Kihei accommodations

Question

First time visit to Maui for family of 4 adults and 2 preteens. We love beaches, pools and walks as well as coffee shops and bakeries. Any suggestions are appreciated as to where to stay in the south part of Maui?

Answer

Aloha! Kihei on the south side of Maui is a fantastic choice for families looking for beaches, pools, and a relaxed vibe with access to coffee shops and bakeries. Since this is your first trip to Maui and you are traveling with both adults and preteens, here’s a detailed breakdown of the best areas and accommodations in Kihei.

Why Kihei?

Kihei offers a laid-back, less resort-heavy atmosphere compared to Wailea or Lahaina. It has long sandy beaches, calm waters suitable for kids, good walking paths along the coastline, and plenty of casual restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries. It’s also centrally located, making it convenient for day trips to other parts of Maui.

Recommended Areas in South Maui

Kamaole Beach Parks: Kihei has three main Kamaole beaches (I, II, III). These are family-friendly, excellent for swimming, and have nearby parking. Staying near these beaches puts you close to shops and eateries.
South Kihei Road / Front Street area: Central Kihei, convenient access to grocery stores, coffee shops, and restaurants. Walking along the beachfront paths is easy and scenic.
Wailea (optional upscale area): Just south of Kihei, Wailea has luxurious resorts with pools and beach access. Good for a mix of relaxation and amenities, but slightly more expensive.

Accommodation Types

Vacation Rentals / Condos: Kihei has many condo complexes near the beach. These are ideal for families, offering kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and pool access. Examples include Kihei Akahi, Sugar Beach Resort, and Mana Kai Maui.
Hotels / Resorts: There are a few smaller hotels with pools and beachfront access. Some options:
- Kihei Beach Resort — small hotel with easy beach access and family-friendly amenities.
- Element by Westin Maui — mid-range, with pool and near shops and beaches.
Wailea Resorts: If you want a more upscale experience for part of your stay, consider Grand Wailea, Andaz Maui, or Fairmont Kea Lani — all have large pools, easy beach access, and luxury amenities.

Family-Friendly Features to Look For

Multiple pools or pool areas suitable for children. Some condos offer separate kiddie pools or shallow wading areas.
Beach access — ideally walking distance to a calm, sandy beach.
Proximity to grocery stores and casual dining — Kihei has a good variety of coffee shops, bakeries, and family-friendly restaurants.
Parking availability — many condos and resorts in Kihei offer free parking or easy street parking, which is convenient for a family of six.

Other Tips

Renting a car is highly recommended — it allows you to explore nearby beaches, the Road to Hana, and other attractions at your own pace.
Book early, especially if traveling in peak season, as Kihei accommodations can fill up quickly.
Consider splitting your stay — a few nights in central Kihei for convenience, and a couple of nights in Wailea for a more resort-style experience with extensive pools.

In summary, for a first-time family visit, Kihei offers the perfect balance of laid-back beaches, convenient amenities, and access to walks, coffee shops, and bakeries. Choosing a beachfront condo or family-friendly resort near Kamaole Beach is ideal, and you can always take day trips to Wailea or other parts of Maui for a change of scenery.

Kihei accommodations

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