Wailea / Makena Real Estate

Wailea / Makena

Wailea-Makena on Maui’s south shore is one of the island’s most sought-after regions for high-end living. Known for its golden beaches, upscale resorts, and championship golf courses, the area combines natural beauty with refined amenities. Gated communities, luxury condos, and custom estates are woven into a landscape of lava rock, kiawe trees, and panoramic ocean views.

WELCOME TO THE PARADISE OF WAILEA-MAKENA!

Wailea-Makena sits along the southwestern coastline of Maui, known for its dry, sunny weather and striking ocean vistas. Located just south of Kihei and north of La Perouse Bay, the region stretches from the meticulously landscaped resort area of Wailea to the rugged and windswept Makena. Together, they occupy one of Maui’s most scenic and prestigious stretches of coastline.

Until 2020, Wailea and Makena were grouped as a single census-designated place (CDP) known as Wailea-Makena. While they’re now recognized as separate CDPs, the areas remain closely linked— geographically, culturally, and in lifestyle.

 

 

 

Introducing Wailea…

The name Wailea means “waters of Lea,” drawn from the Hawaiian goddess Lea, protector of canoe builders. According to legend, she took the form of a forest bird and flew over this coastline, blessing its waters and lands. Today, that same shoreline now hosts one of Maui’s most refined resort communities.

Spanning roughly 1,500 acres along the island’s southwest coast, Wailea is a master-planned luxury resort community designed for luxury living. The land was first purchased in 1957 by Matson Navigation Company, but development didn’t take shape until 1969, when Alexander & Baldwin acquired the property. Two years later, a partnership with Northwestern Mutual led to the formation of the Wailea Development Company—and with it, the blueprint for one of Hawai‘i’s most iconic resort destinations.

From five-star hotels and oceanfront condos to golf courses and the iconic Shops at Wailea, Wailea blends world-class amenities with Maui’s signature laid-back pace. But although the area is now known for its resort lifestyle, the land beneath it carries generations of history. Wailea’s coastline and lower slopes were once home to Native Hawaiian fishing villages and agricultural plots, where sweet potatoes were cultivated in the volcanic soil of Haleakalā.

… and Makena

Head just south of Wailea and you’ll find Makena, a quieter and less developed stretch of coastline known for its raw beauty and cultural richness. In contrast to Wailea’s master-planned design, Makena feels expansive and untouched, defined by lava fields, kiawe groves, secluded coves, and some of Maui’s most beloved beaches, including Big Beach (Oneloa) and Maluaka Beach.

The name Makena is said to mean “many gathered,” stemming from the Hawaiian word mak’ke. A 19th-century oral tradition tells of Makena’s connection to the building of Po’okela Church in Makawao, when coral stones were passed hand-to-hand from the Makena shoreline all the way to Upcountry.

Though development moves at a slower pace in Makena, it is also home to a growing number of private estates and luxury developments. The Makena Golf & Beach Club and nearby resorts embrace the area’s natural beauty and offer a more secluded, nature-forward experience compared to Wailea’s resort core.

Keeping the mana of the land alive Even as Wailea and Makena have grown into world-class destinations, there’s a steady effort to care for the land and honor what makes this place special. Local initiatives focus on restoring native forests, protecting coral reefs and marine life, and supporting sustainable tourism that respects both culture and environments. Resorts like the Grand Wailea have taken meaningful steps, such as adjusting outdoor lighting to protect native seabirds like the ‘ua’u (Hawaiian petrel). It’s a quiet reminder that even in luxury, there’s room for balance—with nature, with community, and with the spirit of the island.

HOMES FOR SALE IN WAILEA-MAKENA

The Wailea-Makena real estate market offers some of the most refined living in all of Hawai’i. From resort-style condos to oceanfront estates, homes for sale in Wailea, Maui and neighboring Makena are highly sought-after for their privacy, quality, and access to one of the island’s most scenic coastlines. It’s a market shaped by low inventory, high demand, and properties that seldom remain on the market for long.

In Wailea

Homes for sale in Wailea, Maui present buyers with choice: elegant condominiums with resort amenities, custom-built homes behind gates, and everything in between. Home prices can swing from the $800,000s for an entry-level condominium unit to $10 million or more for an oceanfront estate in one of Wailea’s more exclusive communities.

Some of the notable gated communities in Wailea include:

• Wailea Golf Estates: Centrally located near The Shops of Wailea, this community spans 30 acres and features a total of 61 homesites, all with views of the Wailea Blue Golf Course. The newer Wailea Golf Estates II further adds another 16 homesites, with parcels ranging from 12,000 sq. ft. to 15,000 sq. ft.

• Wailea Highlands: Just above Wailea Golf Estates lies Wailea Highlands, an ultra-exclusive enclave known for its elevated vistas and privacy. Homes here rarely come to market—and when they do, they represent some of Wailea’s finest. The community includes 24 half-acre homesites.

