Wailea

Maui Town Guide

Wailea

Wailea is a polished South Maui resort community known for Wailea Beach, oceanfront resorts, golf courses, the Wailea Beach Path, shopping and sunset views.

Driving in Wailea
Driving in Wailea

Wailea, Maui

Wailea is a 1,500-acre master-planned resort community located at the base of Mt. Haleakala on the south shore of Maui. It is an upscale area with high-end resorts, luxury condominiums, private estates and spa facilities. It was named one of the 99 Best Recreational & Residential Private Communities in America.

The town boasts five crescent-shaped beaches along its 1.5-mile shoreline, including Wailea Beach, which was named "America's Best Beach" by Dr. Stephen "Dr. Beach" Leatherman in 1999 (Wailea Beach ranked No. 3 in 2024). The Wailea Blue, Wailea Gold and Wailea Emerald 18-hole golf courses have also been consistently ranked among the finest in the country.

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Photo gallery

Browse Wailea photos featuring Wailea Beach, the Wailea Beach Path, resort hotels, local shops, scenic roads, entry signs and upscale South Maui resort scenery.

Location, Parking and Directions

Wailea is located on Maui's south shore, south of Kihei and north of Makena. From Kahului, drive south toward Kihei, then continue along South Kihei Road and Wailea Alanui Drive. Parking varies by beach, resort, shopping area, golf course and vacation rental property.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Wailea on Maui?

Wailea is on Maui's sunny south shore, south of Kihei and north of Makena. It sits along Wailea Alanui Drive, beaches, resorts, golf courses and ocean-view neighborhoods.

What is Wailea known for?

Wailea is known for Wailea Beach, luxury resorts, the Wailea Beach Path, The Shops at Wailea, golf courses, landscaped roads and South Maui ocean views.

Is Wailea Beach good for swimming?

Wailea Beach can be good for swimming when conditions are calm, but surf, wind, currents and visibility can change. Check posted warnings before entering the water.

Can visitors walk the Wailea Beach Path?

Yes. The Wailea Beach Path connects several resort, beach and shoreline areas. Stay on public paths and respect resort boundaries and private property.

Is Wailea a good place to stay?

Yes. Wailea works well for visitors who want a polished South Maui resort base with beaches, restaurants, golf, shopping, spas and upscale vacation rentals.