Aloha from South Maui: Sun, Sand, and So Much More!

South Maui is a slice of paradise on the Valley Isle, offering a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. From the vibrant shores of Kihei to the luxurious resorts of Wailea, and the rugged beauty of Makena, this region is a microcosm of Maui’s magic. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Hawaiian cuisine, South Maui has something special in store for you.

Where to Stay in South Maui

South Maui offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious resorts to cozy vacation rentals, here are some of the top places to stay:

1. Wailea Resorts

Wailea is synonymous with luxury. This upscale resort community boasts world-class hotels, championship golf courses, and pristine beaches.

• Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: Perfect for those who want a chic, modern experience. It’s known for its spacious rooms, direct beach access, and exceptional restaurants.

• Four Seasons Resort Maui: A perfect blend of luxury and relaxation, this resort offers expansive views of the Pacific, a world-class spa, and exceptional dining options.

• Wailea Beach Resort: A family-friendly option that includes water slides, pools, and beachfront access.

• Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort: Known for its stunning beachfront location, lavish pools, and world-class amenities, making it a premier destination for relaxation and indulgence.

2. Kihei Vacation Rentals

Kihei is a bustling town is known for its laid-back atmosphere, making it an excellent option for travelers seeking affordable accommodations or long-term stays. Vacation rentals and condos are abundant here, with many offering ocean views, full kitchens, and laundry facilities.

• Maui Sunset: A popular beachfront condo complex is known for its affordable rates, spacious rooms, and well-maintained grounds.

• Mana Kai Maui: Located at the border of Wailea and Kihei, this beachfront condo offers both hotel rooms and full apartment-style suites, perfect for families or groups.

• Hale Pau Hana: A beachfront condo resort in offering comfortable accommodations with direct access to the sandy shores of Kamaole Beach Park II.

• Maui Kamaole: An upscale condo complex offering spacious accommodations with tropical landscaping and easy access to nearby beaches and attractions.

3. Makena

In Makena, there are a few luxurious and secluded places to stay, offering a tranquil escape.

• Makena Surf: A luxury condominium complex that provides stunning oceanfront views, spacious accommodations, and access to beautiful, uncrowded beaches.

• Wailea Resort Area (near Makena): While not directly in Makena, upscale resorts like Fairmont Kea Lani and Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea are nearby, offering easy access to Makena’s beaches and attractions.

Where to Eat in South Maui

South Maui is a haven for food lovers, boasting everything from local food trucks to fine dining restaurants.

1. South Maui Fish Company

For an authentic taste of the island, head to South Maui Fish Company. This popular food truck, featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, serves up incredibly fresh seafood with a focus on sustainability. Their daily catches dictate the menu, ensuring you’re getting the best that the ocean has to offer.

Indulge in their famous poke bowls, flavorful fish tacos, or savor the catch of the day grilled to perfection. With its casual beachfront location and picnic-style seating, South Maui Fish Company provides the perfect setting to enjoy a delicious meal while soaking up the island vibes.

2. Kihei Caffe

A local favorite for breakfast, Kihei Caffe serves up hearty plates of pancakes, loco moco, and Hawaiian specialties. Their outdoor seating gives you a casual yet scenic place to start your day. The portions are generous, and the laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to fuel up before heading to the beach. Be sure to try their cinnamon rolls, a sweet and indulgent treat loved by locals and visitors alike.

3. Monkeypod Kitchen

Located in Wailea, Monkeypod is known for its farm-to-table menu. Try their famous Mai Tai, topped with a honey-lilikoi foam, and enjoy live music in the evenings. The menu features a variety of locally sourced dishes, including fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and innovative vegetarian options. With its lively atmosphere and ocean views, Monkeypod is a great place to unwind after a day of exploring South Maui.

4. Nalu’s South Shore Grill

If you’re looking for a laid-back spot with live music and delicious Hawaiian-inspired dishes, Nalu’s is the place to be. They offer everything from fresh poke to loco moco. The casual, open-air setting creates a welcoming environment to enjoy island flavors while listening to local musicians. Nalu’s also focuses on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, making it a go-to spot for both visitors and locals seeking authentic Hawaiian cuisine.

