Think South Maui is just about sandy toes and ocean views? Think again.
Sure, South Maui’s golden beaches and crystal-clear waters steal the spotlight—but behind the surfboards and sunsets, a whole world of flavor is waiting to be discovered.
South Maui’s food trucks bring a feast of farm-fresh ingredients, bold island fusions, and local favorites straight to the streets.
For food lovers looking for adventure beyond sit-down dining, a South Maui food truck crawl is the perfect way to taste it all—without breaking the bank.
➡ ️ Pro tip: Booking a rental near Kihei or Wailea puts you just steps from these flavor-packed mobile kitchens. Fuel your adventure with every bite!
Why Food Trucks? Because You Deserve Flavor Without Fuss
No white tablecloths needed—just bold flavors, local vibes, and a side of aloha.
Food trucks give you more than just a meal—they offer a taste of the island’s creativity and culture.
These mobile kitchens are where local chefs experiment with bold flavors and serve up generous portions with aloha.
Here’s what makes them a must-try:
- Budget-friendly: Dine like royalty without draining your wallet.
- No reservations needed: Perfect for last-minute plans or spontaneous bites.
- Flavors from every culture: Hawaiian, Filipino, Thai, French—you name it.
What does that mean for you? More freedom, more variety, and more time enjoying the beach rather than waiting in line at a busy restaurant.
Crawl Like a Pro: How to Plan the Perfect Food Truck Day
⏰ Best hours:
- Late lunch (11 AM–2 PM) for fresh plates straight off the grill.
- Dinner (5 PM–8 PM) to wind down your day with flavorful bites and cool breezes.
💳 Cash or card?
Most trucks accept cards, but have a bit of cash on hand—some charge card fees, or only accept cash for tips or smaller purchases.
🚗 Logistics made easy:
- Focus on food truck hubs like Piʻikea Ave or South Kihei Road for multiple options in one spot.
- Carpool or rideshare to avoid the hassle of finding parking.
🌱 Eco tip: Bring reusable utensils and a cooler bag. You’ll reduce waste and keep those leftovers fresh for a beachside snack later.
Kihei’s Must-Visit Food Truck Hubs 🚚
👉 Maui Food Trucks of Kihei
Behind Azeka Shopping Center – 1 Piʻikea Avenue
This popular cluster is a go-to for hungry locals and savvy foodies alike. Some must-tries include:
Da Nani Pirates
Dive into passion-fruit tartar fish tacos and golden fish-and-chips. Seafood lovers, rejoice.
(Kula & Kihei) Open Daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM | Visit their Website
Thai Mee Up
Think next-level Pad Thai, lemongrass fried chicken, and icy Thai coffee to beat the heat.
(Kahului) Open Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM | (Kula & Kihei) Open Daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM | Visit their Instagram
Kraken Coffee
This drive-thru favorite serves rich espresso, cold brew, and coconut-vanilla lattes. Perfect for early risers!
Open Daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM | Visit their Instagram
👉 South Maui Gardens Truck Park
Located along South Kihei Road near Kalama Beach Park
A lush, laid-back space where gourmet eats meet garden vibes.
Kitoko Maui
French-inspired fare meets island favorites—think beef loco moco with a gourmet twist and ultra-fresh poke.
Open Daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM | Visit their Instagram
Blue Door Bakery
Quiches, sweet breads, and buttery croissants to satisfy any pastry lover.
Open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM | Sunday from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM | Visit their Instagram
Wing Kings
Crispy, garlic-butter wings and street-corn salad—yes, you’ll need extra napkins.
Open Daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM | Visit their Instagram
Aloha Prime Eatery
Taro-ginger sliders and colorful poke bowls that taste like they were made in paradise.
(Kula & Kihei) Open Daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM | Visit their Website
Da Green Coffee Bar & Dessert Diner
End your tasting tour on a sweet note with signature lattes, matcha specialties, and house-made desserts like banana pudding and tres leches that hit all the right notes.
Open Monday to Saturday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM | Sunday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM | Visit their Instagram
Signature Trucks You Can’t Miss
Craving a taste of what keeps locals coming back for more? Don’t miss these favorites:
Life of Thai
Bold, flavorful Thai street food made fresh—signature Pad Thai, rich Panang curry, and zesty papaya salad that packs a punch.
Open Monday to Tuesday from 12:00 PM to 7:45 PM | Thursday to Sunday from 12:00 PM to 7:45 PM | Visit their Website
Geste Shrimp Truck
Known for generous garlic-butter shrimp plates served with coconut rice.
Open Monday to Saturday from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM | Sunday from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM | Visit their Instagram
Kina‘ole Grill (across Kamaole Beach Park I)
Pulled-pork sliders, crispy calamari, and unbeatable beach views.
Open Daily from 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM | Visit their Facebook
Suns Out Buns Out (1 Piʻikea Ave)
Gourmet bao buns stuffed with buffalo chicken, pork belly, or plant-based options. Fan-favorite for bold flavors and playful twists on traditional bao—perfect for adventurous eaters.
Open Monday to Tuesday from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM | Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 Am to 8:00 PM | Visit their Website
Wailea & Makena’s Low-Key Foodie Gems
Looking to add a scenic drive and beach sunset to your plate?
These southside pop-ups are worth the extra miles:
Sandy’s Beach Kitchen (Makena Alanui)
Just steps from Big Beach, this truck serves hearty, locally sourced plate lunches with island flair.
Open Wednesday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM | Visit their Website
Brekkie Bowls (Wailea Ike Dr)
Morning crawl? Fuel up on açai bowls, chia puddings, and fresh-pressed juices.
Open Every Tuesday from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM | Visit their Website
Happy Belly Food Truck (Alahele Pl, Kihei)
Expect bold comfort food—chicken katsu curry, Philly cheesesteaks, and golden churros.
Open Daily from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM | Visit their Website
Tips for a Smooth (and Delicious) Crawl 🤙
- Check daily hours: Food trucks often post updated schedules on Instagram or website—don’t miss your favorite by showing up late.
- Go where the locals go: Long lines are a good sign. Locals know where the best bites are hiding.
- Pair with sunset views: Grab your dinner from a Wailea truck and walk to Ulua Beach or Makena for a sunset picnic. The sky, the food, the moment—it’s island perfection.
Get a Taste of Aloha—One Truck at a Time
At the end of the day, a South Maui food truck crawl isn’t just about eating.
It’s about connecting. With flavors. With locals. With the culture that makes Maui so unforgettable.
Hungry for something real, flavorful, and 100% local?
📍 Book your stay in Kihei or Wailea at RentalsMaui.com and start your delicious discovery today. ✨
Taste the island. Savor the stories. Eat with aloha. 🌺
