Postcard perfect Wailea Beach Maui is hands-down one of the best beaches on Maui. This palm tree-speckled stretch of velvety golden sand in the swanky resort area of South Maui and offers calm, clear waters, excellent swimming and snorkeling, and stellar views of Haleakalā and the islands of Molokini, Lana‘i, and Kaho‘olawe. Family-friendly Wailea Beach Maui just can’t be beat for a great day of relaxing sand and sea pleasure.
Wailea Beach Maui History
Wailea Beach was originally part of a vast ancient Hawaiian settlement that spanned the entire South Maui coast. In the mid-1800s, the slopes above Wailea Beach were used for raising cattle, and eventually became ‘Ulupalakua Ranch. During WWII, Wailea Beach became a training area for U.S. military stationed in the Pacific. In 1957, Matson Navigation Company purchased 1,500 acres of the area; Alexander & Baldwin (A&B) acquired Matson – and Wailea – in 1969. Looking to expand their interests, A&B began developing a residential resort community in 1971. The resort encompasses Wailea Beach Maui, and has been voted as the best resort community in the U.S.
Wailea Beach Facilities
Parking, restrooms and showers are available; beach concessions offer chair, umbrella, and cabana rentals.
Wailea Beach Swimming Conditions
Wailea beaches clear waters make for great swimming and snorkeling, especially in the morning. A shore break can kick up in the afternoon, so that’s the time to get out the boogie board. As with all Hawaiian beaches, check the current conditions and pay heed to all posted signs regarding ocean conditions and safety.
How to Get There
From Kīhei, take Highway 31 south. Where 31 ends, turn right onto Wailea ʻIke Drive. Continue to Wailea Alanui Drive, then turn left. Look for a yellow iron gate on the right between the Grand Wailea and the Four Seasons; turn right and follow the road to the end to reach Wailea Beach Maui.
