Known for its dramatic coastlines, lush valleys, and year-round tropical climate, South Maui is more than a vacation destination. This southern region of the Valley Isle is home to incredible neighborhoods and gated communities, from the bustling beaches of Kihei to the luxurious resort enclaves of Wailea and Makena. But with so many options, choosing the right place to live can be tricky.
Each area in South Maui has its own distinct personality and lifestyle offerings. This guide will walk you through the region’s different communities and neighborhoods, and by the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which part of South Maui fits your lifestyle, budget, and vision of island living.
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OVERVIEW OF SOUTH MAUI
More than just an island, Maui is a collection of distinct regions, each with its own character, atmosphere, and way of life. From the sunny beaches of South and West Maui to the lush greenery of East Maui and the peaceful charm of Upcountry, every area has its own appeal.
South Maui is the island’s sunniest and most laid-back region, known for its miles of pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and relaxed island lifestyle. The area’s sunny, dry climate and incredible beaches make it a paradise for those who love spending time outdoors. South Maui includes the popular towns of Kihei, Wailea, and Makena.
Wailea: Luxury Living and World-Class Resorts
Located on Maui’s southern coast, Wailea is known for its pristine beaches, breathtaking ocean views, and high-end offerings. This sun-drenched area also experiences pleasant weather all-year-round, with notably less rainfall than the other parts of Maui.
The coastline of Wailea features five crescent-shaped beaches: Wailea Beach, Polo Beach, Ulua Beach, Mokapu Beach, and Keawakapu Beach. These golden-sand beaches are connected by the Wailea Beach Path, a scenic 1.5-mile coastal walkway that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and frequent whale sightings during migration season. The crystal-clear waters in these beaches are also perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Wailea is an area that has become synonymous with luxury. It offers high-end dining establishments, boutique shopping, and world-class golf courses. The Wailea Golf Club, in particular, is home to three distinct courses with panoramic ocean views.
Wailea real estate
Real estate in Wailea is among the most exclusive on the island, with prices reflecting its prestige and breathtaking location. Condominiums typically start in the multi-million-dollar range while luxury homes and oceanfront estates command significantly higher price points.
Homes in Wailea are designed to maximize ocean views. Many of the properties here feature expansive lanais, infinity pools, and lush tropical landscaping. For those who prefer a low-maintenance luxury lifestyle, Wailea offers an impressive selection of resort-style condominiums. These condo communities provide ocean or golf course views, top-tier amenities, and direct access to some of Maui’s most pristine beaches.
Makena: Maui’s Untouched Paradise
Tucked away in South Maui, just past Wailea, Makena feels like a world of its own—remote and peaceful, yet just minutes away from all the conveniences of Wailea and Kihei. Makena’s appeal lies in its untouched beauty. While Wailea is known for its manicured resort atmosphere, Makena offers a more natural and rugged charm. The coastline here is a striking mix of lava rock formations, golden sandy beaches, and some of the clearest blue waters on the island.
One of Makena’s most famous landmarks is Big Beach (Makena Beach), a massive stretch of untouched sand that is widely regarded as one of Maui’s most spectacular beaches. Makena also serves as a gateway to some of South Maui’s most remarkable natural attractions such as La Perouse Bay, Makena Landing, and the stunning Puʻu Ōlai cinder cone. While Makena feels like a world of its own, luxury shopping, fine dining, and top-tier golf courses are just a short drive away in Wailea.
Makena real estate
Makena real estate is among the most sought-after and most expensive in all of Hawaii. This is where you’ll find some of the most stunning oceanfront estates in Maui, ranging from multi-million-dollar custom homes to ultra-exclusive properties in private gated communities.
There are around 80 oceanfront homes in Makena, each one featuring breathtaking views and modern Hawaiian architecture. The Makena Beach & Golf Club, a members-only residential community, is home to some of the most luxurious properties on the island. For those looking for a condo lifestyle, Makena has only three condo communities that offer spacious residences with ocean views and high-end amenities.
Kihei: Sun, Sand, and Laid-Back Island Living
Another of Maui’s vibrant and sought-after communities is Kihei, which offers a more casual, laid-back atmosphere compared to its upscale neighbors to the south. The town is organized around South Kihei Road, which runs parallel to the shoreline and connects to a series of beaches. Kihei’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Maui. It’s roughly 25 minutes from Kahului Airport, 15 minutes from historic Makawao town, and serves as a gateway to the luxury resorts of Wailea.
As for the food, entertainment, and nightlife, Kihei never disappoints. The town is known for its casual eateries, sushi restaurants, beachside pubs, and after-hour spots. Several shopping centers in Kihei regularly play host to different community events, like Kihei Kalama Village and Piilani Village Shopping Center.
Kihei real estate
Kihei remains one of Maui’s most desirable places to own property thanks to its stunning coastal setting, year-round sunshine, laid-back island lifestyle, and generally more affordable real estate.
Kihei is known for its abundance of condo communities, offering a low-maintenance lifestyle and in many cases, short-term rental potential. Prices vary based on proximity to the beach, amenities, and size, with entry-level units starting in the mid-six figures and high-end beachfront properties reaching well into the millions.
For those looking for more space and privacy, Kihei also has a selection of single-family homes. While more affordable options exist, Kihei’s real estate market remains competitive due to high demand and limited inventory.
