Wailea Vacation Guide

Discover where to Play, Eat, Shop and Stay in Wailea

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Don't miss out on these Hawaii Vacation Rental Listings


About Wailea

Wailea, Relaxed, luxurious, island feel capital of Sunny South Maui

If you're dreaming of a tropical paradise that's the perfect blend of luxury, beauty, and fun, look no further than Wailea Resort on Maui's peaceful, sunny South Shore. A little slice of Hawaiian heaven, Wailea will sweep you off your feet. Enjoy stunning beaches, delectable restaurants, and an array of exciting activities that even kids and rainy days won't dare to dampen. Get ready to hula into a world of wonder and create memories that will make your friends back home green with envy!

Wailea is a tropical gem that sparkles rain or shine, offering beachfront bliss, mouthwatering treats, and a treasure trove of activities for visitors of all ages. Grab your lei and your sense of adventure, and let Wailea weave its magic on your Hawaiian holiday.


Areas in Wailea

Wailea Resorts with Vacation Rentals

Nestled for 2 miles along Maui's sunny south shore, Wailea is zoned RESORT and features 5 high end hotels, luxury private homes and condo communities, some of which can offer short term vacation rentals.  Makena is just south of Wailea - with amazing history and beaches. There are two condo communites that offer vacation rentals in Makena and compare to higher end Wailea properties.

Grand Champions Villas

Grand Champions Villas

Ho'olei

Ho'olei

Makena

Makena

Wailea Beach Villas

Wailea Beach Villas

Wailea Ekahi Village

Wailea Ekahi Village

Wailea Ekolu Village

Wailea Ekolu Village


Highlights of Wailea

  • Wailea Resort is located in South Maui and known world wide as one of Hawaii's premier vacation destinations.
  • The perfect area for sun seekers wanting to be pampered a bit, Wailea temperatures range from 72- 85F and rainfall averages less than 12" per year.  Located in the lee of Haleakala on Maui's sunny south side, lush and green thanks to watering, Wailea is the perfect place to enjoy sun and surf.
  • In Wailea you will find 5 of the best swimming beaches in the State with snorkelling spots at each beach and plentiful parking. Miles of wide, sandy beaches offering the perfect setting for Maui beach weddings, snorkeling, kayaking, sandcastle building, jogging, and... oh yes, sunning.
  • SUP (Stand Up Boarding) & snorkeling are popular year round
  • There are 3 Championship Golf Courses two of which were designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr and a world class tennis facility. Both offer special rates for our resort condo guests.
  • Six major luxury hotels located within the project offer superb dinning & shopping & spa experiences. A family style hotel is a new addition
  • In general, condo accommodations in the resort are larger than those elsewhere on the island.
  • The upscale Shops at Wailea, Wailea Town Center & Wailea Village are walkable from most resorts & offer shopping and restaurants for every price range. Wailea Gateway Center is up hill a bit father.

Things to do in Wailea

Beach Bliss:

Wailea is practically dripping with beaches that are so beautiful they'll make you wonder if you've accidentally stepped into a postcard. Whether you're a beach bum or just need some vitamin sea, these sandy shores have something for everyone:

Beaches here are among the widest on Maui with views of Kahoolawe and Lanai offshore. The water is calm enough to swim & snorkel and Stand up Paddle Boarding

  1. Keawakapu Beach: Technically in Kihei, the south entrance to Keawakapu Beach is thru the parking area adjacent to Wailea Ekahi Village. Ekahi has a private gated entrance to the beach which ends just south. This is a great beach for families. 1/2 mile of smooth sand with smooth, sandy, long shallow ocean access.
  2. Mokapu & Ulua Beaches: A dream come true for snorkelers! Grab your gear and dive into an underwater wonderland where colorful fish play hide-and-seek among coral reefs. It's like attending a fishy masquerade ball, and the sea creatures are the life of the party
  3. Wailea Beach: If there's one beach that defines paradise, it's Wailea Beach. Its gentle waves and soft sands are perfect for families, and the snorkeling is so good, you'll think you've entered a real-life aquarium!
  4. Polo Beach: A small cove near the Kea Lani hotel and Polo Beach Club condos, Polo Beach is known as one of the best sunset-watching spots on the island. It is also ideal for families. The waves here are gentle, and the shore is perfect for building sandcastles fit for royalty.
  5. Palauea Beach (White Rock Beach): If you're a fan of discovering hidden gems, this Beach, is your treasure trove. As you venture off the beaten path near Makean Surf condos, you'll be rewarded with a secluded stretch of sand that feels like your own private paradise. Grab your snorkel gear and prepare for an underwater adventure you'll never forget!
  6. Poolenalena Beach (Chang's Beach): The ocean here is perfect for swimming, and the waves often playfully invite you to boogie board or body surf. If you're lucky, you might spot a pod of dolphins dancing in the distance or witness majestic humpback whales putting on a show during whale-watching season.
  7. Makena Beach (Big Beach): For those craving more space to bask in the sun, Makena Beach is the place to be. It's one of Maui's largest beaches, providing plenty of room for beach games, sandcastle contests, and impromptu hula dances


Wailea Coastal Walk

This picturesque Beachfront Board walk is a paved path that meanders along the coastline and offers wheel chair access for the length of Wailea. It starts at the Andaz so Wailea Ekahi renters must access via the beach or from the Andaz. It's perfect for morning power walkers, an evening stroll to dinner or a family bike ride, and the views will have you reaching for your camera every few steps. Check out the hotels, their pools and restaurants as you walk by.

Hike Wailea

For those looking for a bit longer run than the Coastal Walk offers, here is a map with options for several of our favorite trails.

