15 Best Things to Do in Kihei (Hawaii)

Imagine a place where the sun always shines, the ocean glistens with a thousand diamonds, and every sunset paints the sky in hues you never knew existed. Welcome to Kihei, Maui’s sun-drenched coastal gem, a vibrant hub that perfectly blends laid-back island charm with exhilarating adventure. Nestled on Maui’s southwest shore, Kihei is more than just a collection of stunning beaches; it’s a gateway to authentic Hawaiian experiences, a place where you can chase waterfalls, snorkel with technicolor fish, savor local flavors, and witness the majestic dance of humpback whales.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a sun worshipper, a foodie, or a nature enthusiast, Kihei promises an unforgettable escape. The beauty of Kihei is its year-round appeal, with warm temperatures and endless sunshine. However, for the ultimate whale-watching experience, plan your visit between December and May. Get ready to dive into the heart of Maui and discover the 15 best things that make Kihei truly special.

Kamaole Beach Park

Kamaole Beach Park, affectionately known as “Kam” beaches (Kam I, II, and III), is the quintessential Kihei experience, offering everything you could desire from a Hawaiian beach day. These three distinct, crescent-shaped stretches of sand are renowned for their soft, golden shores, gentle waves, and crystal-clear waters, making them ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Kam I, with its wider expanse, is perfect for families, offering plenty of space for building sandcastles and easy access to the water. Kam II and III provide slightly more secluded coves and excellent snorkeling spots, especially around the rocky outcroppings where you can discover vibrant marine life.

What makes these beaches truly special is their consistent beauty and the convenient amenities they offer, including lifeguards, picnic tables, restrooms, and showers. You can easily spend an entire day here, transitioning from a refreshing dip in the ocean to a leisurely picnic under a shady palm tree. The sunsets from any of the Kam beaches are legendary; gather with locals and visitors alike to watch the sky ignite with fiery colors as the sun dips below the horizon, often painting the distant islands of Lanai and Kahoolawe in silhouette. These beaches encapsulate the relaxed, family-friendly spirit of Kihei, inviting you to slow down and embrace the aloha.

Whale Watching

Witnessing the majestic humpback whales breach and play in their natural habitat is an experience that transcends mere sightseeing; it’s a profound connection with nature that will stay with you long after your trip. Kihei is an unparalleled location for whale watching, primarily because its shallow, warm waters within the Auau Channel, nestled between Maui, Lanai, and Kahoolawe, serve as a critical breeding and calving ground for these magnificent creatures. From December to May, thousands of humpbacks migrate from Alaska to Hawaii, transforming the ocean into a vibrant nursery. You can embark on a dedicated whale-watching tour from Ma’alaea Harbor (just a short drive from Kihei) or from Kihei’s own small boat ramp, choosing from large catamarans to more intimate rafts.

Each offers a different perspective, but all provide incredible opportunities to see whales up close. You’ll be captivated by their powerful tail slaps, graceful breaches, and the gentle surfacing of mothers and their calves. Many tours include hydrophones, allowing you to listen to their ethereal songs echoing through the water. This is an absolute must-do for nature lovers and anyone seeking a truly awe-inspiring encounter with Hawaii’s gentle giants.

Maui Ocean Center

The Maui Ocean Center, often dubbed “The Hawaiian Aquarium,” offers an immersive journey into the vibrant underwater world surrounding the Hawaiian Islands without ever getting wet. Located just a short drive from Kihei in Ma’alaea, this world-class aquarium is dedicated to showcasing and conserving Hawaii’s unique marine ecosystem. What makes it truly special is its focus solely on Pacific and Hawaiian marine life, providing an authentic and educational experience unlike any other. You’ll wander through impressive exhibits featuring tropical fish, sharks, stingrays, and vibrant coral reefs.

The highlight is undoubtedly the 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit, where you walk through a 54-foot acrylic tunnel as sharks, rays, and massive fish glide overhead. Beyond the awe-inspiring sights, the Ocean Center provides invaluable insights into marine conservation efforts and the delicate balance of the ocean’s ecosystem. It’s an excellent attraction for families with children, offering interactive displays and touch pools, but also captivates adults with its stunning visuals and educational depth. It’s a perfect activity for a rainy day or when you need a break from the sun, offering a cool, fascinating dive into Hawaii’s aquatic wonders.

