Maalaea Home for Rent

Maalaea, a neighborhood in Kihei, offers a tranquil, secluded living experience in southwestern Maui. Known for its condo buildings that overlook the bay, Maalaea is a haven for whale watchers and those seeking a quieter lifestyle compared to busier areas like Kahului. The community, with a population of around 300, features mostly condos built in the 1970s and 1980s, such as Maalaea Banyans and Makani A Kai, with 65% of units owned and the rest rented, often to tourists. Despite the tourist influx, crime rates are significantly lower than the national average. The area is not ideal for swimming but perfect for walking along the sandy shores and whale watching. Local attractions include the Maui Ocean Center and Haycraft Park, while Sugar Beach offers snorkeling opportunities. Dining and shopping are centered around Maalaea Road, with popular spots like Tante’s Fishmarket and the historic Ma’alaea General Store. For more extensive shopping, residents can drive less than 10 miles to Kahului. The neighborhood also features one of the island's few live music venues, da Playground, which hosts comedians and live music. Public schools, including the highly rated Maui High, are about 5 miles away in Kahului. The Maui Bus provides transportation to nearby shopping centers, and Kahului Airport is approximately 10 miles away. While some residential properties face minor flood risks, several roads are at major risk of flooding, particularly during the rainy season from October to April.