Top 5 Outdoor Attractions in Wailea/Makena
When in Maui, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to choose from!
If you’re staying in the Wailea/Makena area, you may want to spend at least part of your time exploring the local neighborhood; and fortunately, some of Maui’s top attractions happen to be right down the road.
Use this guide below to enjoy leisurely outdoor activities in Wailea/Makena, and get the most out of your stay!
1. Wailea Beach Path
At the top of this list is the Wailea Beach path -
Aptly named, it spans roughly two miles of both cliff-side & beach-front coastline through the Wailea resort area. Start your journey at either the Fairmont or Andaz hotel beachfronts, which cap either end of the path. You’ll stroll past Maui’s top resorts, restaurants, shops, and homes while watching waves crash, palm trees sway, and maybe even spot a few sea turtles (or “Honu” as they’re called by locals!)
After working up an appetite, stop for a Pina colada & poke & watch the sunset. It’s a perfect way to start a Maui vacation, or if you live here, make it a part of your daily routine!
2. La Perouse Bay
If you’re up for a little more adventure without venturing too far from home, take a short drive to the end of Makena, where you’ll quickly see the landscape turn to rugged lava rock.
It’s a unique landscape that will feel like you’ve traveled to a different island (or even a different planet!)
At the end of the road you’ll find a spot to park & hit the trail; a few miles of rocky, rugged coastline with quiet beaches, blow holes, secret Snorkel spots, and surprise local wildlife along the way (the harmless kind.) It’s a great way to get in a little hike & new views, all right down the road!
3. Sail Kai Kanani
When you’re ready to get out on the water, a sunset sail or snorkel trip might be just what your Maui vacation needs.
The “Kai Kanani” sets sail from Makena, with options to sign up for a 2-hour sunset cruise with drinks, “pupus” (appetizers) & music, or a longer daytime snorkel to Molokini crater. Either experience is one of the most fun, luxurious & exciting ways to immerse yourself in the beautiful Maui waters!
4. Makena “Big” Beach
Makena Beach, known as “Big Beach” by locals, is one of the larger stretches of beach on Maui -
Surrounded by cliffs on either side, it has a unique shorebreak that creates large, crashing waves in crystal blue water. This spot is best for posting up with a beach blanket & umbrellas to meet friends & watch the show, as the waves are actually some of the more dangerous on the island to swim in.
5. Tuesday Market
If you happen to be visiting Maui on a Tuesday, wake up a little early & stroll to the most fun local market in Wailea!
Local food & retail vendors set up shop from 8-11 AM at the centrally located Wailea Village, including refreshing Acai Bowls, farm-fresh produce, Maui Cookie Lady cookies, and often local live music. It’s a great way to start your day in Maui!
If you’re hitting all these spots on your trip to Maui, you’re doing it right!
For more things to do while on-island, check out the rest of our blog posts here, or feel free to reach out - I’d be happy to give you some local tips.