How to fold Kihei, Hawaii into your trip.
Let Kihei be the warm, sunlit anchor of your Maui journey, a place where mornings start slow, afternoons drift easy, and evenings arrive wrapped in gold.
Begin your day with a barefoot walk along Kamaole Beach as the sun lifts over Haleakalā, turning the water into soft blue glass. Grab a coffee from a local café and linger near the shoreline, watching paddleboarders glide through early light. When the heat rises, split your time between swimming, snorkeling, or simply letting the day stretch out under an umbrella with the breeze brushing across your skin. If you’re craving movement, rent a board, take a surf lesson, or head to Keawakapu Beach where the water is clear and the sand feels endless. As afternoon settles in, explore Kihei’s small shops and markets, or drive a few minutes south toward Wailea’s coastal path for one of Maui’s most cinematic seaside walks. Then return for sunset, Kihei’s nightly masterpiece, when the entire sky shifts into fire-toned color and the horizon glows with that unmistakable Hawaiian softness. Dinner can lean casual or refined, but always fresh: poke bowls, grilled fish, island produce bright with citrus and salt. And when night falls, the air stays warm, the ocean stays close, and Kihei keeps its steady, peaceful rhythm, the perfect balance of simplicity and beauty woven into your trip.
Three days you'll remember.
📍 Golden Hours
Day 1: Dinner @ Maui Thai Bistro
Bold, unexpected flavors with a tropical twist, think pineapple curry and crispy duck under breezy palms.
Day 2: Molokini Crater
Snorkel into another world at this crescent-shaped volcanic islet, teeming with neon fish and crystal-clear waters.
Day 2: Lunch @ Kinaole Grill
A roadside gem slinging some of the best garlic shrimp and seared ahi you’ll ever have from a food truck. Casual magic.
Day 2: Snorkel with Turtles
Gear up and swim alongside gentle honu (green sea turtles) as they drift through reef tunnels just offshore.
Day 2: Dinner @ Three’s Bar
Laid-back happy hour, island-fusion dishes, and a surf shack vibe. Don’t skip the poke tacos or mai tais.
Day 3: Brunch @ Maui Brewing Co
Hawaii’s homegrown hops meet ocean breeze vibes. Craft pints, island bites, and sunsets that taste like freedom.
Day 3: Surf Lesson
Ride the warm Maui waves with a local guide. Whether you wipe out or ride clean, you’ll earn your beach badge.
Day 3: Sunset Catamaran
Glide across the water as the sky melts into gold and rose. Ocean breeze, clinking glasses, and that slow-burn magic only a sunset at sea can deliver.
Day 3: Le Bazaar
Global flavors in a breezy, open-air setting. Colorful plates, bold spices, and the kind of vibe that turns dinner into a story.
Kihei Itinerary FAQ.
What are the best things to do in Kihei for a weekend trip?
Popular weekend activities in Kihei include snorkeling at Molokini Crater, lounging on Kamaole Beach Parks I, III, visiting the nearby Maui Ocean Center, and enjoying beachside dining with sunset views.
When is the best time to visit Kihei for a weekend getaway?
The best time to visit Kihei is between April and October for the sunniest, driest weather, perfect for beach time, water sports, and exploring Maui’s natural beauty.
Is Kihei a good destination for a family weekend trip?
Yes! Kihei is very family-friendly, with calm beaches, casual dining spots, and easy access to kid-friendly activities like snorkeling, whale watching (in season), and the Maui Ocean Center.
Where should I stay in Kihei for a weekend visit?
Consider beachfront condos, vacation rentals, or boutique resorts along South Kihei Road for convenient access to the beach and nearby restaurants.
What is Kihei known for on a weekend trip?
Kihei is known for its sun-drenched beaches, laid-back local vibe, whale watching in winter months, and its central location for exploring Maui’s south and west sides.
How many days do I need to enjoy Kihei?
A long weekend (3 days) gives you time to snorkel, relax on the beach, explore nearby towns like Wailea or Makena, and sample local Hawaiian cuisine.
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