15 Best Tours & Things To Do In Kihei

Kihei offers a vibrant mix of outdoor activities, perfect for those who want to make the most of their Maui vacation. Whether you’re eager to learn how to ride the waves, explore underwater worlds, or spot whales in season, Kihei’s diverse options won’t disappoint.

We particularly love the 2-hour beginner surf class for its friendly atmosphere and supportive instructors, and the whale watching tour for its chance to get close to Maui’s famous humpbacks.

With so many choices, you’ll find plenty to keep busy—whether you prefer relaxing on the beach or getting your adrenaline pumping.

Quick Overview

Kihei’s tour scene covers surfing lessons, snorkeling expeditions, whale watching, and coastal adventures. For those eager to learn, the surfing classes and private lessons offer personalized instruction. Water lovers can enjoy snorkeling trips and beach snorkels, while adventure seekers may opt for off-road coastal tours.

For a unique experience, the vintage VW brewery cruise combines scenic views with local brews. We’ll explore each of these below in detail.

1. Kihei, Maui: 2-Hour Beginner Surfing Class

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching your first wave, this beginner surf class is a perfect start. It offers a 2-hour hands-on lesson in Maui’s warm waters, with a variety of stable, easy-to-ride surfboards provided. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it ideal for first-timers or those wanting a relaxed intro.

What makes this tour special is the personalized attention. The instructors are adept at pacing the lesson to each student’s needs, so you won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed. With an average rating of 4.8/5 from 27 reviews, visitors rave about the patience and encouragement of the staff.

The cost is $104 per person, making it a good value for a focused, fun experience. This tour is best suited for beginners or anyone wanting to boost their confidence on a surfboard.

Bottom Line: A friendly, well-rated option for those eager to learn surfing in Maui’s warm waters.

2. Wailea-Makina: Sea Caves, Molokini Snorkel & Turtle Town

At number 2, this snorkeling tour offers a 5.5-hour adventure exploring Maui’s underwater treasures. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive day of snorkeling, including Molokini Crater—a renowned volcanic atoll with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

The trip also visits sea caves along the Kanaio Coast and the remote Turtle Town, where you’re almost guaranteed to see sea turtles.

The tour’s highlight is snorkeling in the inner and outer reefs of Molokini, with the chance to see eagle rays and other marine creatures. Rated 4.8/5 from 22 reviews, guests praise the knowledgeable crew and the chance to experience Maui’s underwater beauty.

The price is $216 per person, which includes all gear and guided support. This tour is ideal for snorkelers who want to combine scenic coastal sights with unforgettable underwater encounters.

Bottom Line: One of the best ways to experience Maui’s marine wonders in a half-day outing.

3. Maui: Surfing Lesson for everyone; pure fun!

If you want a fun, stress-free introduction to surfing, this lesson is a perfect choice. For just $100, you get 2 hours of professional instruction on Maui’s gentle beaches. The lesson includes all necessary equipment and focuses on helping you get a feel for the waves quickly.

Rated 5/5 from 9 reviews, this tour emphasizes a relaxed, encouraging approach that makes learning to surf accessible for all skill levels. The instructors give personalized tips to help you stand up on your board faster.

It’s suited for those who want to try surfing without the pressure of a group, or for families looking for a memorable activity. The combination of fun atmosphere, expert guidance, and affordability makes this a standout choice.

Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners wanting a positive, supportive break into surfing.

4. Maui: Whale Watching Tour – 1.5 hours

During whale season (December to April), this whale watching tour becomes a must-do. For 1.5 hours, you’ll board a comfortable boat from Kihei and get close to humpback whales. The tour offers a chance to listen to whales singing through a hydrophone, which adds a magical dimension to the experience.

Rated 4.8/5 from 10 reviews, visitors love the safety, speed, and the chance to spot whales and their calves in calm waters. The price of $93 per person strikes a good balance between cost and the once-in-a-lifetime experience. This tour is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a quick but memorable encounter with Maui’s most famous marine residents.

