Wailea Beach Guide

Wailea Beach

Wailea Beach is a beautiful and popular beach located in the upscale resort area of Wailea in South Maui. It is known for its stunning white sand, clear blue waters, and a luxurious atmosphere, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a high-end beach experience.

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Directions and Distance from Auntie Snorkel 

• https://maps.app.goo.gl/bhPpnSzWNPuHLLj2A
• Wailea Beach is situated within the Wailea Resort community, fronting the Grand Wailea and the Four Seasons resorts. It is just a 10 minute drive south of Auntie Snorkel Kihei. Its location provides easy access to a range of luxury resorts, upscale restaurants, and shopping areas in South Maui, particularly the famous Shops at Wailea.

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Parking and Access

• Go south along Wailea Alanui Drive, pass the Grand Wailea, and go through the light at Ho’olei St. Take the 2nd right after that light where there is a small stone sign for Wailea Beach. You’ll find plenty of beach access parking here. Like most parking on Maui, however, it can fill up quickly so an early arrival is best.
• To access the beach, follow the sidewalk to the public restrooms and outdoor showers. Head straight out from there to the Wailea Beach Path which offers multiple access points.

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Facilities and Amenities

• The public beach access area offers outdoor showers, restrooms, and trash and recycle bins. 
• There is no lifeguard at this beach. 

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What to Bring

• Bring the whole family and everything you want for a full beach day! Auntie recommends snorkeling gear, a GoPro, floatation, boogie boards, umbrellas, beach chairs, and a wagon to carry it all.

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Snorkeling and Surf

• Check a live web cam at Wailea Beach here.
• While the beach itself doesn’t have extensive coral formations, there are rocky areas and coral reef patches at either end of the beach about 30 yards out that are suitable for snorkeling. These rocky outcrops provide a habitat for colorful fish and marine life.
• The typically gentle and tranquil waters at Wailea Beach make it an ideal location for swimming. The gradually sloping seabed and generally mild waves ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience, especially 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!
• On calm mornings, stand-up paddle boarding is a great option at Wailea Beach. Drive up to the restroom 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.

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Environment and Seasonal Variation

• Wailea 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.

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Remember to respect the natural beauty and environment of Wailea Beach by leaving no trace and following any posted rules and regulations. Wailea Beach offers a luxurious-feeling beach experience in one of Maui’s most exclusive resort areas. Whether you’re interested in swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, or simply lounging on the shore, Wailea Beach provides a picturesque and upscale beach setting, catering to visitors seeking a premium coastal escape.