Maui Ocean Center
Hawaii's largest aquarium, showcasing vibrant marine life, coral rehabilitation, and Hawaiian culture. An immersive ocean journey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Maui Ocean Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hawaii's largest aquarium, showcasing vibrant marine life, coral rehabilitation, and Hawaiian culture. An immersive ocean journey.
"The coral displays are the best I have ever seen. The fish and turtles are awesome."
🎯 Arrive at Opening
Beat the crowds and heat by arriving right when they open.
⏰ Allow 3+ Hours
You'll need ample time to explore exhibits & catch presentations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Tunnel
Main Aquarium
Walk through a mesmerizing tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and vibrant fish. It's an immersive underwater experience!
Humpback Whale 3D Theater
3D Theater
Feel like you're swimming with majestic humpback whales in this moving and educational 3D film.
Coral Reef Exhibits
Coral Reef Gallery
Marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate details of the largest living tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere.
Touch Pools
Tide Pool Area
Get hands-on with marine life like sea cucumbers and starfish in these interactive shallow pools.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Plan for a Full Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive at Opening
Beat the crowds and heat by arriving right when they open.
⏰ Allow 3+ Hours
You'll need ample time to explore exhibits & catch presentations.
🍍 Grab a Dole Whip
A refreshing treat perfect for a warm Maui day.
🐠 Pet a Sea Cucumber
Interactive touch pools offer a unique hands-on experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive at Opening
Beat the crowds and heat by arriving right when they open.
⏰ Allow 3+ Hours
You'll need ample time to explore exhibits & catch presentations.
🍍 Grab a Dole Whip
A refreshing treat perfect for a warm Maui day.
🐠 Pet a Sea Cucumber
Interactive touch pools offer a unique hands-on experience.
🐋 Don't Miss the 3D Film
The humpback whale film is a moving and educational highlight.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Maui Ocean Center for its impressive exhibits, particularly the vibrant coral displays and the immersive Ocean Tunnel. Many highlight the educational value, especially the informative presentations and the moving 3D whale show. It's frequently recommended as a family-friendly activity and a great way to spend a few hours, especially on days with less favorable beach weather.
"My fiancé and I, along with our friends, purchased the couple’s package for morning admission and a 3 course lunch. We had a lot of fun learning about all of the animals and took some incredible pictures. We got to pet starfish and a sea cucumber. We took selfies with majestic sea turtles. We had a lot of fun seeing sharks in the viewing tunnel. The humpback whale 3D video was very moving. Our lunch and drinks were delicious and we had a lot to talk about after seeing the exhibits. It was a great double date activity. The staff was great too, thanks so much!"
Megan Shuman
"Our visit here was very nice. The coral displays are the best I have ever seen. The fish and turtles are awesome. I learned so much about Hawaiian history and culture during my visit.
It was a lovely way to spend more than a few hours on a day where the sea was too rough and the wind was too blustery to be outside at the beach."
Blanca Rubalcaba
"I’m from O’ahu and our aquarium is very small. So, coming to this one in Maui, very nice change of scenery. There is so much more to look at.
I was very surprised how big the tanks are and how vibrant the fish were.
Definitely would recommend visiting here. It’s worth the $$."
triin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Maui Ocean Center is located in Ma'alaea, Hawaii. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular stop for those driving the scenic coastal routes. Parking is available on-site.
While direct public transport options might be limited, many visitors use ride-sharing services or tour buses that include the aquarium as a stop. Check local Maui bus schedules for potential routes.
From Ka'anapali or Lahaina, driving is the most convenient. It's about a 30-40 minute drive south. Consider combining your visit with other Ma'alaea attractions.
Yes, the Maui Ocean Center is very stroller friendly, making it ideal for families with young children.
Absolutely! It's a perfect half-day or full-day activity, especially if you combine it with other nearby attractions in Ma'alaea.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary, but it's generally considered worth the cost for the experience. Look for potential package deals or online discounts.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and potentially secure better rates.
