We’re still waiting for approval to get our own webcam up, but there’s a good webcam of Maalaea from the Maui Ocean Center.

Maalaea Video

In the meantime, check out our aerial video of Maalaea Harbor.

Finding Maalaea is a cinch.  It’s one of the most central spots on Maui.  But finding your boat slip, parking, or your restaurant is much easier with these Maalaea Maps.

Directions from Central & North Maui

Areas: Kahului, Wailuku, Waikapu, Paia

Approximate Time: 20 minutes

From Central and North Maui, take Honoapi’ilani Highway (Hwy 30) and go south until you reach the stoplight near Carls Jr. and the Maui Ocean Center. Make a left and drive down into the parking area for the harbor.

Directions from West Maui

Areas: Olowalu, Lahaina, Ka’anapali, Napili, Kapalua

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

From West Maui, take Honoapi’ilani Highway (Hwy 30) and go southeast. After passing through the tunnel, you’ll see a sign for Maalaea Harbor. Turn right at the sign near Buzz’s Wharf, and arrive at the parking area for the harbor.

Directions from South Maui

Areas: Kihei, Wailea, Makena

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

From South Maui, take Pi’ilani Highway (Hwy 31) and go north. Alternately, you can also follow South Kihei Road to Hwy 31 until you get to the stoplight. Turn left towards Lahaina onto Honoapi’ilani Highway (Hwy 30), and make another left at the stoplight near Carls Jr. and the Maui Ocean Center.

Driving Around Maalaea:

Although Maalaea is easily reached from almost any area of the island, why not get there in style! Rent an all new lifted 2018 Jeep Wrangler from Maui Lifted Jeep Rentals and rest assured you’re in the best vehicle possible to explore Maui’s most stunning areas. Crank the aloha tunes and enjoy views of Maalaea Harbor and nearby areas like Baby Beach, Haycraft Beach Park and Sugar Beach from the seat of your lifted Jeep at an excellent price.

Types of Boat Tours Available

Maalaea Harbor has a huge variety of ocean tours available, including snorkeling, scuba diving, SNUBA, bottom fishing, sailing and more. Slip numbers are listed on the piers. Even numbers are further out on the ocean side, while odd numbers are on the land side. To book these boats, call (808) 892-3177.

Slip #37: Aloha Blue Charters – Snorkeling, Whale Watching

Slip #42: Island Star Excursions – Snorkeling, Whale Watching, Sailing

Slip #44: Quicksilver – Snorkeling, Whale Watching, Sunset Dinner Cruising

Slip #47: Mahana Naia – Snorkeling

Slip #55: Maui Magic – Snorkeling, Whale Watching

Slip #55: Pacific Whale Foundation – Whale Watching

Slip #56: Alii Nui – Sunset Cocktail Cruising

Slip #62: Trilogy – Whale Watching

Slip #65: Maui Fun Charters – Bottom Fishing on the Pamela

Slip #68: Pride of Maui – Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, SNUBA, Whale Watching, Sunset Cocktail Cruising

Slip #68: Leilani – Snorkeling, Whale Watching, Sunset Cruising

Slip #68: Maalaea Sportfishing – Sportfishing

Slip #70: Shadowfax – Private Snorkeling, Whale Watching, SUP, Sunset, Live Aboard and Sailing Cruises

Slip #72: Paragon Sailing Charters – Snorkeling, Sailing

Slip #76: Lani Kai – Snorkeling, SNUBA, Whale Watching

Slip #80: Four Winds II – Snorkeling, Whale Watching

Slip #88: Malolo Charters – Snorkeling, Whale Watching

Slip #97: Maui Fun Charters – Bottom Fishing on the Marjorie Ann

Slip #99: Trilogy – Whale Watching

Looking to book a snorkel trip to Molokini Crater or Coral Garden?  Call (808) 892-3177.

Ferries to Neighbor Islands

For travelers and residents who would like to visit Maui’s neighbor islands of Lanai and Molokai, the only current departure sites for the respective ferries is from Lahaina Harbor, though Expeditions’ Maalaea to Lanai ferry is set to reopen sometime in 2016.

