Sunny South Maui, on the island’s leeward coast, is fringed by white sand beaches hugging the shimmering blue Pacific, with Lāna’i, Molokini, and Kaho’olawe rising up from the ocean within full view. Just “mauka” (toward the mountain) of the first stretch of beaches is the well-populated area of Kīhei, crowded with an overwhelming profusion of condominium complexes, small shopping malls, and oft times tedious traffic. Once you hit the beach, however, you’ll soon relax into tropical mode. Traveling south takes you to the manicured resort area of Wailea and the much less developed Mākena district.
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Fresh fish, shrimp, chicken, and potatoes are fried in canola oil (or broiled if you prefer). Perfect for a picnic lunch on one of Kīhei’s beaches.
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The former houses the post office, souvenir shops, fast food joints, and Azeka’s Snack Shop – the only place left to get the old market’s famous ribs. Across the road, Azeka Mauka offers local banks, more souvenirs, and Stella Blues.
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For those who enjoy more subtle versions of Hawaiian prints, Blue Ginger offers some great designs. It is especially good for baby and children’s clothes.
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A long-time Maui resident, Clementine magically crams a treasure trove of unique clothing, jewelry, accessories, and more into a joyous cupboard of a room!
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Beautiful, unique, handpainted and silk clothing, much of it locally made.
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Morning
Slather on the sunscreen, grab a mask, snorkel, and fins, and put on your hat for a morning of Maui’s fabled sun, sand, and sea. The trade winds here normally pick up between 11am and 1pm, so early morning is the time to claim your spot at any one of the sparkling white beaches that line the Kīhei/Wailea coast. Kama’ole I, II, or III, Keawakapu, and Wailea (see Beaches) are all perfect for swimming, snorkeling, body boarding, or just plain sunning. Farther south, Big Beach at Mākena is entirely idyllic, and La Pérouse Bay shelters fabulous snorkeling and kayaking spots.
It’s best to be out of the sun well before noon, and that’s a good time to head to Alexander’s Fish & Chips, Kīhei Caffe, or one of the many food stops that dot South Kīhei Road.
Afternoon
The Hawaiian Island Humpback Whales National Marine Sanctuary provides a good after-lunch activity. You’ll learn about the wonders of Hawai’i’s marine life, most notably the gentle giants that winter in these waters. Binoculars and viewing stands are available at no charge. Right in front of the sanctuary’s office deck, and easily seen with the naked eye, are the remains of an ancient fish pond (currently being restored).
There’s a small park adjacent to the sanctuary’s buildings where you can enjoy an afternoon snack or a thirst-quenching drink at a shady table.
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In its entirety, the sanctuary almost completely encompasses the ocean surrounding the Hawaiian islands. But its administrative center sits on the water’s edge at Kīhei, with a large viewing scope mounted on its deck for winter visitors to watch the humpback whales frolic offshore. In the adjoining Education Center, colorful displays depict the scientific and cultural significance of whales and other marine animals that share Hawai’i’s marine ecosystem.
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Once regarded as nothing more than a tacky tourist dive, Hilo Hattie has branched outward and upward, and now even locals browse the racks of better quality aloha wear.
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This 7-mile hike over rugged and barren terrain moves uphill from the ocean then meanders back toward the coastline. Along the seaside road, stone walls and raised platforms of heiau (temples) and hale (houses) are still visible. The hike requires sturdy shoes. (see Hoapili Trail (King's Trail); also see Hikes and Trails)
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Fresh fish, steak, and ribs are served at this lovely open-air restaurant. Great desserts and an excellent wine list.
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Restaurant price categories
Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
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International Festival of CanoesThe International Festival of Canoes is Maui's main annual event: a two-week celebration of Hawaii's rich heritage honouring the voyaging canoe which united all of Polynesia. Read more
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Maui Film FestivalThe annual Maui Film Festival, held at the luxurious Wailea Resort, offers film and digital cinema premières and a handful of filmmakers' panels, while social events and galas help keep up the... Read more
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Maui Writers' ConferenceThe Maui Writers' Conference, held over Labor Day Weekend, is one of the most important in the world for both the publishing and film industries. Over 50 top agents and editors and 150 presenters... Read more
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Aloha Classic Windsurfing ChampionshipsHo'okipa Beach Park, near Paia in Maui, hosts top windsurfing action at the Aloha Classic Windsurfing Championships. The consistent trade winds and large seasonal surf make the event one of the most... Read more
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