Wailea-Makena on Maui’s sunny south shore offers world-class snorkeling, scenic hiking, and tranquil beaches. From paddleboarding calm bays to hiking rugged coastlines, it’s an outdoor adventure hub with luxury and aloha spirit.
Wailea-Makena on Maui’s sunny south shore offers world-class snorkeling, scenic hiking, and tranquil beaches. From paddleboarding calm bays to hiking rugged coastlines, it’s an outdoor adventure hub with luxury and aloha spirit.
Adventure Awaits in Wailea-Makena, Hawaii’s Coastal Playground
Wailea-Makena, a radiant jewel on Maui’s southern coast, invites travelers to blend upscale relaxation with robust outdoor thrills. Here, gleaming beaches give way to vibrant coral reefs, framed by rugged volcanic outcrops and lush gardens. Sunshine pours down almost year-round, setting the perfect stage for an array of adventures.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Wailea-Makena, Hawaii special.
7.21 miExperience the tranquil beauty of Sherwood Beach on Oahu's windward coast. Ideal for swimming and snorkeling, this peaceful beach is a sanctuary away from tourist crowds. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and local wildlife, perfect for a relaxing day in nature.
8.72 miKuliʻouʻou Summit near Honolulu offers a 2.5-mile moderately steep hike through native forest, rewarding visitors with panoramic ocean and valley views. Along with hiking, enjoy birdwatching and cultural insights on this accessible yet tranquil Hawaiian landmark.
7.52 miExplore the 4.7-mile Kuliouou Ridge Trail in Honolulu, HI. Known for its moderate difficulty and panoramic views, this hike offers a challenging adventure with switchbacks, steep ascents, and scenic ridge-top vistas. Popular with adventure seekers and birders.
7.22 miExplore the Kuliouou Ridge Trail, a challenging 4.7-mile out-and-back trail near Honolulu, HI, with steep elevation gain. Popular for trail running and hiking, this route offers stunning views and a chance to spot wildlife like Hawaiian honeycreepers. Best visited year-round.
8.73 miExplore Kuli‘ou‘ou Ridge Trail in Honolulu, offering lush forests and sweeping ocean views. This moderate trail is 2.5 miles one way and is popular for hiking, bird watching, and photography. Enjoy solitude at dawn or dusk.
8.83 miExplore the challenging Koko Crater Stairs in Honolulu, Hawaii. This route, marked by 1,048 steps, offers rewarding panoramic views of the O‘ahu coast. Plan for a tough climb to the summit. Popular for sunrise hikes and a favorite for fitness enthusiasts.
8.73 miExplore the 2-mile Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail near Honolulu, Hawaii. This easy route offers stunning ocean views, whale watching, and a glimpse into history with its iconic lighthouse. Perfect for families, especially during winter months when humpback whales pass by.
7.84 miSandy Beach in Honolulu offers powerful shore breaks ideal for advanced surfing and bodyboarding. The beach features golden sand, scenic cliffs, and ocean views. Drive-in access makes it convenient, though strong waves and reef hazards recommend it for experienced visitors mainly in winter months.
8.54 miConquer the demanding Koko Crater Railway Trail in Honolulu, Hawaii. Ascend nearly 1,050 steps through rugged terrain for striking ocean vistas and WWII history. Ideal for adventurous hikers seeking challenges. Avoid midday heat for a more enjoyable climb.
7.94 miExplore Koko Head District Park in Honolulu for moderate hiking on volcanic trails, tidepool wildlife viewing, and picnic spots with stunning coastal views. Best visited early or late day to enjoy cooler conditions and great photography opportunities.
8.74 miLocated 20 minutes from downtown Honolulu, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve offers clear waters and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. Moderate hiking nearby offers scenic bay views. The preserve emphasizes conservation and education, making it family-friendly and great for wildlife observation.
8.54 miExplore the 7.5-mile Hawaiʻi Loa Ridge Trail near Honolulu, offering a challenging hike with significant elevation changes. Enjoy panoramic views and lush landscapes. Suitable for adventurous hikers.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Wailea-Makena, Hawaii.
12 bookable experiences
Honolulu, Hawaii
3.48 mi awayHonolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu, Hawaii
Kailua, Hawaii
1.86 mi awayHonolulu, Hawaii
Waimanalo, Hawaii
Waimanalo, Hawaii
2.31 mi awayHonolulu, Hawaii
Waimanalo, Hawaii
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Make the most of your visit to Wailea-Makena, Hawaii with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected public lands.
Wailea-Makena, Hawaii hosts celebrated events showcasing local heritage, outdoor recreation, and regional community gatherings.
Experience the vibrancy and outdoor culture of Wailea-Makena, Hawaii during Wailea Golf Tournament. Check local schedules and reserve travel accommodations early.
Experience the vibrancy and outdoor culture of Wailea-Makena, Hawaii during Maui Whale Festival (in adjacent seasons). Check local schedules and reserve travel accommodations early.
Experience the vibrancy and outdoor culture of Wailea-Makena, Hawaii during Makena Beach Clean-up Days. Check local schedules and reserve travel accommodations early.
Wailea-Makena, Hawaii is surrounded by pristine national parks, forests, and wilderness preserves offering backcountry trails and scenic recreation.
Waimanalo Bay Beach Park offers a long, sandy shoreline perfect for swimming, picnicking, and water activities on the windward coast of Oahu. Known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere, it is a favored local spot away from the crowds.
Makapuʻu Point State Wayside is a scenic lookout and hiking area on Oʻahu's southeastern coast known for its panoramic ocean vistas, seabird sanctuaries, and whale-watching opportunities during winter months.
Ka Iwi State Scenic Shoreline on the island of Oahu offers sweeping ocean views, rugged coastline, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation.
Makapuu Point State Wayside is a coastal park on the southeastern tip of Oahu, Hawaii, offering dramatic ocean views, lighthouse access, and excellent whale watching during winter months.
Rent a snorkel or paddleboard locally to avoid bringing bulky gear.
Start hikes early to avoid midday heat and secure parking.
Respect protected areas and watch for closures in the Ahihi-Kinau Reserve.
Sun protection is essential year-round; bring reef-safe sunscreen.
Parking near popular beaches can fill quickly—arrive early.
Book golf tee times in advance during peak travel seasons.
Always check local regulations, park permits, trail advisories, and weather forecasts before embarking on any adventure around Wailea-Makena, Hawaii. Respect wildlife and preserve our shared outdoors with Leave No Trace ethics.