While Maalaea is often overlooked as a full day destination, there’s actually a ton of wonderful activities and attractions worth exploring. From departing on one of Maui’s best boat tours to seeing Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles up close and personal, there’s plenty of fun to be had for every member of your group.

Some of our favorite Maalaea activities include:

Snorkeling, Scuba Diving & SNUBA at Molokini Crater

Departing daily from Maalaea Harbor, snorkel boats are perfect for travelers looking to explore some of Maui’s best snorkeling and scuba diving destinations, including Molokini Crater and South Maui’s Turtle Town. Whether you want to snorkel, scuba dive or give SNUBA a try, they offer options for every preference. Their most popular morning tours usually include snorkeling at Molokini and Turtle Town (with optional scuba and snuba), all necessary gear, complimentary BBQ and lunch, fully stocked open bar, impeccable service, spacious boat decks, top safety standards and optional underwater photo and video services. Highly recommended for all ages!

Book your seats on a Molokini snorkeling tour.

Whale Watching

From December 15th to April 15th, Maui is one of the best places in the world to whale watch! Trilogy offers daily whale watching tours from Maalaea Harbor aboard their comfortable catamarans, offering perfect views for a fun day on the water with friends and family. Their staff of expert naturalists share valuable information about the most popular humpback whale behaviors, and even have hydrophones on board to allow guests to hear as the males sing underwater! Tours include breakfast and lunch, cocktails, sodas and water, and they limit tour sizes to only 40 people for better viewing purposes.

Book your seats on a Maui whale watch.

Surfing, Stand Up and more…

Maalaea is pretty much the most central spot for any surfer.  If the waves at Freight Trains or Buzz’s aren’t working, you’ve got plenty of options from 5-30 minutes in any direction.  And who needs waves if you’ve got a stand up board?  Some of our favorite ocean experiences have involved being on a SUP with calm waters and plenty of beautiful views (above and below the surface.)  No matter where you’re staying, the best option for convenience and price can be found when renting from Island Surfboard Rentals.  They offer free delivery and pick up and every 3rd board is 50% off.

Rent surfboards from Island Surfboard Rentals by calling (808) 281-9835.

Rappel down Waterfalls along the Road to Hana

With a central meeting point only a few minutes’ drive from Maalaea Harbor, Rappel Maui offers a unique opportunity to boost your adrenaline along the famous Road to Hana. Choose from three available rappelling tours based on your level of previous experience – none required! – and head out for a full day of waterfall adventure on the Hana Highway. One of Maui’s most bold adventures, guests will be transported to a 30 acre botanical garden, where they will hike a short distance and receive full a briefing and demonstration from professional guides before attempting their first rappel down a 60 foot dry jungle wall. After honing their skills, guests will then rappel down 50 and 30 foot waterfalls, taking plenty of breaks for a swim and catered lunch in the garden. Guests must be at least 10 years old and weigh between 70 and 250 pounds to participate.

Reserve your spot on a rappelling tour by calling (808) 445-6407.

See Marine Life at Maui Ocean Center

The largest and most prestigious aquarium in Hawaii, Maui Ocean Center is an excellent place to learn more about Hawaii’s variety of marine life, spend a rainy afternoon with the kids, attend a special talk from one of Hawaii’s marine specialists, or even scuba dive in the 750,000 gallon saltwater shark tank! Located in the heart of Maalaea, guests will enjoy seeing special exhibits like the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle Lagoon, Hammerhead Harbor, Sea Jelly Gallery, Marine Mammal Discovery Center, The Tide Pool, Hawaiians & The Sea, and more. Keep an eye on their events calendar for unique opportunities and tours!

Bottom Fishing

Like the idea of catching your own dinner, or interested in seeing what Maui’s marine life has to offer? Head out for a day on the water with the bottom fishing pros at Maui Fun Charters. The 4 hour morning tour aboard the Marjorie Ann or Pamela departs from Maalaea Harbor, and includes personal attention from the crew, as well as an opportunity to try a greater variety of fishing styles, thanks to the small group sizes on each tour. This makes for the perfect family activity, and the views can’t be beat! They also use the newest electronics and offer plenty of comfortable seating for all guests.

Book your Maui fishing trip by calling (808) 572-2345.

