Maui-Kula nearest beaches (Kahului, Kihei, Pukalani: income, live in, outlet mall)

[qwerty007]

Anyone with a detailed knowledge of Maui geography help me with this question. Kihei has among the best swimming beaches, but is hot and dry. Kula looks to have a cooler, and wetter clime so more comfortable and less utility bills. Are there any small public tracks from the 31 to Kihei or Waliea. I've seen several private roads, but was wondering if there is a navigable path, or small unpaved road that gets you down that slope faster than going all the way round on the main roads, which I think must be about a 45 minute drive?

[NandVsMom]

I WISH!!!!!!

I'd live in Kula at the drop of a hat if there was a road. Of course we could always make our own if we have a few million...

Oprah Winfrey And Her Private Maui Road

[Calico Salsa]

Putting in such a road is often discussed, usually during election years. Then it gets dropped.

It is a lot of money. Haven't thought this through all the way, but I could see the benefits:
- Take traffic off the long route
- More development in Kula because those who like to frequent the beach but live not too far away would have another choice.
- Maybe a bit more lunch/shopping income for Kihei if the upcountry folks came down for a day?
- A biggie would be that it could be another evacuation route

Downsides, other than the expense of building it:
- Other areas might take a financial hit if the upcountry folks could get to Kihei easily. Perhaps the Paia side and maybe Kahului? I can't see that it would be that big. Kahului has the big box stores and Paia is a different feel of beach.

[hothulamaui]

my understanding is that most of that slope is privately owned.

[winkosmosis]

Kihei isn't that hot. I don't run my AC except on the occasional hot humid night. During the day it hits mid 80s usually, and at night drops down to low 70s or 60s. It's not 78+ and humid at night that often, just when the winds aren't blowing.

[winkosmosis]

I believe they're going to build a road from Pukalani to Kihei along with the new outlet mall

[hothulamaui]

Originally Posted by winkosmosis

I believe they're going to build a road from Pukalani to Kihei along with the new outlet mall

"they" have also been going to build a "lahaina by pass road" as well for the last 30 plus years. could happen

[kennard]

You could always use a bike. You may then travel where no car can go, unless you are the property owner. A forty mile drive becomes a six mile bike ride. The only trick is being able to handle the grade coming home. It's a great way to stay in shape.