Maui Ocean Center
Maui Ocean Center is a world-class marine park located at Ma'alaea Harbor on Maui's south shore. Featuring over 60 exhibits, it showcases the marine life native to Hawaiian waters - including sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and coral reefs. With immersive displays like the Living Reef, Open Ocean Tunnel, and cultural exhibits on Hawaiians and the sea, the center blends science and tradition. It's a top family attraction offering a close look at the underwater world without getting wet.
Maui Ocean Center, Maui
Even seasoned divers can only dream of reaching the depths of the Pacific and facing the creatures of the deep. But that’s what the Maui Ocean Center is here for: it brings you some of the most fascinating marine creatures this side of the Pacific in an amazing, three-acre aquatic display. Located on the west coast of Maui at Maalaea Harbor, the park boasts more than 60 exhibits and hundreds of sea creatures, each one native to the Hawaiian Islands.
The marine tour starts at the Surge Zone, an interactive display simulating the crashing waves and how the young fish scramble for cover. Next to it is the Living Reef, where you’ll find colorful coral reefs and typical reef creatures, and watch them feed off the intricate architecture. Other areas worth exploring are the Tide Pool, the Marine Mammal Discovery Center, Hawaiians and the Sea and the Open Ocean.
Perhaps the biggest draw, especially for kids, is the Maui Aquarium, which features a wide array of sea creatures in a magnificent larger-than-life aquarium. Kids especially love the Turtle Lagoon, home to the famous honu or green sea turtles, and the Hammerhead Harbor, where you’ll come face to face with scalloped hammerhead sharks.
The Maui Ocean Center is open throughout the year from 9 am to 5 pm. From July to August - peak season for tourists - the hours are usually extended up to 6 pm. You can buy tickets online or at the park entrance. No reservations are required, but they are recommended if you’re coming in a large group.
Key Features of Maui Ocean Center
- Over 60 aquatic exhibits: Displays of Hawaiian marine life including jellyfish, green sea turtles (honu), reef fish, and sharks.
- Open Ocean Tunnel: A walk-through acrylic tunnel lets visitors view sharks and rays swimming overhead.
- Living Reef exhibit: One of the largest collections of live Pacific corals in the U.S.
- Hawaiian culture integration: Cultural exhibits highlight the connection between Native Hawaiians and the sea.
- Family-friendly experience: Located next to Ma'alaea Harbor with on-site dining and shops; perfect for all ages.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat can you see at Maui Ocean Center?You'll find coral reef exhibits, Hawaiian green sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, jellyfish, and dozens of native Hawaiian fish species. What are the Maui Ocean Center's hours?Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours until 6 p.m. during peak summer months (July–August). Where is it located?The center is at 192 Maalaea Road, Wailuku, HI 96793, next to Ma'alaea Harbor. Do you need reservations?Reservations aren't required but are recommended for large groups or during holidays. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. |
