About Maalaea, Maui

Though often overlooked as a Maui tourist destination, Ma’alaea is one of the most popular departure points for boat tours, as well as the location for Maui’s only aquarium, mini golf park, several condo complexes, and even a few worthy restaurants and cafes.

Maalaea History

It was Ma’alaea where Captain George Vancouver first landed his ship in 1793, bringing the first cattle to Maui. After a stint as a major commercial port, Ma’alaea then became the chosen site for Maui’s first ever airport in 1929. Because of its tendency to become muddy and close proximity to the West Maui Mountains, however, Ma’alaea Airport was shut down in 1938, only 9 years after its first scheduled flight from Oahu.

Things to do in Maalaea

Today, Ma’alaea Harbor and Lahaina Harbor act as Maui’s main harbors and a great place to depart for a number of exciting ocean tours. After the opening of Maui Ocean Center in 1998, Ma’alaea began attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors a year thanks to its amazing facilities, marine life, unique exhibits and shark-tank scuba diving opportunity. We highly recommend booking a boat tour from Maalaea during your next trip to Maui. Whether it’s whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, bottom fishing or cocktail cruising, Ma’alaea’s got you covered. We also recommend a relaxed lunch with a view at Seascape Ma’alaea, Oceanside Restaurant or Ma’alaea General Store while in the area.