Things to do at and around Mana Kai
Guests often ask about the experiences to enjoy while staying at Mana Kai Maui Resort — the moments that capture the true spirit of aloha and the rhythm of life by the sea. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simple island pleasures, every day here offers something special.
Things to Do at Mana Kai
You don’t have to go far to experience the magic of Maui — some of the island’s most memorable moments unfold right here at the Mana Kai Maui Resort, where oceanfront living meets the easy rhythm of island time.
- Snorkel with sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters right in front of the property. The reef stretches offshore, full of colorful marine life and ideal for morning swims.
- Begin your day with morning yoga led by Deni Roman, a certified Iyengar Yoga instructor at Maui Yoga Path located on the oceanfront lawn — a serene way to greet the sunrise and connect with the island.
- Take a leisurely walk along Keawakapu Beach, connecting seamlessly to the scenic Wailea Coastal Path, perfect for sunrise or sunset strolls.
- Kayak or paddleboard directly from the beach — with rentals available through Mana Kai Paddle & Kayak, located on-site.
- Relax by the oceanfront pool or stretch out on the lush grassy lawn under the shade of a swaying coconut palm.
- Stay active with a workout in the fitness room, featuring cardio machines, weights, and strength-training equipment.
- Stop by 808 General Store for a fresh lunch of salads, sandwiches, snacks, or a refreshing Dole Whip or an ice cream treat — the perfect beachside pick-me-up. The in-house store offers a selection of grocery items, beverages, sunscreen, t-shirts, and hats.
- As evening falls, reserve your time at the grill and try a barbecue of fresh island fish (like local Ahi, Ono, or Mahi), a picnic on the lawn or perhaps a cocktail on your own lanai as the sunset paints the sky over the Pacific.
At Mana Kai, every day feels like your own personal piece of paradise — where relaxation and aloha come naturally.
Things to Do Nearby & Across Maui
When you’re ready to explore beyond the resort, the best of Maui is right at your fingertips. From ocean adventures to local eateries and scenic day trips, there’s an entire island waiting to be discovered.
Outdoor Adventures & Excursions
- Redline Rafting – Depart from the Kihei Boat Ramp, just minutes away, for exciting snorkel and whale-watch tours to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town.
- Kai Kanani Sailing– Luxury catamaran that departs directly from Maluaka Beach in Wailea, one of the few beach-launch sailing tours in Hawaii. Guests enjoy scenic coastal views and snorkeling opportunities.
- Outrigger Canoeing – Paddle a traditional Hawaiian single-hull outrigger canoe (waʻa) with Hawaiian Paddle Sports from Makena Landing in Wailea, gliding along Maui’s coastline while learning Polynesian voyaging traditions, ocean navigation, and spotting turtles and marine life.
- Haleakalā National Park – Watch the sunrise from 10,000 feet (reservations required before 7:00 AM) or visit later for equally stunning views, followed by breakfast in Kula.
- ʻĪao Valley State Monument – Stroll through rainforest trails, mountain streams, and Maui’s most iconic emerald peaks.
- Ho‘okipa Beach Park – Watch world-class surfers and windsurfers carve through the waves on Maui’s famous north shore.
- Makena & La Perouse Bay – Discover South Maui’s lava fields, tidepools, and pristine turquoise waters.
- Big Beach (Makena Beach State Park) – One of Maui’s most beautiful and expansive beaches; grab tacos from the Jawz Tacos food truck nearby.
- Upcountry Maui – Take a scenic drive through Kula and Ulupalakua, visiting lavender farms, local markets, and MauiWine for tastings among the rolling hills.
- Surf lessons – Catch a wave with Maui Wave Riders for all-day board rentals, Waves Hawaii for family-focused instruction, and Surf Club Maui for high-quality photography at the beginner-friendly Kihei Cove.
- Maui Ocean Center – Sea life aquarium in Māʻalaea featuring exhibits on Hawaii’s coral reefs, sea turtles, tropical fish, and a walk-through shark tunnel.
- Zip-lining – Popular zipline experiences in Maui include Kapalua Ziplines, Skyline Hawaii (Kaʻanapali), and Jungle Zipline Maui, offering courses set in scenic island landscapes.
- Helicopter Tours – Air tours are operated by Blue Hawaiian for luxury Eco-Star comfort, Air Maui for exhilarating doors-off photography flights, and Maverick for exclusive rainforest landings.
- Scenic Trail Hikes – Trail hikes include the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park with its bamboo forest and waterfalls, the Waiheʻe Ridge Trail for sweeping valley views, and the Kapalua Coastal Trail along dramatic lava rock shorelines. Closer to the Mana Kai, the Hoapili Trail at La Pérouse Bay crosses striking black lava fields from Maui’s most recent eruption.
Shopping & Leisure
Maui’s premier shopping and dining destination, The Shops at Wailea, just minutes from Mana Kai. Enjoy open-air walkways lined with luxury boutiques, island art galleries, and local designers, along with coffee spots, lunch cafes, and sunset cocktails — all set among lush tropical landscaping with ocean views.
