There is something special about waking up in South Maui during whale season, stepping onto the lanai with a cup of coffee, and scanning the water for a spout. From roughly December through April, humpback whales fill the waters around Maui, and Kihei sits right on the edge of the action. If you want to be as close to the ocean as possible for it, our oceanfront condos in Kihei at Maui Sunset and Waiohuli Beach Hale are two of the best places to stay.
Here is a closer look at both properties, what makes each one different, and how to plan a winter stay around the whales.
Why Choose Oceanfront Condos in Kihei for Whale Season
Humpbacks travel thousands of miles from Alaska each winter to breed, give birth and nurse their calves in Hawaii’s warm, shallow waters. Peak season usually runs January through March. The waters of Maui Nui, between Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Kahoolawe, are a favorite gathering spot, and Maui consistently logs some of the highest whale counts in the state during the annual Great Whale Count.
Kihei is also known as one of the sunniest, driest parts of Maui, thanks to its spot in Haleakala’s rain shadow. Winter days are typically warm, with average temperatures in the low 70s. That combination of calm mornings, clear skies and whales offshore is why so many guests come back to South Maui year after year.
Staying oceanfront means you do not need to plan your whole day around whale watching. You can keep an eye on the water while you eat breakfast, walk the beach at sunset, and save the boat tour for the day the conditions look best.
Maui Sunset: Resort Amenities on Five Beachfront Acres
Located at 1032 South Kihei Road, Maui Sunset sits on more than five acres of beachfront property and is one of the few true oceanfront condo resorts in Kihei. Midway Vacations manages Maui Sunset B-515, a two-bedroom, two-bath condo that sleeps up to six, with a private balcony and ocean views.
What guests love about Maui Sunset
- Large heated swimming pool, plus a hot tub and sauna
- Fitness center, tennis courts, putting green and shuffleboard
- BBQ areas for easy sunset dinners
- Fully equipped kitchens and air conditioning in each condo
- In-unit washer and dryer, a real plus on a longer stay
- Direct beach access
The resort is right next to Waipuilani Park, a wide grassy park with sunset views toward the West Maui Mountains and a nice vantage point for spotting whales offshore in winter. Sugar Beach, one of Maui’s longest stretches of sand, is close by for long morning walks. The central Kihei location also puts shopping, dining and groceries within easy reach.
Best for: families and small groups who want resort-style amenities and a full kitchen in one place.
Waiohuli Beach Hale: Quiet, Old Hawaii Charm on the Sand
Tucked at 49 West Lipoa Street and set back from South Kihei Road, Waiohuli Beach Hale is a small oceanfront complex with a quieter, low-key atmosphere. Midway manages a selection of one and two bedroom condos here, many with private lanais and ocean views right on an uncrowded stretch of shoreline. Several units have been recently remodeled.
What guests love about Waiohuli Beach Hale
- 60-foot solar-heated pool
- BBQ grill area and shuffleboard
- Lush tropical gardens
- Full kitchens and air conditioning
- Free WiFi
- Coin-operated laundry on site
The location is easy to love. Times Market, coffee shops and local restaurants are within walking distance, Azeka Shopping Center is nearby, and the resorts and golf courses of Wailea are a short drive south.
A closer look: Waiohuli Beach Hale 213
For families or two couples traveling together, Waiohuli Beach Hale 213 is a guest favorite. This second-floor, two bedroom, two bath condo sleeps up to four and has a private lanai facing the water. The primary bedroom has a California King bed and an ensuite bathroom, and the second bedroom has a queen. Both bedrooms and the living room have split AC and ceiling fans, and the unit includes free on-site parking for one vehicle, keypad self check-in and fast WiFi. It also offers 5% off weekly and 10% off monthly stays when you book on our website, which makes a longer whale season escape more affordable.
Best for: guests who want a peaceful, beach-first stay and like the feel of a smaller, quieter property.
Maui Sunset vs Waiohuli Beach Hale: Which Is Right for You?
- Choose Maui Sunset if you want more amenities: a hot tub, sauna, fitness center, tennis and in-unit laundry.
- Choose Waiohuli Beach Hale if you prefer a smaller, quieter complex right on an uncrowded stretch of sand.
- Both are oceanfront condos in Kihei, so either way you get a full kitchen, air conditioning, beach access and the warm, dry South Maui weather.
Tips for Whale Watching From Kihei
Staying in one of our oceanfront condos in Kihei puts you steps from the water, so here is how to make the most of the season.
- Look early. Calm morning water makes spouts and breaches much easier to see.
- Bring binoculars. They turn a distant splash into a tail slap you will remember.
- Book a boat tour from Maalaea Harbor. It is just north of Kihei and is the main departure point for whale watching cruises.
- Visit the Sanctuary visitor center. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary has a visitor center at 726 South Kihei Road with exhibits and ocean views. Call ahead for current hours.
- Respect the rules. Federal regulations prohibit approaching humpbacks within 100 yards by any means, including kayaks, paddleboards, swimmers and drones.
- Join the celebration. Pacific Whale Foundation‘s World Whale Day events usually take place in Kihei in mid-February, including a parade along South Kihei Road. Watch for 2027 dates.
For more on the season, read our guide to whale watching in Oahu and Maui and our local list of things to do in Kihei this winter.
Book Your Oceanfront Condo in Kihei
Whale season is one of the most popular times to visit South Maui, and our oceanfront condos in Kihei tend to book early for January through March. Whether you picture yourself unwinding in the hot tub at Maui Sunset or listening to the waves from a quiet lanai at Waiohuli Beach Hale, booking directly with Midway Vacations means local support before, during and after your stay, with no third-party booking fees.
Browse our Maui vacation rentals to check dates, or call our team at 808.321.6173 and we will help you find the right fit. We hope to welcome you to Kihei this winter.
