After our first family outing on Maui, our submarine excursion out of Lahaina, we chose another visit that would let us experience the marine world of the waters of Hawai‘i. We arrived at the Maui Ocean Center — The Aquarium of Hawai‘i just after it opened Tuesday morning, knowing that it would be best to visit before the day grew too warm. Located on Māʻalaea Harbor, the aquarium boasts several outdoor pools; large indoor tanks; a sizable gift shop; two dining options; and the Sphere, a large 3D-movie sphere. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, and we also enjoyed the views out over the water from the cliffside location.

After paying our admission, we first visited the tide pool and shallow reef exhibits where we could see some sea stars, urchins and anemone and even touch some of the critters. From there we visited the sea turtle lagoon to see those large creatures gracefully gliding through the water of their tank. All of the grandkids, ranging in age from 12 to 2, were fascinated by the colorful fish      and corals     in the tanks, as were we grownups. We paused often to admire the tropical fish and some truly unusual creatures, but there was always something unique and exciting awaiting in the next tank or around the next corner. We found the circular tank full of jellyfish mesmerizing, and we were highly entertained by a lively squid who seemed to enjoy darting back and forth across the window of its aquarium.

We spent quite a bit of time at the open ocean and tunnel exhibit. This tank held a number of sharks and rays, and one can enter the 54-foot-long Plexiglass tunnel and view the tank’s inhabitants from every angle.

The Ocean Center also provides some wonderful exhibits educating visitors on the history and culture of the islands, especially as they relate to the sea, and one can learn a lot about efforts to propagate coral and conserve and preserve the environment. One aspect which makes a visit here even more informative is the opportunity to enjoy a self-guided interactive audio tour on a phone or tablet.

We wrapped up our morning at the Sphere, taking in a 20-minute 3D movie starring humpback whales. It was an almost meditative experience as the whales glided seemingly right over our heads and all around us, their mysterious songs echoing through the theater.

We decided to have lunch on the premises, opting for Seascape restaurant over the more casual Reef Café. Chef Henry Tariga, winner of a James Beard Foundation Rising Star award, helms the restaurant and has crafted a menu which features locally sourced seafood directly from Māʻalaea Bay as well as locally grown fruits and vegetables and beef sourced from island ranches. We enjoyed water views and cooling breezes blowing through the large open windows along with truly delectable food that was served quickly (important when you have hungry young mouths around the table) and with very friendly, efficient service.

I would highly recommend a visit to the Maui Ocean Center to folks of all ages. You will gain an important perspective on how the surrounding ocean influences life on Maui and be highly entertained at the same time!

— Patty Vanikiotis, associate editor/copy editor