Living the KIHEI, HAWAII LifeStyle

Kalama Heights

     One step onto the soft, sugar white sand of Kalama Beach and it easy to understand why Hawaiian monarchs chose this magnificent location as their royal retreat for centuries.  Kalama Beach is just one of the fabulous beach-combing territories in Kihei, Hawaii.

Getting There

     Located 10 miles from the Kahului Airport, Kihei sits on the south side of Maui at the leeward side of the Haleakala Volcano.  The total area of Kihei is 11.7 square miles featuring more than 6 miles of some of the most pristine beaches in the world.   The short car ride from the airport to Kihei should take less than 15 minutes on the Veterans Highway (formerly Monkulele Highway). New travelers to the area should plan a longer commute to allow for the occasional stop to fully embrace the stunning scenery and historical landmarks.  

Along the Way

     Veterans Highway connects the Puunene Sugar Mill Community to Kalama Beach. With a population of about 50 people, Puunene has been a center for growing, harvesting, and processing sugar cane since 1901.   The operation originally called the Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Company is a division of the Alexander and Baldwin Company. The former plantation residence of the old mill superintendent is the center of the Alexander and Baldwin Museum.  A walking tour of the property offers a glimpse of early Hawaiian plantation life. The museum is devoted to protecting the tremendous history and heritage the sugar industry had on the development of Hawaii and the “multi-ethnic plantation life it engendered.”

     The Puunene Sugar Mill site includes the Puunene School which was built by the Hawaiian Commercial and Sugar Company in 1922.  The elementary school replaced a four-room building and became the largest elementary school on Maui with about 1000 students.  The two-story, concrete building is an excellent example of Classical Revival Architecture. The Puunene School was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 2000.

     Driving a few miles beyond the Puunene community history buffs will discover another pearl of interest.  The former Puunene Naval Air Station is located about 3 miles from the mill.  Constructed in 1937 and commissioned by the US Military in 1940 the base became an important post during World War II.  The old earth bunkers, now covered with vegetation once housed 3,300 military men and women.  It serviced some 271 aircraft and deployed 1065 squadrons from its runway.  Today, the Puunene Navy Air Station is surrounded by sugar cane fields. The runway is used by the Maui Raceway Park as an amateur stock car drag strip.  Plans are underway by Maui County to reclaim the abandoned base as the home of the Maui County Fairgrounds.

     Drive on along the countryside, and before you know it, the breathtaking view of Kalama Beach comes into focus.  Depending on the season and the time of day, arriving visitors often experience a “Robinson Crusoe moment” on Kalama Beach. So removed from the hustle and bustle of city life there are often no people on the horizon of the wide expanse of sand; it literally feels you just ‘drove’ to a deserted island!  Lush vegetation abounds including large heliotrope trees, naupaka, ironwood, coconut trees, and hala.  Kalama Beach under the management of the State of Hawaii Park System. The recreation area offers a designated parking lot, a picnic area with barbeques, public showers, and restrooms. A big bonus to the beach-- there are no high rises visible from the beach! 

     The surf at the Kalama Beach end of Kailua Bay is gentle. It is a great place to learn to snorkel, surf, body surf, and kiteboard.  Beware of the not-so-friendly jellyfish (Portuguese Man-of-War) and the stinging limu seaweed especially during the summer season.  Also, there are no lifeguards on duty at this beach.

     The next beach on the strip is Kailua. Kailua Beach actually shares the sand with Kalama, and it is within easy walking distance. Both beaches offer spectacular views of the “Moke twins” – the Mokulua Islands.  

     Closer into Kihei township the beaches become more densely populated. Kama’ole I, also known as Kam One is a popular, family-friendly beach. This long stretch of beach typically has calm waters. Equipped with lifeguards, outdoor showers, and public restrooms Kam One is a favorite spot for children.  Public parking is also available beachside with an overflow, dirt lot directly across the street. A convenience store is adjacent to the beach making a run for emergency provisions like sunscreen, drinks, and snacks convenient.

You Have Arrived – Kihei!

     It is difficult to tear your eyes away from the captivating strand of seemingly endless beaches, crystal blue water, and glorious views of the famous volcanic islands Lanai, Kahoolawe, and Molokini gracefully piercing the horizon.  As you approach South Kihei Road, your attention is briefly directed to the entertainment opportunities of a quaint, energetic beachfront town – Kihei!

