Great for Day 1 of your adventure, while your body is still on mainland time. Because of the five or six hour time difference, naturally you will wake up very early your first morning. Why not embrace it, and take a trip up to the summit of Haleakala volcano and watch what may be the most spectacular sunrise on Earth. As the sun peeks over the horizon, an ever-changing swirl of color and light dance across the vast sea of clouds—a sight described by Mark Twain as “the most sublime spectacle I have ever witnessed.” Bring a jacket or blanket! As of February 2017, online reservations are needed to ensure that the experience isn’t too crowded. You can make reservations online, the fee is less than $2/car.
Year after year, the humpback whales travel from the cool Alaskan waters all the way down to the warm Hawaiian waters for their annual winter breeding. They are first spotted in Maui’s waters as early as October and their presence gradually increases as more pods and escorts finally arrive in Hawaii just in time for the holiday season. Maui’s Whale Season runs from mid-Fall to April. The peak season for watching whales is generally during the latter part of the season; January thru March. One of the most amazing things about the humpback whales on Maui is how easily they can be observed in their natural habitat. It is common to see them breach and play on the ocean’s surface, which is easily seen from the shoreline or hotel balcony. Private chartered whale watching tours are offered by multiple companies. Pacific Whale Foundation is one of the best because of their commitment to conservation of the species.
Lahaina has over a thousand years of rich history, and was the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii from 1820 to 1845. From beaches to restaurants, Lahaina has some of the best attractions Maui has to offer. Enjoy a relaxing stroll, and if rest is needed, take a break under the massive Banyan tree located in the town square. Lahaina's Front Street has been ranked one of the "Top Ten Greatest Streets in America". Feel free to spend hours dipping in and out of the dozens of local stores, bars, and restaurants. Fun fact: Lahaina has the most art galleries per square mile in the world.
Possibly one of the most beautiful places for shopping and dining in the country, the Shops at Wailea are located in the heart of the prestigious Wailea community. The center features over 70 shops and restaurants including distinct luxury brands, local favorites, and fine art galleries. The gathering place for locals and visitors alike, offering free monthly signature events, cultural activities and some of the island’s best entertainment.
If there is one restaurant that has the ability to change your life, it’s Mama’s Fish House. You will never have another restaurant experience like this in your life. Their team of private fisherman catch the menu every morning. The look and feel of Mama’s matches the incredible way the owners shipwrecked at the location during their sail from California to Tahiti (read about it here https://www.mamasfishhouse.com/restaurant/history/). Despite it’s unbelievable setting and charm, it is pricey. We suggest doing lunch there as we feel both the view is best and prices are more affordable than at dinner. Call and make a reservation, and ask for a table with a view (most 2 or 4 seat tables have views). Leave time before and after to enjoy the grounds and take it all in.
The town of Pa'ia reflects its heritage as a unique Hawaiian plantation village that originated in the latter half of the nineteenth century. The first mill was constructed in the 1870’s as the sugar industry took hold on Maui. Pa'ia Town was established later in 1896 with the founding of a company store for plantation workers. In recent decades, Pa'ia has become a laid back town with local businesses and a coexistence between longtime residents and those attracted by the area’s world class windsurfing. The unique blend of shops, boutiques, and restaurants that make up Pa’ia have become a destination in their own right, nestled along some of Maui’s best beaches and still surrounded by sugarcane. Keep an eye out for Willie Nelson, a local resident to Pa’ia and also the owner of Charlie’s Bar in town.
An unbelievable Hawaiian rainforest experience. Top down, sunscreen on, and radio tuned to a little Hawaiian music on a Maui morning, head out to Hana along the Hana Highway (Hwy. 36), a wiggle of a road that runs along Maui's northeastern shore. The drive takes at least 3 hours from Lahaina or Kihei, but plan to take all day. Going to Hana is about the journey, not the destination. Takes a full day to drive up and back (weather permitting). It winds 50 miles past taro patches, magnificent seascapes, waterfall pools, botanical gardens, and verdant rainforests, and ends at one of Hawaii's most beautiful tropical places. Download the Road to Hana app, or purchase a CD tour at any local ABC Store, it won’t be the same experience without it. If you have the opportunity to experience it in a Jeep or convertible, do it. If able, bring along a few friends as well.
Possibly the best breakfast place in Maui, both for food and views. Located near Kapalua, it’s suggested you use GPS to find it. It’s tucked away in a small resort built in the 1960’s. There’s plenty of street parking. Once parked, look for pathway signs that guide you to the Gazebo Restaurant. We suggest getting there early before they open (between 7:00am-7:30am). A line starts forming around then, and the restaurant only sits about 30 people. They move people in and out quick, and there’s coffee and umbrellas (if needed) available while you wait in line. Just letting you know, once you visit the first time, you may end up eating here more than once. We highly suggest the white chocolate macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup.
Experience Hawaii's most authentic Luau on Maui's west side, in the heart of Lahaina, at the Old Lahaina Luau. An evening at the Old Lahaina Luau will enrich you with a genuine reflection of Hawaii's rich history. Immerse yourself with traditional Hawaiian Cuisine, cultural dances and demonstrations, all while enjoying the breathtaking views of the ocean at sunset. All food and beverages are included, so be ready to eat and drink like a Hawaiian.
A visit to Maui ins't complete without a vintage Hawaiian restaurant experience. Located on Front Street in Lahaina, Kimo's offers a step back into Hawaii of the 1970's, boasting a charming setting, complimented with a killer view and live music (6pm to 8pm most evenings). Call to get a reservation around sunset, as the views and seafood are unbeatable. We highly suggest trying one of their famous Mai Tai’s.