Kihei Things To Do
Things to Do near Kihei on Maui
Kihei is South Maui's casual beach base: sunny, condo-heavy, easy to navigate, and close to Wailea without the resort-only feel. It is a strong pick for visitors who want beach time, food options, and quick access to snorkel tours.
Plan mornings around the water, afternoons around shade or a drive, and evenings around sunset walks or casual dinner.
1. Kamaole Beach Parks
Kamaole Beach Parks I, II, and III are Kihei's signature beach trio. They make it easy to choose a different stretch of sand depending on parking, wind, and how much space you want.
2. Snorkel South Maui
Kihei is a practical base for South Maui snorkeling, especially early in the day before afternoon wind picks up. Check lifeguard signs and ocean conditions, and do not enter when surf or visibility looks poor.
3. Molokini and Maalaea Trips
Molokini trips and many snorkel boats depart from nearby South or Central Maui harbors. Book morning trips when possible, since trade winds often build later in the day.
4. Kalama Park and Kihei Town
Kalama Park, beach-road shops, food trucks, and casual restaurants give Kihei its easygoing town rhythm. It is a good place to reset between beach stops without driving all the way to Wailea or Kahului. For an indoor evening nearby, check the Maui shows and live performances guide before you lock in dinner.
5. Wailea Add-ons
Wailea is just south of Kihei, so you can pair Kihei's casual beaches with Wailea's coastal walk, resort dining, and polished beach parks in the same day.
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How to Plan Your Time in Kihei
Allow: A half day for beaches and town; a full day with snorkeling or a boat trip. Best for: Flexible South Maui beaches, casual dining, sunsets, and family-friendly options.
Choose a different plan if: You want a polished resort environment and a continuous coastal walk; compare Wailea.
Hawaii Guide's recommended order
- Kamaole Beach Parks: Start with the beach whose parking and current conditions work best.
- Kihei food and Kalama Park: Keep the middle of the day flexible for heat, wind, or changing surf.
- Wailea or sunset in Kihei: Choose a short southward extension or stay local for an easier finish.
Planning tip: Morning water is often the better bet; schedule snorkeling before a leisurely lunch or shopping stop.
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Where to Stay and Eat Nearby
Use these nearby hotel and restaurant ideas as a practical base for planning more time around Kihei.
Hotels near Kihei
- Maui Coast Hotel (Kihei)
- Mana Kai Maui (Kihei)
- Castle Kamaole Sands (Kihei)
- Days Inn by Wyndham Maui Oceanfront (Kihei/Wailea)
Restaurants near Kihei
- Kihei Caffe (Kihei, Breakfast)
- Coconut's Fish Cafe (Kihei, Seafood)
- Nalu’s South Shore Grill (Kihei, Casual)
- Paia Fish Market South Side (Kihei, Seafood)
Published by: John C. Derrick
Founder & certified Hawai'i travel expert with 20+ years in Hawai'i tourism, University of South Carolina climate-research training, and NOAA weather-station experience.
