Attractions in South Maui (Kihei)

Kamaole Beach Parks

The "Kams," as they are known, span about a mile along the coast of South Kihei. On sunny days, the Kams fill up with adults, kids and entire groups of all ages. Frisbees sail, stereos blast, and tiny children splash in the equally tiny waves. The small waves create an easy spot to launch from for ocean kayaking fun. While these beaches are often disparaged as being too crowded or too dirty, they are head and shoulders above any mainland beach. The grass is green, the sand is soft and the sun is seemingly always out.

Keawakapu Beach

Located behind the Mana Kai Maui Hotel on the border of Wailea and Kihei, this beach is small but still fairly popular. It offers spectacular sunning and great facilities. Beach parking is available. The half-grass, half-sand beach is less than a minute's distance from the parking lot. As far as swimming goes, this is a good place to get refreshed, but not particularly good for water sports. There's a great deal of lava rock just below the surface, and although the waves tend to be small, getting knocked against the rock is still a danger.

Ed Robinson's Diving Adventures

This dive company has been a part of the Maui diving community for more than ten years and, during that time, has consistently made customer satisfaction a priority. The goal is that every dive lives up to customers' expectations. To that end, divemasters are prepared to meet every reasonable request. More than 20 dive sites are available through Ed Robinson's, so customers do not have repeat experiences (unless they so choose, of course). Certification courses and private charters are offered.

Makena Stables

This stables was established in 1983 and has spent the time since then building its reputation as "the best riding stable in Hawai'i." Horses and riders are individually matched, as much in consideration of the animal's comfort as the person's. Several different rides are offered, ranging from a two-hour beginner ride (USD120 per person) to the more challenging, three-hour rides (USD145-195 per person). All rides take place on Ulupalakua Ranch, which overlooks La Perouse Bay and neighboring islands. Group reservations are also available.

Maui's Discount Activity World - Kihei

This activity broker offers discounts of 20 to 40 percent on many popular island activities. With two Maui locations (the other is in Lahaina, just off Highway 30). Activities include an ocean rafting excursion, a downhill Haleakala journey, a sunset dinner cruise, luaus, dolphin watching trips, snorkeling excursions and more. Call or check the web site for information on activities and current discounts.

Kelii's Kayak Tours

With its warm blue water and stunning natural scenery, Maui is a fantastic place to kayak. This company takes groups to the best kayaking spots around the island. It also runs a surf school on the South Side. Visit the sea turtles at La Perouse, site of ancient lava formations and secluded snorkel spots. Traverse the uninhabited shores of famous Honolua Bay. A sunset kayak tour is also available.

Mike Severns Diving

A husband-and-wife team of biologists owns this dive company. For experienced divers who don't want to disturb the underwater environment, it is an ideal option. Indeed, in the 20+ years that the Severns have been operating tours, they have garnered praise from customers worldwide. Small groups of experienced divers are led to various places around the island, exploring underwater caves, nudibranch colonies and other natural wonders. The purpose of the tours is to educate as well as entertain.

Big Kahuna Tours & Rental

If you have two left feet or an unreasonable fear of the ocean, do not worry about it; this surf and kayak company prides itself on "catering to the cowardly or uncoordinated." Located just across from Kihei Cove, the Big Kahuna store is perfectly located for visitors to South Maui. Several different kayaking adventure tours are available, and the company also specializes in surf lessons and scuba trips and operates a rental/retail store. Stop by or call for more information.

Blue Water Rafting

This is not your average snorkel cruise. It offers you the opportunity to see the Kanaio Coast and some of the most amazing natural scenery on the island. Lava arches, sea caves, turtles, dolphins and other undersea life are all a part of these half-day tours. The Kanaio tour visits pristine coves and bays, as well as volcanic formations and excellent snorkeling. Molokini tours steer clear of heavily touristed areas, seeking out pristine waters and unique views. Tours depart from the Kihei boat ramp. Tour packages include all equipment, drinks and lunch. Call for reservations and other details.

Seafire Molokini Cruises

Combine a snorkel cruise with a trip to Molokini and a detour at nearby Turtle Town (home of the sea turtles), and you have got an irresistible excursion. This company only takes small groups. It is operated by a Coast Guard Captain with almost 20 years of experience; he and his crew take pride in their ecological awareness. The Seafire is new to South Maui, and is highly recommended by tour guides if you are staying in Kihei or Wailea. Call for prices and to make reservations.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea Spa

Staying at the opulent Four Seasons Resort in Maui? Make the best of your money—take a trip down to the in-house spa. The attendants make use of natural ingredients in their treatments that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. Lounge around in one of 13 spacious rooms and three “hales” with an ocean view, to get attuned to the ambiance. Novices must indulge in one of the Hawaiian, Thai, craniosacral or ayurvedic massages that ease tired muscles and untie knotted nerves. Facials, body treatments, exfoliation, energy therapies and special packages for both men and women are available aplenty. With a sunrise yoga class and other therapeutic sessions, the spa is all-encompassing and will leave you feeling light in mind, body and wallet!

Spa Grande

The award-winning Spa Grande at the Grand Wailea Resort is the ultimate relaxation destination for the spa-savvy crowd. A blend of Thalassotherapy, Ancient Oriental and Hawaiian principles, and modern technology, the more than 100 treatments and signature therapies are aimed at complete rejuvenation of the body. Avail of body treatments, facials, massages, and Hawaiian baths in this 50,000-square-foot luxurious haven, where a friendly staff and the best products help you get rid of both mental and bodily stress. Reservations are recommended.