An aquarium at Māʻalaea Harbor focused on Hawaiʻi’s reefs and open ocean, with exhibits such as Open Ocean and Turtle Lagoon. Admission includes the Humpbacks of Hawaiʻi 3D Sphere, a 12-minute dome show about the whales that winter in Maui waters.
Why we love it
It’s the best way to learn what lives on Maui’s reefs before you snorkel, and a solid plan for a rainy or windy day.
What to expect
The average visit runs two to two and a half hours, and you can stay as long as you like. Sphere shows start every half hour from 10 a.m., first come, first served. Free wheelchairs are available at check-in; strollers are not. Outside food isn’t allowed, but there is a restaurant with harbor views and a café. Nonresident parking in the Māʻalaea lot is paid by QR code. An Ululani’s shave ice stand sits by the front entrance. Buying tickets online in advance gets the best price.
Know before you go
- Hours
- Open every day, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Last entry 4 p.m.
- Parking
- Nonresident parking is paid by scanning the QR code on the sign. Kamaʻāina parking is free for up to 5 hours.
- Sphere show
- Included with admission. About 12 minutes, every half hour from 10 a.m., no reservations.
- Food rules
- No outside food or drinks, with exceptions for toddlers and medical needs. No gum.
- Sunscreen
- The center runs an Ocean Aloha program and has mineral sunscreen dispensers.
