Following the coast of Wailea is southwestern Maui, the lovely Wailea Beach Path (also called the Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk Trail) passes be gorgeous beaches and over small cliffs and points between the beaches. Following directly on the coast, the path offers incredible views and passes some of the most beautiful resorts on Maui. Whether you are looking for an easy hike in Wailea, or walk to walk or run along the coast, this trail is an easy option.
In this guide you will find general information to help you plan your walk along the Wailea Beach Path including a Wailea Beach Path map, parking information, and more. We recently spent 5 days in Maui and stayed in Wailea and walked this path almost everyday of our visit and consider the one of the best Wailea hikes.
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Quick Overview of the Wailea Beach Path
Distance: 3.5 Miles Elevation Gain: Minimum Difficulty: easy
If you are looking to walk the entire Wailea Beach path, you can park at the end of the path and walk the entire 3.5 mile trail as an out and back route. You can also walk any part of the trail for some incredible views and to get between the different beaches.
The path itself is very well marked and consists of boardwalks and sidewalks that pass alongside the beaches and the points between the beaches. The trail often meanders but offers the best views in Wailea. The best time to walk the Wailea Beach path is early in the morning or near sunset when you will get incredible views to the west. We saw turtles and whales during our time on the Wailea Coastal Walking Trail.
Wailea Beach Path Map
The map below shows the general route of the Wailea Trail. You can see more about parking below and the entire route is well signed and mapped.
Parking for the Wailea Walking Path
To walk the Wailea Beach Path in Maui, Hawaii, you can park in one of the following locations:
- Wailea Beach Resort Parking: The Wailea Beach Resort by Marriott offers parking facilities for visitors. You can park here and easily access the beach path.
- Shops at Wailea Parking: The Shops at Wailea is a popular shopping complex in the area that provides parking for visitors. You can park here and then walk to the beach path.
- Public Beach Parking Lots: Wailea has several public beach parking lots available. One such lot is located near Ulua Beach, which is a great starting point for the Wailea Beach Path. Look for parking lots designated for beach access and choose a convenient one.
Note: Parking availability may vary, and some lots may have time restrictions or fees. It’s always a good idea to check local signs and regulations to ensure compliance with any parking restrictions in the area.
Description of the Wailea Beach Path from South to North
Below you can see a list of the best attractions along the Wailea Coastal Trail. The sites are listed from South to North.
- Polo Beach: Begin your walk at Polo Beach, a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with soft golden sand and clear turquoise waters. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
- Ulua Beach: Continuing north, you’ll come across Ulua Beach, known for its calm waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Explore the vibrant underwater world and spot colorful tropical fish and coral formations. We saw an incredible turtle here when we visited.
- Wailea Beach: As you proceed, you’ll reach Wailea Beach, one of the most popular and stunning beaches in the area. With its powdery white sand and gentle waves, it’s perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and simply relaxing by the shore. We watched the sunset here and loved swimming at this beach.
- The Shops at Wailea: Adjacent to the path, you’ll find The Shops at Wailea, an upscale shopping complex featuring a variety of high-end stores, boutiques, and dining options. Take a break from your walk to indulge in some retail therapy or enjoy a delicious meal.
- Wailea Coastal Trail: Continuing north, the Wailea Beach Path transitions into the Wailea Coastal Trail. This section of the path offers breathtaking views of the coastline, rugged lava rock formations, and beautifully landscaped resorts.
- Mokapu Beach: Near the end of the path, you’ll encounter Mokapu Beach, a picturesque stretch of sand surrounded by luxury resorts. The beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling, with clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Keawakapu Beach: Just beyond Mokapu Beach, you’ll find Keawakapu Beach, a long sandy shoreline with gentle waves. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.
- Kihei Boat Ramp: The path ends at the Kihei Boat Ramp, a bustling spot where you can observe fishermen launching their boats or catch sight of local marine life. It’s a great place to rest and soak in the coastal ambiance before heading back.
These attractions along the Wailea Beach Path offer a diverse range of experiences, from serene beachfront relaxation to exciting water activities and shopping opportunities, making it an enjoyable and memorable walking route.
History of the Wailea Beach Path
The Wailea Beach Path is a scenic coastal walkway located in the beautiful resort community of Wailea on the island of Maui, Hawaii. The path was established to provide residents and visitors with a picturesque route along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. It is believed to have been created in the late 1970s as part of the development of the Wailea Resort area, aiming to enhance the accessibility and enjoyment of the pristine beaches and luxurious resorts in the region. Over the years, the Wailea Beach Path has become a beloved attraction, attracting walkers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts who appreciate the serenity and natural beauty it offers.
Tips for Hiking the Wailea Beach Path and Coastal Trail
While the walking trail is generally easy and you will see people walking the path in everything from hiking or running gear to flip flops and bathing suits, these general tips with help you be prepared and safe on the trail.
- Wear appropriate footwear: The trail is mostly paved but can also have sections with gravel or uneven terrain. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes or hiking sandals to provide good traction and protect your feet.
- Use sun protection: The trail offers limited shade, so it’s essential to protect yourself from the sun. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF, wear a hat, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing. There is very little shade along the trail.
- Bring water and stay hydrated: Carry an adequate amount of water, as the trail can be warm and exposed. It’s important to stay hydrated throughout your hike, especially in the tropical climate.
- Start early or go in the late afternoon: To avoid the hottest parts of the day, consider starting your hike early in the morning or going in the late afternoon. The temperature tends to be cooler, and you’ll also enjoy beautiful sunrise or sunset views. There is very little shade on this walking trail.
- Take breaks and enjoy the views: The Wailea Coastal Trail offers stunning ocean vistas, so make sure to take breaks and appreciate the scenery. There are benches and resting spots along the path where you can relax and soak in the beauty. We also recommend stopping at one or more of the beaches to relax, swim, snorkel and take in the views.
- Pack essentials: Carry a small backpack with essentials such as a map or guidebook, a camera or smartphone, a light snack, and any personal items you might need during your hike.
- Respect the environment: The trail passes through beautiful coastal areas, so it’s important to be mindful of the environment. Stay on designated paths, avoid littering, and be respectful of wildlife and marine life you might encounter. The trail also passes near private property, so make sure to respect the resorts along the path.
- Plan for restroom breaks: Restroom facilities are available at various points along the trail, so plan your breaks accordingly. It’s also a good idea to use the restroom before starting your hike.
- Occasionally there are closures along the path for maintenance. It’s a good idea to read the recent reviews on All Trails as you can often get closure information here.
Remember to always prioritize your safety, stay hydrated, and enjoy the natural beauty that the Wailea Coastal Trail has to offer.
Summary of the Wailea Beach Walk
The lovely Wailea Beach Walk is a great walk to explore during your stay in Wailea. If you are staying in the area for several days or even just visiting for the day, the Wailea Beach path is one of the best things to do in the West Coast of Maui. This 3.5 mile trail is an easy and enjoyable walk.