Welcome to Kihei, the heart of South Maui. Our beachside community is also the fastest growing town in the state. KCA is known as the most active of the volunteer community associations on Maui. If you want more information call 879-5390. KCA's goal is to assure a green park-like setting for Kihei's future. We are developing design guidelines and open space initiatives resulting from the ideas and visions realized at many of our community and stake holder workshops. They involve transportation and pedestrian safety and access; open space preservation, shoreline and restoration, to name a few. Please enjoy your stay and thank you for visiting Kihei. Dave Mackwell President Kihei Community Association “Downtown Kihei.” South Kihei Road from Azeka Place Makai on an unusually cloudy day.

Racing canoes lined up along the beach

At the beginning of South Kihei Road you find the Maui Canoe Club on the right, where you may be lucky enough to catch an outrigger being carved in the ancient style. The club holds frequent races which draw both local and visitor alike. Right across the street is the oldest store in Kihei, the Suda Store, now closed, but a Farmer's Market is held on the site Mon., Wed. and Fridays.

Kihei, by the way, is pronounced KEY-HEY

Lone Kite Surfer catches the sunset.

Just down the way, at Ohukai Road on a fairly windy day, you'll pass wind and kite surfers at Oela'u Beach. If windsurfing is your sport, this is your spot. Kitesurfing is popular here and not allowed on the rougher Ho'oikipa Beach on the North Shore.

The Serendipitous Past
of the Maui Lu

Totem pole at Maui Lu beach erected to honor Capt. George Vancouver's landing spot.

A little bit further, and look left for the Maui Lu. The oldest resort in South Maui, the Maui Lu has a serendipitous history.

The huge Longhouse of the Maui Lu saw the introduction and rise to fame of some of Hawaii's most famous entertainers.

Beachside of the entrance are two totem poles brought from Vancouver Island and erected to mark the area of Captain George Vancouver's mooring when he visited Maui in three sucessive years (1792-94).

A community gathering place for over 30 years, the Maui Lu began as a private house built on kiawa scrub land in the 60s by Vancouver lumber tycoon, Gordon Gibson. Its name derives from Gordan's wife, Lu.

The number of family and friends visiting made a guest house necessary. Gordan ordered 5,000 board feet of lumber from his Vancouver lumber mill to build one guesthouse, but a misplaced decimal caused 50,000 board feet to arrive on Maui. The only thing to do was build 10 guesthouses and the Maui Lu grew from there.

Jazz by the Sea
Just down the road is Menhune Shores and the all-new Yorman's by the Sea bringing jazz back to Kihei. Lots of the same "pizzazz" in the southern cooking we all love like Coconut Shrimp, Corn Bread, Okra and extra spicy Ribs. Owners Cheri and Yorman, Mr Jazz Man, have arranged the décor to include a loarge dance floor and stage. The interior is clean, open and hip upscale. This is one of the few places on Maui to hear great music and dance to the background of lapping waves and spectacular sunsets. There's also valet parking, great ambience and food ib a lovely atmosphere. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dance. Call 808 874-8385 to reserve a time to remember.

The National Whale Sanctuary, perched atop the dunes,is a good spot for whale watching.

Ancient Ali'i fish pond
Next to Menehune Shores and Kaleolepo Park is the National Whale Sanctuary, overlooking the ancient Ko'ie'ie fish pond, the best preserved royal fishpond on Maui, built in 250 AD. Visitors can get free information about Maui's annual visitors, the Humpback Whales here and read about the area's historic past on the signs at the park.

The park is a fine place to picnic and snorkel also. The wall of the fish pond blocks the waves so even beginning snorkelers can enjoy the underwater scene.

The National Whale Sanctuary, perched atop the dunes,is a good spot for whale watching.

South Maui's "Downtown"
We now approach the heart of shopping in Kihei... Longs, Azeka Makai (oceanside), Azeka Mauka (mountainside) and Star Market at Lipoa St.

Long's The Everything Store
Across the street is Kihei's "everything store," Longs Drugs. For one-stop shopping in Kihei, THE place is Longs Drugs. This is not just a drug and sundries store. Find groceries, clothing, beach and sports supplies, toys, health and beauty items. For gifts to take back home, choose from South Maui's largest selection of "Made in Maui" products. Longs Drugs Center. 879-2259 Longs.com

Ship 'n Save Spot
Consider mailing back all those Maui souvenirs or even your golf clubs and save toting them all over the airports. Stop into Mailboxes, Etc. in Long's Center. Pam Craig, 1215 So. Kihei Rd. Longs Center, Kihei. 808 874-5556

The Mayor's Ribs
Located in Azeka Makai (oceanside), behind the Post Office, is the world famous Azeka's Ribs & Snack Shop... a founding family tradition. The late Bill Azeka, honorary Mayor of Kihei, built Azeka Shopping Centers in the 80s and the Azeka family still operates Azeka's Snack Shop. They feature great local-style plate lunches, lau lau and sushi as well as ribs. Azeka teriyaki beef and chicken can be cold packed for off-island flights. Write or Call: PO Box 769, 808 879-0611, fax 808 874-8893.