5. Kinaole Grill Food Truck

For an authentic food truck experience, head to Kinaole Grill in Kihei. Their shrimp plates and pork belly are trendy among locals and visitors alike. This food truck is known for its generous portions and bold flavors, offering a true taste of Maui’s street food scene. Don’t miss their garlic shrimp, which comes perfectly seasoned and is a favorite dish for those craving a quick, flavorful meal by the beach.

6. Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante

Part of the Four Seasons Resort, Ferraro’s is an excellent choice for those seeking a romantic, upscale dining experience. With its open-air setting and Italian-inspired menu, it’s perfect for a sunset dinner overlooking the ocean. The menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a Mediterranean twist, offering dishes like handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and premium steaks. The breathtaking views and attentive service make Ferraro’s a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in a luxurious dining experience in South Maui.

7. Coconuts Fish Café

Coconuts Fish Café is a local favorite known for serving up delicious fish tacos and sandwiches with a Hawaiian twist. Their signature fish tacos, made with fresh, locally sourced fish, are piled high with vibrant slaw and tropical salsa, offering a flavorful bite of the islands. With its casual, family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to sustainable seafood, Coconuts is a must-visit spot for a quick and tasty meal in South Maui.

Photo Courtesy of Kinaole Grill Food Truck

Things to Do in South Maui

Whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to unwind, South Maui has a range of activities to keep you entertained:

Water Activities

• Snorkeling at Molokini Crater: Molokini, a crescent-shaped volcanic crater just off the coast of South Maui, is one of the best places to snorkel in Hawaii. The protected marine reserve offers crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles.

Just a short drive from South Maui, Maalaea Harbor is your gateway to exploring the incredible Molokini Crater. Our Maui Snorkeling Tours depart from this convenient location, whisking you away to an underwater paradise teeming with marine life.

• Whale Watching: (December-May) Witness the majestic humpback whales during their annual migration.

• Paddleboarding and Kayaking: South Maui’s calm waters make it an ideal location for paddleboarding and kayaking. Several rental companies in Kihei and Wailea offer equipment, and you can easily spend a morning paddling along the coastline.

Beaches

• Makena Beach (Big Beach): One of the largest and most stunning beaches on Maui, Big Beach in Makena offers a pristine stretch of golden sand. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the neighboring islands of Molokini and Kahoʻolawe.

• Po’olenalena Beach: This picturesque beach is ideal for snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding.

• Maluaka Beach: Maluaka Beach, also known as Turtle Town, is a beautiful and secluded beach in Makena, South Maui. It’s known for its calm waters, soft white sand, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Turtle Town is one of our 3 locations we travel to on our Maui Snorkeling Tours. 

• Wailea Beach: This crescent-shaped beach is lined with luxury resorts and offers calm waters for swimming.

o Wailea Beach Path: For a leisurely walk or jog, the Wailea Beach Path is a scenic 1.5-mile trail that runs along the coast, offering spectacular ocean views. Along the path, you’ll pass several luxury resorts, and you might even spot humpback whales during the winter months.

Hiking

• Hoapili Trail: This coastal trail offers stunning views of the coastline and the island of Kaho’olawe.

• La Perouse Bay: Hike through lava fields to reach this secluded bay, known for its snorkeling and historical significance.

Other Activities

• Maui Ocean Center: Located just north of Kihei, the Maui Ocean Center offers an educational yet fun experience for the whole family. The aquarium is home to an array of marine life native to Hawaii’s waters, including sharks, rays, and coral reefs.

• Haleakalā National Park: For those willing to venture a bit farther, a trip to Haleakalā National Park is a must. While the park’s summit is located outside of South Maui, the experience of watching the sunrise from the top of a volcano is unforgettable. Be sure to reserve a sunrise spot well in advance.

• Golf: Tee off at one of Wailea’s championship golf courses, designed by renowned architects.

