History of Wailea Name Origin, Fishing Villages &
Long before the luxury resorts, golf courses, and high-end dining, Wailea-Makena was home to fishing hale, where ancient Hawaiians built hale (traditional thatched houses) along the shoreline to prepare their catch. Rich with marine life, this land sustained generations of fishermen and their families.
Today, Wailea has transformed into an upscale paradise, but its history runs deep. The connection to the ocean remains, and the spirit of this land lives on. 💙 #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #MauiHistory #HawaiianCulture
Best Sushi Spots in South Maui
From resort fine dining in Wailea to local neighborhood gems in Kihei, South Maui has some incredible sushi spots! Whether you’re craving fresh-caught sashimi, creative rolls, or classic nigiri, these are some of our favorites.
Where’s your go-to sushi spot in South Maui? Tell us in the comments! ⬇️ #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #MauiEats #SushiLovers #SouthMauiDining
What is Molokini Crater?
Our crew breaks down the history of Molokini Crater and how it was formed. From its fiery beginnings to its crystal-clear waters today, this protected marine reserve is one of the most unique snorkeling destinations in the world.
Have you explored Molokini yet? 🐠✨ #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #MolokiniCrater #SnorkelMaui
Top Favorite Sunset Spots on Maui
Maui’s Best Sunset Spots! 🌅✨
From 10,000+ feet above sea level at Haleakalā, to the stunning views at OCEAN Organic Farm, and all the way at sea level onboard Kai Kanani, Maui sunsets never disappoint. 😍 Where’s your favorite place to watch the sun go down? Drop it in the comments! ⬇️ #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #MauiSunsets #Haleakala #OCEANOrganicFarm
Sunset Views Onboard Kai Kanani
Pasta: 10/10. Maui sunset: 11/10. Sorry, lasagna, but nature wins this round. 🌅🍝
#KaiKanani #SpoonandKey #ChefPreparedMeal #MauiSunset #Wailea #Makena
Maui This or That!
Maui This or That! 🌺🌊
We asked our team to choose between some of Maui’s best experiences—Snorkeling or Fishing? Sunrise or Sunset? Beach day or Hiking? 🤔 Now it’s your turn!
Drop your answers in the comments and tell us why! What should the next round of questions be?? ⬇️ #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #ThisOrThat #IslandLife
You never really know what’s happening below the surface! You might spot one or two whales up top, but who knows how many more are beneath the waves?! #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #MauiWhaleSeason #HumpbackWhales #WhaleWatching
KOAST - Brand New Wailea Restaurant
Koast just opened in Wailea Village, bringing fresh flavors, island-inspired dishes, and stunning sunset views to the dining scene.
From coffee-roasted rainbow carrots to zero-proof cocktails so good you won’t miss the alcohol, every detail is thoughtfully crafted. Led by Top Chef Masters winner Chris Cosentino, Koast brings a fresh, creative take on island dining to Wailea.
We loved it—who’s been to KOAST already? What did you think? ⬇️ #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #MauiEats #KoastMaui #WaileaDining
Why do Humpback Whales Breach?
Why do humpback whales breach? 🐋💨
Scientists have a few theories—are they shaking off barnacles, showing off for potential mates, or building muscle for their 3,000-mile migration? Most likely it’s all of the above and more! One thing’s for sure—it’s always a breathtaking sight.
What’s your favorite whale behavior to witness? 🐋👇 #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #MauiWhaleSeason #HumpbackWhales #WhaleWatching
Venture Beyond your Comfort Zone
It’s easy to stay where it’s safe and familiar, but the world has more to show you than what you already know.
The best moments, the greatest lessons—they’re waiting just beyond your comfort zone. ✨🌍 #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #AdventureAwaits #StepOutside #ExploreMorev
Why do we Support Local Vendors
At Kai Kanani, supporting local businesses isn’t just a choice—it’s a kuleana, or responsibility and privilege. General Manager Maria Taylor shares why we prioritize working with Maui farmers, chefs, bakeries, reef-safe sunscreen makers, brewers, winemakers, distillers, mechanics, welders and more!
By reinvesting in our local community, we help ensure that Maui thrives—because when our community is doing well, we’re all doing well. 💙 #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #SupportLocal #MauiBusiness #Community
How Far Away Must Boast Be During Whale Season
🐋 Captain Eric shares the important regulations we follow to protect Maui’s migrating humpbacks. From staying 100 yards away from any whale in the distance, to maintaining constant vigilance while navigating—since these gentle giants can surface at any moment—we ensure that every encounter is safe and respectful.
When we share the ocean with these incredible creatures, we do so with aloha and kuleana. 💙 #KaiKanani #Wailea #Makena #MauiWhaleSeason #HumpbackWhales #RespectTheOcean