Return to the 50s
Hark back to the 50s for deliously fattening burgers 'n shakes 'n ribs and juke boxes right on the tables. You have to love this place. So convenient and so cheap. At Azeka Mauka. Oh Peggy Sue how I love you.

Also drop into Jawz at Azeka Mauka. Menu includes burritos, enchiladas and a super salsa bar. New late night activities include the lounge with large screens to enjoy movies along with pupus and cocktails from 9 pm to 2 am. 874-8226.

Choose your condo unit ONLINE
Ali'i Resorts offers "peace of mind" by letting you view and select your unit on-line... the BIG difference. You choose your condo UNIT not just the building.
Feel like an Ali'i (royalty) from the moment you arrive. you are personally greeted at your unit which has been pre-inspected and stocked with luxury linen and elite arrival bath amenities. There is full concierge service, 24/7 managment support snd even a free business center. That's the Ali'i Resort difference.
Ali'i Resorts will reserve one of their distinctive properties or any other vacation property for you within the South Maui area.
At the Kihei Professional Plaza (across from Star Market) 1325 South Kihei Rd., Suite 214. Call 808 879-MAUI (6284) or Toll Free 86MAUI ALII (866 284-2544). Visit their website at AliiResorts.com

Now take the Pi'ikea connecting road next to Longs and drive up to the Pi'ilani Village Center where the largest Safeway in the state resides.

The easy-going ambience of the Outback is created by its whimsical decor and friendly staff.

Aussies on Maui
If you're hungry by this time, visit the nation-wide favorite, the Outback Steak House in the Pi'ilani Village Center. No "hawaiianized" inventions here, just the great Aussie favorites you're used to at your local Outback back home. There are those succulent Baby Back Ribs, Steaks, Coconut Shrimp, huge Bloomin' Onions and rich Desserts, mate. What really makes the Outback a pleasure is the friendly staff, caring for your every need. Call Ahead Seating: 808 879-8400 Outback Steakhouse

And don't forget Outback's prompt Take Away service. Just drive up, give your order and, in a few minutes, take away the same great Outback food as inside.

If you're interested in real estate, stop by Rose and Steve Hogan at ERA for selections of some of Maui's best properties. Call 808 879-1511 to make an appointment.

World's Largest Hawaiiana Store
For everything Hawaiian, you will enjoy shopping at Hilo Hattie ~ The Store of Hawaii at the Piilani Shopping Center. They are the world's largest manufacturer of resort and casual fashions, "Made In Hawaii" products and affordable gift items. They offer free shell lei greeting, refreshments, food & coffee tasting, free hemming and free transportation too. Hours are 10 am to 9 pm, call 808 875-4545. Preview (and buy online, too) Hilo Hattie Gifts of Aloha, Tastes of the Hawaiian Islands and Women's Hawaiian Fashions

Kihei's Cinema and Tennis
Going down toward the beach and on to South Kihei Road once again, we pass a residential section and then Kukui Mall, home to Kihei's only movie theater the Kukui Mall 4-Plex Theatres. There's also shopping, dining here, and beachside is Kalama Park with four lighted public tennis courts, soccer and baseball fields, a roller rink, picnic tables, barbecues, playgrounds, and a skateboard park.

Owner, Candice Jacquot amidst some of her favorite things.

South Maui's Treasure Chest
On down the road, next to Foodland is a treasure chest. The Rainbow Attic. Candice Jacquot has been Kihei's queen of finds for over 15 years. Quality clothing, art, new and collectible furniture, household items that are original, unusual and exciting. Great prices too. 1881 S. Kihei Rd.

Select Your New Locale
See Maui Resort Vacation Rental, Inc. at the big Island Surf building for budget to luxury condos on Maui. 808 879-5973. Call toll free, 800 441-3187. MauiResort4u.com

Kamaole I, II & III - Kihei's popular beaches
South of Kalama Village are the public beach parks called Kameole I, II and III, with playgrounds, bath and toilet facilities. Kamaole III is furthest south and at it's end is the Kihei Boat Ramp. These beaches are very popular with sunset watchers. Get there early to get a parking spot.

Maui's answer to the 60s local kine atmosphere and a haven for surfers and family gatherings
South of Kalama Village on Charlie Young Beach (the beginner surfewr's mecca) is the Lihi Kai (Beside the Sea).

Now being renovated to take you back to the 60s local style, it features complete apartment cottages, full kitchens, carports and baths. Rates are affordable and range from luxury to very modest.

The Lihi Kai offers a cozy alternative for lodging an entire wedding party (with bridal suite) or a family reunion. And, its central location is within walking distance of shopping, playgrounds, dining and entertainment. Off South Kihei Rd., at 2121 Iliili Rd. Reservations: 808 879-2335

Continue a few more blocks to Kihei's premier hotel, the Maui Coast, and its restaurants Spices and Tradewinds Poolside Bar.

The amenities of a fine resort at condo prices

Kihei’s only Premier Full Service Hotel sets a new standard of excellence and value in one of the world's favorite vacation destinations. Located in Sunny South Maui right in the heart of Kihei just across the street from a 6-mile stretch of beautiful beaches and close to several shopping, dining and entertainment venues and within minutes of championship golf courses.

