Maui Trip Report #4 - Beaches and Kihei

Our first full day on Maui was overcast in Lahaina, our home base for the trip. I checked online and the weather forecast was better for Kihei, so we headed south. We ended up on the beach in Kamaole Park II, parking on the street. I don't remember if hubby attempted any snorkeling. I do know the water was too cold for me, which was true for most of the trip. I much prefer the "no hesitation" water we find in the Gulf of Mexico (Yucatan and Sanibel) in July and August.

After getting enough sun, we had lunch at Coconut's Fish Cafe based on TripAdvisor recommendations. I had the fish and chips and hubby had the shrimp and chips. My dish included a piece of ono and a piece of mahi mahi. Neither of us were thrilled with our meal. However, I did learn I like mahi mahi and don't like ono.

We started our second day on Ka'anapali Beach near our condo and in front of The Westin Resort and Spa. We found a nice public parking area with facilities that was just a short walk to the beach. I enjoyed the view while hubby snorkeled.

No shade but a beautiful view.

The day between our two excursions began on Airport Beach. Again, we found a public parking lot and facilities near the beach. As described online, Airport Beach is great for snorkeling but the reef is so close to the beach it's not good for water lounging or play.

Lots of shade on Airport Beach,
perfect for people watching or reading.

More snorkeling for hubby.

Around lunch time, we decided to head to Makena Beach, which we read was good for wading and playing in the water. I decided we should go through Kihei to hopefully find the Keolahou Church and their Wednesday huli huli chicken, which you know from Maui Trip Report #1 we did.

By the time we got to Makena Beach, the waves were nearly five feet high. We couldn't see the water from the parking lot, but could hear the intimidating roar of the waves as we walked toward the beach. Although we were too nervous to even try getting in the water, it was worth the trip to just see and hear those waves.

Besides, by going south, we were able to get huli huli chicken and, on the way back, our second shaved ice from Ululani's Kihei location as well as lilikoi key lime pie from the bakery (Sugar Beach Bake Shop) next door. Another great Maui day!

Maui Trip Report #5