     Earning the nickname, “Maui’s Eternally Sunny Beach Town,” Kihei encourages the pilgrimage of sun worshippers anticipating a predictable day of blissful sunshine.  Protected by the rain shadow of Haleakala, Kihei receives the least rainfall of any area in Hawaii. The official climate classification is “arid” with less than 10 inches of rainfall recorded per year.  The average winter temperature in Kihei is 81° Fahrenheit. Summer brings a balmy 90° Fahrenheit average. Afternoons on the beaches often produce windy, but tolerable conditions. Did we mention, a ZERO percent chance of rain?

     The population of Kihei is about 22,000 year-round citizens. Most residents of the village commute by car to larger metropolitan areas of Maui for employment. There is limited public transportation to and from Kihei.  Locals consider themselves as living the “good life” and are happy to share their piece of paradise with tourists. People of Kihei possess a friendly spirit, they are hospitable and ready with a welcoming “Aloha” to voyagers.

A Little Kihei History

      Kihei hasn’t always been a recognized as a popular tourist destination. Until the 1950s the area was little more than a remote, empty expanse of contiguous beaches. The region was so desolate the United States military used it to practice amphibious invasion maneuvers. Native Hawaiians called the area in and around Kihei “Kama‘ole,” which loosely translates to mean “barren” because it was so lifeless and parched. Modern irrigation technology improved the conditions of the area by providing a freshwater pumping system from East Maui to Kihei. The availability of fresh water supported the development and a regional growth spurt. Soon, small fishing hamlets and family farms began to dot the landscape.

          The tourism industry took notice of Kihei in the 1970s. The rural, rustic village had a population of about 1,650 between the years the military closed the Navy Station and the adoption of the “Kihei City Development Plan” in 1970. The plan promoted “smart growth,” and Maui County took measures to ensure the integrity of the landscape and heritage of Kihei.  The official efforts proved successful and in 2013 Kehei was awarded ”Best Town to Live In” designation by the Maui Town Weekly publication.

        Today locals and visitors enjoy the abundant natural and commercial activities offered by Kihei. From the many beautiful waterfront parks to shopping, golf outings, fishing charters, or whale watching excursions, the possibilities for `olu`olu are endless.

Where to Stay

           An ample selection of Kihei vacation properties include; hotels, boutique resorts, motels, condos, cottages, and houses.  From family-friendly hotels to opulent, adult only resorts there is something to fit nearly every budget. 

          At the top end of Kihei’s more extravagant scale are the lavish resorts promoting full-service amenities such as; beachfront suites, on-site concierge, heated pools, spa, yoga studio, beach butlers, and multiple in-house dining options.  The Kihei luxury resorts typically offer guest packages averaging $500 per night (additional resort fees may apply).

        Lodging options for budget-conscious travelers include hotels,  motels, and rentals by owner.  There are many Kihei hotels offering comfortable rooms for around $100 a night depending on the location. Holiday and vacation rental online booking sites such as Vacation Rentals by Owner offer private listings for more than 300 Kihei area houses, cottages, and condominiums with daily rates ranging from $100 to $1000.

        The high tourist season in Hawaii is the winter months. From mid-December to mid-March reservations may be more difficult to acquire. Properties also increase daily rates during the peak season. It is recommended vacationers plan ahead and book reservations well in advance of arrival.

Where to Play

      Fun in the sun options for rest and relaxation in Kihei are vast to be sure.  The temptation to become a permanent fixture on any one of the lovely beaches may prove irresistible but eventually, the sun sets, and the tummy grumbles and you know it’s time to move to a more social environment.  No worries, the off-beach entertainment options in Kihei are but a few steps away. 

     The hardest thing about discovering interesting dives to eat, drink, or dance is making a choice. Entertainments venues in Kehei are as vast as the hungry, thirsty seeker’s taste.  The best place to start on a gastro-mission is the Kihei Kalama Village.  Nicknamed the “Barmuda Triangle” by locals (or simply the “Triangle”), a short walk around the hub presents a maze of restaurants, bars, and music halls. Don’t worry about getting lost, the mouth-watering aromas emanating from the Triangle are enough to beckon the taste buds toward “home!”

     The Maui Brewing Company is another fixture in Kehei.  The largest brewing company on the island, Maui Brewing Company encourages behind the keg tours of their operation. Needless to say, don’t miss the tasting room where samples of dozens of cold, refreshing craft beers are served.

     The open-air market in Kihei Kalama Village is a treasure trove of locally sourced arts, crafts, flowers, jewelry, and other fun finds.  Pick up a few souvenir sarongs, a colorful Aloha shirt, shell-inspired necklaces, or a fresh lei then head over to the little red food truck.  Don’t let the unassuming presence of the South Maui Fish Company fool you. The cooks are masters at preparing baskets of fresh fish, Poké, and all the fixins.

