Ulua Beach Park is a beautiful destination for swimming and snorkeling. The crescent-shaped beach is in Wailea, Maui, and is in front of the Wailea Elua Resort.
The beach is small, but the tan sands and emerald waters make it a picture-perfect location for many outdoor activities. In addition, a grassy knoll rims the beach, and mature palm trees line the area, providing ample shade when the sun and temperatures get hot. A sidewalk snakes through this well-manicured grass for walks along the coast to enjoy the views and the ocean breeze.
The beach gently slopes into the surf, and with its sandy bottom, makes it appealing for swimmers of all ages. There isn’t a lifeguard station, so only swim when waves and currents aren’t dangerous.
At the tips of Ulua Beach are black lava rock outcroppings. Here, snorkelers will want to explore the coral-rich bottom. Several visitors commented that snorkeling at Ulua Beach wasn’t the greatest, while others raved about their experience. Since such reviews can be subjective, we recommend snorkeling, but only when the ocean is calm and not stirring up sand and silt to obscure visibility.
Divers and snorkelers who enjoyed Ulua Beach say it’s excellent for beginners. The sandy bottom makes water access safe and easy. Additionally, the reef is close to shore, making it safer for children and underwater explorers new to the sport.
While snorkeling, you can expect to see orange band surgeonfish, pacific trumpetfish, square-spot goatfish, Hawaiian damselfish, raccoon butterflyfish. If you’re patient around the reef, you may spot the ever-elusive white mouth moray eel.
Arrive early to secure your parking and beach spot! Parking is free, but parking spaces fill up fast, as with the most popular beaches on Maui. Once parked, follow the sidewalk down to the beach. There aren’t any stairs to the beach, making it ADA (Americans with Disability Act) accessible.
As you walk the sidewalk to the surf, you’ll pass the public restrooms and showers. There aren’t any picnic tables or concession stands at Ulua Beach Park, so bring some food and water. We suggest tossing a blanket or beach towel on the grassy bank for a picnic lunch. Sit back, relax, and savor the sun, surf, and sand.
We think you’ll enjoy visiting Ulua Beach Park. Whether you come alone, with a group, or with your family, you’ll be able to relax, sunbathe, swim, and snorkel.
Insider Tips:
The best snorkeling is on the northern end of the beach, which will be on your right when facing the ocean. And since Ulua Beach Park faces west, it offers some of the best sunset views on Maui. Pack a blanket, a picnic, and settle down for a dazzling sundown light show.