Polo Beach

Polo Beach, nestled in Maui’s upscale Wailea region, is a breathtaking retreat perfect for both relaxation and exploration. With soft golden sands and clear, inviting waters, it’s the go-to spot for travelers looking for a peaceful beach escape. In this guide, we’ll cover all the essentials, from the best activities to nearby accommodations, helping you plan a memorable visit to Polo Beach.

• Polo Beach offers calm waters and soft sands, making it an ideal spot for relaxing or enjoying a peaceful swim.
• The gentle waves and spacious shoreline make it a great beach for families, offering a safe environment for kids to play.
• The beach has great snorkeling spots, especially near the rocky ends, where you can see a variety of colorful fish and marine life. However, check the current conditions and exercise caution, as no lifeguards are on duty.
• Polo Beach offers some of the best sunset views on Maui, perfect for romantic evenings or sunset photography.
• Calm waters make it an excellent location for water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking, with rentals available nearby.
• Located near high-end resorts like the Fairmont Kea Lani, it’s easily accessible for those staying nearby and offers resort-like amenities.

In the early days, Polo Beach was known by the less appealing name of “Dead Horse Beach.” This name came from its location near the ‘Ulupalakua Ranch, where ranchers would often bring their horses. Unfortunately, horses that couldn’t make the journey back to the ranch would sometimes perish near the beach. This area was far less traveled, and its association with ranching made it a quiet, unnoticed stretch of sand for many years.

The transformation of the beach began in the 1980s when the Polo Beach Club, a luxury condominium complex, was built. The development aimed to attract upscale visitors and elevate the area. The beach was renamed “Polo Beach” to reflect the new luxurious atmosphere, shedding its earlier rugged association. The upscale nature of the development helped put this stretch of coastline on the map as a desirable location.

As development progressed, Polo Beach gained a reputation among surfers. The beach, with its consistent and manageable waves, became a popular destination for both beginners and seasoned surfers. Its proximity to luxury accommodations made it accessible to visitors looking for both adventure and comfort.

In addition to its appeal to surfers, Polo Beach is renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach’s clear waters are home to a vibrant coral reef, making it a prime spot for exploring Maui’s underwater world. Visitors often rave about the colorful marine life, including schools of fish and occasional sea turtle sightings.

Today, Polo Beach stands as a top choice for visitors to Maui. Its mix of natural beauty, water activities, and proximity to resorts make it a convenient and picturesque destination. Whether for surfing, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach, Polo Beach offers something for everyone. The beach has evolved into a treasured spot for both locals and tourists, embodying the perfect blend of Maui’s history and modern luxury.

Polo Beach’s calm, crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for swimming, especially for beginners. Snorkelers can also enjoy the rich marine life just offshore, where colorful fish and occasional sea turtles can be spotted.

Take a stroll along Polo Beach’s soft golden sands, where the scenic shoreline offers peaceful ocean views and a relaxing escape. The nearby Wailea Beach Path also connects to other stunning beaches, making it a perfect trail for exploring.

Polo Beach provides shaded spots, perfect for picnics and unwinding. Pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing day under the trees, listening to the sound of waves while soaking in the beach’s tranquil atmosphere.

Polo Beach is a prime location to witness Maui’s mesmerizing sunsets. Whether you’re capturing the moment with a camera or enjoying a romantic evening, the fiery hues across the sky are truly unforgettable.

Polo Beach is perfect for sunbathing, offering wide stretches of soft sand where you can lay back with a book or simply bask in the warm Hawaiian sun. It’s the ideal spot for some much-needed relaxation.

Gather friends or family for a casual game of beach volleyball. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking for fun, the open spaces of Polo Beach make it an excellent spot to enjoy this active pastime.

For those ready to try surfing, local surf schools offer lessons suited for all skill levels. Even beginners can learn the basics in the gentle breaks around Polo Beach, making it a fun and rewarding experience.

Polo Beach offers convenient facilities and amenities, including restrooms, showers, and designated BBQ areas, making it easy to enjoy a full day at the beach. Parking is available in a small lot near the beach, though it can fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Both hotel guests and public visitors can access the beach, ensuring everyone can enjoy this beautiful spot in Wailea.

• Arrive early to secure parking, as the lot fills up quickly.
• Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life.
• Stay hydrated and apply sunscreen, as shade is limited on the beach itself.
• For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays or early mornings.
• There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim with caution, especially if the waves pick up.
• Bring a picnic or enjoy a BBQ using the available facilities.
• Capture stunning sunset photos, but plan to stay after sundown for an even more peaceful atmosphere.
• Keep an eye out for sea turtles that occasionally come close to shore.

The best times to visit Polo Beach are during the early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays, when the beach is less crowded and the atmosphere is more peaceful. Early mornings offer calm waters for swimming and snorkeling, while the late afternoons provide perfect conditions for sunset watching. For the best weather, plan your visit between April and October, when the skies are clear and rain is minimal.

Polo Beach is close to several popular attractions, including the Wailea Beach Path, a scenic trail that connects multiple beaches along Maui’s southern coast. For upscale shopping and dining, the Shops at Wailea are just a short drive away. Adventure seekers can take a boat tour to the nearby Molokini Crater, a world-class snorkeling destination, while golf enthusiasts can enjoy the renowned Wailea Golf Courses, known for their stunning ocean views and challenging courses.

Polo Beach offers a variety of accommodation options for every type of traveler. For those seeking luxury, the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea provides five-star amenities, including a world-class spa and fine dining with stunning ocean views. The Fairmont Kea Lani is another upscale choice, featuring spacious suites and villas that cater to families and those looking for comfort and luxury with direct beach access. For budget-friendly stays, Wailea Ekahi Village offers condo-style accommodations, complete with kitchen facilities for a home-like experience just steps from the beach. Airbnb rentals in the Wailea area also provide flexible and convenient options for a personalized stay.

For dining near Polo Beach, Nick’s Fishmarket is a must-visit, offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views with a Mediterranean-inspired menu at 4100 Wailea Alanui, Kihei. For a fine dining experience, The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea combines locally sourced ingredients with breathtaking views, ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions. If you’re looking for something more casual, Polo Beach Grill provides relaxed beachfront dining where you can enjoy a meal while soaking in the ocean breeze.

To reach Polo Beach by car, take the main highway and follow signs for Wailea. As you approach the Wailea area, keep an eye out for directions to Polo Beach, which will guide you to the coastal access road. Ample parking is available near the beachfront, making it convenient for visitors to enjoy a day by the ocean.

For those opting to travel by bus, look for the local transit services offering routes to Wailea. Once on board, ask the driver for the closest stop to Polo Beach. Typically, it involves a short walk from the bus stop to the beach itself. Be sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time for accurate departure and arrival times.

Polo Beach offers the perfect balance of tranquility and adventure, making it a must-visit for all types of travelers. Whether you’re seeking calm waters for snorkeling, peaceful walks along golden sands, or simply a front-row seat to Maui’s stunning sunsets, Polo Beach delivers. This hidden gem in Wailea invites you to experience its serene beauty and create unforgettable memories, far from the usual tourist crowds.