South Maui Overview

Stretching from Maalaea to Kihei, Wailea, and Makena on the southwest slope of Haleakala Volcano, South Maui encompasses a varied region. Maalaea, the most depopulated, offers a state-of-the-art aquarium, while Kihei has expanded rapidly into a lively 6 mi. strip of condos and touristy restaurants. Past Kihei, the ritzy resorts of Wailea occupy the best beachfront property. Farther down in Makena, you’ll find the most impressive beaches, with dramatic cliffs, sandy shores, and views of Kahoolawe and Molokini across the water. Beyond Makena, the paved road morphs into an ancient path, winding past lava fields and coves swimming with fish. Despite a steady breeze, South Maui is hotter than the rest of the island—to escape the heat, visit between December and April. In addition to the more pleasant weather, it’s also whale-watching season, when hundreds of humpback whales migrate to Hawaii’s coastal waters to breed.

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