take-out sandwiches for the beach

Question

Aloha,

We are very much looking forward to returning to Maui this June. We are staying in Kihei and are looking for places that are open around 10 AM that make take-out, deli-like sandwiches/hoagies/subs that we can throw in our cooler and eat on the beach. Subway worked well for us and was cost-effective when we tried it once last time but we are looking for more suggestions. My question is for both South Maui and West/Northwest Maui. Mahalo

Answer

Aloha! Maui has several great options for take-out sandwiches that are perfect for the beach. Staying in Kihei gives you easy access to South Maui options, and if you are willing to drive a bit, there are good choices on the West/Northwest side as well. Most of these places open around 10 AM and offer deli-style sandwiches, hoagies, and subs.

In South Maui (Kihei, Wailea, Maalaea):

Da Kitchen Express: Known for generous portions and local-style sandwiches. They offer hearty hoagies with a mix of local flavors. Perfect for packing in a cooler for the beach.
808 Deli & Grill: Offers fresh sandwiches, subs, and wraps. Open early and known for quick service, making it convenient for a beach day.
Subway (multiple locations in Kihei and Wailea): Affordable and consistent. You can customize sandwiches, and they open early enough for a beach picnic.
Café O’Lei at the Dunes: Offers grab-and-go options including sandwiches and wraps. Ingredients are fresh and portions generous.
Starbucks (Kihei/Wailea): Besides coffee, they often have pre-made sandwiches and protein boxes suitable for a cooler.

In West/Northwest Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua, Napili):

Choice Health Bar (Lahaina): Fresh sandwiches and wraps with healthy ingredients. Great for packing for a beach day.
Island Vintage Shave Ice & Deli (Lahaina): Offers hoagies and deli-style sandwiches alongside their signature treats.
Penny’s Sandwiches (Kaanapali area): Local favorite for subs and hoagies. Known for generous fillings and freshly baked bread.
Down the Hatch (Lahaina): They serve breakfast and lunch sandwiches that can be packaged for take-out if you ask ahead.
Paia Sandwich Company (Paia): If you are heading further up north, they have excellent sandwiches, fresh ingredients, and a casual vibe perfect for beach picnics.

Tips for packing sandwiches for the beach:

Bring a cooler or insulated bag with ice packs to keep the sandwiches fresh.
Consider ordering sandwiches without wet condiments like tomatoes or sauces to avoid sogginess, then add them once ready to eat.
Wrap sandwiches in parchment or foil to maintain freshness and ease of handling on the beach.

Overall, South Maui has more convenience for your stay in Kihei, but if you plan a beach day on the West or Northwest coast, the Lahaina/Kaanapali options are worth checking out for variety and local flavor.