Notes from Kihei
Most people land on Maui tired, a few time zones behind, and ready to cram the whole trip into the first afternoon. We’d gently suggest the opposite.
The flight to Maui is long from almost anywhere, and the time change usually has you wide awake at 5 a.m. for the first day or two. The good news is that the early wake-up lines up perfectly with the best part of the day here. Here’s how we’d spend the first 24 hours.
From Kahului Airport it’s about a 40-minute drive to Kihei. Stop at a grocery store on the way and pick up coffee, breakfast, water and a few basics. Every bungalow has a full kitchen, and having coffee in the morning without leaving the lanai makes the first jet-lagged day much easier.
Once you’ve checked in, don’t plan anything big. Walk across to the beach, get in the water, and watch the sunset. There are good casual spots for dinner a few minutes away — our Kihei food guide has our picks — or grill something at the bungalow. Then sleep early. You’ll need it.
That 5 a.m. wake-up is a gift on Maui. The water is calmest in the morning, the beaches are empty, and the light is beautiful. Day two is the right time for a morning snorkel or, if you booked it, the drive up Haleakala for sunrise. Save the long Road to Hana day for when you’re a little more rested — it’s a full, early day and better on legs that have adjusted.
Maui isn’t going anywhere. Ease into it, and the rest of the trip is better for it. If you have questions before you arrive, just message us — we’re happy to help you plan.
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A full kitchen, the beach across the way, and hosts five minutes down the road. Send us your dates.