Kihei, Maui’s Sunny South Shore, Gives Wailea a Run for the Money

Kihei was a place that I visited frequently in my early years. My first job was in Kihei and boy has it changed since.

Kihei is currently the area I call home now. It has the perfect blend of beaches, activities, shopping, real estate and an amazing 50 meter pool located at the Kihei Aquatic Center. Kihei wasn’t always this mecca of activity. The Hawaiians used to refer to this area as “Kama’ole” which means “barren.”

Kamaole Beach Park

Kihei is situated on the coast, Southwest of Haleakala and was noted for its sunny and dry climate. In the early 1900’s approximately 350 people made Kihei their home. Other than fishing and kiawe trees, nothing else attracted people to this area.

Fast forward to today. People now flock to Kihei for its sunny and dry climate. 100 years can change people’s perceptions. The beaches are world class, giving Wailea and Makena a run for their money.

Charlie Young Beach

Kihei is not only about the beach. The main road, South Kihei Road, is lined with shopping, activities, theatres, restaurants and some of the best Real Estate on the island.

The Humpback Whale Museum is located on S. Kihei Road

If you want an affordable condo on the island, Kihei would be my first suggestion. If a condo is not what you are after, the single family home stock is very diverse here. Prices range between $240,000 to $4 million.

Hoohale Street in Kihei

Check out my gallery of Kiheihomes for sale to view some of my favorites. If you are looking for a house or a condo, you will find it in Kihei and I will find it for you. Contact me at ken@hawaiilife.com.