Chess Clubs in Kahului, Hawaii. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Kahului, HI and Surrounding Central Maui Areas
Chess players in Kahului and nearby Central Maui communities will find several organized opportunities for gameplay, tournaments, and skill development. This guide provides current information about local chess activities in the region.
Chess Clubs in Kahului
1. Maui Chess Club
Address: Kahului Public Library (90 School Street, Kahului, HI 96732)
Meeting Times: Every Thursday, 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Description: The primary chess organization serving Central Maui hosts weekly meetings at the public library. The club welcomes all skill levels from beginners to experienced tournament players. Activities include casual games, strategy discussions, and monthly rapid chess competitions. The library provides chess sets and clocks for participants.
2. Maui Scholastic Chess Initiative
Address: Various Central Maui schools (contact program coordinator for locations)
Meeting Times: After-school hours during academic year
Description: This youth development program operates chess clubs at multiple Maui County schools. Certified instructors teach chess fundamentals, tournament etiquette, and advanced strategies. The program participates in Hawaii State Scholastic Chess Championship events.
Nearby Chess Clubs
3. Wailuku Chess Society
Address: Wailuku Public Library (251 South High Street, Wailuku, HI 96793)
Meeting Times: Saturdays, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Description: Located approximately 10 minutes from Kahului, this club serves players from Wailuku and surrounding communities. The group offers structured lessons for beginners alongside competitive play for experienced players. Monthly themed tournaments focus on specific aspects of the game.
4. Kihei Chess Collective
Address: Kihei Public Library (35 Waimahaihai Street, Kihei, HI 96753)
Meeting Times: Wednesdays, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Description: South Maui’s primary chess organization attracts players from Kihei, Wailea, and Makena. The club hosts regular tournaments, simultaneous exhibitions, and beginner workshops. Multiple playing sections accommodate different skill levels.
5. Upcountry Chess Group
Address: Makawao Public Library (1159 Makawao Avenue, Makawao, HI 96768)
Meeting Times: Second and fourth Sundays, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Description: This casual chess gathering serves Upcountry Maui players in Makawao, Pukalani, and Kula. The group emphasizes friendly competition and skill development in a relaxed setting.
Tournament Opportunities
The Hawaii Chess Federation organizes several annual tournaments accessible to Maui players:
Maui Open Championship (rotating between Kahului and Kihei locations)
Valley Isle Scholastic Tournament (typically held at Maui High School)
Hawaii State Championship (various island locations)
Local clubs frequently organize rapid and blitz tournaments. The Maui Chess Club hosts a monthly Saturday tournament with sections for different rating levels when participation warrants.
Learning Resources
The Kahului Public Library maintains a collection of chess literature available for checkout. Several clubs offer free beginner lessons before regular meetings. Digital resources include the Hawaii Chess Federation’s online tournament portal and active chess communities on popular playing platforms.
Prospective participants should verify meeting times as schedules may adjust for holidays or special events. Most venues provide chess equipment, though tournament players may prefer bringing their own regulation sets. Parking is available at all library locations, with the Kahului library offering ample parking in its adjacent lot.
