Since the fire took out Maui’s historic town of Lahaina in August, 2023, Maalaea Harbor is where nearly all the ocean activities depart from. There are still some boats moored off West Maui that do beach pick-ups from Ka’anapali Beach, and a small boat harbor further south closer to Wailea.
Maalaea Harbor, Maui HI
For ocean activities, Ma’alaea harbor is now Maui’s busiest, with fishing, snorkeling, scuba, sailing and seasonal whale watching operating on a daily basis. Ma’alaea Harbor is most convenient for people staying in Kihei, Wailea, Makena, Kahului, and Paia. It’s not far from Lahaina and Ka’anapali either, usually within 35 minutes. This is where you’ll find the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium, along with numerous shops and restaurants. There is limited paid parking behind the boat slips, and a large lot (also paid) behind the aquarium.
Kihei Boat Landing
Located in south Kihei on the border of South Kihei and Wailea you’ll find Kihei Boat Landing (aka “Kihei Boat Ramp” and “Keawakapu Boat Ramp”). This small boat harbor services recreational and commercial boaters. They also have a few boats moored offshore. Kihei Boat Landing features parking for cars and trailers, 3 ramps, 2 docks, restrooms and shower. There is only one company operating sport and bottom fishing trips that departs from this harbor, but they’re one of our favorites!
Kaanapali Beach, Maui HI
Whaler’s Village, fronting Kaanapali Beach, is a wonderful spot for shopping and dining. Step out onto the beach however and you’ll likely see a number in independent activity operators ready to offer you snorkeling, sailing, whale watching, parasailing and yes, fishing. Google “Free Parking for Kaanapali Beach” for the most convenient parking location. BThis area fills up quickly. You may have to go into the paid parking area and get validated by one of the shops.
Lahaina Harbor
Under construction. No boats are operating charters at this time. Stay tuned!
Mala Boat Ramp
This is a small boat launch reserved primarily for recreational fishing, though some commercial operators take advantage of it when the sea conditions make a beach launch unsafe.
Kahului Harbor
Maui’s primary shipping port (Kahului Harbor) is where most of the cruise ships come in. To my knowledge, no day charter operators sail out of there. It’s roughly 20 minutes from Kahului harbor to Maalaea harbor, and 45-50 minutes up to Kaanapali/Lahaina.