Bottom Line: An accessible, highly-rated whale watch that combines fun with education.

5. Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Whale Watching Tour – 2.5 hours

This combo tour offers a 2.5-hour trip on a fast inflatable boat, cruising to Molokini Crater and whale spotting. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their time in the water and see both underwater landscapes and marine mammals. You’ll snorkel in vibrant waters, with a chance to see mother and calf whales during the season.

Rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, guests note the exhilarating ride on the rigid-hulled boat and the close encounters with marine life. The $151 price includes snorkeling gear and beverages, making it a good value considering the dual experience. It’s perfect for active travelers who want an efficient, high-energy tour.

Bottom Line: A quick, exciting way to combine snorkeling with whale watching on Maui.

6. Brewery and Beach cruise in a Vintage VW Bus

For a laid-back, scenic experience, this vintage VW bus tour takes you through South Maui. It includes a tasty lunch or dinner paired with a beer flight at Maui Brewing Co, plus a visit to Secret Beach—an unspoiled stretch perfect for relaxing or taking photos.

Rated 5/5 from just 1 review, this tour offers a charming mix of local brews, scenic drives, and quiet beaches. The 3-hour journey costs $229 per person, and it’s best suited for those who want a relaxed day with good food, drinks, and scenic views. The combination of craft beer and Maui scenery makes it a memorable choice.

Bottom Line: A mellow, flavorful way to explore South Maui’s coastal beauty.

7. Maui: Makena Bay Kayak and Snorkel Tour

This guided kayak and snorkel tour in Makena Bay is ideal for those who want to paddle along pristine waters and see marine life up close. It lasts about 3 hours, during which you’ll paddle a sit-on-top kayak, with opportunities to snorkel among turtles, octopus, and colorful fish.

Rated 5/5 from 1 review, the focus on guided instruction and the calm bay makes it suitable for beginners or families. The $119 price includes all gear and a chance to explore the beautiful coastline at your own pace. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an active, nature-focused experience.

Bottom Line: A peaceful, family-friendly way to enjoy Maui’s clear waters and reef life.

8. Maui: Snorkel Tour to Coral Gardens

If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly snorkel experience, this cruise to Coral Gardens is a great pick. It lasts 3.5 hours and offers a chance to see Maui’s vibrant underwater ecosystem, including sea turtles and colorful fish. The tour features a deluxe lunch, waterslide, and a glass-bottom viewing room.

Rated 5/5 from 1 review, this tour is well-loved for its kid-friendly atmosphere and the ability to stay dry while still enjoying underwater views. The cost is $136 per person, making it a solid value for a full day of fun. This tour suits families or anyone wanting a comfortable, all-in-one snorkeling experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for families and those who want a comfortable, engaging snorkel trip.

9. Off Road Coastal Tour 4×4 Vehicle With Snorkel Photo+Video

For the adventure-seeker, this off-road coastal tour offers a 3.5-hour ride in a fully loaded 4×4 vehicle. It combines scenic drives, off-roading, and snorkeling at Maui’s Mother Reef. The tour is highly inclusive, providing all gear plus professional photos and videos of your trip.

Rated 5/5 from 1 review, travelers love the high-end equipment and the chance to explore inaccessible coastal spots. At $259 per person, it’s a premium experience but worth it for those wanting a mix of scenic adventure and marine exploration. Suitable for active travelers comfortable with off-road terrain.

Bottom Line: A top choice for thrill-seekers who want off-the-beaten-path coastal views and underwater adventures.

10. Maui: Molokini Express Snorkeling Tour – 2 hours

This fast-paced snorkel trip offers an efficient way to enjoy Molokini’s reefs. It lasts just 2 hours and includes snorkeling on both the inside and outside reefs, plus the backside of Molokini. Its quick schedule suits travelers with limited time.

