South Maui
Considered one of the fastest growing areas on the Island, South Maui features the islands budding high tech industry. One of the newest resort communities, Kihei is growing its technology industry. Kihei is also home to the long and beautiful Sugar Beach with its many resorts and hotels.
One site not to be missed is the Maui Ocean Center. This state-of-the-art aquarium features marine life native to the Hawaiian Islands. Visitors can walk through a tunnel running inside of a 750,000 gallon tank, watching a diver feed hungry sharks. Thousands of sea creatures can be viewed up close within their living coral reef habitats. With over 60 exhibits, the Maui Ocean Center is one of the finest tropical aquariums in the world.
Other beautiful beaches located in South Maui include Kamaole Beach Park, Keawakapu Beach, Ulua Beach, Maluaka Beach, and Makena State Park. The south shores of Maui are known for their coral reefs and still waters. This area is perfect for snorkelers and scuba divers.
Perhaps the most famous spot for scuba and snorkel lovers is Molokini Island. Formed by an offshore, volcanic crater, the island sticks out of the water in a crescent moon shape. The uninhabited island off of Ma'alaea Bay contains only 26 acres and has been designated a wildlife sanctuary. Visitors interested in Molokini can purchase either half-day or full-day dive/snorkel trips. As a wildlife sanctuary, walking on the island is discouraged.
South Maui also features the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, one of the few natural wetlands remaining in the Hawaiian Islands. Situated off the coast between Kihei and Ma'alaea Kealia Pond floods in the winter and partially dries in the summer, creating a natural breeding ground for many of Hawaii's endangered water birds.
Kihei is also home to the headquarters for the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Scientists estimate that nearly two-thirds of the Pacific population of endangered Humpback whales migrates to Hawaii each year to breed. The sanctuary is dedicated to the study and preservation of these glorious animals. Visit this area during the winter months for spectacular whale watching.
Hawaii Vacations
Maui Vacation
South Maui
