Wailea Beach

The Basics

While the Grand Wailea and Four Seasons resorts harbor the resort crowd (celebrity sightings are not uncommon) the beach itself is public. This means, unlike in many resort areas, the beach is open to locals and those staying in non-waterfront accommodations. This makes the beach a go-to spot for snorkelers, sunbathers, bodyboarders, joggers, and more.

Wailea Beach is also the launch point for outrigger canoe trips, scuba diving lessons, and snorkeling tours. You can even find beginner snorkeling lessons that offer underwater scooters to propel you through the water. Snorkeling and scuba diving tours frequently include encounters with tropical fish and sea turtles.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The waves here are typically small, making the beach fun for bodyboarding but not popular amongst surfers.
• Bathrooms, showers, and free parking can be found near the public access points.
• There are food stands and picnic areas at the beach. You can also enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.
• A paved boardwalk runs between the resorts and the beach, providing easy access for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to Get There

Located less than a mile (1 kilometer) from Wailea, you can walk to Wailea Beach from many nearby accommodations. If driving, take Wailea Alanui Drive to the Wailea Beach public parking and follow the path to the beach from there.

When to Get There

While you can enjoy Wailea Beach year-round, visit in the summer to ensure the best sunbathing. If you want to avoid the crowds, come in the spring or fall and avoid visiting on weekends or holidays. If visiting during peak season, arrive at the beach early to stake out a spot.

Top Things to Do in Wailea

If you are making a trip to Wailea Beach, don’t miss out on Wailea’s other top attractions. For more of the island’s natural beauty, take a sea kayaking tour off the coast or visit Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve on a snorkeling tour. Alternatively, spend the afternoon shopping at the high-end Shops at Wailea or head to the Wailea Golf Club for a round of golf with ocean views.

Ways to explore

There is no fee to visit Wailea Beach, which is open to all. You can relax in shaded picnic areas, swim, snorkel, or walk the paved Wailea Beach Path nearby. Guided activities include sea-scooter snorkeling tours, beginner-friendly guided snorkeling trips, outrigger canoe tours, and sunset sightseeing flights. Many tours are offered right from the beach and include gear, expert guides, and Waikiki-area hotel pickup.

Whether you prefer relaxing on shore or exploring marine life, Wailea Beach is both accessible and versatile.

Accessibility

Wailea Beach and the Wailea Beach Path offer paved, wheelchair- and stroller-friendly access along the coast, with parking lots and ADA-compliant walkways.

Age limits

None; some marine activities may have age restrictions.

What to pack

Reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, water, sun hat, towel

What to wear

Wear lightweight clothing, water shoes or sandals, and layer for cooler evenings. Resort-casual attire is common at nearby beachfront venues.

Not allowed

Smoking, alcohol; disturbing dunes, coral, and wildlife

Amenities

Public access areas offer restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, trash bins, and free—but limited—parking. There are no lifeguards on duty.

Address

Wailea Beach sits within the Wailea resort area along Maui’s south shore, roughly 40 miles (64 kilometers) from Kahului Airport. Most visitors arrive by rental car, rideshare, or hotel shuttle.

Driving

Wailea Beach is located just off Wailea Alanui Drive, behind the Four Seasons and Grand Wailea resorts. Public beach access parking is available at the Wailea Beach public lot, but spaces are limited and can fill quickly. Follow signage to the coastal path for direct access to the sand.

Public transportation

Maui Bus Route 10 services the Wailea area, with stops at nearby Wailea Ike Drive and Shops at Wailea. From there, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk to the beach access path. There is no direct bus drop-off at the beach.

Best times to visit

Morning for calmer seas and fewer crowds

Best days to visit

Weekdays typically see lighter foot traffic. Weekends can be busier at access points and parking areas.

Best months to visit

The shoulder season months of April, May, June, September, and October.

Special events

Wailea hosts the Maui Film Festival each June, which includes outdoor screenings and public events along the beach path.