Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
friends. Nondivers, ask about the introductory dive ($89); to zoom around underwater,
check out their scooter dive ($99 to $129).
Maui Dive Shop
DIVING, SNORKELING
(
879-3388;
www.mauidiveshop.com
; 1455 S Kihei Rd; 2-tank dives $140-150, snorkel rentals per
day $6-8; 6am-9pm)
This is a good spot to rent or buy watersports gear, including boo-
gie boards, snorkels and wetsuits.
Blue Water Rafting
BOAT TOUR
(
879-7238;
www.bluewaterrafting.com
;
Kihei Boat Ramp; Molokini Express/Kanaio Coast $50/
100; departure times vary)
In a hurry? Try the Molokini Express trip if you want to zip
out to the crater, snorkel and be back within two hours. An adventurous half-day trip
heads southward on a motorized raft to snorkel among sea turtles and dolphins at remote
coves along the Kanaio coast. The Kihei Boat Ramp is south of Kam III.
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Stand Up Paddle Surf School
SUP
school is owned by Maria Souza, a champion paddle boarder who was also the first wo-
man surfer to tow into the monster waves at Jaws. Small classes and safety are priorities,
and the paddling location is determined by water conditions. Classes fill quickly, so call a
few days - or a week - ahead.
Festivals & Events
World Whale Day Celebration
OUTDOOR FESTIVAL
(
www.mauiwhalefestival.org
;
9am-8pm;
) Organized by the Pacific Whale Foundation,
this family-friendly bash honors Maui's humpback whales with crafts, live music and
food booths. It's held at Kalama Park, next to the big whale statue, on a Saturday in mid-
February. The day kicks off with the Parade of Whales down S Kihei Rd at 9am.
Sleeping
Condos are plentiful in Kihei, whereas hotels and B&Bs are scarce. Some condominium
complexes maintain a front desk that handles bookings, but others are booked via rental
