Kihei | Go Hawaii

Kīhei

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Kīhei

What: Sunny coastal area with 6 miles of beautiful beaches
Where: Southwest Maui, about 25 minutes from Kahului Airport
 
Kīhei is beach-combing territory on Maui’s southwest shore, the sunniest, driest end of the island. Once a regular destination for sojourning Hawaiian royalty, Kīhei features 6 miles of beaches offering clear views of KahoʻolaweMolokiniLānaʻi and West Maui. Along with swimming and surfing, you can also find great snorkeling and kayaking — and you may even spot a giant humpback whale spouting or breaching the ocean’s surface.
 
Kīhei’s Kalama Beach Park’s 36 oceanfront acres are dotted with shady lawns and palm trees. The park is home to “the Cove” surf spot, beach volleyball courts, a roller-skating rink, a skate park, basketball and tennis courts, two baseball fields, picnic pavilions and a playground designed for younger kids.
 
 A blink away are Kalepolepo, Waipuʻilani and the three beaches of Kamaʻole. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will find what they’re looking for at Keālia Pond on the north end of Kīhei. This National Wildlife Conservation District features endangered Hawaiian stilts and coots.
 
Also north of Kīhei is Māʻalaea Bay, where pleasure boats launch to take visitors on whale watching expeditions, charter fishing excursions and snorkel trips to Molokini. Māʻalaea is also home to the family friendly Maui Ocean Center.
 
The town has a collection of affordable accommodations, with condominiums, small hotels and cottages to choose from along Kīhei’s beach road. You can also browse small shopping malls, a bustling farmers market and a spate of restaurants, all of which cater to residents and visitors alike. Nightlife here includes karaoke spots, dance clubs and sports bars ensuring your Kīhei nights are just as fun as your days.