  

  The Wailea-Makena real estate market offers some of the most refined living in all of Hawai’i.

• Maluhia at Wailea: Wailea’s only gated beachfront residential subdivision, Maluhia offers just 14 custom estate homes with concierge-level services and direct beach access. Tucked behind discreet gates, it’s a low-density community that feels worlds away while being steps from it all.

As for condominium developments, standouts in Wailea include Wailea Beach Villas, Wailea Elua, Wailea Point, Ho’olei at Grand Wailea, and Wailea Ekahi.

In Makena

Makena, Maui real estate offers a quieter, more secluded take on luxury living. Here, privacy, open space, and access to some of Maui’s most pristine coastline define the market. Buyers gravitate toward Makena for its connection to nature and low-density atmosphere. There’s no “starter” tier in this section of Wailea-Makena real estate; luxury is the baseline, with condo offerings beginning around $3 million and landmark estates edging past $20 million.

Some of the most desirable residential communities in Makena include:

• Makena Place: Makena Place is a rare find: a gated beachfront enclave of just 10 custom residences. With unobstructed ocean views and direct access to the water, this intimate community offers the kind of privacy and exclusivity that rarely comes up for sale.

• One Palauea Bay (OPB): One Palauea Bay, often simply called OPB, sits quietly across from Palauea Beach, one of the lesser-known but most picturesque beaches in South Maui. This gated subdivision includes 17 one-acre estate lots, each thoughtfully positioned to take in ocean or Haleakalā views. Strict design guidelines help preserve the neighborhood’s understated elegance, favoring low-profile architecture that blends with the landscape.

• Keauhou at Makena: Keauhou at Makena is one of the area’s most private and spacious enclaves, offering just seven estate lots spread across 23 elevated acres above Palauea Beach Park. Each homesite ranges between two-and-a-half to five acres, and every parcel enjoys panoramic views thanks to the neighborhood’s hillside setting. With two gated entrances—one off Makena Alanui and another from the upper roadways—access is discreet and limited.

As for condominium developments, there are currently only three in Makena: Polo Beach Club, Makena Surf, and Na Hale o Makena. Each offers a different take on oceanfront or near-ocean living, with low density, generous floorplans, and immediate access to some of South Maui’s most beautiful coastline.

LIVING IN WAILEA-MAKENA

Living in Wailea-Makena means waking up to ocean views, warm breezes, and the quiet luxury of resort-style amenities at your doorstep. From world-class golf and spas to pristine beaches and upscale dining, it’s island living at its most refined— with the space to slow down and enjoy it.

Getting around

Getting around Wailea-Makena is relatively easy, though having a car is the most convenient option due to the area’s layout and limited public transportation. The area is designed around resort and residential enclaves, with limited public transit and wide spacing between key attractions.

By car

A personal vehicle offers the most flexibility for navigating Wailea-Makena and venturing beyond South Maui. The area is roughly 17 miles—or a 35- to 45-minute drive—from Kahului Airport (OGG), with Kihei just 10 to 15 minutes away. Lahaina, in West Maui, takes about 45 to 60 minutes by car.

Traffic is typically light, though it can build during peak hours along Piʻilani Highway and South Kihei Road. Parking is generally available at resorts, beaches, and shopping areas, but popular spots like Big Beach can fill up fast.

As for car rentals, options are more limited here than in Kahului, but many hotels and local agencies offer convenient pick-ups. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, though they can be inconsistent especially during busy periods or in more remote parts of Makena.

By public transportation

Maui Bus provides limited service to Wailea via the Kihei Islander route, with stops near resorts and shopping centers. While it’s not a substitute for a car, it’s an option for basic travel around South Maui.

On foot or two wheels

If you prefer to explore without a car, Wailea is moderately walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and the scenic Wailea Beach Path—a 1.5-mile oceanfront walkway that connects major resorts and beaches.

Biking is another pleasant alternative, especially for short trips within Wailea. While Makena’s roads are more rural and less bike-friendly, Wailea’s flatter terrain and paved shoulders make cycling both practical and enjoyable, particularly during quieter hours.

Schools

Wailea-Makena itself has limited school options, but nearby Kihei and Kahului both offer a mix of public, charter, and private education choices. These include:

• Kamali’i Elementary School
• Lokelani Intermediate School
• Maui High School
• Kihei Charter School
• St. Anthony School
• Montessori School of Maui

Outdoor recreation

It’s hard to stay indoors in Wailea-Makena. Surrounded by coastline, mountains, and open sky, Wailea-Makena offers more than just good views—it’s a natural playground for anyone who loves to move, explore, and connect with the ʻāina.

MAKENA BEACH STATE PARK

Makena Beach State Park is home to two of Maui’s most memorable stretches of sand. Big Beach— one of the largest beaches in Maui— offers a wide shoreline and dramatic backdrops, popular for sunbathing and bodyboarding. Just over the lava point, Little Beach is more secluded and known for its relaxed vibe and weekly drum circles.

