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Kihei Travel Guide | Things to Do, Places to Eat, and Where to Stay

Things to do in Kihei Hawaii

Kihei Hawaii

Located on the sunny southwest shore of Maui, Kihei is one of Hawaii’s most beloved coastal towns. Known for its warm, dry weather and six miles of golden beaches, Kihei strikes a perfect balance between laid-back island life and access to incredible outdoor adventure. Whether you're here to snorkel with sea turtles, catch a romantic sunset, or explore upcountry Maui, Kihei makes an ideal home base for your Hawaiian getaway.

Surrounding this area includes Haleakalâ National Park, a 30,183 acre park. The park includes the summit depression, Kipahulu Valley and ʻOheʻo Gulch, extending to the shoreline. There are two main trails leading into Haleakalâ: Sliding Sands Trail and Halemauʻu Trail  The walking trails can be more challenging than one might expect. Haleakalâ is popular with tourists and locals alike, who often venture to its summit, to view the sunrise.

This travel guide explores what makes Kihei such a standout destination and covers attractions, outdoor activities, dining, and where to stay so you can plan your trip with confidence.

 

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Things to Do in Kihei, Hawaii

Kamaole Beach Parks I, II, and III

These three adjoining beach parks are among the best swimming and snorkeling spots in South Maui. With lifeguards, soft sand, and clear water, they’re ideal for families, couples, and beginners alike. Early mornings often bring sea turtles close to shore so just bring your snorkel gear and go slow!

Maui Ocean Center

Located a short drive north from Kihei in the southwest part of Wailuku, near (Maalaea) Bay, the Maui Ocean Center is a fantastic way to learn about Hawaiian marine life. The aquarium features a 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit with sharks, rays, and native fish, as well as educational displays on coral reefs and Hawaiian culture.

Molokini Crater Tours

Book a boat trip from Kihei to snorkel the famous Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped volcanic atoll with visibility often exceeding 150 feet. It’s one of the best snorkel and dive spots in all of Hawaii. it's located about 3 miles off the southwestern coast of Maui, and boat tours to the crater often depart from Kihei, as well as Ma'alaea Harbor and Lahaina.

 

Molokini Island near Kihei off the Coast of Maui

 

Kihei 4th Friday Town Party

Every fourth Friday of the month, locals and visitors gather in Azeka Shopping Center for food trucks, live music, artisan booths, and a strong community vibe. It’s a perfect chance to experience local flavor and meet residents.

Watch the Sunset at Keawakapu Beach

Keawakapu Beach is often quieter than the main Kamaole parks and offers some of the most dramatic sunsets on the island. It's the perfect place to end your day with a beach picnic and a view that melts from gold to purple over the Pacific. Locals favor this beach for its peaceful ambiance and uncrowded sand.

Snorkel with Turtles at Ulua Beach

Just a short drive south toward Wailea, Ulua Beach is one of Maui’s prime snorkeling spots, especially in the morning when the waters are calm. Turtles are frequently seen close to the reef, along with parrotfish, eels, and butterflyfish. There’s easy access and plenty of shaded grassy areas for post-snorkel relaxing.

 

Ulua Beach at the South Shore of Maui

 

Take a Surf Lesson at Cove Park

Cove Park in north Kihei is ideal for beginners wanting to try surfing. Its shallow, rolling waves are forgiving, and the nearby surf schools provide boards and expert guidance. The scene is casual and friendly, with locals cheering on first-timers.

Explore Kihei’s Craft Breweries

Kihei is home to Maui Brewing Company, one of Hawaii’s most well-known craft breweries. Tour the brewery, sample unique island-inspired beers like the Pineapple Mana Wheat or Coconut Hiwa Porter, and enjoy live music on the lanai. Also check out Mahalo Aleworks if you're exploring upcountry, it’s just 30 minutes away and offers small-batch craft beers with panoramic mountain views.

Shop at Kihei Kalama Village

Kihei Kalama Village is a colorful, open-air market where you can pick up handcrafted jewelry, tropical clothing, and locally made art. It's also home to several bars and casual eateries, making it a nice place to spend a warm afternoon. You’ll often find live ukulele music or hula performances happening in the courtyard.

 

Kihei Kalama Village on the Island of Maui

 

Take a Beachfront Yoga Class

Many local instructors offer beachfront yoga at sunrise and sunset, particularly near Kamaole Beach Park. It’s a peaceful way to start the day, with views of the ocean and the sound of waves accompanying your breathwork.

Whale Watching from Boat or Shore (Winter)

From December through April, humpback whales return to Maui’s warm waters. Join a whale watching tour or look for them from the shoreline, you’ll often spot a fluke or spout just offshore. It's common to see humpbacks breaching offshore so bring binoculars to Kamaole III’s elevated lawn area, or head to Maalaea Lookout Point just north of town for a sweeping view. You might even hear their songs if you dip your head underwater while snorkeling.