The Maui Coast Hotel's spacious Guest Rooms and Suites welcome you back at the end of a fun-filled day. Room Amenities include: private lanais. mini-refrigerators, coffee makers, hair dryers, iron/ironing boards, air-conditioning and ceiling fans. Guest Amenities include: large outdoor swimming pool, children's wading pool, two outdoor jacuzzis, tennis courts, fitness center, complimentary laundry facilities, a Restaurant serving breakfast and lunch as well as casual upscale dinner and a Pool Bar with live Hawaiian entertainment nightly.

The Maui Coast Hotel, A Coast Hotel: The Best Value Hotel in South Maui.
2259 South Kihei Road • Reservations, call 808 874-6284 or Toll Free, 800 895-6284
MauiCoastHotel.com

The Maui Coast Hotel also features Kihei's hottest new restaurant, Spices.

Waterfall on South Kihei Road at the entry to Spices.

Dine in a waterfall setting in the main dining room at Spices, or casually poolside at Tradewinds, where you can enjoy more casual fare and nightly live entertainment featuring Maui's top artists.

Partner/Chef Zack crafts elegant dishes around fresh, seasonal spices. Reservations: 808 891-8860.

Tradewinds, the casual poolside bar and restaurant.

Your key to affordable vacations since 1983

Beachside Condos
Further south, we come upon Dolphin Plaza with offices,restaurants and shops. Here too is Kihei Maui Vacations with a variety of beachside condos. 879-7581. KMVMaui.com.

Quizno's Comes to Maui
You've seen their wild commercials, now taste their toasty super subs. Steak, Italian meatballs, Mesquite chicken, chili and corn beard make for a down-home meal. In Kamaole Beach Center, next to the Sports Page, and at Lahaina Center by McDonalds. 891-1333 Quiznos.Com

Food for sport. Burgers, chips, shrimp and, of course, a mug of beer.

Satellite Sports Center
Don't miss a stopoff at Kihei's oldest sports bar, The Sports Page for casual food and pitchers of beer. Shoot a little pool or toss a few darts. Great prices too. They are satellite connected for all sporting events.

Your every taste satisfied
Go on to Kamaole II to have your every taste satisfied from picnic lunches to fine dining at Kihei Kai Nani Center. Annie's has been a Kihei favorite for over 10 years. There's outside seating with an oceanview also. Annie's Deli has the biggest freshest sandwiches southside and daily specials. Home cooking for breakfast, lunch, and takeouts. 808 875-8647.

In the same building facing the ocean and South Kihei Road, you'll find KKO for fun casual fare, featuring open-air dining both inside and outside.

KKO Managaer, Dave Yarbough

Open Air Ocean Views
Long-time Kihei favorite, KKO, has sweeping ocean views, fine dining at value prices and open-air dining inside and out with lots of decorative touches and creative favorite food choices. Fresh fish, steaks, sushi, vegetarian dishes and pasta, plus casual fun fare.

There are sunset specials, an extensive wine list and friendly service. Open daily breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Kihei Boat Ramp is the launch point for private craft and Kanaio Coast rafting trips.

Launch Point
On the way to Wailea, we pass several of the medium-sized resorts mauka side and Kamaole III , Kihei Boat Ramp, launch point for smaller craft and rafts for fast, 15 minute trips to Molokini and the Kanio Coast lava caves. On the far right hill is the community building occupied temporarily by police and lifeguards. This ocean front property and gazebo is open to the public. Hopefully the building also will be made available for weddings, birthdays and events soon.

Steve, little David and Judi Pawlak model some of their resort wear.

Before leaving Kihei, stop in the Mana Kai Resort, an insider's favorite for swimming, dining and shopping.

Oceanside Shopping
Just past the boat ramp and before Wailea at the Mana Kai Resort, you will find great clothing for the whole family at Hi'i-Lani Ka-Leo-Aloha Apparel & Gift Shop. Judi, the owner, named the store in memory of her mother. Large sizes, mumus, aloha shirts at reasonable prices. Hawaiian ties you can even wear on the mainland. Great selections. Everything you need to wear pool side, casual and dress. There is also a selection of "Made On Maui" fragrances, soaps and lotions, hand-crafted candles and "Angelitos" soft sculpture. 2960 So. Kihei Rd., Mana Kai Resort. 808 879-6933

Affordable Homes
Accommodations are many and varied on Maui. B&Bs, cottages and vacation homes are provided wiki wiki (quickly) by Affordable Accommodations hostess, Lynda Little 808 879-7865

Maui Transportion - Both Public and Private
One of Maui's early families, the Akinas, started Maui's oldest transportation business in 1918. Then it was banana wagons and taxis. Today, the Akinas' family fleet consists of sleak European-crafted buses that provide public transportation all over the island, limousines and tour vans. They also have buses with karaoke machines and the Black Beauty luxury limousine bus for small parties. Akina Bus Service. AkinaTours.com. For schedules, call: 808 879-2828.

••> Go on to WAILEA
You can skip around too.
Ma'alaea • Kihei • Wailea • Makena & La Perouse Bay