The aquarium typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, the center offers various packages, including couple's packages with lunch and admission, which can be a great value for a date activity.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, many large attractions offer membership programs. Inquire at the ticket counter or check their website for details if you plan multiple visits.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the immersive Ocean Tunnel with sharks and rays, the Humpback Whale 3D Theater, the vibrant Coral Reef exhibits, and the interactive touch pools.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 3 hours to fully experience all the exhibits, presentations, and the 3D theater.
Yes, the center hosts frequent presentations on topics like turtles, coral regeneration, and Q&As with divers. Check the daily schedule upon arrival.
Migrations is a dinner and show experience at Seascape Maui, located at the Maui Ocean Center, featuring international buffet, ocean views, and multicultural performances.
Absolutely! It's very kid-friendly with interactive exhibits, stroller accessibility, and engaging displays that keep children entertained and curious.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are dining options available, including a cafe and potentially a restaurant like Seascape Maui which offers a buffet and show.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the aquarium. It's best to check their specific policy or plan to dine at their facilities.
Yes, the Ma'alaea Harbor area has several dining options. Waikapu on 30 is mentioned as a local spot for lunch on Fridays.
Seascape Maui offers an international buffet with stunning ocean views, as part of their 'Migrations' dinner and show experience.
Yes, there is usually a cafe or snack bar offering light meals, snacks, and beverages, perfect for a quick bite during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots in the Ocean Tunnel, with vibrant coral reefs, majestic sea turtles, and during the 3D whale show. The harbor views are also picturesque.
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of flash usage, especially around sensitive exhibits and during shows.
Tripods or professional lighting equipment might be restricted during peak hours or for specific events. Check their policy if you plan to use extensive gear.
Mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing clear shots. The underwater lighting in the tanks creates unique photographic opportunities.
Photography during the 3D show is usually discouraged to avoid disrupting the experience for others and due to the dark environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks or planning to grab a treat like a Dole Whip to keep energy levels up. The variety of exhibits, from colorful fish to sharks, ensures there's something to capture every child's imagination. It's a great way to spend a few hours learning about ocean life in a fun, accessible environment.
couples
Enjoying lunch with ocean views or participating in the interactive elements like petting sea creatures can create shared moments. The 3D whale show is also a moving experience to enjoy together. It's a perfect blend of education, relaxation, and a touch of romance, making it an ideal outing for couples looking for something beyond the typical beach day.
Budget Travelers
Look for any online discounts or package deals that might be available when purchasing tickets in advance. Consider packing some light snacks and water to minimize spending on concessions, though check their policy on outside food. The extensive exhibits and presentations mean you can easily spend several hours here, getting a lot of 'bang for your buck' compared to shorter activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Marine Life & Conservation
The center is also a hub for marine conservation efforts. They are actively involved in coral rehabilitation, working to restore damaged reefs and protect these vital underwater habitats. Presentations and interactive displays highlight these conservation initiatives, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the challenges facing marine life and how they can contribute to its preservation.
Beyond the aquatic displays, the center integrates Hawaiian culture and history, providing context for the relationship between the people of Hawaii and the ocean. This holistic approach makes the Maui Ocean Center more than just an aquarium; it's a comprehensive educational experience about the ocean's wonders and the importance of its stewardship.
Family Fun & Kid-Friendly Activities
Interactive elements are key to the family experience. The touch pools, where kids can gently pet sea cucumbers and starfish, are a huge hit. The 3D Humpback Whale theater provides an immersive and educational adventure that captivates younger audiences, while the diverse marine life in the large tanks sparks curiosity and wonder.
Many parents recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and ensure children have ample space to explore. Grabbing a pineapple Dole Whip is also a popular treat that adds to the fun. The aquarium's engaging exhibits and hands-on opportunities make it a memorable and educational outing for the whole family.
Beyond the Aquarium: Dining & Entertainment
For a more casual experience, visitors can enjoy refreshments at the on-site cafe or snack bar. Popular treats like pineapple Dole Whip are available, perfect for cooling down on a warm day. The Ma'alaea Harbor area surrounding the aquarium also provides additional dining options, catering to various tastes and preferences.
These additional offerings transform a visit to the Maui Ocean Center into a more comprehensive outing, allowing guests to enjoy not only the wonders of the ocean but also the flavors and cultural richness of Maui.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit