Maalaea Activities

Located in the southern part of the isthmus between the mountains ranges of Haaleakala ad west Maui, sits the small fishing village of Maalaea. Maalaea is considered to be central Maui with its harbor accommodating inter-island shipping vessels, along with boat charters and whale watching cruises departing from here. You can climb aboard a snorkeling or diving excursion as well, that will take you to the tiny offshore island of Molokini.

Maalaea Harbor is famous for the frequent visits by humpback whales during the winter months and also for the tubular-perfect Maalaea Pipeline wave, the renowned fastest ride-able. The wave produces when a southerly swell hits this area of Maui. A proposal to blast a new harbor entrance in attempt to improve the harbor’s safety during stormy weather has threatened to destroy the Maalaea surfbreak along with the marine’s habitat, but the surfers, environmentalists, and locals have lobbied against that proposal.

Near the harbor of Maalaea is the Maui Ocean Center where you can view different marine species up close. Also along the harbor are a variety of restaurants, condominiums, and a variety of specialty and dive shops.

The 691-acre Kelia Pond Sanctuary that is nearby, is home to many native species of birds including the Hawaiian stilt and coot, along with hawksbill turtles. Maalaea Bay is also a sanctuary to humpback whales.

Maalaea is 7.7 square miles, being surrounded by fields of sugar cane. According to the 2000 Census, 454 people reside here. Although small, Maalaea is a nice place to visit. You can keep busy by doing some snorkeling, whale watching, and spending some time at the Maui Ocean Center. End the day with a nice walk along the beach and watch the beautiful sunset. Maalaea in Maui is a great place to enjoy one’s self.