The Perfect Kihei, Hawaii Day
Let’s be honest… trip planning overwhelm is a real thing! There’s so much to see and do that all of a sudden, what was meant to be a relaxing vacation, is full of check lists, confirmation numbers and all the things. But, take a deep breath and let that go. If you plan on spending some time in Kihei, Maui (which we highly recommend), we’ve got you covered, friend. If we only had one day in this beachy, south shore town…
Here’s how we would spend it!
8AM – But first, Coffee!
Trust us, jetlag will have you feeling like a morning person even if you’re not. Once you’re up, head over to Akamai Coffee (the Kihei location). This cute and Insta-worthy coffee shop offers Maui grown and roasted coffee. Pick up the Honeybee Latte (one of our faves) on your way to your next stop.
8:30AM – Morning Stroll
With coffee in hand, take a leisurely stroll along the oceanfront path at Kalama Park, located off of S. Kihei Road. This 36 acre park complex, denoted by a large whale statue, also features a playground for the little ones, a skate park, baseball fields, basketball courts and more.
9:30am: Breakfast Bites
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, cross the street from Kalama Park to Kihei landmark restaurant, Kihei Caffe. It’s important to mention that this spot is cash only but they do have an ATM onsite. Also, they open at 5 a.m. so if you’re starving and just can’t wait, you can head here super early. By 9 a.m., there might be a line but it tends to move quickly. Once you order at the register (some of our picks include Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs and French Toast with bananas and macadamia nuts), find a table outside and relax. Your food will be brought to you.
10:15AM – Beach Time!
Head to the beach for snorkeling, stand-up paddling, sunbathing – whatever you like! Kihei boasts many, many pristine beaches (read more about some of our faves here). Keawakapu, located in South Kihei, is where we usually go and also, where we take our families when they visit. It’s a beautiful spot with good snorkeling. Don’t forget a cooler with some water and snacks since there aren’t places to grab food-to-go within walking distance (especially if you go to the far south side of the beach, which we usually do). Hawaiian Moons is a local grocery store with a great deli that you can swing by on your way to the beach.
3PM – Cool Treat
Next, cool off with an iconic Hawaii treat, shave ice, at Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice in North Kihei. Between the creamy ice and delicious fruit juices, you’ll see why this is not just a “snow cone.” Oh, make sure to add ice cream to the bottom for the full local experience.
3:30PM – Shower & Nap (optional)
If you’re staying in Kihei, this might be a good time to shower and or nap but if you’re staying elsewhere on the island you can totally skip this part.
5:00PM – Evening Walk
Visit the stunning and tranquil Kealia Coastal Boardwalk located off of North Kihei Road. This area is also a bird sanctuary. Enjoy a short, peaceful walk as you take in your surroundings, keeping your eyes peeled for birds, like the Hawaiian Stilt and Hawaiian Coot, and other wildlife.
6:30PM – Dinner
Finish the day with a good meal at one of many nearby eateries! There are an abundance of dining choices based on your preference. From a food truck park at the Kihei Food Trucks to a variety of restaurants at the Azeka Shopping Center including burgers, fish & chips, sushi, salads, sandwiches, Mexican and Thai. Swing by Maui Pie on your way home to end the night on a sweet note.
Looking for more? Hike on over to Waihou Spring Trail!
