Ulua Beach

Ulua Beach is a Wailea beach with a sandy cove, rocky snorkel edges, beginner scuba lessons, shared Mokapu parking, showers and no lifeguards.

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Ulua Beach, Maui

Ulua Beach is one of the beaches in the Wailea resort complex development on Maui's south shore. The sandy beach is located between two rocky points.

Ulua Beach is a bit more popular than neighboring Mokapu Beach, with which it shares a parking lot. When the surf is up, it is usually a little higher here than at other beaches in this area, attracting many bodyboarders who enjoy the waves.

During calm days, the snorkeling and diving here is excellent. There are many colorful corals and fish. Ulua means "adult crevalle fish" in the Hawaiian language.

Key Features

Wailea beach with a sandy cove between rocky points
Shared Ulua and Mokapu parking area off Ulua Beach Road
Calm mornings usually bring clearer water near the reef edges
Rocky north end is known for coral, fish and snorkel visibility when the ocean is calm
Beginner scuba classes often enter from the sandy shoreline
Middle section has an easier sandy entry for wading and swimming on calm days
Showers and restrooms are near the public access path
No lifeguards are stationed at the beach
Wailea Beach Path runs nearby for a longer coastal walk
Open views toward Kaho'olawe, Molokini and the Wailea shoreline

Daily Activity Picks

Featured Maui Activities

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Ulua mean?

Ulua is the Hawaiian name commonly used for large jack or trevally fish. The name gives the beach a direct ocean connection beyond its Wailea setting.

How are Ulua Beach and Mokapu Beach connected?

The two beaches share the same public access area and sit on opposite sides of a rocky point. Many visitors see both beaches during the same walk.

Why is Ulua used for beginner scuba lessons?

The sandy entry and nearby reef edge allow instructors to begin close to shore when the water is calm. That combination makes the beach a common training area.

What views stand out from Ulua Beach?

From the sand, you can look across the water toward Kaho'olawe and Molokini, with soft evening light along the Wailea shoreline.

How is Ulua different from Wailea Beach?

Ulua is smaller and more reef-focused, with a rocky point that shapes the snorkeling area. Wailea Beach has a broader resort-front sand setting.