Suggestions for things to do before check-in?

Question

I'll be flying on July 4th from HNL to Maui for the second week of our Hawaiian vacation. We are staying in a condo in Kihei and will arrive around noon. We were thinking of getting lunch at the Cosco food trucks or in Paia. We can't check in until 4, any ideas of things to do from noon to 4. We will have a rental but it will have all our luggage in it. I was thinking of heading to Iao Valley for a quick hike but not sure since the car will have all of our stuff in it.

Thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you have a great trip planned! Since you have some time between your arrival and check-in, here are some suggestions for things to do in the Kihei area from noon to 4 PM, while keeping in mind your luggage in the rental car. I’ll provide ideas that are close by, low-stress, and won’t require you to leave your luggage unattended.

First off, grabbing lunch at the food trucks near Costco or in Paia is a great idea. The food trucks in both locations serve delicious, local-style meals. After lunch, here are some activities you can enjoy until check-in:

Relax at a Beach: Kihei has some beautiful beaches where you can unwind without worrying about your luggage. You can visit Kamaole Beach Park or Charley Young Beach, both of which are easy to access and offer great spots to relax, take a swim, or just enjoy the views. These beaches have plenty of parking, and you can keep your luggage in the car while you enjoy the sun.
Visit the Maui Ocean Center: The Maui Ocean Center is just a short drive from Kihei and offers a fascinating experience with marine life. It’s indoors, so it’s a good option if you want to stay cool and be close to your car. You’ll find exhibits on local sea life and can learn about the island’s aquatic ecosystems.
Explore the Shops at Wailea: If you're in the mood for a little shopping or window shopping, head to the Shops at Wailea, which are about a 15-minute drive from Kihei. The area offers boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. It’s a relaxing, low-key place to pass the time without straying too far from your car.
Stroll Around Paia Town: Since you mentioned Paia, it’s worth spending some time here if you haven’t already explored it. This charming town has a laid-back vibe with colorful boutiques, local shops, and art galleries. You can take a walk, browse, and grab a refreshing drink or snack before check-in. Just make sure to park in a safe spot with your luggage secured in the car.
Drive to Iao Valley (But Consider Your Luggage): Iao Valley is beautiful, but if you’re concerned about leaving your luggage in the car, it might not be the best option. However, if you’re okay with that, you could take a short drive up to the Iao Needle for a quick look. The area has a visitor center, and there are short, easy trails you can walk to get great views of the valley. If you don’t want to leave the car in the parking lot for too long, you can simply stop at the lookout point for a quick visit and enjoy the scenery.

Ultimately, relaxing at one of the beaches or exploring the shops in Wailea or Paia might be the best options if you want to avoid any stress about leaving your luggage in the car. They are close by, easy to access, and give you plenty of time to enjoy Maui before check-in. If you're looking for a more active option, the Maui Ocean Center or a short visit to Iao Valley are also great choices.

Whatever you choose, enjoy your time on Maui and have a fantastic vacation!