South Maui

Sun, Sand & Relaxed Island Living

South Maui is where Maui’s laid-back lifestyle meets endless sunshine. Stretching from North Kihei to the luxurious shores of Wailea and the quiet beaches of Makena, this region is known for its warm weather, swimmable beaches, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a resort-style atmosphere that still feels local. It’s one of the most desirable parts of the island for full-time residents, second-home owners, and luxury buyers alike.

A wooden walkway along a tropical beach with palm trees, green bushes, sandy shore, ocean waves, and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.

Real Estate Overview

South Maui is celebrated for its sunny weather, relaxed atmosphere, and beautiful beaches stretching from Kīhei to Wailea. The area offers a balance of convenience and resort-style luxury, with everyday amenities, great schools, and access to a pristine coastline. Wailea and Mākena are known for their upscale resorts, fine dining, and golf courses, while Kīhei provides a more casual, family-friendly lifestyle. South Maui homes range from oceanfront condos to luxury estates and comfortable residential neighborhoods.

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Underwater view of a sandy ocean floor with ripples and a calm blue water surface above.
Coastal scene with large volcanic rocks, green seaweed, and a sailboat in the distance on the ocean under a partly cloudy sky.

Why Buyers Love This Area

South Maui is where Maui’s laid-back lifestyle meets endless sunshine. With beaches stretching over 6 miles from North Kihei to the luxurious shores of Wailea, this region is known for its warm weather, swimmable beaches, family-friendly neighbourhoods, and a resort-style atmosphere that still feels local. It’s one of the most desirable parts of the island for full-time residents, second-home owners, and luxury buyers alike.

Underwater view of the ocean with sunlight reflecting on the sandy seabed.
Sunset over the ocean with waves crashing on the sandy beach, partly cloudy sky, and vibrant colors in the sky.

Lifestyle & Vibe

South Maui offers a relaxed, beach-oriented lifestyle that attracts people seeking easy access to outdoor activities, sunny afternoons, and walkable communities. Kihei is known for its casual, energetic feel — food trucks, surf lessons, local shops, and community parks. Wailea and Makena bring a more polished, upscale energy with world-class resorts, fine dining, golf courses, and luxury real estate. No matter the neighborhood, the overall feeling is approachable, friendly, and drenched in sunshine.

Underwater view of a sandy ocean floor with ripples and clear blue water.
A surfboard lying on grass with two pineapples on top and surfboard fins attached.

Neighborhoods of
South Maui

Kihei
A mix of single-family homes, beach condos, and residential neighborhoods. Great for families, first-time buyers, and anyone wanting walkability and convenience.

Wailea
A prestigious resort community with luxury homes, gated neighborhoods, high-end condos, and immaculate landscaping. Known for golf courses, fine dining, and beautiful crescent beaches.

Makena
More remote, private, and exclusive. Makena features estate properties, oceanfront homes, and natural untouched beauty with fewer crowds.

Underwater view of calm ocean with clear sandy bottom and ripples on the water surface.
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Schools

South Maui offers strong public and private school options with engaged parent communities.

Public

  • Kihei Elementary

  • Kamali‘i Elementary

  • Lokelani Intermediate

  • Kihei High School (brand new, modern campus)

Private / Charter Options

  • Hawai‘i Technology Academy (HTA) – hybrid learning

  • Montessori School of Maui (nearby in Makawao, but popular with South Maui families)

Underwater view of a sandy ocean floor with sunlight reflections and ripples on the water surface above.
Four bowls of poke bowls with various fresh ingredients on a black wooden table.

Dining & Local Favorites

South Maui is packed with amazing food — from oceanfront fine dining to quick grab-and-go plates after the beach. Popular spots include:

  • Nick’s Fishmarket (Wailea – upscale seafood & wine)

  • Monkeypod Kitchen (Wailea – famous for the mai tais & local ingredients)

  • Ka’ana Kitchen (Andaz – modern Hawaiian cuisine)

  • Isana (Kihei – sushi & Korean BBQ)

  • Cuatro (Kihei – Latin-Asian fusion)

  • Kihei Caffe (Kihei – iconic breakfast spot)

  • Nalu’s South Shore Grill (Kihei – live music & comfort food)

  • Coconut’s Fish Café (Kihei – fish tacos!)

  • Kō (Fairmont – plantation-inspired cuisine)

  • 808 deli (Kihei, local sandwich shop with world famous pudding)

Underwater view of clear water with sunlight reflections on sandy bottom and ripples on surface.
Colorful kayaks on the sandy beach near the ocean with palm trees and mountains in the background.

Beaches, Nature &
Outdoor Fun

South Maui is home to some of the island’s BEST beaches and clearest waters.

Top Beaches

  • Wailea Beach

  • Keawakapu Beach

  • Big Beach (Makena)

  • Kam I, II, & III (Kihei)

  • Maluaka Beach

Popular Activities

  • Snorkeling at Ulua Beach, Maluaka, and Po‘olenalena

  • Stand-up paddling along the Kihei coastline

  • Whale watching (prime viewing from December to April)

  • Beginner and intermediate surfing at The Cove

  • Sunset walks on Wailea Beach Path

  • Turtle spotting at Makena Landing

Underwater scene of a clear, shallow ocean with sunlight reflecting on the sandy bottom, rippled water surface overhead.
A scenic beach with golden sand, turquoise water, lush green trees, and distant green hills under a partly cloudy sky.

Lifestyle Amenities

South Maui is filled with family-friendly spaces:

  • Kalama Park – huge oceanfront park with playgrounds, skatepark, volleyball & picnics

  • Kamaole Beach Parks – perfect for swimming and sunset hangs

  • Wailea Beach Path – stunning coastal trail connecting resorts & beaches

  • Kihei Community Center – events, fairs & local gatherings

  • South Maui Gardens – food trucks, markets & lush tropical landscape

Underwater view of a sandy ocean floor with ripples, clear blue water, and sunlight reflections.
A whale breaching the ocean surface with water splashing around it under a blue sky with clouds.

Events & Local Highlights

South Maui loves community gatherings, live music, and oceanfront celebrations. Annual events include:

  • Wailea Restaurant Week

  • Kihei Fourth Friday (monthly block party)

  • Mālama Maui community beach cleanups

  • Wailea Film Festival events & galas

  • Whale season viewing parties & educational events

Underwater view of a sandy ocean floor with sunlight reflecting on the surface.