Maui > Beaches > Mai Poina ʻOe Iaʻu Beach
Mai Poina ʻOe Iaʻu – AKA Kohea Kai Resort Beach
The perfect place for leisurely morning walks or sunset gazing, Mai Poina Beach is often much less crowded than its South Kihei counterparts. Enjoy a peaceful picnic, but be prepared for possible high winds in the afternoon hours!
PROS
Not Crowded
While South Kihei and Wailea beaches are often teeming with travelers and residents, this beach is long enough that you won’t have to share with many others.
Great for Leisure/Fitness
Perfect place to enjoy an evening sunset, an afternoon picnic, an early morning jog, or a whale watch during the winter months.
Easy Access
On the north end of the beach, there’s plenty of parking along South Kihei Road.
Board Sports
When there’s swell, this is a great spot for Stand Up Paddle Board Surfing. When Kona winds switch on, this area is very popular for Kite and Wind Surfing.
72% Positive
CONS
Water Clarity
While much less crowded, the water tends to be more mixed up here and less ideal for snorkeling than other beaches in South Kihei.
Windy
When Kona winds occasionally blow, this is one of the windier areas of the island, creating ideal conditions for windsurfers and kitesurfers but making it less comfortable to lay out.
No Lifeguards
Small crowds and no lifeguards mean you need to be aware and safe in the water when swimming here.
28% Negative
Directions to Mai Poina ʻOe Iaʻu Beach
From Kahului Airport – 15-20 minutes
Make a left onto Mokulele Highway (311) and head south. Make a right onto North Kihei Road and an immediate left onto South Kihei Road. Beaches will be on your right-hand side.
From Lahaina Airport – 25-35 minutes
Drive south on the Honoapiilani Hwy (ocean on the right). Pass Maʻalaea Harbor, and take a right onto South Kihei Rd. Sugar Beach will be on your right-hand side.
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Nearby Accommodations
Kohea Kai Maui Resort
Located on the north end of South Kihei Road, this beautiful upscale boutique resort offers free deluxe breakfast, no resort fee, 24-hour room service, concierge service, 24-hour desk, complimentary adventure equipment and sits directly across the street from Mai Poina ʻOe Iaʻu Beach Park.