BE A MERMAID!

Visiting Maui is always memorable.  But learning to swim like a mermaid will set this trip apart from the others with great memories and incredible photos.  Spend 2 hours learning to swim with your tail as your instructor takes you through it step by step.  You won’t regret it!

Book your Mermaid Adventure by calling (808) 495-8919.

Flying High at Maui Zipline

Located only a 5 to 10 minute drive from Maalaea Harbor, Maui Zipline is one of our favorite activities in central Maui. Hosting guests anywhere from 5 to 88 years of age, you’ll be treated to a 5-line zip tour over some of Maui’s prettiest, most stunning areas. Guides are all very patient and safety-conscious, and we especially love that each line is side-by-side, giving you the opportunity to ride alongside your friends and family! Check out the amazing views of the nearby West Maui Mountains and swaying palm trees, tropical grounds and sparkling lagoon of Maui Tropical Plantation, as well as distant views of Maui’s Haleakala Volcano. Then continue exploring the property, home to The Mill House restaurant, Kumu Farms fruit stand, Tropical Tram Tour, shopping and more.

Jumping Around

Located just a short drive from Ma’alaea, Maui’s new indoor trampoline park is the ultimate way to spend a rainy afternoon with the kiddos or fun weekend outing with friends. The 25,000 foot park is open to all ages, and is separated into zones by age and size for the safest jumping experience. Kama’aina discounts are available, and unlimited jump passes are available for only $25. Guests are encouraged to reserve their spot and fill out the waiver online, as there is a capacity limit. This new Wailuku attraction is popular for all members of the family, and an entertaining workout for everyone!

Learn more about our Maui Trampoline Park by calling (808) 214-JUMP.

Sunset Dinner & Cocktail Cruise

One of the best budget-friendly evening boat tours on Maui, Quicksilver offers a fun sunset and dinner cruise departing directly from Maalaea Harbor. Cruise along the Pali coast while enjoying spectacular sunset views, and enjoy live music entertainment and dancing aboard their spacious double-decker boat. Tours include table seating, full dinner, tropical cocktails, beer, wine, and epic sunset views, and whale watching during winter months! Children 6 and under are free, and service is always friendly and welcoming.

Mini Golfing at Maui Golf and Sports Park

Also located conveniently in Maalaea, Maui Golf & Sports Park is a fun, kid-friendly place to test your adventurous side. Play a round of mini golf, or choose from one of their other onsite activities, including rock climbing, bumper boats and x-treme bungee trampoline. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, this makes for a great midday break (and workout).

While not known as the most beautiful or swimmer-friendly beaches on Maui, Maalaea and the nearby stretches of beach provide great areas for walking, sunset viewing, whale watching and lounging. Enjoy our list of the best beaches around Maalaea, and be sure to practice the proper safety precautions when opting to swim in the ocean!

Maalaea Harbor Baby Beach

Located at the eastern area of the harbor, this beach is protected from waves and boat hazards, making it perfect for small children or inexperienced swimmers staying nearby.

• Calm conditions
• Small parking area
• Convenience store nearby
• Near Coast Guard station
• No lifeguard on duty

Maalaea Beach

Just east of Maalaea Harbor, Maalaea Beach is ideal for sunset walks, shell collecting and relaxed days spent enjoying the sun in an uncrowded area of Maui.

• Secluded and quiet
• Lots of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
• When conditions are right, great for watching surfers
• Often windy with choppy waves, especially in afternoon hours
• No lifeguard on duty
• Street parking – be sure to keep valuables out of sight

Haycraft Beach Park

Connecting Maalaea Beach and Sugar Beach, this County Beach Park is a great place to enjoy an afternoon picnic or take a peaceful walk.

• Small parking area
• Shower and restroom facilities
• Picnic tables
• No lifeguard on duty
• Good for relaxed swimming, but beware of sporadic rocks and reef
• Access point to ‘Freight Trains’ surf break

Sugar Beach

Including Maalaea and Haycraft Beach Park, this is longest uninterrupted stretch of beach on Maui. Though swimming isn’t great here, it’s a perfect place to enjoy the views and natural surroundings in paradise.

