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A slightly inclined beach that leads up a grassy hill dotted with palm trees, Ulua Beach’s crescent-shaped bay is a beautiful place to soak in the sun or simply swim. Excellent on-site facilities include restrooms, showers, and parking, but be aware that no lifeguards are on duty.

You’ll find this beach on our list of the best beaches on Maui, the best beaches in all of Hawaii, and the best snorkel spots on Maui!

It’s the first beach we talk about in the video below!

Ulua Beach Overview

Ulua Beach Amenities
Restrooms	Yes
Showers	Yes
Parking	Free Parking Lot
Lifeguards	No
BBQ Grills	No
Picnic Tables	No
Playground	No

Pro tip: There are kiawe trees at this beach with big thorns that fall onto the sand beneath them near the point (north side). So keep a lookout for thorns, and be sure to wear shoes here until you find an excellent spot to settle.

Who is Ulua Beach Best For?

Everyone will find something they love at Ulua Beach. Swimmers and snorkelers will love the typically mellow waters. Sunbathers can soak up some vitamin D on the vast sandy shores. Sea turtle spotters can search near the rocky outcrop on the north and south ends of the beach.

Is Ulua Beach Good for Swimming?

Yes, there is excellent swimming here!

Ulua Beach morning — It was a beautiful morning at Ulua Beach with plenty of shade.

Is Ulua Beach Good for Snorkeling?

Ulua Beach is one of the best spots on Maui for snorkeling and a popular destination for scuba diving. Just below the surface is a treasure trove of reefs and coral that support tropical fish and sea turtles.

More experienced snorkelers will want to seek out the north end of the beach, while those who are just starting out can stick to the shallows.

To spot Hawaii Green Sea Turtles here, head to the point on the north end of the beach. The rocky outcropping is where sea turtles feed on the rocks.

ulua beach snorkeling spot at the rock outcropping. — Head to the rocky outcropping at the center of this picture for the best snorkeling at Ulua Beach.

How To Get to Ulua Beach

Located in the Wailea resort area, you can walk along the Wailea beach path if you’re staying at a nearby resort. Otherwise, you’ll find parking off Ulua Beach Road (click here for directions to parking) and follow a beach path from the restrooms at the end of the road. Go left for Ulua, or you can go right for Mokapu Beach, which is usually quieter.

Ulua Beach Parking

There is a free beach parking lot with a beach access trail, which can get crowded with locals and visitors. This can also make parking difficult, so be sure to get here early if you know you’ll want to visit!

Ulua beach public parking lot — The public parking lot for Ulua and Makapu Beaches.

Things to Do at Ulua Beach

Take your pick of beach activities! This is a great place for a beach photoshoot, sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, spotting sea turtles, or walking along the beach.

The Wailea Beach Path connects it to the Wailea resort area, so you can walk to other beaches, resorts, or the Shops at Wailea.

Ulua beach in the morning with the walking trail — The Wailea boardwalk goes past Ulua Beach.

Ulua Beach Safety

There is no lifeguard on duty at this beach, so stay vigilant while you enjoy your time here. Snorkel with a buddy, and never turn your back on the ocean. The waters here are generally calm, but no beach is inherently safe.

Know Before You Go Snorkel Safety

Swimming and snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean should not be taken lightly. To keep you safe, please know your health limits, swim with a buddy, never turn your back on the ocean, and read and obey posted signs. Check HIOceanSafety.com for ocean conditions at lifeguard beaches.

Places to Eat Near Ulua Beach

Just south of the beach you’ll find the Wailea Beach Resort (which we love) with a handful of great restaurants. Just beyond the resort is the Shops at Wailea. There you’ll find a dozen places to grab a bite to eat including Tommy Bahama, Waikiki Brewing Co, and Island Vintage Coffee.

The Andaz Maui is to the north end of the beach, above Mokapu Beach. The poolside grill is open to the public.

Visit Ulua Beach and More

South Maui has some incredible activities, and the Wailea resort area is well-connected, so you’re not far from some great entertainment. Here are a few of our top picks:

Feast at Mokapu Luau: Just north of the beach, the Andaz resort is one of the best luaus on Maui. Make a day out of it by going to the beach, exploring the area, and staying for the luau.
Plus, check out the best things to do in Wailea and head a few minutes up the coast for the best things to do in Kihei.

Ulua Beach, Maui: Where to Snorkel with Turtles