There are simply so many beautiful beaches in South Maui that it is hard to pick a favorite. Many people choose Maluaka Beach as their favorite however for a number of reasons. It is a long and wide beach with beautiful white sand, actually more golden in color. In many ways it is similar to its neighbor beach of Makena which is located right around the corner but Maluaka has the advantage of offering a nice restroom facility as well as showers and some nice grassy areas to enjoy instead of just sand. Parking is ample just up the roadway and like Makena, it is one of the last beaches on any given day to fill in with trade winds which have a tendency to upset the tranquil nature of a beautiful beach like this.

Maluaka Beach is one of the great South Maui beaches
Maluaka Beach is also referred to by locals as the Maui Prince Beach, Chang’s, Turtle Town, or Prince Beach because it is located immediately in front of this beautiful hotel. This is a great beach for swimming because of the sand bottom entry but you must beware of submerged boulders which can inadvertently be run into when you are not being cautious. Snorkeling is also a good option as there are lots of coral throughout and rocks that make good hiding places for fish and marine life. In the early hours of the day this beach is also used for stand-up paddle boarding but of course it becomes more difficult if the wind fills in by afternoon.

View of Maluaka Beach from the north end looking toward Makena
Maluaka Beach, being so beautiful is often used for weddings and special occasions. The grassy area on the south end can be used to best advantage for these events. Many times while here you may find yourself witness to a bride and groom in full wedding regalia with a handful of people along as an entourage. Permits are generally required for these events.

Beach Amenities
The beach comes complete with its own parking lot although it is very often full in which case parking at the Shops of Wailea may be in order but it would require about a third of a mile walk back to the beach. Ulua Beach has a clean bathroom and shower area and a very nice grassy knoll upon which to perch if you’d prefer not to be on the sand. The is no lifeguard on duty at this beach.

Ocean Caution
Please be advised that all beaches and ocean locations in Hawaii can be potentially dangerous including this location. Be completely aware of the ocean conditions prior to entering the water and of course, never turn your back on the ocean when you are on the shoreline. It should also be noted that all shorelines and beaches in Hawaii, including this one, can be frequented by sharks, jellyfish and other sea creatures which can provide potential harm to people entering the water.