The Shops at Wailea also hosts a variety of complimentary cultural activities, lessons, and live music events throughout the week. Guests can enjoy experiences such as lei-making, ukulele and hula lessons, Polynesian shows, and live concerts— all free and open to the public.
Favorite Local Eats & Island Flavors
The Kihei–Wailea area is a haven for food lovers, offering everything from fresh island fare to upscale dining with unforgettable views. Here are just a few local favorites.
- Monkeypod Kitchen – Home of the famous Lilikoi Mai Tai and coconut cream pie.
- Traditional Hawaiian lūʻau – Attend an oceanfront lūʻau for an unforgettable evening of Hawaiian culture, cuisine, and entertainment. Popular options include the ‘Ahaʻaina Lūʻau at Grand Wailea, Feast at Mōkapu at Andaz Maui, and Te Au Moana Lūʻau at Wailea Beach Marriott, featuring traditional food, hula, and fire-knife performances.
- Coconuts Fish Café – Legendary fish tacos and crispy onion rings.
- Ono Donuts – Warm, sugar-dusted donuts that melt in your mouth – even gluten free by request.
- Kihei Café – Giant cinnamon rolls and hearty breakfasts (arrive early!).
- Nalu’s South Shore Grill – Live music, local food, and aloha vibes.
- Lineage – Upscale Hawaiian-inspired dishes at The Shops at Wailea.
- Matteo’s Osteria – Authentic Italian cuisine with handmade pasta and local ingredients.
- Three’s Bar & Grill – Island fusion cuisine and one of Kihei’s best happy hours.
- Cafe O’Lei Kihei – A beloved local favorite for seafood and steaks.
- 808 Deli (Kihei location) – Popular sandwich shop serving creative deli sandwiches and salads.
- Miso Phat Sushi – Fresh, creative rolls and relaxed island dining with two locations in Kihei.
- Humuhumunukunukuāpua‘a – Romantic overwater dining at Grand Wailea.
- Maui Brewing Company (Kihei) – Handcrafted island beers, appetizers, sandwiches and more in an open-air, family-friendly taproom.
- Koholā Brewery – Small-batch lagers and ales for beer enthusiasts exploring South Maui in Wailea. Great appetizers, sandwiches and fish tacos.
- Sugar Beach – Ululani’s Shave ice, pastries, and locally roasted coffee by the ocean.
- Fred's Mexican Cafe – Casual dining with sunset views at reasonable prices.
- Oao Sushi Go – Small sushi restaurant known for quality fish and traditional Japanese dishes.
- Paia Fish Market Southside – Casual seafood spot known for huge portions of fresh fish tacos and grilled catch plates.
- Roasted Chiles Mexican Restaurant – Flavorful Mexican dishes with handmade tortillas and vibrant salsas.
- Black Rock Pizza – Delivery pizza, warm and delicious.
- Lappert’s Hawaii – Famous for premium Hawaiian ice cream and desserts.
- Akamai Coffee Wailea Village – Local coffee shop serving Maui-grown coffee and breakfast fare.
- Ko Restaurant at Fairmont Kea Lani – Elegant, plantation-inspired dining.
- Gannon’s Restaurant – Elegant dining overlooking the Wailea Gold golf course.
- Spoon and Key Market Wailea – Breakfast and lunch (every day) and dinner (Wednesday through Sunday).
- Nobu at Grand Wailea – Iconic Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño, alongside acclaimed sushi known around the world.
- Mama’s Fish House (in Paia, often booked six months out) – One of Maui’s most famous restaurants serving impeccably fresh seafood.
- Flatbread Company (in Paia) – Wood-fired flatbread pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients, baked in a traditional clay oven.
- The Mill House (in Wailuku) – Farm-to-table dining with beautiful views of the West Maui Mountains.
- Ka’ana Kitchen – Farm-to-table restaurant at Andaz Maui highlighting locally sourced ingredients.
- The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea – Fine dining with panoramic ocean views and refined island cuisine.
- Lobby Lounge at Four Seasons Resort Maui – Beginning nightly at 5 PM, enjoy traditional Hawaiian music, cocktails, and pupus in an elegant, open-air setting — the perfect place to end the day.
- Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante – Oceanfront Italian restaurant known for sunset dining and handmade pasta.
- Spago, Maui at Four Seasons Resort Maui – Combines the islands’ culinary techniques with many locally-inspired dishes along with Wolfgang’s classics.
Whether you spend your days snorkeling in turquoise waters, hiking to breathtaking views, or savoring sunset dinners overlooking the Pacific, your time at The Mana Kai Maui Resort connects you to everything that makes Maui unforgettable — beauty, tranquility, and the timeless spirit of aloha.
Here, the ocean is your backyard, the island is your playground, and every day feels like paradise found.