Transform Your Eco-Vacation in Kihei, Maui Today!
If you love being a part of nature, observing animals in their natural habitats, and supporting conservation efforts to preserve our most treasured natural gems, then here are some great options for your time in Kihei, Maui.
Visit the Humpback Whale Sanctuary
Every year, humpback whales make an incredible, multi-month journey all the way from the frigid waters of Alaska down to the warm, shallow waters of Hawaii. Here they relax, birth, and raise their calves. In 1992, the U.S. Congress created the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary in order to protect the North Pacific Humpback Whale. The sanctuary includes all of the shallow waters around the Hawaiian Islands, but the Learning Center is located in Kihei.
The Learning Center is open year round and offers rotating exhibits and tons of information on humpback whales, including exhibits on whale songs, native Hawaiian plants, coral reefs, and more. The center also hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, so check the calendar to see what might be going on during your time in Maui.
Visit the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Birdwatchers, welcome to paradise! The Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge stretches almost 700 acres and is one of the few remaining natural wetlands in Hawaii. Guests can visit the bird sanctuary and take a nature walk on the Kealia Coastal Boardwalk, which leads through ancient Hawaiian wetlands. Get out your binoculars and your bird list. On a good day, you may be able to see the Northern Shoveler, Pacific Golden Plover, Ruddy Turnstone, Hawaiian Coot, Wandering Tattler, Hawaiian Stilt, and more!
At the refuge, you can also learn about Hawaii’s endangered wetland birds and the amazing migration patterns of many of the refuge’s residents.
Take a Snorkel Tour to Molokini
The warm, shallow waters off of Kihei are teeming with marine life of all sizes, colors, and variety. We suggest you visit the Molokini Crater, which is a beautiful underwater volcano islet. This partially submerged volcanic crater is home to over 250 species of Hawaiian tropical fish. It was also listed as a Marine Life Conservation District Seabird Sanctuary.
Slip on your goggles, dip your face into the water and start searching for Raccoon Butterflyfish, Moorish Idol, Yellow Tang, Moray Eels, Manta Rays, Parrotfish, Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles, and even White Tip Reef Sharks. You’ll also see over 35 species of beautiful coral as well as tons of different algae species. Most snorkel tours are offered in the early mornings and in the afternoons. No experience is required. A snorkel tour in the Molokini Crater can be an exciting trip for the whole family and a great opportunity to encourage your children to develop a respect for nature and all its creatures.
If you want even more eco-friendly activity ideas for your time in Maui and Kihei, contact Ali’i Resorts where you can find the very best luxury condos for rent on the south side of Maui.
