Guidebook for Maui
Food Scene
These are some of the many wonderful places to eat in Maui. Most are places we go on just about every trip. Please be sure to let us know what you think of them.
Simply the best Sushi in Hawaii. Hiro is a master sushi chef that caters to celebrities and vacationers alike. The restaurant is small and they only do two seating a night. Call about three weeks in advance.
31 locals recommend
Koiso Sushi Bar
2395 S Kihei RdSimply the best Sushi in Hawaii. Hiro is a master sushi chef that caters to celebrities and vacationers alike. The restaurant is small and they only do two seating a night. Call about three weeks in advance.
Cafe O' Lei offers a moderate priced dinning experience. The food is fantastic and the ambience is extraordinary. It is also walking distance from Kamaole Sands
241 locals recommend
Cafe O'Lei Kihei
2439 S Kihei RdCafe O' Lei offers a moderate priced dinning experience. The food is fantastic and the ambience is extraordinary. It is also walking distance from Kamaole Sands
Great place for breakfast. The line gets long but people move quick. If you get there earlier you should be better off. Cash only with ATM inside.
185 locals recommend
Kihei Caffe
1945 S Kihei RdGreat place for breakfast. The line gets long but people move quick. If you get there earlier you should be better off. Cash only with ATM inside.
Best coffee in Maui. On hot days the mocha frosty is amazing. In the morning the peaberry drip is the way to go. Just next door to Kihei Cafe. You get coffee here and eat at Kihei Cafe.
32 locals recommend
Lava Java Coffee Roasters of Maui
1941 S Kihei RdBest coffee in Maui. On hot days the mocha frosty is amazing. In the morning the peaberry drip is the way to go. Just next door to Kihei Cafe. You get coffee here and eat at Kihei Cafe.
The best burger on Maui. It is a bit of a trek to the lovely town of Lahaina but well worth the drive. Cool Cats is a 50's themed bar/restaurant that is perfect for families, large groups and couples.
48 locals recommend
Cool Cat Cafe
658 Front StThe best burger on Maui. It is a bit of a trek to the lovely town of Lahaina but well worth the drive. Cool Cats is a 50's themed bar/restaurant that is perfect for families, large groups and couples.
Pita Paradise offers flavors and freshness found nowhere else on the island. Their family recipes blend the rustic-style of Greece and Italy with fresh ingredients from Maui’s farms and waters to produce a flavor that is simply unmatched. From the daily fresh fish specials to the free-range lamb gyros and world-famous Baklava ice cream cake, you’ll taste the difference!
44 locals recommend
Pita Paradise
34 Wailea Ike DrPita Paradise offers flavors and freshness found nowhere else on the island. Their family recipes blend the rustic-style of Greece and Italy with fresh ingredients from Maui’s farms and waters to produce a flavor that is simply unmatched. From the daily fresh fish specials to the free-range lamb gyros and world-famous Baklava ice cream cake, you’ll taste the difference!
At Monkeypod, we recognize and support other craftsmen. By building partnerships with farmers, brewers, and artisans who share our passions, we can deliver the highest quality that Hawaii has to offer.
241 locals recommend
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman
10 Wailea Gateway PlAt Monkeypod, we recognize and support other craftsmen. By building partnerships with farmers, brewers, and artisans who share our passions, we can deliver the highest quality that Hawaii has to offer.
This hillside hotspot is constantly busy – and rightly so. Inside this sleek noodle shop, grazers can nibble on an eclectic array of Asian-fusion share plates. Those seeking heartier fare can dive into garlic noodles, kimchi ramen and a local saimin (local-style noodle soup; Spam included). A central communal table and the chatty bar keep the vibe lively.
110 locals recommend
Star Noodle
1285 Front StreetThis hillside hotspot is constantly busy – and rightly so. Inside this sleek noodle shop, grazers can nibble on an eclectic array of Asian-fusion share plates. Those seeking heartier fare can dive into garlic noodles, kimchi ramen and a local saimin (local-style noodle soup; Spam included). A central communal table and the chatty bar keep the vibe lively.
Sightseeing
Maui has several parks located throughout the island. Some have a small entrance fee and others are free. Beaches are always free and public. It is recommended that some areas on the remote west side past Honolua Bay are local only surf spots. You are still always welcome to enjoy the beach. If you see a private or locals only "kapu" sign please obey.
Iao Valley is a short hike that is perfect for the entire family. It is considered an easy hike with a beautiful look at preserved nature on Maui.
39 locals recommend
Iao Needle State Monument
Iao Valley is a short hike that is perfect for the entire family. It is considered an easy hike with a beautiful look at preserved nature on Maui.
Makawao is a great place to enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing and shopping in an artist community. Stroll the many art galleries, clothing and glass blowing shops. One of the best places to find a unique special gift from Hawaii thats not from a tourist shop. If you like Malasadas the best on island come from the T Komoda Store on the corner as you enter Baldwin Avenue (closed Sun & Wed).
