Nestled along the Maalaea Bay in the Hawaiian Islands, sits the tropical paradise of Kihei, Maui. With six miles of sandy beaches offering crystal clear views of the surrounding Islands, once you arrive, you will never want to leave.
History
Originally known as ‘Kama’ole’ meaning ‘barren’, the small town of Kihei was primarily deserted because of its hot and dry climate. Like many of the Hawaiian Islands, the first settlers of the area were fishermen, taking advantage of the plentiful waters. The Kihei population began to grow very slowly until WWII broke out, where the area was used as a training ground for troops.
With very little development occurring, residents decided it was time to bring more people to the area and opened up large areas for development. This idea brought investors and developers to town and the town of Kihei really started to take off, creating a tourist destination known all around the world. This development culminated in Kihei being named the “best town to live in” by the Maui Times. Today approximately 20,000 people call Kihei home, with this number growing exponentially during the tourism season.
Real Estate
Primarily a tourist destination, this small town still offers those who wish to live there a variety of different options, from single-family homes, townhomes to luxury condos. According to zillow.com, the average home value in Kihei is $818,301, an increase of 9.3% since last year. Whether you are looking for a year-round, seasonal, or income property, Kihei has a variety of different options for you.
Things to Do
With no shortage of activities on the water and inland, every day is an adventure in the tropical paradise of Kihei. If perfect weather is not enough of an attraction to bring you to Kihei, then the vast array of activities should seal the deal.
Whale Watching
Every winter from December 15 - May 15 the humpback Whales call the local water home, using this time to breed and give birth. These exciting times will leave you speechless at the number of whales you will see, locals even say you can just sit on the beach and count them if you want. To really appreciate this incredible time, take a boat out onto the water and immerse yourself in this amazing experience.
Water Sports
Being right on the ocean and five minutes from a beach no matter where you are, Kihei and the area are a water sports enthusiast's dream. As the water begins to warm up, this brings the summer swells, a surfer's dream. Spend the day on the water, whether you are a seasoned surfer, or just learning, Kihei has a spot for you. For a bit of a slower pace, spend the day scuba diving or snorkeling, enjoy the wonders under the sea.
Beaches
Enjoy the most relaxing day imaginable on one of the many beaches dotted along the six miles of sandy beaches Kihei has to offer. From sunrise to sunset, you can take in the beautiful views, play some beach volleyball, sunbathe and just live your best life. With the Island only getting around 10 inches of rain a year, the beach can be a way of life.
Nature
Being on the ocean is a great treat, but also being surrounded by mountains and nature reserves, really gives you endless possibilities in and around Kihei. Take a quick trip north and visit the Kealia Pond Wildlife Refuge, this 700-acre natural wetland is home to many endangered waterbirds. Travel west to the West Maui Nature Reserve and take a hike on one of the many trails and enjoy the beauty of the Pu’u Kukui mountain peak. All throughout Kihei and Maui, the natural wonders of the area can be enjoyed and explored.
Food and Shopping
After a long day of exploring or relaxing, head to one of the many local restaurants and enjoy a gourmet meal. With a wide range of different types of foods, even those who have the pickiest palate will be able to enjoy the cuisine. Head on over to Cuatro, a local restaurant offering award-winning food, including fresh fish caught that day. Like most oceanside towns, seafood is a top priority, head on over to Koiso Sushi Bar and have some of the best sushi around, but call ahead, it's a hard place to get into. Other popular spots like Nalu’s South Shore Grill, Cafe O’Lei Kihei, Fat Daddy’s Smokehouse BBQ and others will be sure to impress. For beer enthusiasts, Maui Brewing Company is the place to be, with four different locations throughout the Island, including one in Kihei. Enjoy a fresh pint of local beer and enjoy your time at Hawaii’s largest craft brewing company.
Shopping is an important part of any town, and Kihei has lots of different options for residents. With shopping centers like Azeka Shopping Center, Kukui Mall, Piilani Village Shopping Center or Kihei Centre, convenience is at your fingertips. These malls offer many shopping options in a small area. Throughout the entire town, small shops litter the area offering residents and guests all the essentials and souvenirs needed. The day can be spent enjoying all the shops, speaking to locals, and taking in what Kihei has to offer.
When you think of living the dream, Kihei should be on your list, this tropical paradise really has it all. People from all over the world enjoy visiting Kihei, many of them not wanting to leave, so why would you. Living in paradise has never been easier, with the digital world and the ability to work from anywhere, why not live and work in Kihei. Finish your day and then head out to the beach, grab a wave, eat some local food, watch the sunset, and go to bed knowing you will wake up in paradise and do it all over again. Kihei is ready for you to call it home.
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