Maui Sightseeing Series – Kealia Coastal Boardwalk

Nestled between Kihei and Maalaea you will find the tranquil 2,200-foot Kealia Coastal Boardwalk that runs through a portion of the 700 acres of Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge. The Kealia Coastal Boardwalk and Kanuimanu Ponds are the only two public access points to the refuge area and both feature remarkable opportunities for avid bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Observe Hawaii’s endangered wetland birds, the Hawaiian coot and Hawaiian stilt, and also on occasion, birds from as far as Alaska, Canada and even Asia.

If the access points happen to be closed during a few hours in the morning, it is possible that a bird census is being conducted. This is usually scheduled on the first and third Thursday of the month, with trail access available after 9AM.

Throughout the boardwalk there are featured informative panels, with illustrations, that assist with a self guided tour. Shaded areas along the boardwalk are very limited. The best time to stop by are either early morning, when the wind isn’t too strong, or late afternoon when the boardwalk becomes a lot cooler. If you go near sunset times, between 5-6PM, Sugar Beach is located right off of the boardwalk and offers some of the best sunset views you will find on this island. Boardwalk hours are seven days a week, excluding Federal Holidays, from 6AM-7PM. Keep in mind that the parking lot closes at 7PM and is gated after hours. Here’s a link to the Kealia Pond brochure for additional information and don’t forget to bring a camera and binoculars!

Groups of twenty or more are asked to call in advance. Incorporate a stop here, and any other educational sites, on your next group excursion. Unsure where to start? Give our office a call at 1-808-879-2828 and our experienced staff can assist you with building a custom Maui tour itinerary that takes into account all of your groups needs.