A place like no other near Maui in Hawaii
If you’re a fan of the ocean or if the weather isn’t cooperating during your visit to the island, consider spending some time at the Maui Ocean Center. This place is perfect for learning about Hawaii’s underwater ecosystems and getting a close look at the marine life. One of the highlights is the Open Ocean exhibit, which has a massive tank holding 750,000 gallons of water. Inside, you’ll find hundreds of fish, rays, and sharks. The exhibit also features a 53-foot-long tunnel made of clear material, so you can watch the animals swimming right above you.
At the Turtle Lagoon, you can learn all about the popular green sea turtles. They have both above-water and below-water viewing areas, giving you a comprehensive understanding of these fascinating creatures. Another exciting attraction is the Humpbacks of Hawai’i Exhibit and Sphere, which opened in 2019. This exhibit takes you into the deep ocean and lets you virtually experience the world of humpback whales through a 3D presentation every half-hour.
If you want to get even closer to the marine life, the Maui Ocean Center offers a cage-free shark dive in their Open Ocean exhibit. This exhibit is home to more than 20 sharks. Keep in mind that participating in the shark dive requires a SCUBA certification, and there are additional fees starting at $350 per person.
The aquarium has been described by recent visitors as small yet charming. It is considered a great indoor activity by many. The Open Ocean tunnel and the 3D humpback whale virtual experience have particularly impressed numerous travelers. Those who had gone snorkeling around the island found the aquarium to be a valuable source of in-depth education about the animals they had observed underwater. However, some reviewers cautioned that the on-site restaurant and cafe were quite expensive and recommended dining at other places.