Smaller, sandy beach with snorkeling at each end, and good facilities.
Ulua Beach
Ulua Beach is a picturesque beach located in the upscale resort area of Wailea in South Maui. It is known for its pristine waters, excellent snorkeling, and scenic setting, making it a popular destination for those seeking beauty above and below water.
Ulua Beach is situated within the Wailea Resort community, just a 10 minute drive south from Auntie Snorkel Kihei. It offers easy accessibility to various luxury resorts, restaurants, and shopping areas in South Maui.
Parking and Access
As you head south on Wailea Alanui Drive, pass the Andaz Resort, and take a right at the sign for Ulua and Mokapu Beaches. You’ll see the parking lot down the hill a bit on the right side. This lot fills up regularly, so arrive early to beat the crowd.
To access Ulua, follow the sidewalk past the restrooms and take the gently sloping path to the left.
Facilities and Amenities
While Ulua Beach is relatively undeveloped, the park provides basic amenities such as restrooms and outdoor showers.
Ulua Beach is renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The nearshore waters are home to an array of colorful fish and marine life, and you can often encounter sea turtles while snorkeling along the rocky areas of the beach. The northern side adjacent to Mokapu is generally best.
The waters at Ulua Beach are typically calm and clear, making it suitable for swimming and wading. The beach offers a gently sloping shoreline, which is ideal for families with children.
Summer south swells can bring some shore break to this beach, making for fun boogie boarding or body surfing. Please always exercise extra caution with waves, and if in doubt, don’t go out!
Ulua from the north end.
Environment and Seasonal Variation
Ulua 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 Ulua Beach by leaving no trace and following any posted rules and regulations. Whether you’re looking to snorkel, swim, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area, Ulua Beach provides an enchanting beach experience on Maui’s southern coast.
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)
Dave is a top professional but an even better guy! Thanks for looking after two lost Irish people with no background in snorkellingTo allow us to spend a few days with the beautiful depths of the Pacific Ocean !!
Casey F.
These guys are super friendly and helpful. I go to Maui twice a year and I only rent from here. I went to another spot down the street for a few years but ended up back at auntie snorkel because the experience is so much better. Special shout out to Sarah and Scotty for being the best.
Patrick M.
Dave was awesome and took great care of us! Best beach and water gear in Kihei! Only rent here!
Rachael K.
Excellent folks at this shop. Process for pick up and return was a breeze . Several guests waiting for gear pick up first thing in the morning. They gave you all of their time and focus to feel confident. Online reservations were easy! Will easily come here/recommend again!
Cathy S.
Rented a boogie board from Auntie Snorkel in Maui. Excellent Service. Super Easy to rent and return. Everyone was super nice. Sarah did a great job explaining all our options and giving us tips on where to boogie board. We will be back!
Tram B.
Kyle was super friendly and helpful. It was our first time snorkeling in Maui and the experience was amazing! We rented some snorkeling gear and a floatie. Had no issues with equipment.
Steve O.
I highly recommend Auntie Snorkel. Dave got me into a prescription mask which made a huge difference. I also would pre-order on line for significant savings. I'm a repeat customer.