 

Whale Watching on Maui

 

Attend a Luau in Wailea

Just 10 minutes south, Te Au Moana Luau in Wailea provides a full Polynesian cultural experience: storytelling, hula, traditional imu-cooked pork, and fire knife dancing with all with an oceanfront backdrop. While Kihei doesn’t host its own luaus, Wailea’s offerings are top-tier and easy to access.

Bike the Kihei Coast

Kihei’s flat terrain and coastal roads are ideal for biking. Rent a cruiser and pedal from Kalepolepo Beach Park down to Wailea’s beachfront path. There are multiple scenic stops, including beach coves, food trucks, and shaded picnic spots.

 

Kalepolepo Beach Park looking at Maalaea Bay Kihei

 

Day Trip to Upcountry Maui

Less than 40 minutes inland, Upcountry Maui offers a completely different vibe with rolling pastures, lavender farms, and paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) towns. Visit Surfing Goat Dairy for a farm tour and goat cheese tasting, or wander the fragrant rows of Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm overlooking the island.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding & Kayaking

Kihei’s calm morning waters are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding. Rentals and guided tours are easy to find right along the beach. Kayakers often explore the coast south toward Makena, spotting sea turtles and tropical fish along the way.

Haleakala National Park Sunrise Day Trip

Set your alarm early and drive up to the summit of Haleakalā (about 2 hours from Kihei) for a sunrise unlike any other. You'll need a reservation for sunrise entry, but the panoramic views at 10,000 feet make it well worth the effort. Also, experiencing Haleakalā National Park while hiking or biking is an incredible experience. Enjoy Maui and Haleakalā on a variety of trails in the two dramatically different districts.

 

Sunrise at the Summit of Haleakala National Park in Maui

 

Where to Eat in Kihei

Coconut’s Fish Café

Known for its fish tacos and casual vibe, Coconuts Fish Cafe is a local favorite with big flavor and generous portions.

Nalu’s South Shore Grill

This open-air spot is popular for breakfast (try the banana macadamia nut pancakes) and happy hour. Live music and fresh, locally sourced ingredients make this a must-visit.

Kihei Caffe

Kihei Caffe is located right off South Kihei Road and across from Kalama Beach Park. Serving up all the local classic dishes and more. It is a diner done Hawaiian style with the best breakfast in town. "Breakfast is who we are and we believe it's truly the best meal of the day"

 

Kihei Caffe Best Breakfast Selection on Maui

 

Isana Sushi Bar

If you're craving sushi or Korean BBQ, Isana delivers with a broad menu, ocean views, and great sake pairings.

Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice

Cool off the Hawaiian way with finely shaved ice, house-made syrups, and toppings like mochi or condensed milk. Ululani’s is a fan favorite for a reason.

 

Where to Stay

Kihei offers a wide range of vacation rentals, from beachfront condos to family-friendly vacation homes. Steps from the beach with pools and tennis courts. Luxurious, walkable, and well-managed vacation homes and private beachfront homes that are great for groups and extended stays. Most accommodations in Kihei are within walking distance of beaches, shops, and restaurants with laid-back comfort.

Kihei Vacation Rentals

Kihei Beach #207
$179/night
Kihei Beach #207
Condo in Kihei Hawaii
1 Bed • 2 Full Baths • Sleeps 2
Ali'i Resorts
Sugar Beach Resort #PH23
$229/night
Sugar Beach Resort #PH23
Condo in Kihei Hawaii
1 Bed • 1 Full Bath • Sleeps 4
Ali'i Resorts
2 Kamaole Nalu 204
$199/night
Kamaole Nalu #204
Condo in Kihei Hawaii
2 Beds • 2 Full Baths • Sleeps 6
Ali'i Resorts

 

Getting to Kihei

Fly into Kahului Airport (OGG), located about 25 minutes from Kihei by car. Rental cars are recommended for exploring the island, especially if you plan to visit Haleakalā or the Road to Hana. Kihei itself is walkable and bike-friendly, with rideshares and local shuttles also available.

 

Conclusion

Kihei is more than just a beach town, it’s a community with heart, history, and endless ways to enjoy the best of Maui. Rent rides on sightseeing boats or take a fishing excursion. Kihei has many accommodations to choose from. Plenty of shopping malls, farmers markets, restaurants, and nightlife that will leave you hungering for more of the hang loose lifestyle and coming back again and again. Whether you’re coming for adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, this slice of South Maui delivers an unforgettable island experience.

Map of Kihei on the Island of Maui

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