117 locals recommend
Makawao
Makawao is a great place to enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing and shopping in an artist community. Stroll the many art galleries, clothing and glass blowing shops. One of the best places to find a unique special gift from Hawaii thats not from a tourist shop. If you like Malasadas the best on island come from the T Komoda Store on the corner as you enter Baldwin Avenue (closed Sun & Wed).
Nakalele Blowhole is one of the most amazing blowholes in Hawaii. One the perfect day it will send water close to 100 ft in the air. It is a moderate hike on sharp lava rock so best to do in shoes. You want to keep everyone far from the blowhole and ocean. Large waves have been know to take people close to the hole and ocean out to sea. The survival rate for those unlucky people is virtually zero. Alway respect the power of the ocean while on the islands.
71 locals recommend
Nakalele Blowhole
Nakalele Blowhole is one of the most amazing blowholes in Hawaii. One the perfect day it will send water close to 100 ft in the air. It is a moderate hike on sharp lava rock so best to do in shoes. You want to keep everyone far from the blowhole and ocean. Large waves have been know to take people close to the hole and ocean out to sea. The survival rate for those unlucky people is virtually zero. Alway respect the power of the ocean while on the islands.
Parks & Nature
Driving to Hana is a full day commitment. Make sure to leave before 7am so that you aren't getting to Ohe'o Gulch too late in the day. If you hike all the way to Waimoku Falls its almost a 5 mile round trip up a fairly good climb. This is a moderate hike that should be done by active people. Not recommended for anyone with health issues. Remember that at many locations on Maui are far from emergency services and it often takes many hours for help to arrive.
55 locals recommend
The Pools at 'Ohe'o
Pipiwai TrailDriving to Hana is a full day commitment. Make sure to leave before 7am so that you aren't getting to Ohe'o Gulch too late in the day. If you hike all the way to Waimoku Falls its almost a 5 mile round trip up a fairly good climb. This is a moderate hike that should be done by active people. Not recommended for anyone with health issues. Remember that at many locations on Maui are far from emergency services and it often takes many hours for help to arrive.
Want to get out of the heat? The Haleakala Crater is an absolutely amazing place unlike anywhere in the world. On a clear day you can almost see forever. If you go for sunrise be aware you need a special parking permit ordered at least 30days before you leave. They do offer last minute spots after 4PM for the following morning. You will want to leave Kihei around 2-2:30 AM to make it one time without feeling rushed. Bring pants, jackets and an supplied extra blanket. If you do use the blanket outside the unit we ask you wash and dry it before you check out of Maui Kamaole.
130 locals recommend
Haleakala Crater
Want to get out of the heat? The Haleakala Crater is an absolutely amazing place unlike anywhere in the world. On a clear day you can almost see forever. If you go for sunrise be aware you need a special parking permit ordered at least 30days before you leave. They do offer last minute spots after 4PM for the following morning. You will want to leave Kihei around 2-2:30 AM to make it one time without feeling rushed. Bring pants, jackets and an supplied extra blanket. If you do use the blanket outside the unit we ask you wash and dry it before you check out of Maui Kamaole.
Kipahulu is why you should do the road to Hana. There really isn't anything to see in Hana. If you travel a few miles past Hana you come to the Kipahulu "Oheo Gulch". It is part of the Haleakala National Forest and the permit you get at the front gate is good here and at the Haleakala Crater. The hiking here is fantastic and the journey through the bamboo forest is incredible. Bring or buy insect repellant as you will need it!
Kīpahulu Forest Reserve
Kipahulu is why you should do the road to Hana. There really isn't anything to see in Hana. If you travel a few miles past Hana you come to the Kipahulu "Oheo Gulch". It is part of the Haleakala National Forest and the permit you get at the front gate is good here and at the Haleakala Crater. The hiking here is fantastic and the journey through the bamboo forest is incredible. Bring or buy insect repellant as you will need it!
Shopping
Just a short 2 miles away it is perfect for people that enjoy walking. If not take the car. Parking is free for the first 45 minutes. They have just about everything you need there.
222 locals recommend
The Shops at Wailea
3750 Wailea Alanui DrJust a short 2 miles away it is perfect for people that enjoy walking. If not take the car. Parking is free for the first 45 minutes. They have just about everything you need there.
Hot Island Glass
3620 Baldwin AveAmazing island glass. Watch the artists work inside the gallery.
Lahaina Cannery Mall
Great indoor mall to shop for gifts.
Great ocean front restaurants, art galleries, ABC Store, Maui history, the best Luau on Maui, lots of shopping, awesome shaved ice, great views of Lanai and the largest Banyan tree in Hawaii.
29 locals recommend
Front Street
Front StreetGreat ocean front restaurants, art galleries, ABC Store, Maui history, the best Luau on Maui, lots of shopping, awesome shaved ice, great views of Lanai and the largest Banyan tree in Hawaii.
