Where to stay

The beaches in Kihei are so plentiful that some are given numbers rather than names. Find lodging at the northern end of Kihei near the relatively small and uncrowded Kalepolepo Beach Park, where kids can build sandcastles and watch for whales. Stop at the nearby Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center to learn about these majestic creatures. Just south, Kamaole Beach Parks I, II, and III are the main sandy spots in town. Stay across the road here and wander to the ocean to take surfing lessons on the gentle waves. Try snorkeling next to the rocks at the ends of these separate beach stretches. Continuing south, Wailea has a long public beach path meandering along the shore past larger hotels and is host to several resort accommodations, as well as impressive private homes.

Book a hotel in Makena to play golf on one of the Makena Golf Courses, with great fairways and greens and spectacular ocean views. Stay at the northern end of Kihei to book a snorkeling trip to Mo-lokini Island out of Maalaea Harbor. Colorful fish and sea turtles are usually present. In the spring, whales may be visible during the boat ride. Near Maalaea, go birdwatching for herons and endan-gered species like the ae'o (or Hawaiian stilt) from the boardwalk at the Kealia Pond National Wild-life Refuge. Arrange accommodations in Kihei with a kitchen and visit one of the area's farm stands to purchase fresh island produce to prepare at home.

The ProArts Playhouse in Kihei offers selections of theater, music, comedy, and more. In general, Maui's island culture is a bit different from big-city culture. Instead of orchestras, museums, and art galleries, expect to find Taiko drumming, lei-making, and trivia competitions. Sign up to attend one of the regular luaus at a resort hotel in Wailea, with excellent local food, mai tai cocktails, and Hawaiian dancers. Nearby, Pa'ako Beach, also known as Secret Cove, has a small crescent of a beach that is very popular, but more for weddings than for swimming. Join visitors and locals celebrating local beer-making at the Maui Brewing Company in the hills overlooking Kihei Regional Park.