Paddlesports

Embracing paddlesports in Kihei is one of the most intimate ways to connect with Maui’s pristine coastal waters. Whether you choose stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), kayaking, or outrigger canoeing, you’ll discover a peaceful perspective of the island’s beauty. Kihei’s calm, protected waters, particularly around the Kamaole beaches and south towards Wailea, are ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. You can rent equipment easily from numerous surf shops and rental outfits along South Kihei Road.

Imagine gliding effortlessly over the crystal-clear ocean, the sun warming your skin as you peer down into the vibrant marine world below. You might spot green sea turtles gracefully swimming, colorful reef fish darting amongst coral, or even a distant whale breach during winter months. Paddling offers a fantastic full-body workout while providing an unparalleled sense of tranquility and connection with nature. Many local operators also offer guided tours, which can enhance your experience by pointing out hidden coves, explaining local marine life, and sharing Hawaiian cultural insights related to the ancient art of paddling. This activity is perfect for solo adventurers seeking solitude, couples desiring a romantic shared experience, or families looking for a gentle yet active way to explore the coast.

Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater stands as one of Maui’s most iconic and sought-after snorkeling and diving destinations, a crescent-shaped volcanic islet located just a few miles off Kihei’s coast. What makes Molokini truly unique is its designation as a Marine Life Conservation District and Seabird Sanctuary, ensuring its pristine condition and the abundance of its marine inhabitants. The clarity of the water here is legendary, often exceeding 100 feet of visibility, allowing for unparalleled views of vibrant coral gardens and over 250 species of tropical fish, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. You’ll embark on a boat tour from Ma’alaea Harbor or Kihei, which typically includes all necessary gear, instruction, and often a continental breakfast or lunch.

As you plunge into the cool, clear water, you’ll be enveloped by a kaleidoscope of colors – parrotfish, triggerfish, butterflyfish, and perhaps even a Hawaiian green sea turtle. The experience is like swimming in a giant, natural aquarium. Molokini is perfect for strong swimmers and snorkelers of all levels, offering a sheltered, calm environment inside the crater. For divers, the “back wall” of Molokini offers dramatic drop-offs and encounters with larger pelagic species. This excursion is a highlight for anyone passionate about marine life and seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure.

Keawakapu Beach

Keawakapu Beach, meaning “forbidden sacred place,” is a true hidden gem nestled at the very southern end of Kihei, bordering the upscale Wailea resort area. This beautiful stretch of golden sand offers a more tranquil and less crowded experience compared to the bustling Kamaole beaches, making it a favorite among locals and those seeking a peaceful escape. What sets Keawakapu apart is its stunning natural beauty, characterized by gentle, sloping sands that lead into calm, clear waters perfect for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling. The northern end features a rocky point that is teeming with colorful reef fish and green sea turtles, making it an excellent spot for underwater exploration.

You’ll find fewer amenities here, which contributes to its secluded feel, allowing you to truly unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere. The beach is also a popular spot for leisurely strolls, offering picturesque views of the West Maui Mountains and the distant islands. As the day draws to a close, Keawakapu transforms into a magical setting for sunset viewing, with the sun dipping gloriously into the Pacific. It’s an ideal choice for couples looking for romance, solo travelers seeking quiet contemplation, or families desiring a more relaxed beach day away from the crowds.

Maui Brewing Company

For craft beer aficionados and those looking to sample local Maui flavors, a visit to Maui Brewing Company’s Kihei brewery is an absolute must. This is Hawaii’s largest craft brewery, and their expansive Kihei facility is more than just a place to grab a pint; it’s a vibrant hub where you can immerse yourself in the art and science of brewing. What makes Maui Brewing Co. special is their commitment to using local ingredients where possible and their dedication to sustainability, evident in their LEED-certified brewery.