Essentials
Great place to support the local economy. The prices are fair and the service is fantastic.
218 locals recommend
Foodland Kihei
1881 S Kihei RdGreat place to support the local economy. The prices are fair and the service is fantastic.
The new Target in Kahului is a super store with groceries. It is near the airport next to Lowes.
32 locals recommend
Target
100 Ho'okele StThe new Target in Kahului is a super store with groceries. It is near the airport next to Lowes.
While we try to support the local shops something have to be bought at Costco. It is recommended that you make a list of things you need and stop at Costco before you leave Kahului in route to South Kihei. Remember we supply beach equipment, snorkel gear and most of the things you need for a fantastic holiday on Maui. You will want sunscreen, food and drinks.
161 locals recommend
Costco Wholesale
540 Haleakala HwyWhile we try to support the local shops something have to be bought at Costco. It is recommended that you make a list of things you need and stop at Costco before you leave Kahului in route to South Kihei. Remember we supply beach equipment, snorkel gear and most of the things you need for a fantastic holiday on Maui. You will want sunscreen, food and drinks.
Entertainment & Activities
If you are a diver then B&B is the company for you. They operate a 2 tank diving boat out of the Kihei Boat Ramp just down the street. It is an early morning and you return around 10am. Call ahead as the boat books up.
6 locals recommend
B&B scuba
1280 S Kihei RdIf you are a diver then B&B is the company for you. They operate a 2 tank diving boat out of the Kihei Boat Ramp just down the street. It is an early morning and you return around 10am. Call ahead as the boat books up.
Maui is the best place for Zipline and Canopy tours. Piiholo ranch is just above Makawao town and its the best zipline operator on the island. I recommend the canopy tours over the "Zipline". Both are full of fun. If you are more about seeing nature and the beautiful forest you will agree with me. On the canopy tour you go from tree to tree ziplining through the forest. It will take your breath away. Not recommended for people afraid of heights.
Piiholo Ranch Zipline
799 Piiholo RoadMaui is the best place for Zipline and Canopy tours. Piiholo ranch is just above Makawao town and its the best zipline operator on the island. I recommend the canopy tours over the "Zipline". Both are full of fun. If you are more about seeing nature and the beautiful forest you will agree with me. On the canopy tour you go from tree to tree ziplining through the forest. It will take your breath away. Not recommended for people afraid of heights.
Simply the best operator for seeing whales and not getting wet in the process. They also have the best trained naturalists onboard to give you a brief education on the whale migration to Maui. Only available from December thru April.
77 locals recommend
Pacific Whale Foundation
300 Maalaea RdSimply the best operator for seeing whales and not getting wet in the process. They also have the best trained naturalists onboard to give you a brief education on the whale migration to Maui. Only available from December thru April.
Blue Water Rafting has been offering a variety of high adventure snorkeling and sightseeing tours on Maui since 1985. The tours are an awesome small group adventure! They offer boats that leave from the Kihei boat ramp just across from Maui Kamaole. It is a short walk in the morning to the boat ramp. You can get wet on the whale watching tours. If you prefer to stay dry see Pacific Whale Foundation tours.
10 locals recommend
Blue Water Rafting
2800 South Kihei RoadBlue Water Rafting has been offering a variety of high adventure snorkeling and sightseeing tours on Maui since 1985. The tours are an awesome small group adventure! They offer boats that leave from the Kihei boat ramp just across from Maui Kamaole. It is a short walk in the morning to the boat ramp. You can get wet on the whale watching tours. If you prefer to stay dry see Pacific Whale Foundation tours.
Treats
If you like chocolate then you will love Sweet Paradise Chocolatier. The make some of the most beautiful and delicious treats I have ever had. They taste as amazing as they look. If you like chocolate and spicy food then get a hot shot. It is unforgettable.
Sweet Paradise Chocolatier
34 Wailea Ike DrIf you like chocolate then you will love Sweet Paradise Chocolatier. The make some of the most beautiful and delicious treats I have ever had. They taste as amazing as they look. If you like chocolate and spicy food then get a hot shot. It is unforgettable.
Maui Pie
1280 S Kihei RdAmazing local pies. They also make incredible chicken pot pies.
There are several Ululani's Shave Ice on Maui. They are not snow cones! If you have never had one then give them a try especially on a hot day.
76 locals recommend
Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice
61 S Kihei RdThere are several Ululani's Shave Ice on Maui. They are not snow cones! If you have never had one then give them a try especially on a hot day.
Lappert's Ice Cream is located in Wailea and Lahaina. They offer specially created Hawaiian ice cream. It is fantastic and they offer free samples.
8 locals recommend
Lappert's Hawaii
3750 Wailea Alanui DrLappert's Ice Cream is located in Wailea and Lahaina. They offer specially created Hawaiian ice cream. It is fantastic and they offer free samples.