Maui Review

We just got back from six days in Maui. Our last trip was 15 years ago as dating couple.  This time we went back with our three kids and had an amazing time. Incredibly relaxing, beautiful and re-energizing.  On our last trip we stayed at The Ritz Carlton in Kapalua.  This time we stayed in a house (via Ultimate Escapes) in an area of Maui called Kanapali which is in the city of Lahaina. 

The Weather 

Despite a gloomy forecast of partly cloudy for most of the week, we had nearly perfect weather.  While it was not couldless, we went to the beach every day and what coulds there were did not stop us from doing any outdoor activity.  It did rain a few times but it passed very quickly.   It ranged from the 70s to 80s every day peaking around 2pm. I was never sweltering hot and never wore anymore than a t-shirt and shorts. 

The scenery, views and terrain

Absolutely beautiful.  Incredible views that rival places like the Amalfi coast of Italy and the pacific coast highway in California. The beautiful green volcanic created hills are covered witha beautiful green smooth vegetation.  They are always there as you drive around and at the beach.  I found them inspiring and a beautiful backdrop the the amazing ocean views.

The beaches

We went to several beaches near our house in Lahaina.  Our favorite was the one that has a public beach and parking lot as the main access point in Kanapali next to Westin timeshares. From the Honopilani Highway (the main highway up the west coast of Maui) take a left onto Kai Aka Drive (on the right it will say Puukolli Road).  You can park here for free (get there before 10am) and it is a 2 minute walk to a beautiful beach.  It did not get at all crowded, but more people did start coming in around 11am. The waves were strong but the kids (ages 10, 8 and 4) had huge amounts of fun snorkeling, swimming, and body surfing.

We also tried out the beach at Black Rock which is right in front of the Sheraton Hotel (which by the way seemed very nice. Big lawns, more peaceful etc).  The waves were a bit calmer and the snorkeling near the Black Rock was great but this beach was much more crowded both in the water and on the beach itself.  We also tried out the beach at Hyatt Regency in Lahaina and found it to be small and depressing.

Orienting yourself

I will admit I am still a bit confused by all the names of places.  The one thing I know for sure is that you should look at the different Hawaiian islands (Maui, Linai, Kauai, The Big Island, etc).  Figure out which is best suited to you.  My general impressions is that Linai and Kauai are quite and more secluded and Maui is more upscale.  I really don't know much about the Big Island.   Check out gohawaii.com for some more info. 

Within Maui, there are "areas" such as Wailea which is to the south and is where The Four Seasons is.  The neighborhood around Wailea was very upscale.  What I don't understand is places such as Kanapali and Kapula.  They seem to be part of the city of Lahaina but are often referred to as their own area.  I will ask one of our Hawaiian residents to weigh in on this in the comments.

How we spent our time

Many families will want to take the "Road To Hana" which is a multi hour drive through windy but beautiful roads. Or they may want to go to Haleakalah and tour this large inactive volcano.   We did neither of these things.  Instead we hung out on the west coast largely swimming at the beach, playing games at the house, swimming in the pool, and occasionally venturing out to places like Whalers Village, Napili and Kapula.  I know this might be boaring to some but we had a great time just chilling out.    If you are a bit more restless check out this other review of Maui. Tracy has some great tips on where to go and what to see.

A few other recommendations:

1. I found Front Street in Lahaina to be VERY touristy.  Crammed with shops and restaurants but screams tourist trap.  Consider yourself forewarned.  We did drop by the Crocs store for the kids on the way out and grabbed some subs at Mr Sub in Lahaina as we went to the airport.

3. Check out my reviews of The Gazebo for a good brunch spot and Ferraro's for a special night out.  And of course, for a "cheesy" but fun night out check out The Melting Pot.

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