Smaller sandy beach, fronting the Fairmont Kea Lani resort.
Polo Beach
Polo Beach is a stunning and popular beach located in the upscale resort area of Wailea in South Maui. It is known for its soft, golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful views, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a beautiful and luxurious Maui experience.
Polo Beach is situated within the Wailea Resort community, fronting the Fairmont Kea Lani resort. It is approximately a 10 minute drive south from Auntie Snorkel Kihei. Its location offers easy access to a range of luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and shopping areas in South Maui.
Parking and Access
Go south on Wailea Alanui Drive, and take the first right after passing the Fairmont Kea Lani Hotel onto Kaukahi Street. Go down the hill and turn right into the parking lot.
To access the beach, follow the sidewalk past the picnic tables, restrooms, and showers, head down to the right and onto the beach.
Facilities and Amenities
Polo Beach Park provides basic amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and picnic tables, creating a comfortable environment for a day at the beach.
While Polo Beach itself doesn’t have extensive coral formations, there is a rocky area at the north end of the beach where you can snorkel. These rocky outcrops provide habitat for colorful fish and diverse marine life.
The waters at Polo Beach are generally calm and clear, making it a perfect spot for swimming and wading. The gentle waves and a gradual slope into the ocean create a safe environment for swimmers.
Summer south swells can bring sightly more shore break to this beach than its neighbors to the north, making for really fun boogie boarding or body surfing. Surfing is typically better on the southern end of Polo. Please always exercise extra caution with waves and the scattered rocky patches on this beach. If in doubt, don’t go out!
On calm mornings, stand-up paddle boarding is a great option at Polo Beach. Drive up to the picnic table area to unload your board before parking for a shorter walk to the water. The long stretch of beach and crystal clear waters make for a beautiful paddle. Just be aware that the wind can pick up strongly and quickly from late morning through the day, so the earlier you go out the better.
Polo Beach from the south end.
Environment and Seasonal Variation
Polo Beach is calm and beautiful most mornings year round. It is common for the wind to become strong and gusty from the middle of the day, so this beach is best early.
Summer south swells are most likely to bring waves. Winter will have more flat, calm water days.
It’s important for visitors to respect the local rules and regulations, including not touching or damaging the coral, not collecting or harassing marine life, and not disturbing the natural habitat.
Remember to respect the natural beauty and environment of Polo Beach by leaving no trace and following any posted rules and regulations. Polo Beach is a more popular gem in the luxurious Wailea area of South Maui, but large enough to generally spread out the crowd. Whether you’re interested in swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, or simply relaxing in a pristine coastal setting, Polo Beach provides a luxurious and spectacular beach experience.
About
Auntie Snorkel
Auntie Snorkel shop has been serving Maui’s fun seekers since 1985. We're the original South Maui Snorkel Shop. When I bought the shop 10 years ago from Auntie, we decided to keep the name. The name "Auntie" is a term of respect here in Hawaii. I'm living my dream. I get to meet awesome people from all over the world and share with them my love and knowledge of this magical island that I get to call home. We know all the spots. I have lived here since 2001. We're the true definition of a family owned and operated shop. I answer the phones and work the shop along with my family. When you shop with us you're supporting my ohana and for that I thank you!! Why go anywhere else? We're the friendliest, fastest, cheapest and our location is the most epic! Mahalo and Aloha”. ~Mark Noble (Owner & Maui Fun Expert)
Callie was super nice and helpful. Definitely will rent from Auntie Snorkels again.
Ryan L.
3 days ago
Jay was super helpful getting us gear for a week and gave us incredible snorkeling recommendations. Even helped us accommodate so the kids would have a great experience as well!
Raquel V.
3 days ago
We rented snorkel gear. Cali was very helpful. Providing us helpful tips for our trip to Maui. Would definitely rent again. Thank you for all your help
Alexia E.
3 days ago
We rented a GoPro, snorkels, and flippers for a few days from Auntie Snorkel’s in Kihei, and it was a super smooth and cheap process! Cali was so helpful— she gave us amazing recommendations on where to find sea turtles, and she made the pickup/drop off process so easy! 10/10 experience
J H.
3 days ago
Callie was amazing!! We had a big group of family but she made sure each of us had everything we needed!! Definitely coming back next time.