Chess Clubs in Kihei, Hawaii. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Kihei, HI and Surrounding South Maui Communities
Chess enthusiasts in Kihei and nearby South Maui areas will find several organized opportunities for gameplay, instruction, and competitive events. This guide provides detailed information about local chess activities in the region.
Chess Clubs in Kihei
1. Kihei Chess Club
Address: Kihei Public Library (35 Waimahaihai Street, Kihei, HI 96753)
Meeting Times: Every Wednesday, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Description: The primary chess organization serving South Maui meets weekly at the public library. The club accommodates all skill levels from absolute beginners to tournament players. Regular activities include casual games, strategy discussions, and monthly rapid chess competitions. The library provides chess sets and clocks for participants.
2. South Maui Scholastic Chess Program
Address: Various Kihei schools (contact program coordinator for locations)
Meeting Times: After-school hours during the academic year
Description: This youth initiative operates chess clubs at multiple South Maui schools. The program focuses on chess fundamentals, critical thinking development, and preparation for state scholastic championships. Certified instructors work with students from elementary through high school levels.
Nearby Chess Clubs
3. Maui Chess Club
Address: Kahului Public Library (90 School Street, Kahului, HI 96732)
Meeting Times: Thursdays, 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Description: Located approximately 20 minutes from Kihei, this is Maui’s largest chess organization. The club hosts regular rated tournaments, simultaneous exhibitions, and beginner workshops. Multiple playing sections accommodate different skill levels.
4. Wailea Chess Collective
Address: Wailea Community Center (95 Wailea Ike Drive, Wailea, HI 96753)
Meeting Times: First and third Saturdays, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Description: A newer chess group serving Wailea and Makena residents. The collective emphasizes social play with optional strategy discussions. Suitable for players seeking a relaxed chess environment.
5. Upcountry Chess Society
Address: Makawao Public Library (1159 Makawao Avenue, Makawao, HI 96768)
Meeting Times: Second and fourth Sundays, 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Description: Located about 30 minutes from Kihei, this club serves Upcountry Maui players. The group offers structured lessons and hosts occasional themed tournaments focusing on specific aspects of the game.
Tournament Opportunities
The Hawaii Chess Federation organizes several annual tournaments accessible to South Maui players:
Maui Open Championship (rotating between Kihei and Kahului locations)
South Maui Scholastic Tournament (typically held at Lokelani Intermediate School)
Hawaii State Championship (various island locations)
Local clubs frequently organize rapid and blitz tournaments. The Kihei Chess Club hosts a monthly Saturday tournament with sections for different rating levels when participation warrants.
Learning Resources
The Kihei 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 instructional content on popular chess 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 locations, with the Kihei library offering ample parking in its adjacent lot.
