Maui is an island that has it all. Beautiful beaches, lots of great snorkeling, beautiful waterfalls, sunsets to take your breath away, and wonderful hiking and biking trails. I have been to Hawaii many times, but was really blown away by Maui.
When we arrived in Maui it was raining but that’s pretty normal for Hawaii. It rains everyday just a little bit…..that’s how it stays so lush. Soon, the rain stopped and the rainbows appeared. It’s not unusual to see double rainbows after an afternoon shower. Our first 2 nights were spent in the ResortQuest Maui Hill condominium property in the little town of Kihei, about 30 minutes south of the airport. We had a beautiful 2 bedroom unit, with an oceanview. This property is not on the beach, but it is a very good option for those who are more interested in exploring the island, and experiencing Maui. Kihei is a good jumping off point for a visit to the Haleakala National Park, where you can hike the two-mile trail through a rain forest to the 400 foot Waimoku Falls! Another trail leads to ‘Ohe’o Gulch with many pools, where the swimming is fantastic. Just make sure you follow the posted signs for your safety while hiking into “interior”.
On the west side of the island, is Old Lahaina Town. This little town is both historic and fun. There are so many little shops, great restaurants, and charm. Lahaina was once the royal capital, a rowdy whaling port and missionary headquarters! Quite a mix! There are several museums which boast period-piece displays, as well as attractions like the Lahaina Kaanapali Railroad, which is a reminder of plantation days in Maui.
Lahaina Town comes alive in the evening with luaus, piano bars &, dancing to live music. We had so much fun shopping and trying a new restaurant every day. I loved the atmosphere & Oceanside dining of the “Cheeseburgers in Paradise”.
Staying in Kaanapali the next 4 nights was a real treat. The Hyatt Regency, on Kaanapali Beach, is a resort in itself. From penguins in the lobby pool, to the coconut crème’ brule in the dining room, to the rooms overlooking the golf course and ocean—a view of both at the same time! Kaanapali Beach is home to Black Rock with the best snorkeling on the island, maybe in Hawaii; the Golf Courses offer a real challenge, and the wind surfers and kite surfers are fun to watch. Sorry, I didn’t try that, but it sure looks like fun. Maybe next time!
If you are looking for something a bit quieter and maybe a bit less expensive than the Kaanapali Beach area, Napili and Kahana, just a short drive north, may be the place for you. The beaches are in sheltered coves, which is very good for small children. There are many moderately priced hotels and condos in this area, as well as shopping and lots of restaurants.
Kapalua is at the very north point on the west side of Maui. This area is home to many luxury hotels, such as the Ritz Carlton. But the real draw is the Plantation Golf Course, which is home to the PGA Tour Mercedes Benz Championship. One of my traveling companions, an avid golfer, was coveting a chance to play this course, but decided the green fees were outside her budget. Didn’t stop us from admiring the course and the beautiful views from the cliffs.
If you think that Maui is the place for you, please give me a call! I would love to help you plan the perfect honeymoon, second honeymoon, or family vacation to the Valley Isle of Maui. Aloha, Sandi@totemtravel.com