AHIHI-KINAU NATURAL AREA RESERVE

South of Makena, this protected marine area is one of Maui’s top snorkeling spots. Lava rock coastlines create calm, clear water that’s ideal for spotting reef fish, coral, and turtles. It’s also a peaceful place to observe tide pools and explore the rugged shoreline—no sandy beaches, just raw, beautiful coastline.

POLO BEACH, ULUA BEACH, AND THE WAILEA BEACH PATH

These well-kept beaches are linked by the Wailea Beach Path, a paved, oceanfront walkway that runs from Polo Beach to Ulua Beach. It’s a favorite for early morning swims, light jogs, and casual seaside walks. Calm waters make these spots popular for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing with a view.

LA PEROUSE BAY

Located at the southern tip of Makena, La Perouse Bay is where Maui’s most recent lava flow meets the sea. The Hoapili Trail, part of the old King’s Highway, cuts through ancient lava fields and hugs the coastline. It’s a stark, striking landscape—ideal for early morning hikes when the light is soft and the air is cool.

WAILEA GOLF CLUB

Home to the Gold, Emerald, and Blue courses, Wailea Golf Club is a central part of the lifestyle in this area. With ocean views, lush fairways, and top-tier design, these courses are known not only for their playability but also for their beauty. Golfers of all skill levels come here for championship-caliber games in a world-class setting.

Dining and shopping

In Wailea-Makena, food and fashion go hand in hand with the view. Upscale restaurants, resort boutiques, and local shops add to the relaxed but refined rhythm of life in South Maui.

Dining

For those seeking local flavors and picturesque settings, Wailea-Makena boasts several farm-to-table restaurants and spots ideal for sunset cocktails.

• Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman. This spot keeps things fun and flavorful with farm-to-table dishes, local beers, and live music most evenings. Monkeypod’s famous cream pie and happy hour specials make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

• The Birdcage at Hotel Wailea. Perched high above the coastline, The Birdcage offers craft cocktails and Japanese grill specialties with unbeatable ocean views. The open-air lounge has a relaxed, upscale vibe, making it a favorite for golden hour drinks, quiet conversation, and sunset views that linger.

• Oao. Pronounced like “wow”, Oao serves up some of the best sushi and Japanese cuisine in Wailea. Fresh seafood takes the spotlight here, perfectly paired with craft cocktails. It’s a stylish spot for date night or a sunset dinner with friends.

• Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa. Set over a lagoon at the Grand Wailea, this restaurant serves up island-inspired fine dining in a stunning tropical setting. The menu focuses on fresh seafood and Hawaiian flavors with a creative twist. It’s a must-visit for a romantic night out or a special occasion.

Shopping

Wailea-Makena offers a luxury shopping experience with high-end boutiques, local artisans, and resort-style convenience.

• The Shops at Wailea. As the region’s premier retail and dining destination, this open-air center features over 70 establishments. These include luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Tiffany & Co. alongside unique Hawaiian boutiques. Dining options include Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Longhi’s, and Tommy Bahama.

• Wailea Village. This spot offers a more casual island mood for your shopping and dining experience, with laid-back cafés, local boutiques, and stunning ocean views. Wailea Village also hosts a Farmers’ Market on Tuesdays and Thursdays and a Sunset Market once a month.

• Kama’ole Shopping Center. Over in nearby Kihei, this shopping center has everything you need, from snorkeling gear and swimwear to sit-down eateries and snack shops. It’s also right across the street from the beach and has plenty of parking space.

Local events and festivals

Wailea hosts a variety of annual events and festivals that celebrate its rich culture and vibrant community. Through these events, the community creates elevated, authentic experiences for locals and visitors alike.

• Maui Film Festival. Held each June, this week-long festival features a series of indoor and outdoor film screenings, celebrity tributes, and special events like the “Taste of Wailea,” which offers gourmet food from top local chefs.

• Festivals of Aloha. This cherished annual celebration held across Maui Nui typically makes a stop at the Four Seasons Resort Maui in Wailea. Attendees can enjoy immersive cultural experiences, live musical performances, and showcases by local artisans.

• Art of Aloha. Hosted annually by Lahaina Galleries at The Shops at Wailea, Art of Aloha is a vibrant celebration of creativity and island expression. The event brings together acclaimed local and international artists for a day of live painting, meet-and-greets, and fine art inspired by the beauty of Hawai‘i.

FIND THE PERFECT WAILEA-MAKENA HOME WITH DAVE

If you’re looking for someone who truly understands the Wailea-Makena real estate market, look no further than Dave Futch. A Maui resident since 1988 and a real estate professional since 1993, Dave brings decades of island insight to every transaction. With a background in communications, carpentry, and architecture, he has a sharp eye for design and home potential— and a deep appreciation for the Maui lifestyle.

Explore the Wailea-Makena real estate market with one of the top 3% Realtors in Maui. Get in touch with Dave Futch and his team at 808.280.9600 or send an email for your personalized consultation.