Maui Ocean Center
Explore Maui Ocean Center’s mesmerizing marine life, featuring a 54-foot walk-through tunnel with sharks, rays, and tropical fish. Dive into interactive exhibits and witness captivating sea turtle feedings.
Things to Know About Maui Ocean Center
- Overview: The Maui Ocean Center, located in Wailuku on the beautiful island of Maui, Hawaii, is an incredible marine park and aquarium showcasing the diverse marine life of the Hawaiian Islands. A must-see attraction for visitors of all ages, it offers a unique and immersive experience into the underwater world of Hawaii.
- Highlights: What sets the Maui Ocean Center apart from other attractions in Maui is its dedication to conserving and educating visitors about Hawaii’s unique marine ecosystem. The centerpiece of the park is the 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit, featuring a 54-foot-long walk-through tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and hundreds of tropical fish.
- Activities: At the Maui Ocean Center, visitors can enjoy a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, such as touching tide pool creatures, watching sea turtle feedings, and participating in daily presentations by marine naturalists. For a more immersive experience, guests can also sign up for the Shark Dive Maui program, where certified divers can dive with sharks and other marine life in the Open Ocean exhibit.
- Information: The Maui Ocean Center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM. General admission is $34.95 for adults, $24.95 for children ages 4-12, and free for children under 3. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
- History & Significance: Established in 1998, the Maui Ocean Center was created to foster understanding, wonder, and respect for Hawaii’s marine life. The center is dedicated to showcasing the unique marine life found in the Hawaiian Islands while promoting conservation efforts and educating visitors about the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems.
- Tips & Insights: To make the most of your visit to the Maui Ocean Center, plan on spending at least 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits and attending presentations. Don’t miss the daily 3:00 PM shark feeding at the Open Ocean exhibit for an up-close look at these fascinating creatures. Finally, consider purchasing a Behind-the-Scenes Tour for a more in-depth and intimate experience, where you can learn about the center’s conservation efforts and visit areas not accessible to the general public.
Getting to the Heritage Site
Join Hawaiians.
Get discounts, trips ideas, exciting news, and much more. Delivered right to your inbox, for free.
Discover More Maui Heritage Sites
Delve into Maui’s history: whaling past of Lahaina Town, Kลสปieสปie Fishpond, and the sacred Iao Valley.
Olowalu Petroglyphs
Explore Olowalu Petroglyphs in Lahaina, Maui: over 100 Hawaiian rock carvings, ancient history, and serene nature. Best visited morning or afternoon.
Old Lahaina Courthouse
Explore Old Lahaina Courthouse in Maui, a Heritage Site showcasing unique architecture and the Lahaina Heritage Museum, revealing Hawaii’s fascinating past.
Kahanu Garden
Uncover the magic of Kahanu Garden in Hana, Maui, featuring Hawaii’s largest ancient temple, Pi’ilanihale Heiau, and the world’s most diverse breadfruit collection.
Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore Kanaha Pond Wildlife Sanctuary in Maui, home to 50+ bird species, including endangered Hawaiian stilt, coot, and duck. Ideal for birdwatching.
Lahaina Historic District
Explore Lahaina Historic District in Maui, former capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, boasting 19th-century architecture, the famous Banyan Tree, and vibrant local culture.
Pu’u Keka’a (Black Rock)
Explore Pu’u Keka’a (Black Rock) on Maui: natural beauty, Hawaiian history, cliff jumping, snorkeling, and Kaanapali Beach views.
Join Hawaiians.
Get discounts, trips ideas, exciting news, and much more. Delivered right to your inbox, for free.