FACTORS TO EVALUATE WHEN CHOOSING AN AREA IN SOUTH MAUI
Deciding where to live in South Maui isn’t just about picking a beautiful spot by the beach (although that’s a nice perk!). Each part of the region offers a unique lifestyle, climate, and community feel, so choosing the right area means considering several important factors. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back retreat, a luxury resort community, or a vibrant neighborhood with easy access to amenities, here are 7 important factors to help guide your decision:
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Lifestyle and interests
South Maui is known for its sun-soaked beaches, oceanfront living, and active outdoor lifestyle. If you love swimming, snorkeling, or taking sunset walks on the sand, Kihei provides a vibrant beach town atmosphere with easy access to some of Maui’s best shoreline spots. Those looking for a more exclusive, resort-like environment may prefer Wailea and its world-class golf courses. Meanwhile, Makena offers a secluded escape with plenty of privacy.
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Proximity to work and essentials
While South Maui offers a laid-back lifestyle, commute times should still be a consideration. If you work remotely, you have the freedom to choose your ideal setting based purely on lifestyle. However, if you commute to Kahului or Wailuku for work, it’s important to factor in drive times.
Kihei is the most centrally located option in South Maui, offering both convenience and coastal living. Wailea and Makena provide more exclusivity but require a slightly longer drive to major business hubs. Fortunately, South Maui is well-equipped with grocery stores, restaurants, and healthcare facilities so daily essentials are always within reach.
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Weather and climate
One of South Maui’s biggest draws is its near-perfect weather. This region is one of the sunniest and driest parts of the island, thanks to its location in the rain shadow of Haleakalā. Kihei, Wailea, and Makena all enjoy warm temperatures year-round, with minimal rainfall compared to other parts of Maui. Kihei tends to be slightly windier, while Wailea and Makena offer a more sheltered climate.
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Cost of living and housing
Real estate in South Maui varies widely, from more affordable condos in Kihei to ultra-luxury estates in Wailea and Makena. Kihei offers a mix of condominiums and single-family homes at a lower price point compared to its upscale neighbors. Wailea is known for its gated communities, resort-style amenities, and high-end properties while Makena offers some of the most exclusive oceanfront real estate on the island. Since South Maui’s real estate market in general has strong demand and limited inventory, home prices here tend to be on the higher side.
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Accessibility and amenities
It’s also important to consider how close you want to be to everyday conveniences like grocery stores, schools, healthcare, and recreational facilities. South Maui is well-developed and provides residents with a wide range of amenities while maintaining its peaceful, beachside feel.
Kihei is the hub for shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. It is also home to large grocery stores, fitness centers, and local boutiques. Wailea takes luxury to the next level with its high-end shopping options and private golf courses. Makena, while more secluded, is just a short drive from these conveniences. South Maui also has excellent healthcare options, including urgent care facilities and medical offices.
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Community and culture
South Maui strikes a balance between tourism and local living, all while offering a welcoming, family-friendly environment. Kihei is a lively beach town with a strong local presence, regular community events, and an active social scene. Wailea caters more to a luxury lifestyle, with exclusive resorts and private clubs, while Makena provides a tranquil escape, attracting those who value privacy and seclusion.
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Future growth and development
Consider the long-term potential of the area you’re interested in. South Maui continues to be one of the most desirable areas for real estate investment. While Kihei has already experienced significant development, it remains a hotspot for new businesses and residential growth.
Further cementing its reputation as a luxury destination, Wailea continues to expand with high-end properties and resort-style communities. Makena, on the other hand, remains more protected from large-scale development to preserve its quiet, untouched beauty.
HOW A LOCAL MAUI REAL ESTATE EXPERT HELPS
Finding your dream home in South Maui involves navigating a unique market, understanding island living, and making sure your investment aligns with your lifestyle. That’s where a trusted local Maui real estate agent steps in. Here’s how a local expert helps make your South Maui property search a smooth and successful experience:
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In-depth knowledge of Maui’s diverse regions. Maui isn’t just one place—it’s a collection of distinct regions, each offering a unique way of life. With a local real estate agent, you have someone who knows the nuances of each area, especially in South Maui. Plus, they can help you understand how each region’s weather, amenities, gated communities, and pace of life might suit your lifestyle.
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Access to off-market listings and insider opportunities. South Maui has a competitive real estate market, and the best properties here don’t always make it to public listings.. A well-connected Maui agent can give you exclusive access to off-market properties, especially if you’re after a unique or high-value residence.
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Expertise in Maui’s real estate laws and zoning regulations. Maui’s real estate market has its own challenges, such as the different types of property ownership and zoning rules for residential and agricultural land. A local real estate agent helps you understand exactly what you’re getting since zoning rules in these areas can be complicated.
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Skilled negotiation and market insights. With limited land and high demand, South Maui’s real estate market moves fast. A local agent understands the current market trends and knows how to negotiate effectively on your behalf.
READY TO FIND YOUR DREAM LUXURY HOME IN SOUTH MAUI?
Choosing where to live and which gated community to stay in South Maui is a big decision, but with the right guidance, it can be a rewarding and memorable journey. Whether you’re drawn to the upscale lifestyle in Makena or the laid-back coastal charm of Kihei, one thing is certain—having a local expert by your side makes all the difference.
Dennis and Martha Rush are Maui’s top real estate team. With decades of experience in the industry, they bring unmatched knowledge of Maui’s diverse regions and a personal touch to every transaction. Reach out today and experience the difference of working with trusted local experts who not only know Maui but truly love it. Call Dennis Rush at 808.280.0788 or send a message through email.