     The search for fun, food, and drink aside, the Kihei Kalama Village is an awesome spot for what else…people watching! Speaking of nature watching, there are many specialty tours providing an opportunity to take in the ecological elements of the area.

     A distinct area of Kihei holding historical significance is the Ko‘ie‘ie Fishpond.  Hawaiian legend tells of the Menehune – the little people of Hawaii – who are said to have built the Ko‘ie‘ie Fishpond in one night more than 500 years ago.  Regardless of how it came to be, the pond dates back to the 1500s. The Ko‘ie‘ie Fishpond was used to raise ‘anae commonly known as mullet fish, and ‘awa or milkfish for the monarchy and it contributed to the community’s early growth.  It attracted not only Hawaiian royalty, but brought fishermen, traders, whalers, and merchants to the area to sell their goods.  By the time Captain George Vancouver arrived in 1778, the immediate area around the Ko‘ie‘ie Fishpond was already an established commerce center.

     The Ko‘ie‘ie Fishpond like many other Hawaiian fishponds was built to trap and raise fish. They continue to serve their purpose even today. Built with kuapa (rock) and makaha (sluice) the fishponds are considered a marvel of ancient Hawaiian engineering.  Located in Ka`ono`ulu Ahupua`a (Kula District), the lure of shallow water and rich aquatic life makes the Ko‘ie‘ie Fishpond a favorite recreational landmark. Whether looking for the opportunity for snorkeling, fishing, canoeing, or walking, tour visitors to Ko‘ie‘ie are always rewarded with a rich experience in Hawaiian culture. 

         At the far north end of South Kihei Road is the 700-acre Kealia Pond National Wildlife Preserve. The U.S Fish and Wildlife Conservation wetlands are home to several endangered species including the Hawaiian coot, Hawaiian stilts, Hawaiian duck, and the black-crowned high heron.  Hawks-billed turtles nest in the preserve and lays eggs December through July.  The walking tours through the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Preserve are self-guided with interactive signs posted. In consideration of the fragile environment, visitors are required to stay on the boardwalks through the sand dunes and ponds.

      One of the most sought after conservation sites in Hawaii is the Hawaiian Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary Education Center.  Located at north end of South Kihei Road, the Hawaiian sanctuary was established in 1992 by the U.S. Congress and covers 1,400 miles of water surrounding 4 of the Hawaiian Islands.  It is considered among the most important endangered species habitat and research centers in the world. Visitors to the Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary Education Center can learn about efforts to protect the humpback whales, monk seals, sea turtles, and coral reefs.  It may be possible to even see the whales breaching.

       Humpback whales migrate to the warm, safe waters of Hawaii to breed and give birth during the winter season -- December to May. The sheer numbers of the migration are so large it is common to spot whales while standing on the beach.  To get close up and personal with a giant humpback whale, book a whale watching boat excursion out of the Kihei Boat Ramp.  The thrill of seeing a whale in her natural habitat, in really close proximity is a truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

      Remember, planning outdoor activities around the rain is not an issue in Kihei so water tours are an option every day.  Other fun trips out of the Kihei Boat Ramp include picturesque sunset cocktail cruises along the coastline, scuba exploration trips to the coral reefs, and snorkeling around the Molokini Crater.  A variety of boats and tours are available at the most convenient departure point in Kihei.

      As summer approaches the mighty humpbacks to start their migration back to cooler waters and gives way to the other aquatic mammals demonstrating a preference for the Hawaiian Pacific waters – surfers. The South Summer Swells along the Kihei beaches are a draw for water athletes from around the world. Surf shops mushroom all along the coast and offer surfboard rentals, supplies, and surf lessons. If staying on dry land is more to your liking the spectator sport of watching the talented surfers (and the wannabes) is just as exciting. Offer out your best shake and be sure to have a camera ready to capture all the action at its best.

Come to Play – Plan to Stay

     Thousands of vacationers flock to Kihei, Hawaii annually.  The pristine beauty of the area, the quaint but happening town, culture, and diversity proves somewhat addictive to many. It is no surprise that visitors seek ways to become full-time citizens of Kihei.

       In the 1950s the population of Kihei was a recorded 1,636 people.  The population boom beginning in the 1970s brought an influx of people to the sleepy fishing village. The U.S. Census in 2017 reported the resident population of Kihei at 20,881.  The demographic mix of the population is impressive with 1,976 people reporting as Native Hawaiians Pacific Islanders.