You can embark on a fascinating brewery tour, where you’ll learn about their brewing process, from grain to glass, and see the impressive tanks and equipment up close. Afterwards, head to their spacious tasting room, which boasts a lively, family-friendly atmosphere, often featuring live music. Here, you can sample a wide range of their award-winning beers, from their refreshing Bikini Blonde Lager to the bold Big Swell IPA, along with seasonal and limited-release brews. They also offer a full menu of delicious, locally sourced pub fare that perfectly complements their beers. It’s a fantastic spot for groups, couples, or solo travelers to unwind, enjoy great food and drinks, and get a taste of Maui’s burgeoning craft scene.

Yee’s Orchard & Fruit Stand

Step back in time and savor the authentic taste of Maui at Yee’s Orchard & Fruit Stand, a beloved local institution that offers a delightful glimpse into the island’s agricultural heritage. Tucked away just off the main road in Kihei, this unassuming stand is renowned for its incredibly fresh, locally grown mangoes, particularly during peak season (May to October). What makes Yee’s truly unique is its multi-generational family history and their dedication to farming. You’ll find not just mangoes, but also a rotating selection of other tropical fruits like papayas, bananas, lychees, and rambutan, all picked at their peak ripeness.

Beyond the fruits, Yee’s is famous for its homemade mango bread, mango smoothies, and other delicious treats that capture the essence of their fresh produce. Visiting Yee’s is more than just buying fruit; it’s an experience. You get to interact with the friendly local staff, learn about the different varieties of mangoes, and truly appreciate the farm-to-table concept. It’s a fantastic stop for foodies, families, or anyone looking for a refreshing, healthy snack and a genuine taste of Maui. Be sure to bring cash, as it’s often preferred.

Wailea Beach

Just a stone’s throw from Kihei’s southern border lies Wailea Beach, consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, and for good reason. This expansive crescent of golden sand, framed by luxury resorts and swaying palm trees, embodies the epitome of Hawaiian paradise. What sets Wailea Beach apart is its sheer grandeur and the pristine quality of its environment. The waters here are remarkably clear and calm, protected by offshore reefs, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding.

You’ll find a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere, with visitors enjoying the sun, the gentle waves, and the stunning panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains, Molokini, Kahoolawe, and Lanai. While it borders high-end resorts, public access is well-maintained, offering amenities like restrooms, showers, and equipment rentals. Take a leisurely stroll along the paved beach walk that stretches for miles, connecting Wailea’s various coves and resorts, providing endless opportunities for breathtaking photos. This beach is ideal for couples seeking a romantic setting, families desiring calm waters, or anyone who appreciates luxury and natural beauty intertwined. Don’t miss the spectacular sunsets, which are truly a daily event here, painting the sky in unforgettable colors.

Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge

The Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge offers a refreshing change of pace from Kihei’s bustling beaches, providing a vital sanctuary for Hawaii’s endangered waterbirds and a fascinating glimpse into a unique wetland ecosystem. Located just north of Kihei, this 700-acre coastal wetland is one of the few remaining natural wetlands in the Hawaiian Islands. What makes Kealia Pond special is its crucial role in conservation. You’ll discover a boardwalk and observation deck that stretch over the pond, allowing you to observe a diverse array of birdlife, including the endangered Hawaiian stilt (A’eo), Hawaiian coot (‘Alae ke’oke’o), Hawaiian duck (Koloa maoli), and Hawaiian gallinule (‘Alae ‘ula).

Informative signs along the boardwalk educate visitors about the wetland’s ecology and the importance of preserving these fragile habitats. Beyond birdwatching, the refuge also offers a 2,200-foot-long coastal boardwalk that runs parallel to the ocean, providing stunning views of the coastline and West Maui Mountains. It’s a peaceful retreat perfect for birdwatchers, nature photographers, and anyone interested in environmental conservation. This is a quiet, contemplative experience, ideal for early mornings when the birds are most active and the light is soft.

