While Molokini Crater isn’t actually in Kihei, it is one of the closest and most direct take-off points to reach the volcanic atoll that attracts nearly half a million visitors each year. Located just over 2 miles offshore from Kihei, Molokini Crater offers excellent visibility, calm waters and an abundance of unique marine life. On all of our snorkeling tours, we offer guests the opportunity to snorkel within the crater before making a trip to the less frequented back side for an equally awe-worthy snorkeling experience along Molokini Crater’s back wall.
During the months of December to April, whale watching is one of the most popular activities on Maui, and for good reason. While you can often see these majestic animals from shore, we suggest taking a whale watching tour from kihei with us to see them up close and personal. Maui is considered by many as the whale watching mecca of the Hawaiian Islands, and our raft allows for quick travel and less time spent searching. Our small number of guests (maximum of 24 people) and nearly on-level ocean views provide the perfect way to appreciate the beauty of Maui’s beloved whale population.
If you love the ocean like we do, you probably already know that scuba diving is one of the best ways to see and appreciate Maui’s unique marine life. Mike Severns Diving offers several scuba diving tours from South Kihei, including Molokini Crater, St. Anthony’s wreck, Kihei to Makena, Pinnacle dive, La Perouse Bay, WWII Objects dive, Muck dive and a Coral Spawning dive.
On Maui’s southwest shore, once a destination for Hawaiian royalty, Kihei and Wailea offer views of the islands Kahoolawe, Lanai, West Maui, and Molokini. Kihei’s sunny coastal area with 6 miles of beautiful, golden sand beaches is the perfect place for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing. You may even spot some of our local wildlife, like our gentle green sea turtles, playful dolphins, or even a humpback whale! Waipuilani Park with its calm shoreline is wonderful for building sandcastles, long walks, and gorgeous sunsets. Kalama Beach Park (“The Cove”) offers beginners surfing, volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts, and a large playground, all nestled alongside a paved beach path with spectacular views. Kamaole Beach Parks 1, 2, & 3 are popular destination beaches with full bathroom and shower facilities. Keawakapu Beach is wonderful for a sunrise walk or jog offering an array of tide pools to explore, and an enjoyable spot for boogie boarding. These are just a few recommendations. With so many top-rated beaches to explore, have fun and enjoy!