Wailea

Wailea is a South Maui resort community known for sandy beaches, oceanfront hotels, golf courses, shopping, restaurants and easy access to Kihei and Makena.

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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.

Key Features

South Maui resort community south of Kihei
Known for Wailea Beach, Ulua Beach, Mokapu Beach and Polo Beach
Hotels, restaurants, shops and oceanfront walking paths nearby
The Shops at Wailea is the area's main shopping and dining center
Golf courses and landscaped resort roads are major local features
Mornings are often calmer before stronger afternoon trade winds
Beach parking varies by access point and can fill during busy times
Population: 6,027 at the 2020 Census
ZIP code: 96753

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Wailea known as a resort area?

Wailea was planned with oceanfront hotels, golf courses, shopping areas, beach access points and landscaped roads along one of South Maui's drier shorelines.

How is Wailea different from Kihei?

Wailea is more resort-focused, with larger hotels, golf courses and landscaped grounds, while Kihei has a longer local town strip with many condos, beach parks and casual restaurants.

What beaches are associated with Wailea?

Wailea Beach, Ulua Beach, Mokapu Beach and Polo Beach are among the best-known shoreline areas connected with Wailea.

Why are mornings popular at Wailea beaches?

South Maui mornings often bring lighter wind and clearer nearshore water, while afternoon trade winds can make the beaches choppier.

What is Wailea Alanui Drive?

Wailea Alanui Drive is the main road through Wailea, connecting beach access points, hotels, golf areas, shops and restaurants.