Wailea Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Wailea with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Wailea

Nestled on the sunny southern coast of Maui lies Wailea, a luxurious beachfront community known for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, high-end resorts, and endless outdoor activities. With a warm and inviting tropical climate and breathtaking natural beauty, Wailea is a top choice for travelers seeking the ultimate Hawaiian vacation experience.

List of Places to Visit in Wailea

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking relaxation, Wailea has something to offer for everyone. Here are the top places you should visit during your stay in Wailea:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary
  • The Maui Ocean Center
  • The Bailey House Museum
  • Lahaina Historic District
  • Haleakala National Park

Natural Attractions of Wailea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wailea Beach
  • Polo Beach
  • Keawakapu Beach
  • Makena Beach State Park
  • Molokini Island

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wailea

Explore the natural beauty of Wailea and its surrounding areas by taking a hike or bike ride. Some of the best routes to explore include:

  • The Lahaina Pali Trail
  • The Waihou Spring Trail
  • The Waihee Ridge Trail
  • The Pipiwai Trail
  • The Hoapili Trail

Best Things to Do in Wailea: Activities and Tours

From water sports to cultural experiences, Wailea is a haven for adventure seekers. Here are some of the best things you can do in Wailea:

  • Snorkeling and scuba diving
  • Surfing and paddleboarding
  • Whale watching
  • Golfing
  • Hawaiian cultural activities

Week-Long Itinerary for Wailea

With so much to see and do in Wailea, planning your itinerary is key to make the most of your trip. Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Relax on the Beach
2 Snorkeling at Molokini Island
3 Golfing at Wailea Golf Club
4 Haleakala Sunrise Tour
5 Road to Hana Tour
6 Whale Watching Tour
7 Hawaiian Cultural Experience

Food and Drink Scene of Wailea

Wailea offers a diverse selection of dining options that cater to all palates and budgets. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ahi Poke
  • Kalua Pork
  • Spam Musubi
  • Poke Bowl
  • Shave Ice

Local Beverages

  • Mai Tai
  • Lava Flow
  • Pina Colada
  • Local craft beer
  • Fresh coconut water

Where to Stay in Wailea: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wailea has a variety of accommodation options to fit every budget and lifestyle. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
  • The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel and Spa
  • The Fairmont Kea Lani
  • The Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
  • The Wailea Beach Villas

What to Buy in Wailea: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Wailea is home to many local shops and markets where you can find unique souvenirs and Hawaiian-made products. Some of the most popular items to bring home include:

  • Koa wood items
  • Hawaiian print clothing
  • Jewelry and accessories made with local materials
  • Maui-made products like coffee, honey, and jam
  • Spam-flavored snacks

Local Culture and Customs of Wailea

Wailea has a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. To show respect for the local culture, it’s important to follow these customs:

  • Remove shoes before entering someone’s home
  • Bring a small gift when visiting someone’s home
  • Don’t touch the head of a Hawaiian, as it’s considered sacred
  • Respect the ‘aina (land) and don’t litter or damage the environment
  • Learn a few Hawaiian words and phrases, such as Aloha and Mahalo.

Best Time to Visit Wailea

The best time to visit Wailea is from April to October when the weather is sunny and warm. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so prices and crowds tend to be higher during this time. November to March is considered the rainy season, but you’ll also get better deals on accommodation and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wailea

To make the most of your Wailea vacation, follow these do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect from the sun
  • Keep a light sweater or jacket on hand for cooler nights
  • Try new activities and food
  • Take in the beauty of the island

Don’t:

  • Swim in non-designated areas or during dangerous conditions
  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Touch or remove anything from historical sites
  • Ignore warning signs or directions from locals
  • Wear shoes inside someone’s home

Safety and Health

Being safe and healthy is crucial when traveling to Wailea.

Safety in Wailea

  • Swim only in designated areas and always obey warning signs
  • Be aware of jellyfish, sharks, and strong currents in the water
  • Keep valuables locked in a hotel safe
  • Stay hydrated and wear sun protection while outdoors
  • Don’t leave possessions unattended on the beach
  • Be cautious when participating in outdoor activities

Health in Wailea

  • Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites and avoid dengue fever
  • Seek medical attention if bitten by a centipede or exposed to a coral cut
  • Avoid swimming in areas with high bacteria levels
  • Drink bottled or filtered water
  • Practice safe sex to prevent the spread of STDs

Getting to Wailea: Transportation Options and Logistics

Traveling to Wailea is easy thanks to its proximity to Maui’s major transportation hubs.

Airports Near Wailea

  • Kahului Airport (OGG): 30-minute drive from Wailea
  • Kapalua Airport (JHM): 60-minute drive from Wailea

Bus Stations Near Wailea

  • The Maui Bus provides transit service throughout Maui, with several stops in Wailea.

Other Options

  • Taxis and shuttle services are available from Kahului Airport to Wailea.
  • Renting a car is also a popular and convenient option for exploring Maui and getting around Wailea.

How to Get Around in Wailea

Getting around Wailea is easy and convenient with the following options:

  • Walking - Wailea is a pedestrian-friendly community, and many attractions and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.
  • Biking - Renting a bike is a great way to explore the outdoors and enjoy the scenery in Wailea.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Wailea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

While Wailea is a paradise in itself, there are many nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, including:

  • The Road to Hana
  • Haleakala National Park
  • Lahaina
  • Molokai Island
  • The Big Island of Hawaii

Conclusion

Wailea offers the ultimate Hawaiian vacation experience for travelers seeking relaxation and outdoor adventure. With its stunning beaches, high-end resorts, and endless activities, Wailea is the perfect destination for a sun-soaked and unforgettable getaway.

The long stretch of Big Beach at Makena State Park The long stretch of Big Beach at Makena State Park