The Maui "Gold Coast"

Maalaea is a laid back village consisting of smaller condominiums alongside a small boat harbor where many activity, and fishing charters depart from.

Kihei is one of the fastest growing towns in the country. Made up of a six mile stretch of, mini malls, condominiums, residential housing, and beach parks, Kihei has a very eclectic layout.

Wailea, though just a stone's throw from Kihei, is another world entirely. As you head into Wailea the first thing you may notice is how lush & green its meticulously manicured landscaping is. Here resides some of Maui's finest golf courses, tennis courts, high end boutiques, and art galleries featuring the works of Picasso, Botero, and other great artists. Not to mention 5 world class hotels, 6 luxury condominiums, restaurants that will dazzle the palate, and beaches that rival those anywhere in the world. A visit or better yet a stay in Wailea is a delight to all the senses.

Makena, located four miles past Wailea, is where you'll find "Big Beach". Although somewhat developed, it is still counted among Maui's best beaches. Adjacent to Big Beach is "Little Beach", Maui's popular nude beach. Although authorities frown upon sunbathing in the buff, if you are the adventurous type this may be the spot for you (just don't get caught with your pants down).

South Maui - Sites To See:

Maui Ocean Center is a relatively new addition to the growing Maalaea area. Featuring live exhibits of Hawaiian marine life: Turtles, sharks, reef fish of all colors, and sea life that exists nowhere else in the world. More than an aquarium, the center focuses on being an educational experience as well as an entertaining one. This is one of the many exceptional activities for children on Maui! There is an admission fee, but it is more than worth it.

Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve, located roughly 4 miles past Makena encompasses over 2000 acres that has been set aside to preserve the habitat of a wide variety of coastal marine creatures. Located on the grounds of the reserve are the remains of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village. Snorkel the bay & you are likely to find brightly colored corals and a dazzling array of fish. Be forewarned that road conditions may be a bit rough.

The Kamaole Beaches - (Kam 1,2, and 3) run the length of much of southern Kihei. The surf can often pick up in the afternoons, driven by gusty trade winds, so the mornings are the best time to enjoy the sun and surf here.

Mai Poina Oe Ia'u Beach - Located on the north end of Kihei, Mai Poina Oe Ia'u continues from Sugar Beach and extends south a good distance down the Kihei coast . This is a good area for kids, as the surf is small & gentle. However, this isn't the best area for snorkeling.

WAILEA - MAKENA - Beaches here are numerous and vary from long stretches of white sand beach, to smaller cove-like beaches. These include: Keawakapu Beach, Wailea - Makena, Ulua / Mokapu Beach(s), Wailea Beach, Polo Beach, Palauea Beach, Makena Landing, Malu'aka Beach, Oneuli Beach, Makena Beach, Little Beach, Ahihi -Kina'u Reserve, and La Perouse Bay.

Accommodations:

South Maui has accommodations to fit every budget, whether you're looking for a charming Bed & Breakfast, an upscale vacation home, or a deluxe, five-diamond resort. Below are just a few of your many options:

The Maui Coast Hotel - 2259 South Kihei Road, Kihei; 1-800-426-0670, 874-6284
The Maui Lu Resort - 575 South Kihei Road, Kihei; 1-800-922-7866, 879-5881
Kamaole Sands - (808) 874-8700
Aston At The Maui Banyon - 2575 South Kihei Road; (808)875-0004
Aston Wailea Resort - 3700 Wailea Alanui; 879-1922
Four Seasons Resort - Wailea 3900 Wailea Alanui; 874-8000
Grand Wailea Resort - (808) 875-1234
Kea Lani Hotel Suites & Villas - 4100 Wailea Alanui; 1-800-659-4100, 875-4100
Maui Prince - 5400 Makena Alanui; 874-1111
 

Dining:

{¢ = inexpensive, ¢-$ = moderate, $ = expensive, $$ = take out a loan before dining here}

Alexander's Fish and Chips - 1913 S Kihei Road (874-0788) Fresh Island Seafood ...{¢}
Carelli's On The Beach - 2980 S. Kihei Road (875-0001) Beach side Italian Dining. "Where the stars come out at night"
Reservations Recommended..{$$}
The Greek Bistro - 2511 S Kihei Road (879-9330) Fantastic Mediterranean Cuisine!!! ...{¢-$}
Stella Blues Cafe- 1215 S. Kihei Road (874-3779) ...{¢}

Golf:

Discover Maui before you arrive! Island Publication Pack only $8.95

Makena Golf Club North Course - Greens fee: $110 w/cart every day. 5415 Makena
Alanui, Kihei, 96753. (808) 879-3344. Head Pro: Howard Kihune, Jr. Resort.
Makena Golf Club South Course - Resort. Greens fee: $110 w/cart every day. 5415
Makena Alanui, Kihei, 96753. (808) 879-3344. Head Pro: Howard Kihune, Jr.
Wailea Resort Blue Course - Resort. Greens fee: $125 w/cart every day. 120 Kaukahi St.,
Kihei, 96753. (808) 879-2966. Head Pro: Rusty Hathaway.
Wailea Resort Gold Course -- Resort. Greens fee: $130 w/cart every day. 120 Kaukahi
St., Kihei, 96753. (808) 879-2966. Head Pro: Rich Castillo.
Wailea Resort Emerald Course - Resort. Greens fee: $125 w/cart every day. 120 Kaukahi
St., Kihei, 96753. (808) 879-2966. Head Pro: Rusty Hathaway.
Silversword Golf Club -- Public. Greens fee: $57 w/cart. 1345 Piilani Hwy., Kihei, 96753.
(808) 874-0777.