• Reef just offshore
• Watch for Kiawe thorns!
• Street parking and small lots, depending on which area of the beach you begin from
• Restroom and picnic facilities
• Take-off point for outrigger canoes
• Decent snorkeling opportunities with lots of marine life and turtles
• No lifeguard on duty

Often overlooked for its dining options, Maalaea and its surrounding areas are home to several quality restaurants and eateries. Whether you’re fueling up after an exciting day of snorkeling, or seeking a great spot for cocktails and dinner, Maalaea offers several worthy options.

Seascape Maalaea Restaurant

Located at the Maui Ocean Center, Seascape Maalaea offers scenic views of the harbor and southern shoreline, as well as a variety of fresh, delicious dishes, perfect for an afternoon lunch or dinner after exploring the aquarium. Service is friendly and welcoming, and we love the Mango-Hoisin baby back ribs, Local Boy Club Sandwich and Coconut Shrimp. They also have a great cocktail menu and selection of local beers!

For more information, please visit  Seascape Restaurant, call 808.270.7068 or visit 192 Maalaea Rd., Maalaea.

Oceanside Restaurant

Recently opened in December 2015, Oceanside Restaurant focuses on farm-to-table dining with the freshest flavors of Maui. Open daily for lunch and dinner, we love the Beet Salad with pistachio and red mustard greens, Malama Farms Pork Bahn Mi, Kampachi Crudo with watermelon radish, Casarecce Pasta and more. Great service and delicious, beautiful presentation.

For more information, please visit  Oceanside Restaurant, call 808.868.3481 or visit 300 Maaalea Rd., Maalaea.

Malaaea General Store

For a slightly more relaxed meal, we recommend a trip to Maalaea General Store’s delicious deli and cafe. Choose from one of their breakfast menu items, including the Spicy Avocado Egg Toast or Acai Bowl, or go with their wide variety of lunch menu items like the Reuben Sandwich, General’s Chop Salad, Mahi Mahi Tacos, Jalapeño Jack Burger or Kalua Pork Tacos. Large portions, and perfect for a laid-back meal in paradise.

For more information, please visit Maalaea General Store, call 808.242.8900 or visit 132 Maalaea Rd., Maalaea.

Beach Bums BBQ & Grill

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Beach Bums is a great place to kick back and enjoy a cold beverage, mingle and listen to live music. Try the Portuguese Sausage Eggs Benedict and Bloody Mary for breakfast, or the Prime Rib and Blackened Fish Tacos for lunch and dinner. Happy Hour is daily from 3pm to 6pm, with live music from 5pm to 8pm.

For more information, please visit Beach Bums, call 808.243.2286 or visit 300 Maalaea Rd. #1M, Maalaea.

The Mill House Restaurant

Located in the heart of the gorgeous Maui Tropical Plantation only a few minutes from Maalaea Harbor, The Mill House is one of the most respected restaurants on The Valley Isle. Executive Chef Jeff Scheer creates innovative menus focusing on local, organic and sustainable ingredients, and the views from the dining area can’t be beat. Open daily for lunch and dinner, we recommend the House Pickles, Cubano Pork, Beef Ragu Gnocchi, Pizzeta Harissa and Cioppino, though the menu changes regularly depending on what’s in season. Don’t miss the cocktail menu, and catch Happy Hour daily from 3 to 5pm!

For more information, please visit The Mill House, call 808.270.0333 or visit 1670 Honoapiilani Hwy., Waikapu.

Maui Chef’s Table

This unique Maui dining event, held each Friday and Saturday evening at The Mill House, is one of the best ways to celebrate a romantic evening on Maui with a loved one. Reserve a table on the outdoor lanai overlooking the sparkling lagoon and West Maui Mountains, and be treated to craft cocktails and 7 unique courses of the best local ingredients available. Watch as expert chefs, including award-winning Chef Jeff Scheer, prepare memorable dishes in the open-air kitchen concept, and be treated to an intimate experience unlike any other on Maui.

For more information, please visit  Maui Chef’s Table, call 808.270.0333 or visit 1670 Honoapiilani Hwy., Waikapu.

Though Maalaea is often overlooked for accommodation on Maui, its convenient location makes it an excellent take-off point for exploring the island.

