Wailea is generally a bit sunnier and drier than other parts of the island, so if you’re hoping to get a tan, this area is a great destination to consider. In this post, we’ll cover everything from where to stay and eat to adventures and experiences. And, if you’re looking for more guidance through this part of town, consider taking Shaka Guide's West Maui Coastal Driving Tour which hits all the best spots on the island, both popular and lesser-known.
About Wailea
According to legend, Wailea was transformed into a beautiful jungle forest by a goddess named Lea. If you visit this scenic destination, you’ll quickly come to understand why a legend like this could catch on - the area is stunningly beautiful featuring some of the island’s best beaches and views of the surrounding ridge’s dense jungle foliage. Located on the south-western shore of Maui, Wailea (meaning waters of lea) is a town with a variety of of activities, restaurants, and lodgings of different styles.
Weather In Wailea
The weather here tends to be extremely sunny, even for Hawaii. In fact, from May to October, this region might not receive a single day of rain. During this time, average monthly temperature highs range from 87 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
From November to April temperatures drop slightly ranging from highs of 81 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. You can expect these months to receive between two to five days of rain each, which means your trip to Wailea will most likely have plenty of sunshine no matter what time of the year you're visiting.
Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
Hotels and Resorts
There are lots of wonderful places to stay in Wailea. Resorts and hotels in this area tend to be on the expensive side with prices ranging from $400 to $1000 per night. The Four Seasons Resort is one of the more upscale options featuring luxurious accommodations with a price tag to match. Marriott Wailea, Palms at Wailea, Wailea Beach Resort, Grand Wailea, and Wailea Beach Villas are also popular options. You can also look into the Days Inn, which is right on the beach, for a more affordable option.
Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / John Hook
Restaurants
There are certainly plenty of wonderful dining options in Wailea. If you’re looking for Hawaiian cuisine, you can check out Monkeypod Kitchen, Kaʻana Kitchen, or Gannon’s. Otherwise, consider these other excellent eateries:
- Nick's Fishmarket Maui
- Kō Restaurant
- Spago
- Ferraro's Bar e Ristorante
- Humuhumunukunukuapua'a
- Humble Market Kitchin
- Longhi's Wailea
- Manoli's Pizza Company
- Morimoto Maui
Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
Wailea Beaches
You’ll find tons of awesome beaches in the area. If you’re looking for areas that have great snorkeling, check out Mōkapu Beach, Keawakapu Beach, or Wailea Beach. Wailea Beach also features a neat beach walking path that offers wonderful views of the coast and crystal blue waters. There is parking available for Wailea Beach and walking path here.
Ulua Beach is a great option surrounded in beautiful green foliage. Polo Beach and Palauea Beach to the south are less crowded but just as beautiful as anything in town.
Golf
If you are hoping to get some practice in on your golf game, Wailea is a great town to stay at. There are three golf courses in town with 18 holes each. These are the Wailea Golf Club Gold Course, Emerald Golf Course, and Wailea Blue Golf Course. Each course also features a clubhouse and pro shop.
Shopping
For a bit of retail therapy, you can check out the shops. Here, you’ll find plenty of boutiques, surf shops, gift shops, and art galleries to fill up your day. There’s also another shopping center attached to the Grand Wailea Resort.
Other Things to Do
If you’re still looking for other things to do, there are plenty of great activities in and around town. Consider these fun experiences if you have some extra time in your itinerary:
- Visit a Park
- Art Gallery Hop
- Play Tennis
- Eat Shave Ice
- Attend a Luau
- Take our West Maui Coastline Driving Tour
RELATED: 10 Ways to be a Safe and Responsible Traveler in Hawaii
Visiting Maui?
Shaka Guide has 6 tours on the island. Check them out here!