Personal blog about states
Maui’s
Kihei Provides Easy Access to Explore Other Areas of Maui It takes only about 20 minutes (depending on traffic conditions) to drive from the Kahului Airport to north Kihei , and it’s easy to reach other parts of the island from Kihei .
30 minutes
Kihei is a pretty safe area to visit, but there are safety concerns anywhere, so it’s a good idea to always be aware of your surroundings.
Kihei has what I consider moderate wind, mid-day, most of the time. Usually swimming is nicest in the morning or late afternoon. Maalaea, on the other hand, usually has strong wind from about 11am’ish to 2pm’ish.
As you mentioned, Wailea is more upscale with more attractive and expensive accomodations. There are locations in Kihei that can be nearly as nice and a lot less expensive. I would recommend a Condo and would also recommend renting a car.
The 5 Best Beaches on Maui Napili Beach . Pack your snorkels! Ka’anapali Beach . Once a stomping ground for Hawaiian royalty, Ka’anapali Beach has grown into one of the most famous —and most visited— beaches on Maui (but don’t worry, the crowds are a far cry from those you’ll find on Oahu). Top left photo courtesy of EyeEm. Wailea Beach . Hamoa Beach .
West Maui
The word means cape, cloak, shawl or blanket. Every Hawaiian child grew up with a “ Kihei ” a lightweight clinging blanket which they took to bed with them as they would a teddy bear. How appropriate that it’s Hawaiian name means “abundance.”
Wailea is much more laid back which means there is not alot of activities in the area but the area is beautiful. Lahaina is much more active, shall I say, and there is alot to do. But there are also more people around too.
There are 3 ways to get from Kīhei to Lahaina by bus , taxi or car Take the line 15 bus from S. Kihei Rd./Kaonoulu St. to Ma’alaea Harbor Village 15. Take the bus from Maalaea Harbor Village to Wharf Cinema Center Lahaina Islander #20 /
If you are into long sandy beaches then stay in Kaanapali or Napili Bay area and they are cooler temps than downtown Lahaina . If you like history then stay in downtown Lahaina .
Kihei has nearly everything you need for daily living . Except for a hospital, this town has it all. There are 3 major grocery stores, dozens of restaurants and shops, a post office, library, gas stations and plenty of outdoor areas to enjoy. It’s also centrally located to the entire island of Maui.
15 Terrifying Things In Hawaii That Can (And Just Might) Kill You Huge Waves, Hurricanes & Tsunamis. Steven Worster/Flickr. Sun Poisoning. David Fulmer/Flickr. Centipedes. Steve/Flickr. Honolulu Traffic. Hiking Trails. Grocery Shopping. Sharks. Jellyfish, eels, and other dangerous sea creatures.
In part 2 of this post I’ll detail the pros , but below I will share 18 downsides of living in Hawaii : Extremely High Cost of Living . There Are No Seasons. It’s 80 Degrees And Sunny All Year Long. Things Get Done On “ Hawaiian Time” Lack Of Recycling, Compost, and Overall A Terrible Waste Management System.