Maalaea Kai is located in Maalaea Village, directly across the isthmus and about 15 minutes from the airport and the main towns of Kahului and Wailuku. It is about midway between Lahaina and Wailea on Maui's south shore, a very central location for jumping off to see the many sights of Maui. Maalaea Village consists of a small boat harbor with many water activities. There is a general store, the Tradewinds Market and Deli, in the Maalaea Mermaid, three buildings toward the harbor. Major markets and department stores are 15 minutes away in Kahului and Kihei.

Maalaea village has two older restaurants, Buzz's Wharf, in the harbor and the the Waterfront Restaurant, next door in the Milowai Condominium which are both excellent for dining. The Maui Ocean Center and adjoining specialty shops are a new attraction to visit while vacationing at Maalaea Kai. There are many different types of stores in the complex. Also, there are several new restaurants as well as an ice cream store, gas station, and a Carl's Jr. fast food restaurant.

The building at Maalaea Kai is situated directly on the water's edge, with all apartments looking out across the well-kept grounds, pool and Maalaea Bay to the slopes of Mt. Haleakala. There is access to the water for excellent snorkeling on the reef, which lies about 100 yards offshore. A five-minute walk down sugarcane-lined Hauoli Street, past several other condos, puts you at the start of a secluded three-mile beach, with excellent areas for both swimming and snorkeling. The Kihei/Wailea area, 15 minutes drive away, also has many beach parks with excellent swimming and easy snorkeling around the points between beaches. It is fun to walk the harbor and Hauoli Street as part of your exercise program.