the water’s calm, the snorkeling here is excellent. Rocky areas on both ends of the beach attract fish and sea turtles.
Fair warning: Recent storms washed away some sand, so beach access involves climbing over rocks now.
If that’s not your thing, the beach fronting the Fairmont is right next door and easier to access.
7. Makena Beach State Park (Big Beach)
About 10 minutes south of Wailea, you’ll find Makena Beach State Park, also called Big Beach.
At nearly two-thirds of a mile long, it’s one of Maui’s largest undeveloped beaches.
The sand is that perfect golden-white color, and you get incredible views of Molokini Crater and Kahoolawe Island.
The beach is protected from wind, which makes for calmer conditions most days.
There are actually two beaches here: Big Beach and Little Beach (clothing optional, FYI). Nearby you’ll also find Oneloa Beach and Secret Beach.
What to know:
- The shorebreak can be powerful, so watch for warning signs
- No lifeguards on duty
- Bring your own shade (limited natural shade)
- Parking fills up by mid-morning on weekends
This is where you go when you want a more natural beach experience without resort development.
8. Attend the Feast at Mokapu Luau
Listen, luaus can be hit or miss. The Feast at Mokapu at Andaz Maui is absolutely worth the splurge.
I’ve been to more luaus than I can count (occupational hazard of being a Hawaii travel expert), and this one stands out.
Instead of buffet lines and communal seating, you get your own private table with family-style service. The food is honestly restaurant-quality.
Executive Chef Isaac Bancaco created a three-course menu featuring ahi poke, kalua pig, pulehu ribeye, fresh fish, and incredible desserts like haupia tarts and Molokai sweet potato cheesecake.
The show tells the story of Polynesian voyagers and their arrival in Hawaii. Professional choreography, live music, and fire-knife dancing that’ll make you gasp.
Current Pricing:
- Classic Seating: ~$280/adult, $140/child
- Premium Seating (first two rows): ~$360/adult, $199/child
When: Select nights (check schedule)
Time: Check-in varies by sunset time
Location: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
The open bar includes premium craft cocktails and self-serve Maui Brewing Co. beers. Free valet parking for luau guests.
Book early because this sells out weeks in advance. It’s a smaller, more intimate luau than most on Maui.
Book your luau tickets on Viator
Read my full Feast at Mokapu review for more details.
9. Golf at Wailea Golf Club
Even if you’re not a serious golfer, Wailea Golf Club deserves mention because it’s consistently rated one of the best in America.
Three championship courses:
- Wailea Gold: Former home of the Champions Skins Game, named one of the top 100 courses in the U.S.
- Wailea Emerald: Lush, scenic, slightly more forgiving
- Wailea Blue: The original layout, classic and beautiful
All three have incredible ocean views and that perfect Maui weather year-round.
Non-golfers can still enjoy the clubhouse restaurants and pro shop. The views alone are worth stopping by.
10. Try Stand Up Paddleboarding
Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is huge in Hawaii, and Wailea’s calm morning waters make it perfect for beginners.
You can rent boards on your own or join a guided tour. Tours are great if you’re new to the sport because instructors help you get comfortable and take you to the best spots for wildlife viewing (hello, sea turtles!).
The learning curve is surprisingly gentle. Most people get the hang of it within 10-15 minutes.
Cost: Tours run about $75-100 per person and include all equipment
Morning is definitely the best time. Water’s calmer, and you’ll avoid the afternoon wind.
Book a SUP tour on Hawaii Activities
11. Explore Beyond Wailea: Day Trips
Wailea makes an excellent base for exploring the rest of South Maui and beyond.
Nearby attractions:
- Haleakala National Park (45 minutes): Watch sunrise from the summit or hike through volcanic landscapes
- Road to Hana (1.5 hours to start): Waterfalls, black sand beaches, and jaw-dropping coastal views
- Makena Landing (10 minutes): Great shore snorkeling and kayak launch point
- Kihei (15 minutes): More casual dining and shopping options
Want a detailed Maui itinerary? Grab my 5-day Maui itinerary for families or check out my comprehensive Maui travel guide.
Where to Stay in Wailea
Wailea is all about luxury resorts. Here are my top picks:
Grand Wailea Resort
The Grand Wailea is absolutely iconic. We’re talking 40 acres of tropical gardens, multiple pools with waterslides and lazy rivers, world-class spa, and direct Wailea Beach access.
Recently renovated rooms, incredible restaurants, and that signature Waldorf Astoria service. If budget isn’t a concern, this is where you stay.
Check rates at Grand Wailea on Expedia
Fairmont Kea Lani
Hawaii’s only all-suite and villa resort. Every room is a suite with a separate living area, which is perfect for families.
Located on Polo Beach with three pools, four restaurants, and a fantastic spa. The suites have kitchenettes, which helps with costs if you want to eat some meals in your room.
Check Fairmont Kea Lani rates on Expedia
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Modern, stylish, and slightly less traditional than the other resorts. Home to the Feast at Mokapu luau (see above).
Beautiful infinity pools, Mokapu Beach access, and several excellent restaurants including the new Nobu. The vibe here is more contemporary Hawaii.
Check Andaz Maui rates on Expedia
Getting Around Wailea
You’ll want a rental car for maximum flexibility. Wailea is designed for driving, and you’ll want to explore beyond the resort area.
The Wailea Coastal Walkway connects resorts and beaches if you’re staying nearby, but you’ll need wheels to get to restaurants, shopping, and day trip destinations.
Get a rental car with Discount Hawaii Car Rental
Planning Your Wailea Trip
Here’s my honest advice after 40+ trips to Hawaii:
Best time to visit: Any time, really. Wailea has fantastic weather year-round. Winter (December-April) brings whale watching opportunities. Summer is slightly busier but still wonderful.
How long to stay: 4-5 nights gives you time to enjoy Wailea’s beaches and restaurants while taking a couple of day trips.
Budget considerations: Wailea is pricey. Plan on splurging for accommodations but you can save money by eating some meals at Monkeypod or packing beach picnics from Safeway.
With kids: All the beaches are family-friendly. Monkeypod Kitchen is great for families. The luaus are kid-approved entertainment.
Need help planning your entire Maui trip? I offer personalized Hawaii travel consultations where we can map out your perfect itinerary based on your family’s needs.
Or grab my free 7-day email course on planning a trip to Maui to get started.
Essential Wailea Packing List
Don’t forget these items for your Wailea vacation:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreen damages coral reefs)
- Snorkel gear if you have your own (rentals add up fast)
- Beach umbrella or sun tent (limited natural shade at beaches)
- Nice resort casual clothes for dinner (Wailea restaurants are upscale)
- Waterproof phone case for beach photos
- Light jacket for air-conditioned restaurants
Check out my complete Hawaii packing list for more essentials.
Final Thoughts on Wailea
Wailea feels special. It’s polished and luxurious without being pretentious. The beaches are legitimately some of Maui’s best, the restaurants are excellent, and the whole vibe is just… relaxing.
Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, taking a family vacation, or just treating yourself to something nice, Wailea delivers.
The shopping makes me happy, the beaches are gorgeous (that Ulua Beach Flytographer session is still one of my favorite photo shoots ever), and there’s enough to do without feeling overwhelming.
South Maui in general is fantastic, but Wailea specifically has that sweet spot of luxury amenities with easy beach access and incredible sunsets.
If you’re planning a Maui trip, put Wailea on your list. You won’t regret it.
Want more Maui travel tips?
- Things to Do in Maui with Kids
- Best Maui Luaus (Complete Guide)
- Where to Stay in Maui: Lahaina vs Wailea
- Road to Hana Guide and Tips
Happy travels!
