Here’s something most first-time Maui visitors don’t realize: you don’t actually need a rental car to enjoy Kihei. Sure, everyone assumes it’s mandatory, but the truth is, getting around without one is often easier, cheaper, and way less stressful.
Kihei’s compact layout, year-round sunshine, and beach-town vibe make it perfect for exploring on foot, by bike, or on a scooter. Whether you’re trying to save money or just want a more relaxed vacation pace, there are plenty of ways to get where you need to go.
Let me walk you through your options.
Why Skip the Rental Car?
Look, rental cars in Maui aren’t cheap, especially during peak season. Add in parking headaches at popular beaches, unfamiliar roads, and the cost of insurance and gas, and you start to wonder if it’s really worth it.
Kihei itself is pretty walkable. Most of what you’ll want to see, beaches, cafes, grocery stores, snorkel spots, sits along South Kihei Road. If you’re planning to stick around town rather than island-hopping every day, you might not need four wheels at all.
Plus, there’s something nice about slowing down. When you’re not rushing from one attraction to the next, you actually get to soak in the island atmosphere.
Walking Works Better Than You’d Think
If you’re staying somewhere central, walking might cover 80% of your needs. Beaches are close, restaurants are nearby, and the terrain is flat enough that you won’t be huffing up hills with your beach bag.
That said, midday heat is real. Carrying snorkel gear or groceries for more than a few blocks? Not ideal. But for quick trips to grab food or hit the beach right by your place, walking is unbeatable.
Biking Around Town
Bikes give you a bit more range without the commitment of motorized transport. The roads are mostly flat, the coastal views are gorgeous, and you can cruise from one end of South Kihei to the other pretty easily.
Some hotels and vacation rentals offer bikes, or you can rent one locally. Just keep an eye on traffic during busy times and bring a good lock if you’re stopping anywhere.
Scooters: The Sweet Spot for Most Visitors
This is where things get interesting. Scooters have become the go-to option for people who want independence without the full rental car experience.
They’re easy to park (huge plus at crowded beaches), simple to ride, and fuel-efficient. You can zip to snorkel spots, grab lunch across town, or explore nearby areas without dealing with Kihei’s occasional traffic jams.
If you’ve never ridden one before, don’t stress. Getting a rental on Maui is pretty straightforward, and most places offer a quick training overview so you feel comfortable before heading out.
The real advantage? Scooters hit that perfect balance between freedom and simplicity. You’re not tied to bus schedules, but you’re also not dropping $60+ per day on a car you barely use.
Just make sure you’re clear on helmet laws and basic safety stuff before you ride. Oh, and avoid common rental mistakes that can mess up your trip.
Public Buses: Cheap but Slow
Maui does have a bus system that runs through Kihei. It’s affordable, and if you’re not in a hurry, it’ll get you where you need to go eventually.
The catch? Fixed schedules and limited routes mean you need to plan ahead. It works fine for getting to shopping centers or certain beaches, but spontaneous adventures aren’t really in the cards.
Think of it as a backup option rather than your main transportation method.
Ride Shares and Taxis When You Need Them
Uber and Lyft operate in Kihei, along with local taxi services. They’re clutch for things like airport transfers, late-night dinners, or that one day you want to visit somewhere farther out.
Just don’t count on them as your primary way to get around. Availability can be spotty depending on the time of day, and costs add up fast if you’re using them multiple times daily.
They work best when combined with other options, walk or scooter most of the time, then call a ride when it makes sense.
Location Matters More Than You Think
Where you stay makes a massive difference. Book a place near South Kihei Road, and suddenly everything is accessible. You can walk to breakfast, scooter to the best beaches, and grab groceries without breaking a sweat.
Choose wisely, and you won’t feel like you’re missing out by not having a car.
Staying Safe While Getting Around
Whether you’re on foot, bike, or scooter, basic safety goes a long way. Wear your helmet if you’re on two wheels, follow traffic rules, and stay visible, especially at dusk.
Pay attention to how locals navigate the roads. They know what they’re doing, and watching them will help you blend in and stay safe.
The Money Question
Let’s be honest: this is a big reason people skip rental cars. When you factor in daily rental fees ($50-100+), insurance, gas, and parking, the costs pile up quickly.
Walking is free. Buses cost a few bucks. Scooters run around $30-60 per day depending on what you rent. Even occasional ride shares are cheaper than paying for a car you’ll only use a couple times.
For budget-conscious travelers, alternative transportation isn’t just convenient, it’s smart money management.
Is This Right for Your Trip?
Going car-free works best if you’re planning to stay local, enjoy a slower pace, or simply want to avoid driving hassles. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone on a shorter stay who’s mainly interested in Kihei’s beaches and dining scene.
If your itinerary includes exploring the entire island, Road to Hana, Haleakalā, upcountry Maui, you might want to mix things up. Rent a scooter for daily use and book a scooter tour or occasional ride share for longer trips.
Final Words
Kihei is one of those rare places where not having a car doesn’t feel limiting. Between walking, biking, scooters, buses, and ride shares, you’ve got options that fit different budgets and travel styles.
The key is understanding what you actually need. Most visitors find that the best transportation in Maui for Kihei is simpler and more affordable than they expected.
So before you automatically click “book” on that rental car, think about how you’ll really be spending your time. You might just find that getting around without one makes your Maui vacation better, not worse.