Kihei Sunshine Ride (40 miles)

One lesson I learned while visiting Maui in the winter: if you want sunshine, even when the rest of the island is in a torrential downpour (or under snowcover), you need to head over to the leeward side known as "south Maui", home to the resort towns of Kihei and Wailea. The mass of Haleakala blocks most of the tradewind weather patterns, so at least you've got a shot at drying out for the day.

Originally we had planned on riding up to Hana from Paia, but after dealing with the elements on our west Maui tour, the prospect of more wet windy riding didn't seem very appealing. Instead we decided to head out to Kihei for a little sunshine. The route is simple: from Paia, take Hana Highway towards Kahului, and follow bumpy Hansen Road to Mokulele Highway. On Hansen Road you'll pass by an aging sugar mill, still in operation. Almost the entire valley between the eastern and western volcanic mountains is planted with sugar cane. According to The Book, one company owns all 37,000 acres of the stuff. That's a lot of sugah.

Where Hansen Road meets the highway, there's a brand-spanking new bikeway running along the eastern side of the highway. The bikeway goes all the way to Kihei, ending at Piilani Highway. Incidentally, the prevailent tradewinds that blow through the valley will push you along effortlessly all the way from Paia to Kihei. Just remember to leave some extra time for the return trip, when you'll be battling the headwinds a bit.

Where the bikeway ends, turn down Uwapo to reach South Kihei Road, which runs alongside the south shoreline for several miles. A marked bikelane comes and goes along this road, but even when it disappears there's generally enough shoulder to feel comfortable.

The south side of Maui is known for its fabulous beaches, and there are plenty of places along Kihei Road to stop and take in some sun and sand. Personal favorite: Kamaole Beach I, at Alanui Ke Alii Road. Or continue a mile or two down the road to the Kihei Boat Launch, where you'll find a nice walking path with benches; a good rest stop before the return trip.

Total Miles: 37 miles
Elevation Gain: close to zero
Route map (bikely.com): Paia-Kihei