Golfing Galore:

Tee off at one of Wailea's championship golf courses. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, you'll enjoy playing amidst stunning ocean views and lush green fairways. For detailed info on the Wailea Gold, Emerald and Old Blue golf courses and more visit our Maui Golf page

Tennis & Pickleball:

Wailea Tennis Club: This award-winning Tennis/Pickleball facility nestled in the center of Wailea off Wailea Ike offers lessons, clinics and private play on lighted courts with proshop.  Restaurant is adjacent.  Walk from your Grand Champions Villa condo.

Public Courts can be found at Kalama Park in Kihei (lighted) and on the beach behind Maui Sunset condo in Central Kihei.  

Several Vacation Rental Condo Communities offer Pickleball and/or tennis

  • Wailea Ekahi Village - Pickelball
  • Wailea Elua Village - Tennis
  • Makena Surf - Tennis


Explore Wailea

Many dining and shopping options can be found in Wailea's 1500 acres. Wailea is on the desert side of Maui and averages less than 11 of rain per year. Located in the lee of Haleakala on Maui's sunny south side, lush and green thanks to watering, Wailea is the perfect place to enjoy sun and surf.

Shopping

Wailea boast 4 beautiful Shopping Centers with local shops to big names like Coach. There are no strip malls in Wailea but great clothing, jewelry, art and mementos can also be found in the lobbies of the Resort Hotels.

  • Shops at Wailea
  • Wailea Village
  • Wailea Town Center
  • Wailea Gateway Center

Restaurant Delights

A feast for the senses, with flavors that will have you doing the hula right in your seat, Wailea restaurants offer amazing views, and delicious foods in all price ranges most can be reached by walking the beach. Don't miss the gorgeous sunsets! Check our Blog for many restaurant reviews.

Among our Wailea Favorites:

  • Monkeypod Kitchen: This lively eatery offers a family-friendly atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes. Their farm-to-table approach means you'll taste the freshest ingredients in every bite. Don't miss their famous Mai Taiit's a little taste of paradise in a glass!
  • PIta Paradise: A Mediterranean oasis with delectable pitas that will transport your taste buds to a culinary vacation. Good Happy hour. Small with lovely outdoor patio in Wailea Gateway Center.
  • Matteo's: Italian flavors meet Hawaiian charm in this restaurant, where each bite is a symphony of deliciousness. Happy hour, outdoor covered patio in Wailea Town Center
  • Manoli's: A Greek/Italiian delight in the heart of Maui, serving up pizza & savory dishes that will make you say "Opa!" Happy Hour on the Wailea Blue Golf Course, open air but covered. Families welcome.
  • Mulligans on the Blue: An Irish-Hawaiian fusion where you can savor the luck of the Irish with a tropical twist. Food is iffy but getting better. Entertainment is fun and first rate. Don't miss St Paddy's day.
  • Ferraro's: An oceanfront Italian gem, where fine dining meets the soothing sounds of crashing waves. At the Four Seasons
  • Ko: Japanese-Hawaiian fusion. Hot Rock tuna, amazing lobster and other treats. In the Kea Lanai hotel - no views but delightful - kids dishes are great too.
  • Gannons: A tropical paradise of flavors and breathtaking views, creating a feast for your senses. Service can be slow but views and food are worth it. At the Wailea Gold/Emerald club house
  • Bird Cage Bar & the Restaurant in the Hotel Wailea: A stylish and chic spot where you can sip cocktails and savor culinary delights with a dash of elegance. Great Happy hour in bar. Wonderful views from Restaurant

Where to Find Vacation Rentals in Wailea

You're in luck! You can find Wailea vacation rentals right here on Maui Owner Condos (MOC)! Our rental listings are 100% managed by the property owner or manager. Forget third-party fees and interference - no middle man (Or woman) here!

Nestled along the beach or just above Wailea Alanui with great view options. these rentals are larger than those you would find in Kihei or the West side, and they are priced accordingly with remodeled Beach Front condos with good ocean views fetching the most.



Beach front vacation rental condos:

Wailea Ekahi Village,Wailea Elua Village,Wailea Beach Villas,Polo Beach Club,Makena Surf

Across from the Beach vacation rental condos:

The Palms at Wailea,Wailea Grand Champions Villas,Wailea Ekolu Village,Ho'olei


Transportation for Wailea

Can you walk up to 1/2 mile? Then Wailea is WALKABLE! There may be no need for a car when you stay in Wailea. You can walk to most everything - about 15 min max to the Shops of Wailea from any hotel or condo there. Plenty of free parking if you stay in a condo resort (the hotels charge big time for parking a car) - beach parking is going to cost soon but now only Ulua beach is charging for parking.

Take a cab, shuttle or Uber from the airport. You can rent a car locally at most hotels and shopping centers if you want to tour for the day. Many activities offer door to door service as well. Bikes and motor scooters are also available locally.

AIRPORT:

Kihei is served by Kahului International Airport (OGG):

On Island Transportation

Most folks rent a car at the airport but with over 20% in taxes and fees added to a rental, many opt for other options. You can find links to shuttles, cabs, rental cars and other options here:
MAUI CAR RENTALS & OTHER TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

You don't need to rent a car to enjoy Maui. Delivery options for groceries and most anything you'll need for your time on Maui are abundant and easily arrange ahead of arrival so consider the following:
MAUI GROCERY SHOPPING AND MEAL DELIVERY SERVICES

THE MAUI BUS:

Routes, Schedules: https://www.mauicounty.gov/1310/Maui-Bus-Route-Maps

14 bus routes through out Maui. live route maps & real time arrival times


Statistics about Wailea

81+ Properties for rent

Prices range from $160/night


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