      Kihei employment opportunities are primarily hospitality related.  Thirty-six percent of people work in the service industry.  The average median income per household is recorded as $68,000.  The largest employers in Kihei include

• Grand Wailea-Waldorf Astoria
• Four Seasons Maui
• Kia Lani Maui Restaurant
• Makena Beach and Golf Resort
• Wailea Beach Marriott

      There are 4 public schools in Kihei and 1 private school. A variety of residential family-friendly neighborhoods offer housing opportunities to homesteaders.  The cost of homes varies by area, proximity to the beach, amenities, and type of housing.  The average cost of a single-family house in Kihei is $500,000. 

     The Kihei Wailea Medical Center serves the greater Kihei area.  Offering healthcare specialties from newborn to acute and urgent care. Maui Memorial Hospital a full-service, community hospital provides the community with acute care and emergency services.

     Developments like the Keonekai Village offer a safe, quiet, living environment. The condominium complex consists of 256 units in 27 buildings.  Locate in South Kihei the neighborhood is convenient to both Kihei and Wailea. Units are available for sale or rent.  Of course, Keonekai Village is a short walk to the beach!

     For the lucky retiree, Kihei offers a whole new meaning to the idea of the “Golden Years.” Kihei senior living communities vary from individual homes, 52+ active adult communities, senior apartment complexes, congregate care developments, to assisted living facilities. 

     A much sought-after Kihei community for seniors is Kalama Heights. The laid-back, holiday-inspired, senior living complex Kalama Heights extends the best of the Hawaiian culture to its residents. Located minutes from the Kihei Wailea Medical Center, Rainbow Mall, and many regional, popular sites of interest like the Kula Botanical Gardens, the Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, and of course the fabulous beaches there is a wealth of activities to entertain and educate residents.

     The lush gardens surrounding the campus are filled with tropical plants like; lime trees, papaya trees, and indigent flowers.  Birds and butterflies hover around the foliage presenting a pleasing ballet. Views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean and majestic Haleakala Mountain are visible from vantage points around the property, and the breathtaking, real-time, live picture is often framed by a perfect rainbow. 

     Living arrangements at Kalama Heights are available in Independent Living, Assisted Living, Continuing Care, and Alzheimer’s and Memory Care programs. Build in 2000, Kalama Heights features 123 senior units. Studios, one, and two bedroom apartment floor plans are offered with leases starting at a published rate of $2,824. Many entertaining, recreational activities are included in the monthly fee.

     Kalama Heights residence features include

• Private Apartments
• Cable TV
• Carpet and Window Treatments
• Emergency Response Services
• Wheelchair Accessible Units
• Kitchenette in Units
• Patio or Balcony
• Telephone Hookups
• Heating and Air Conditioning

Among the many community facilities, residents have access to

• Outdoor pool

• Activity Rooms
• Billiard Lounge
• Chapel
• Computer Room with Internet Access
• Common Area WiFi
• Community Grounds
• Fitness Equipment
• Game Room
• Barber/Beauty Salon
• Large Screen TV Lounge
• Laundry Facilities
• Library
• Lounge Area
• Parking
• Private Dining Room
• Resident Kitchen
• Jacuzzi
• Restaurant Style Dining Room
• Pets Welcome
• Patio Area
• Walking Paths

   

     A full-time chef is on staff to daily prepare delicious, healthy meals.  Housekeeping and laundry services are available.  A complimentary shuttle service is also offered to residents for off-campus excursions.

     Organized activities like painting, water sports, billiards, movies, and nature walks are planned daily.  Kalama Heights publishes a complete list of programs and recommends reservations for seats.

      A pet-friendly community welcomes their residents’ four-legged partners although some restrictions may apply. Kalama Heights prioritizes the health and well-being of its residents.  Their services and programs are designed to stimulate the seven dimensions of wellness;

• Physical
• Intellectual
• Creative
• Social
• Vocational
• Emotional
• Spiritual

Family members are encouraged to visit their loved ones, and they are invited to attend many of the organized, entertaining community events.  Kalama Heights strives to demonstrate the truth: engaged seniors live fuller, richer, more satisfying lives. 

      Life in Kihea truly represents a Hawaiian Paradise.  Preserving the quaint charm of an old Pacific fishing village while embracing the playful energy of a tourist mecca Kihea offers a remarkable experience for visitors and residents alike.  Come and relax, learn, play, and prepare to be enchanted with the Kihea lifestyle.  It is the definition of the Aloha spirit!  A popular, but a less populated area of Maui. Lucky explorers can plunge into the water wonderland, enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, or simply sit back and observe all the natural beauty that makes Hawaii “Paradise.”   Kihei promises something truly memorable for everyone – and it doesn’t disappoint.

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