• Shopping: Browse the upscale boutiques and art galleries in Wailea or find unique souvenirs in Kihei.

• Spa Day: Relax and rejuvenate at one of the many luxurious spas in Wailea.

South Maui Gardens

Nestled in the heart of Kihei, you’ll find a hidden gem called South Maui Gardens. This lush 6-acre oasis offers a welcome respite from the bustling beaches and provides a unique experience for visitors. More than just a plant nursery, South Maui Gardens is a hub for local artisans, food trucks, and community events.

Wander through the vibrant nursery and discover various tropical plants, flowers, and gardening supplies. You can find everything from exotic orchids and vibrant hibiscus to native Hawaiian plants and succulents. On Thursdays, the gardens come alive with the Artisan Market, showcasing the talents of local artists and crafters. Find unique souvenirs, handcrafted jewelry, and locally made artwork.

When hunger strikes, head over to the food truck oasis, where a diverse selection of culinary delights awaits. Enjoy everything from fresh fish tacos and authentic Hawaiian plate lunches to gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas. With live music often filling the air, South Maui Gardens is a fantastic place to relax, connect with the local community, and experience the true spirit of Aloha.

Weather in South Maui

South Maui is blessed with some of the best weather on the island. It’s drier and sunnier than other regions of Maui, making it a popular destination year-round.

Winter (December to February): Daytime temperatures range from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C), with cooler evenings.

Summer (June to August): Expect warmer temperatures, averaging around 85°F (29°C) during the day.

Rainfall: South Maui sees significantly less rainfall than areas like Hana or West Maui, with most rain occurring during the winter months. Even then, showers are usually brief and followed by sunshine.

Fun Facts About South Maui

• Whale Watching: South Maui is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. From December to April, these majestic creatures migrate to Maui’s warm waters to breed and give birth.

• The Road to La Perouse Bay: South Maui’s coastline ends dramatically at La Perouse Bay, where ancient lava fields from the Haleakalā volcano meet the sea. This area, known as the ‘Ahihi-Kina‘u Natural Area Reserve, is a protected area home to a variety of unique plant and animal species, including endangered Hawaiian monk seals, and is perfect for snorkeling and exploring rugged terrain.

• Home of Hawaiian Royalty: The area around Makena was once home to Hawaiian royalty, and it still retains a sense of sacredness today. You can visit cultural sites, such as the ancient heiau (Hawaiian temples), that are preserved in this region.

Special Events in South Maui

If you’re visiting South Maui, try to time your trip around some of the area’s special events for a deeper dive into local culture.

• Maui Film Festival: Held annually in Wailea, the Maui Film Festival brings filmmakers, actors, and movie lovers together for a unique, under-the-stars movie experience.

• Whale Day Festival: In February, the Whale Day Festival in Kihei celebrates the humpback whales that migrate to Maui’s waters each year. The festival includes live music, local crafts, and environmental talks.

• Aloha Festivals Wailea Ho’olaule’a: This festival, held in September, celebrates Hawaiian culture with live performances, local crafts, and traditional hula performances in Wailea.

• Maui Onion Festival: Celebrate Maui’s famous sweet onions with food, music, and family-friendly activities.

• Made in Maui County Festival: (November) This annual event showcases local artisans, food vendors, and musicians.

5 Tips for Planning Your Trip:

1. Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season (December-March and June-August).

2. Rent a car: While there are some public transportation options, having a car will give you the freedom to explore South Maui at your own pace.

3. Pack for warm weather: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

4. Respect the environment: Help protect Maui’s natural beauty by packing out your trash and avoiding single-use plastics.

5. Embrace the Aloha spirit: Relax, enjoy the island vibes, and be sure to say “Aloha” to the friendly locals.

Conclusion

South Maui is the perfect blend of natural beauty, luxury, and laid-back island charm. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, dining at farm-to-table restaurants, or simply lounging on the beach, this region has everything you need for a memorable Hawaiian getaway. From the sunny shores of Kihei to the upscale resorts of Wailea, South Maui is a slice of paradise waiting to be explored. Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the magic of South Maui!