Located in Kihei, on Maui’s West Coast, this unique shopping village sits across the street from Kalama Park, and the Pacific Ocean. However, once inside, surrounded by tall, shading trees, and lush tropical foliage, you’ll forget the outside world. A high, vaulted ceiling houses many stalls and kiosks, each filled with local merchants selling a variety of goods.
Those searching for traditional souvenirs can visit shops like Ava Jewelry & Gift Shop, Maui Aloha Souvenir, and Island Sun Gifts to browse a wide selection of magnets, mugs, t-shirts, decorative license plates, and leis. Little ones will especially love the colorful selections of keychains, shell necklaces, ukuleles, and more.
However, mixed in alongside the souvenir shops are a handful of really unique and interesting local creators and artisans showcasing their work. One of our favorites is Puka Swimwear. Female-owned and locally run, this brand sells small batch, handmade swimwear that focuses on sustainability. We also love Ocean Obsession Maui. This jewelry studio is owned by a 4th generation Maui resident and specializes in handmade shell and sea glass jewelry made from locally sourced materials.
Not a shopper? No worries. This complex features more than a dozen restaurants and bars that are sure to wet your whistle. To start your morning off, grab a cup of joe at Lava Java, or sit down for moco loco at Kihei Caffe. For a slightly upscale dinner, try Ohana Seafood Bar & Grill or Lava Rock Bar & Grill. Traveling with kiddos or having a bit of a sweet tooth? Stop by Tropical Ice Cream, a full-service restaurant specializing in ice cream and fresh juices since 1932. And no Hawaiian shopping trip is complete without a cold, sweet, and oh-so-delicious shave ice. To satisfy your craving, stop by Local Boy Snack Shop, a tropically decorated shave ice stand.
The bars really come alive here after dark. If you’re looking to keep it low-key, grab a table on the patio at Haui’s Life’s A Beach, or Kahale’s, a self-proclaimed local dive bar. For daily live music, check out South Shore Tiki Lounge. If you visit on the weekends, stay for a live DJ on Friday and Saturday nights. Many bars and restaurants here get busy at night, so you may have to bar hop for a bit before getting into your establishment of choice… but there are certainly worse ways to kill time!
All in all, Kihei Kalama Village has a little bit of something for everyone. From souvenirs to local artisan goods, to great food and drink, we certainly recommend making a stop here, if only just to browse and take in the bustling, colorful environment.
Insider Tips:
-Some of the souvenirs tend to be on the pricy side. Unless you’ve found something totally unique, bargain-savvy shoppers may want to compare prices at other shops before making a purchase.
-Looking for an inarguably unique piece of jewelry? Ocean Obsession Maui will make a one-of-a-kind item for you using shells or sea glass you’ve found on your trip. We thought this was just too cool not to mention!
-The vibe changes at the marketplace after dark, with a swift shift from a family-friendly shopping feel to a distinctly more adult party mood. If visiting with small children, you might prefer visiting during the day.
–Kalama Park is right across the street. While you’re in this part of town, it’s definitely worth strolling along the park’s paths and taking in the impressive ocean views.