What makes Wailea different from Kīhei?

Wailea is more resort-style, with higher-end amenities and a refined atmosphere. Kīhei is laid-back, more affordable, and feels more naturally local. Both have excellent beaches and reliable weather.

Which Wailea beaches are best for snorkeling?

Ulua Beach is the premier snorkel spot, calm, clear, and teeming with reef fish. Wailea Beach is great for swimming. Polo Beach is quiet and scenic. All three have sandy entry and good facilities nearby.

Is golf really a major draw in Wailea?

Yes. Three championship courses, Wailea Blue, Gold, and Emerald. Rates can be high and vary seasonally, but the courses are top-tier and scenic. Many visitors come partly for golf, but non-golfers enjoy spas, dining, and beaches equally.

How does Wailea compare to West Maui in terms of price and activity?

Both regions offer distinct appeal, Wailea shines with amenities, golf, spas, and fine dining, while West Maui offers more neighborhood variety and casual dining. Both have excellent beaches. You can't go wrong with either.

Book Wailea Vacation Rentals on Maui: Save up to 15%

Wailea on Maui

Wailea is a coastal community in South Maui known for its scenic shoreline, premier golf courses, and oceanfront dining. It offers a calm, well-maintained setting with convenient access to beaches and walking paths.

Explore our Wailea vacation rental collection, or browse other South Maui neighborhoods for different vibes and price points.

At a glance

Homes 14 rentals

Good for Golf, beach path walks, snorkeling

Whale season About Dec to Apr

Our office Lahaina

Wailea stays

Grand Champions 124 3Bedroom, 2Bathroom, 2nd Floor Wailea Condo with Central AC, Pool, Hot Tub. Perfect for a Family Getaway. Close to Beaches, Restaurants, Shopping, Tennis, Golf

Bedrooms: 3 bedrooms
Bathrooms: 2 bathrooms
Sleeps: sleeps 8
Location: Kihei

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Grand Champions 163 Spacious 2Bedroom, 2Bathroom Luxurious Wailea Condo. Ideal Location to Walk to Beach, Tennis, Golf, Fine Dining, Luxury Shopping, and so much more.

Bedrooms: 2 bedrooms
Bathrooms: 2 bathrooms
Sleeps: sleeps 7
Location: Kihei

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Grand Champions 179 3Bedroom, 2Bathroom, Corner Unit Set Amidst the 18-Hole Wailea Blue Golf Course. Walk to 5-Star Resorts, Restaurants, and Luxury Shopping at the Shops at Wailea

Bedrooms: 3 bedrooms
Bathrooms: 2 bathrooms
Sleeps: sleeps 8
Location: Kihei

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Palms at Wailea 1306 Spacious 2Bedroom, 2Bathroom Palms at Wailea with Ocean Views, Large Furnished Lanai for Additional Outdoor Living, AC, Infinity Pools, Hot Tub. Close to Beach

Bedrooms: 2 bedrooms
Bathrooms: 2 bathrooms
Sleeps: sleeps 6
Location: Kihei

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Palms at Wailea 1706 Beautifully Remodeled 1Bedroom Wailea Condo with Pools, AC Throughout, Spacious Furnished Lanai, Close to White Sand Beaches, Near Dining and Shops

Bedrooms: 1 bedroom
Bathrooms: 2 bathrooms
Sleeps: sleeps 2
Location: Kihei

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Palms at Wailea 2108 Experience This Peaceful Wailea Resort Minutes From the Beach, Golf, Tennis, Fine Dining, Luxury Shopping with Infinity Pool with Expansive Ocean Views

Bedrooms: 1 bedroom
Bathrooms: 2 bathrooms
Sleeps: sleeps 4
Location: Kihei

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Wailea Ekahi 17D Enjoy Paradise at This 1Bedroom Wailea Condo with Central AC, Pools, Perfect Location Just Steps to Keawakapu Beach, Luxury Shopping, Fine Dining, Golf

Bedrooms: 1 bedroom
Bathrooms: 2 bathrooms
Sleeps: sleeps 4
Location: Kihei

From /night

Wailea Ekahi 21A 1Bedroom Wailea Condo Just Steps to the Pool with AC Throughout, Pools, Close to Beaches, Shops at Wailea, Restaurants, Golf, Tennis

Bedrooms: 1 bedroom
Bathrooms: 2 bathrooms
Sleeps: sleeps 4
Location: Kihei

From /night

Where Is Wailea?

Wailea sits along Maui’s southwestern coastline, south of Kīhei and north of Mākena. The area is recognized for its landscaped resort communities and coastal walking path.

Why Guests Choose Wailea

Travelers choose Wailea for its peaceful atmosphere, open green spaces, and easy access to dining and recreation. The area is thoughtfully designed, with wide sidewalks and connected beachfront pathways.

Beaches & Ocean Access

Wailea Beach, Ulua Beach, and Polo Beach are among the most visited shoreline areas in South Maui. These beaches are known for swimmable conditions and seasonal snorkeling. Many accommodations are located within walking distance of beach access points and the Wailea Beach Path.

Dining & Recreation

Wailea offers oceanfront restaurants, shopping at The Shops at Wailea, championship golf courses, and resort spas. The coastal path connects several beaches and dining locations, making it easy to explore on foot.

Good to Know

Wailea is ideal for couples, golfers, and travelers seeking a peaceful South Maui experience with convenient access to beaches and amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Wailea Vacation Rentals

What makes Wailea different from Kīhei?: Wailea is more resort-style, with higher-end amenities and a refined atmosphere. Kīhei is laid-back, more affordable, and feels more naturally local. Both have excellent beaches and reliable weather.
Which Wailea beaches are best for snorkeling?: Ulua Beach is the premier snorkel spot, calm, clear, and teeming with reef fish. Wailea Beach is great for swimming. Polo Beach is quiet and scenic. All three have sandy entry and good facilities nearby.
Is golf really a major draw in Wailea?: Yes. Three championship courses, Wailea Blue, Gold, and Emerald. Rates can be high and vary seasonally, but the courses are top-tier and scenic. Many visitors come partly for golf, but non-golfers enjoy spas, dining, and beaches equally.
How does Wailea compare to West Maui in terms of price and activity?: Both regions offer distinct appeal, Wailea shines with amenities, golf, spas, and fine dining, while West Maui offers more neighborhood variety and casual dining. Both have excellent beaches. You can't go wrong with either.

Browse Wailea Vacation Rentals