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Ocean Activities | Tagged Posts
2016
15
April
Wailea vs Kihei vs West Maui: Which is Best for Families?
15
April
Question:
Humans say...
Sharron
Kihea orLahina!
Kate
Stayed in Kihei with a toddler and it was PERFECT! We stayed in Maui Vista, just across the street from Charley Young beach. Ideal location. A HUGE playground just north with restaurants and shopping, more walkable stores and restaurants just south. Would stay in that spot in a heartbeat.
Ryan
We're fling to Kihei this Sunday for a 10 days with our 5 month old (and another couple with a 3 year old and a 9 month old). Any places you can recommend specifically? (beaches, restaurants, walks, etc.). We're staying here - https://www.google.ca/.../data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0...
GOOGLE.CA
Menehune Shores Condominium
Kate
That's a 55 minute walk north of where I stayed, quite a lot quieter up there. I only passed through this part of Kihei when I was driving to Lahaina or north to Target.
If you have a rental car get groceries at Target (and bring bags, there are probably some in the condo, since they charge for them and only have fabric bags).
The pie shop on the way to Lahaina is awesome. We parked in Kanapaali and strolled the waterfront walking hotel to hotel. Did the same in Wailea and it was great.
Immigrant at the Marriott in Wailea has amazing happy hour specials in the lounge/pub, not to be missed.
Joy's place had healthy smoothies and sandwiches, a bit pricey but delicious, right near the big playground at Kalama Park. Kihei cafe across the street is good too but very very busy, might be tough for a large group.
Cafe O Lei was great for dinning, good food and really family friendly, great service.
Darrell
We stayed with our 4 kids in Kihei and it was great
Natalie
Definitely Kihei. Great area and tons of family friendly beaches.
Cathy
Have stayed in both Lahaina and Kaanapali, loved them both. I don't think you can lose anywhere in Maui.
Lori
If you have kids, you may want to check where the surf will be rougher when you're there. From what I remember, its usually rougher in the Kaanapali area.
Lisa
Kihei
Celia
Thanks everyone very useful info.
Celia
By the way, is the weather in beg of Mar warm enough to go into the water? What is the temperature likely to be?
Kate
Ocean temp won't change too much year round, last November when I was there it was like a bath
Graham
Lol..you swim all year round there
Robi
My wife and I stayed in Kihei and it was so really beautiful. We stayed at the Maui on the Banyan
Cathy
Kihei does have better beaches for kids, there is more drop off beaches in kaanapali where as in Kihei you can walk out further in the the water. The waves are pretty big on the beaches of kaanapali too. But it's all beautiful
Cindy
We luv kaanapali as more to do at night. Kihei is quieter. Look atvrbo rentals for a family.
A.I. says...
Maui Family Vacation: Where to Stay?
Planning a family vacation to the beautiful island of Maui can be an exciting experience, but deciding where to stay can be a daunting task. Maui offers a variety of regions, each with its own unique charm and attractions. In this blog post, we'll explore the pros and cons of staying in Wailea, Kihei, or the West Side (including Kaanapali and Lahaina), considering different perspectives with and without kids.
Wailea
Located on the southwestern coast of Maui, Wailea is a luxurious resort area known for its upscale hotels, pristine beaches, and world-class golf courses. If you're traveling with kids, Wailea can be a great choice due to its family-friendly amenities and activities:
- Beautiful, calm beaches with gentle waves, perfect for young children
- Kid-friendly pools and water parks at many resorts
- Easy access to attractions like the Maui Ocean Center and the Wailea Beach Walk
- Plenty of dining options, ranging from casual to fine dining
On the other hand, Wailea can be more expensive than other areas, and it may feel a bit isolated if you're looking for a more lively atmosphere.
Kihei
Kihei is a laid-back beach town located just north of Wailea, offering a more affordable and low-key vibe. If you're traveling with kids, Kihei can be a great option due to its convenient location and family-friendly amenities:
- Numerous affordable condo rentals and vacation rentals
- Easy access to beaches, parks, and shopping centers
- Proximity to attractions like the Maui Aquarium and the Kalama Beach Park
- Plenty of casual dining options and grocery stores
However, Kihei may lack the luxury resort experience and amenities that some families might prefer.
West Side (Kaanapali, Lahaina, etc.)
The West Side of Maui, including areas like Kaanapali and Lahaina, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. If you're traveling with kids, the West Side can be a great choice due to its variety of activities and attractions:
- Historic towns like Lahaina, offering a glimpse into Maui's past
- Numerous beach parks and water activities like snorkeling and whale watching
- Proximity to attractions like the Maui Ocean Center and the Kaanapali Beach Walk
- Plenty of dining options, ranging from casual to upscale
However, the West Side can be more crowded and touristy than other areas, and accommodations may be more expensive during peak seasons.
Ultimately, the decision of where to stay on Maui will depend on your family's preferences, budget, and desired experience. Each area offers its own unique advantages and disadvantages,
Sites
Celia
Wailea, Kihei or West side(Kaanapali, Lahaina,etc) in MAUI, where to stay? Thoughts? With kids to different viewpoints.