Overview
Maui Ocean Center is a premier aquatic and cultural attraction in Hawaii, showcasing a wide range of marine life and interactive exhibits. It is home to Hawaii's largest collection of living Pacific coral and offers a unique glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the ocean.
It is the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere and provides an immersive experience of Hawaii's marine environment.
Location
Address
192 Maalaea Road, Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii
Neighborhood: Maalaea
Coordinates
20.863600, -156.483900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and better chance to see marine life more actively
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild and pleasant
- • Spring exhibits
- • Educational programs for kids
summer
Warm and sunny
- • Extended summer exhibits
- • Outdoor activities
autumn
Cool and pleasant
- • Fall exhibits
- • Seasonal marine life displays
winter
Cooler and occasionally rainy
- • Holiday-themed exhibits
- • Winter marine life displays
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance
- Check the schedule for special events
- Bring identification for ticket purchases
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (some walking involved)
- • Avoid touching marine life
- • Be cautious around water exhibits
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Mobile payments
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing for warmer months, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least one week in advance for peak seasons
- • Official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • 48 hours in advance for full refund
- • Available for online ticket purchases
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Maui Ocean Center App
Size: 35 MB
Features: Interactive map, Showtimes and schedules, Ticket purchases, Augmented reality experiences
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Gift shop
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kahului Airport (OGG)
Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 25 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 15 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It offers a deep connection to Hawaii's marine environment and is a great educational resource for families and schools.
Historical Significance: This is the first and largest tropical reef aquarium in Hawaii, providing a unique educational experience.
Insider Tips
- The best time for shark feeding is early morning
- Visit the Ocean Odyssey exhibit for a unique underwater tunnel experience
- Check for special events and live shows during your visit
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local shave ice after your visit
- • Ask about the Hawaiian monk seal exhibits
- • Visit the nearby Maalaea Harbor for a scenic walk
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Japanese, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Open Ocean Exhibit
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Capture the sharks and rays from the viewing windows
Result: Stunning underwater shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Maalaea Harbor
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Harbor and Scenic Views
Maui Tropical Plantation
Distance: 10 km
Walking: Not walkable, 15 min drive
Type: Botanical Garden
Iao Valley State Park
Distance: 20 km
Walking: Not walkable, 25 min drive
Type: Historical Site and Nature Trail
Reviews
Based on 12,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online for discounts"
- "Visit early for fewer crowds"
- "Don't miss the Open Ocean Exhibit"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Maui: Ultimate Whale Watch from Lahaina
Maui: Two Hour Beginner Group Surf Lesson in Kihei
Maui Horseback Adventure at Circle M Ranch With Real Cowboys
Maui Parasailing Experience from Ka'anapali
Kaanapali Beach Parasailing: Soar Above Maui’s Stunning Coastline
Eco-Raft Tour: Maui-Lanai Snorkel / Dolphin Watch (Semi-Private)
Scuba Diving in Maui with No Experience Needed
Haleakala Maui Sunset Twilight Tour with Dinner
Kayak and Snorkel: Maui West Shore
Maui Eco-Raft: 2 Hour Dolphin Watch Sightsee Tour (Semi-Private)
Maui South Shore Premier Kayak and Snorkel Tour from Makena Beach
Maui & Molokai Spectacular with Exclusive Landing Helicopter Tour
Aloha West Maui 2-Hour Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour
Two Stop Snorkel Adventure from Maui
Ultimate Maui Kayak Snorkel Experience
Maui Tour : Iao Valley, Hawaiian Distillery and Lavender Farm Tour
Maui Stand Up Paddling 101 at Kalama Park in Kihei
Full Day Small Group Tour of Maui Waterfall, Beach and Hana
Paddle, Snorkel and Learn to Surf: All in a Day on Maui
Waterfall Hike and Kayak Snorkel & Paddle from Makena
Super Raft - Private Charter Maui 3 Hour Snorkel to Coral Gardens or Molokini
Pool and Ocean Safety Lesson
Complete and Ultimate Pearl Harbor Deluxe Experience From Maui
Semi Private Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) Class at Kalama Beach in Kihei
Quick Info
Available Tours
7
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
12,000
Adult Entry
$29.95