From beer tasting to masterpiece making, this guide will give you the inside scoop to all things fun in Kihei!
1. I’m one of those people who loves to be creative, and loathes cleaning up the mess that ensues. That’s where Island Art Party comes in. Their exceptionally cheery art studio is well-organized so there’s no need for guesswork and they are happy to clean up after your creation is complete. From the labeled paints to the expert Partista (Party Artist) guiding your brush strokes, all you need to worry about is having a fabulous time! And if you’re needing another reason to sign up, maybe you’ll find it at their bar. Sipping a glass of wine, beer or a cocktail will loosen up your creative side. The level of expertise ranges from Picasso to a two-year old, and everyone is still able to walk out with a painting they can be proud of! For more information, please visit Island Art Party or call (808)419-6020.
2. If you’re in the mood for a locally brewed beer, why not step outside the bar scene and into the actual brewery? Maui Brewing Co. has a tasting room that boasts beautiful views of both Haleakala and Molokini. Choose a taster, flight, goblet or pint and then fill it with your pick from their 32 tap draft system. If you find one you can’t live without, they’ll send you home with a six-pack or even a keg! As beer is best paired with a hearty meal, take your pick from their daily food truck that parks outside. If you want to take your experience to the next level, sign up for one of their brewery tours. Tour Guides lead guests on a 30-40 minute introduction of their brewing process including their Brewhaus, Cellar and Packaging Line. They’re proud of their beer, and you’ll see why when you step behind the curtain and see the masters at work! For more information, visit Maui Brewing Co. or call (808)213-3002.
3. Members of the Kihei Canoe Club paddle out Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 7:30 and have opened their outrigger to you! You don’t need to reserve a spot, just show up at the Kihei wharf at 7:00 am and enjoy the E Ala E, a traditional chant to welcome the rising sun. Once paddling instructions are given, you’ll head out into the wild blue ocean, often spotting green sea turtles (honu), dolphins and large rays. Between December and April, you may spot a whale or two! The Canoe Club is very respectful of these creatures and make sure to keep a respectful distance. A donation is asked of you in the spirit of aloha! For more information, call (808) 879-5505.
4. When was the last time you found yourself front row at a drag strip? Maui’s Raceway Park has a classic dirt track, and about 150 racers going head-to-head each weekend. Watch an old school Monte Carlos go against a little 500HP Corollas. Bring your food or try out the SumoDog truck if you’re in the mood for a great hotdog! Non-traditional Hawaiian fun for all!
5. If you missed out on the peak season for whale watching, you’re not out of luck yet! The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is the next best thing. Visitors are educated on the efforts local and state institutes are taking to protect humpback whales, monk seals, sea turtles, and coral reefs. You can learn about the history of the kōʻieʻie fishpond outside the sanctuary that was built over 500 years ago and its stone walls are still maintained as an important link to traditional Hawaiian practices. “Through education, outreach, research and resource protection activities, the sanctuary strives to protect humpback whales and their habitat in Hawai`i.” Supporting these gentle giants is a wonderful way to spend your day!