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Sanctuary Visitor Center

Delve deeper into the world of Hawaii’s most magnificent marine visitors at the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center. Situated directly on the picturesque shores of Kihei, this educational center offers an invaluable opportunity to learn about the incredible journey of the humpback whales that grace Maui’s waters each winter. What makes this center special is its direct connection to the federal sanctuary, dedicated to protecting these endangered giants and their habitat.

You’ll find engaging and interactive exhibits that detail the whales’ migration, their behavior, and the conservation efforts underway to protect them. There are models, videos, and even a hydrophone that allows you to listen to their haunting songs. The center also boasts a stunning oceanfront setting, complete with an observation deck where, during whale season (December-May), you can often spot actual humpbacks breaching and spouting right from shore! Knowledgeable staff and volunteers are on hand to answer questions and share fascinating insights. This is a fantastic stop for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone planning a whale-watching tour, providing essential background information that truly enhances the experience of seeing these majestic creatures in the wild.

Kihei 4th Friday

Kihei 4th Friday is not just an event; it’s a vibrant celebration of community, culture, and local talent that transforms South Kihei Road into a lively street party once a month. If your visit aligns with the fourth Friday of the month, you absolutely cannot miss this quintessential Kihei experience. What makes it special is the incredible energy and the diverse array of offerings. You’ll find a bustling marketplace filled with local artisans showcasing their handmade crafts, jewelry, and art, providing unique souvenir opportunities.

Food trucks and local vendors serve up an irresistible smorgasbord of Hawaiian and international cuisines, from fresh fish tacos to delicious shave ice. Live music stages feature talented local musicians playing everything from traditional Hawaiian tunes to contemporary hits, encouraging dancing and good vibes. Kids will love the dedicated keiki (children’s) zone with face painting, balloon artists, and games. It’s a fantastic way to mingle with locals, soak in the authentic aloha spirit, and experience Kihei’s vibrant community side. This event is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for an evening of entertainment, delicious food, and a true taste of local Maui culture.

Shave Ice

No trip to Hawaii is complete without indulging in the quintessential island treat: shave ice. In Kihei, this isn’t just a dessert; it’s a refreshing art form, a vibrant explosion of flavor that perfectly combats the warm Maui sun. What makes Hawaiian shave ice so unique is its incredibly fine, snow-like texture – it’s not a crunchy snow cone, but rather delicate flakes that melt in your mouth. You’ll find numerous spots across Kihei, each with its loyal following, offering an array of vibrant, tropical syrups.

Many places elevate the experience by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or macadamia nut ice cream at the bottom, a “snow cap” of condensed milk on top, or even fresh fruit. Popular flavors range from classic strawberry and pineapple to exotic lilikoi (passion fruit) and guava. Don’t be afraid to mix and match! It’s a simple pleasure, yet profoundly satisfying, offering a moment of cool bliss that truly embodies the relaxed, joyful spirit of the islands. This treat is universally loved, making it perfect for families, couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a sweet, refreshing pick-me-up on a warm day. Seek out a local favorite and discover your perfect flavor combination.

Lava Fields – King’s Trail

For an adventure that blends geological wonder with ancient history, explore the Lava Fields – King’s Trail, also known as the Hoapili Trail, at the very southern tip of Maui, beyond the resort areas of Wailea and Makena. This rugged landscape, formed by Maui’s last lava flow around 1790, offers a stark yet breathtaking contrast to the island’s lush greenery and golden beaches. What makes this area special is its raw, untamed beauty and its historical significance. You’ll hike over jagged black lava rock, passing ancient Hawaiian stone walls and remnants of the King’s Trail (Ala Loa), a historic pathway that once encircled the island.

The contrast of the dark, volcanic rock against the brilliant blue ocean is striking, and you’ll discover hardy native plants clinging to life in this harsh environment. As you walk, keep an eye out for hidden coves and tide pools, though swimming conditions can be rough. This trail is ideal for adventurous hikers, history buffs, and photographers seeking dramatic landscapes. Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and prepare to be awed by the powerful forces of nature that shaped this island. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience that offers solitude and a profound connection to Maui’s geological past.

Kihei Farmers’ Market