Maalaea Banyans

It’s hard to beat 1 and 2 bedroom condos only steps from the ocean at affordable rates.

This property is popular for many reasons, including the oceanfront heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, picnic area and gas BBQ grills.  You can enter the water from the property, and there’s also a beautiful white sand beach only a few minute walk down the street.  With free parking and wifi, having your own kitchen also makes these units some of the best prices you’ll find on the Valley Isle.

For more information, please visit Maalaea Banyan Condos at 222 Hauoli Street, Maalaea.

Milowai Condominium Resort

Also located in the heart of Maalaea, Milowai Condos offer an inviting, relaxing escape in central Maui, perfect for couples or solo travelers.

With an assortment of 1 bedroom condos for rent, Milowai offers panoramic ocean views from every room, as well as a washer and dryer, fully-equipped kitchen, onsite restaurant, heated pool, elevator, BBQ grills, picnic area, tropical garden, cable TV and more.

For more information, please call 323.942.9725 or visit 50 Hauoli Street, Maalaea.

Maui Island Sands Resort

A short walk from Maui Ocean Center and Maalaea Harbor, Maui Islands Sands Resort features 1 and 2 bedroom condos in the heart of central Maui.

Every unit includes sweeping ocean views, as well as a private lanai, A/C, washer and dryer, cable TV, DVD, telephone, and fully-equipped kitchen. Visitors can enjoy the tropically landscaped grounds, oceanfront swimming pool and BBQ facilities, or take a quick walk to one of the surrounding restaurants.

For more information, please call 1.888.977.2637 or visit 150 Hauoli Street, Maalaea.

Kealia Resort

Located on the serene sands of Sugar Beach, Kealia Resort is a secluded escape, ideal for travelers seeking a convenient location without sacrificing peace and quiet.

Choose from a Studio or 1 Bedroom Suite with a Partial Ocean View, 1 Bedroom Ocean View, 1 Bedroom Oceanfront, or 2 Bedroom Oceanfront room, all of which include beachfront access, private lanai, washer and dryer, full kitchen, A/C, cable TV, and telephone. Complex amenities include an oceanside pool, BBQ grills, lawn lounge chairs, and weekly pupu party.

For more information, please call 1.800.265.0686 or visit 191 North Kihei Rd., Kihei.

Malaaea Surf Resort

Located on five acres of tropical gardens and fronting a stretch of uncrowded beach, Maalaea Surf Resort offers spacious 1 and 2 bedroom oceanfront condos.

Each unit features a full kitchen, private lanai overlooking Maalaea Bay, wifi, maid service, complimentary amenities, TV, DVD player and A/C, while the resort itself also includes 2 swimming pools, 2 tennis courts, BBQ grills, and a shuffleboard court. Guests can enjoy scenic sunset views all year long, and whale watching during winter months at this conveniently-located Maalaea accommodation option.

For more information, please call 1.800.423.7953 or visit 12 South Kihei Rd., Kihei.

Explore Maalaea, Maui, Hawaii

 
Located in central Maui, Maalaea is best known for its harbor, a popular departure point for several ocean activities, as well as the magnificent Maui Ocean Center, Hawaii’s largest aquarium. While most visitors aren’t likely to spend an entire day here, we highly recommend a visit to learn more about Maui’s unique marine life, grab a bite to eat, depart for an exciting day on the ocean, and during winter months, even whale watch from shore!

May 31, 2017

11 Days on Maui

By Maalaea Town | Hawaii, Maui | One Comment

March 31, 2017

Aloha Olympics

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January 26, 2017

Life Lessons from a Legendary Maui Captain

By Maalaea Town | Hawaii, Maui | 3 Comments

January 18, 2017

Treat Yo Self!

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December 8, 2016

Maui Souvenir Shopping

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November 2, 2016

Chef’s Barbecue Celebration

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July 27, 2016

Maalaea Photo Gallery

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July 24, 2016

Best Scuba Diving in the World

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Directions, Boat Slip Locations, Parking and more!

We’ve created a detailed Maalaea Harbor Map to help you find us as well as the boat you’re looking for.

Maalaea Harbor Map