Rated 4.3/5 from 9 reviews, visitors appreciate the smooth, safe trip and the chance to see abundant marine life in clear waters. Costing $140, it’s a good value for a short, action-packed snorkel adventure. Best for those who want a quick, energetic experience without sacrificing quality.

Bottom Line: A swift, reliable way to snorkel Molokini if time is short.

11. Maui Beach / Shoreline Snorkel

If you prefer an easy, no-fuss introduction to Maui’s marine life, this beach snorkel is perfect. It takes just 1.5 hours, focusing on exploring the reef system directly from the shore with a naturalist guide. It’s ideal for quick, spontaneous trips or families with little snorkel experience.

Rated unknown, the simplicity of this tour makes it a popular choice for those pressed for time but eager to see Maui’s reef life. The $85 fee includes basic gear and a guided experience.

Bottom Line: A straightforward, convenient option for a brief underwater adventure.

12. Maui: Kanaio Coast Rafting & Snorkeling Adventure – 4 hours

This 4-hour rafting trip takes you to remote coves and volcanic formations inaccessible by land. It combines scenic rafting with snorkeling in pristine, untouched waters. Breakfast with fresh fruit and drinks are included, enhancing comfort on this more adventurous expedition.

Rated no reviews currently, it’s favored by those seeking privacy and untouched scenery. The price is $195 per person. It’s best suited for travelers with some prior outdoor experience or those looking for a rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting remote, untouched snorkeling spots combined with scenic rafting.

13. Maui Private Surf Lessons

For a tailored learning experience, private surf lessons provide dedicated instruction in Maui’s gentle waters. The 2-hour session costs $179 and is ideal for those seeking personalized guidance to accelerate their surf skills.

While ratings are not listed, the private format ensures focused attention, making it suitable for individuals or small groups. If you’re serious about learning quickly or want a customized experience, this tour offers excellent value.

Bottom Line: The best choice for personalized, fast-tracked surfing instruction.

14. Maui: Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental

If you prefer to explore at your own pace, renting a stand-up paddleboard is a flexible option. For $54, you get 2 hours of paddling gear, including a leash, paddle, and board.

Rated unknown, this rental suits confident paddlers or those wanting to try it out on their own. Kihei’s calm waters make it a safe and enjoyable environment. It’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon on the water, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler.

Bottom Line: A cost-effective way to enjoy Maui’s calm waters independently.

15. Maui: Surfboard Rental

Finally, for those who want to ride the waves solo, surfboard rentals start at $44 for 2 hours. Offering a variety of sizes, this is a practical choice for spontaneous surf sessions in Kihei’s best spots.

Guests appreciate the professional environment and the included leash, making it easy to get out and surf on your own. Ideal for experienced surfers or confident beginners who want to try different boards during their trip.

Bottom Line: Affordable, flexible, and perfect for experienced paddlers and surf enthusiasts.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Kihei

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For example, if you want to learn to surf, the beginner classes or private lessons provide structured guidance, while experienced surfers might prefer renting a surfboard or trying a surf lesson.

Water lovers seeking underwater adventures should look at snorkeling tours or Coral Gardens, both offering excellent value and quality.

For those interested in wildlife, whale watching and Makena Bay kayaking are perfect, especially in season. Adventure travelers may prefer the off-road coastal tour, which combines scenic drives with snorkeling in remote areas.

Booking early is always wise, especially during peak whale season or summer months. Think about your fitness level, whether you prefer guided instruction or independent exploration, and match your choice accordingly.

In summary, Kihei’s array of tours caters to every traveler—from thrill-seekers and aquatic explorers to those seeking relaxing scenic drives. For a family trip, the Coral Gardens snorkel or shoreline snorkel makes perfect sense.

If adventure is your goal, the 4×4 coastal tour or rafting trip is ideal. And for those wanting to learn or improve their skills, the surf lessons or private lessons will give you that boost.

Whatever your style, Kihei offers experiences that will deepen your connection with Maui’s natural beauty. Book early, choose what excites you most, and get ready for unforgettable memories on this beautiful island.