What's called the South Side of Maui is a scenic stretch of beaches and small towns between Ma'alaea Bay and the end of the west-facing road at Makena. Known for its find weather and numerous humpback whales, South Maui is also host to outstanding restaurants, shopping and golf courses and is the closest access point to the tiny crescent isle of Molokini.
Ma'alaea Harbor
Here you'll find the Ma'alaea Harbor Village filled with shopping boutiques and restaurants with great views. Hop aboard a snorkel, scuba or whale watch excursion from the harbor. A sunset sail is another great way to take the beautiful setting of Ma'alaea.
Ma'alaea
As the former commercial port of the Island, Ma'alaea Harbor now hosts snorkel, scuba and whale watch excursions. Ma'alaea Bay is part of the National Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary. This is also a good place to catch a dinner cruise, unless you prefer to admire the views from one of Ma'alaea popular restaurants. Be sure to stop at Ma'alaea Harbor Village's many shopping boutiques, handmade arts and crafts market, restaurants and Maui Ocean Center.
Wailea
Book a tee time in Wailea and golf some of the most beautiful courses in the country. The weather here is just about perfect for any outdoor activity, with sunny days and clear evenings. Wailea is also known for its beautiful beaches, so plan to spend at least a day on the sand. Nestled at the base of Haleakala Crater, Wailea is an exquisitely landscaped resort community with luxury condominiums, stately homes and award-winnning hotels, restaurants and deluxe shops.
Molokini
Situated a little over two miles off Maui's southern coast, the tiny island of Molokini is actually an extinct volcano. Considered one of the better snorkel and dive sites in Hawaii, the crater shields the tiny ecosystem from the rough waters of the open ocean, and allows for startling, clear visibility.
There are over 250 species of fish that live in these waters, and the view below is awesome. Because Molokini is a protected marine and bird reserve, you need to visit through a registered tour company. Several tour companies offer trips to Molokini, and depart throughout the day from the small boat harbors at Ma'alaea and Lahaina. Half-day and full-day tours are offered, complete with snorkeling and diving equipment. Most people prefer to visit Molokini in the early morning when the water is generally clearer and calmer.
