Things To Do
in Kihei
Kihei is a sun-soaked beach town on Maui’s south shore famed for its long sandy shores and calm waters. It’s a family-friendly base with easy access to snorkeling, sunsets, and laid-back dining. The scene blends Hawaiian hospitality with Asian and Pacific influences, yielding a vibrant, affordable island vibe.
From Kihei you can easily venture to Wailea and Makena for upscale experiences or to Iao Valley and Haleakalā for natural wonders.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing stroll along the golden shores of Keawakapu Beach, where the gentle waves lap at your feet. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you soak in the early morning sun, perfect for a peaceful meditation session. Grab a delicious breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh fruit and local coffee as you listen to the sounds of the ocean.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the beach, sipping on a tropical drink while reading your favorite book. Consider taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters to cool off or try your hand at paddleboarding. As the sun begins to dip, join a beach yoga class to reconnect with your body and mind amidst the stunning coastal scenery.
As the sun sets, head to the beach for a picturesque view of the sky painted in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachfront restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while listening to live music. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the shore, where the sound of the waves provides a soothing backdrop.
Embark on an exhilarating snorkeling trip to the stunning Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic caldera. After an early morning pickup, enjoy a light breakfast onboard as you sail across the turquoise waters. Upon arrival, don your snorkeling gear and plunge into the vibrant underwater world filled with colorful fish and coral formations.
After snorkeling, enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by the crew, often featuring fresh island fare. Spend your afternoon exploring the area, perhaps taking a short hike on the island or relaxing on the boat while soaking up the sun. Capture the moment with stunning photos of the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you.
Return to Kihei in the early evening, where you can unwind and reflect on your day’s adventure. Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant that offers a farm-to-table experience, featuring dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Kihei, stopping at art galleries or shops along the way.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕️Coffee and pastry | $5-7 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range cafe | $15-25 |
| 🏖️Beach towel or gear rental | $5-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $180-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking beaches and accessible snorkeling
- Relaxed, family-friendly vibe with a strong sense of place
- Consistent warm weather and a welcoming local community
- Prices can be higher than mainstream mainland destinations
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-energy options compared to bigger cities
Places to Visit in Kihei
Visit one of these nice places.
Palm-lined shoreline with colorful sunsets and soft evening light; classic Kihei seaside photos.
A long, wide sandy stretch ideal for sunrise and wide-horizon photography with a peaceful backdrop.
Coastal trail with ocean views, lava rock formations, and luxury resort silhouettes for elegant shots.
Working harbor with moored boats, distant Molokini views, and golden-hour silhouettes over the water.
Food in Kihei
Kihei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Diced raw tuna or salmon marinated in soy, sesame, and seaweed, served over rice with toppings. Found at poke shops and many market stalls.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted pork traditionally cooked in an underground imu, often featured in local plate lunches and luau menus.
A Hawaiian comfort dish of rice topped with a beef patty, fried egg, and rich gravy; widely available at casual eateries and cafés.
Finely shaved ice with tropical syrups and toppings; popular from carts and shave ice shops along the beach.
A hearty combination of meat, rice, and macaroni salad; a staple at local delis and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
A cluster of food trucks and casual stalls along the Kihei beachfront area, offering varied, affordable bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile, show courtesy, and avoid loud behavior in residential areas after dark.
Respect sacred sites and natural spaces; ask before photographing people or cultural performances; avoid touching taro patches or rock features that have cultural significance.
Wear beachwear primarily at the beach; dress modestly when visiting churches or local centers.
Safety
Tipping in Kihei
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and tours, a gratuity of 15-20% is customary; tip more for exceptional service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; Apple Pay and Google Pay are common; cash is handy at smaller stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with steady trade winds and excellent beach conditions; expect crowds around popular spots and occasional short tropical showers.
Warmer evenings with cooler daytime temperatures; humpback whale watching peaks December through April; ocean swells can be larger, so check surf forecasts.
Kihei at Night
Hiking in Kihei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lush valley with easy to moderate trails, jade pools, and valley viewpoints close to Wailuku.
Coastal paths along Makena with dramatic sea views, rocky caverns, and red cliffs.
High-elevation hikes and crater viewpoints; a day trip from Kihei to the summit region offers panoramic vistas.
Airports
How to reach Kihei by plane.
Maui’s primary airport with interisland and transpacific flights; about 20-30 minutes to Kihei by car depending on traffic.
Small regional airport reachable via interisland flights; additional travel options from OGG.
Gateway to Lanai; connect from OGG for interisland trips; not far but typically combined with other Maui visits.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant presence on Maui, contributing to cultural events, language snippets, and local traditions.
Strong representation that influences cuisine, festivals, and family-owned businesses.
A sizable portion of tourists and part-time residents contributing to the local economy.
Diverse mix including multiracial individuals and families from around the world.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple Maui activity with lessons and beginner-friendly waves along the south shore.
Rich reef life and clear waters make snorkeling a top activity year-round.
Several world-class courses in Wailea and Makena with ocean views.
Calm water sessions on Kihei beaches, suitable for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kihei.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer veggie plates, veggie poke alternatives, salads, and grain bowls. When dining out, ask for fish-free sauces and cross-contamination precautions.