DESTINATIONS
Maui Ocean Center
The aquarium in Maalaea Bay is fun for all ages. A great activity in the afternoon. They have tide pools where you can touch sea life, many kinds of sharks & reys, and they have an amazing jelly fish exhibit. 15-20 minute drive |
Whale, Snorkeling & Dinner Cruises
There are several tour companies out there, but we prefer Pacific Whale Foundation. One of our favorites is the snorkeling & dolphin tour to Lanai. Leaving out of Lahaina, take a short ride to the island of Lanai. If it's whale season, you'll definitely see whales. When you get to Lanai, there's a good chance you'll see a pod of spinner dolphins. You'll snorkel near the island. The crew does a great job of education kids about the ocean and its creatures. |
Golf
Wailea has some of the best golf courses in the world. Try the Emerald, Blue or Gold course at Wailea Golf. The closest course is Maui Nui Golf Club, which is up the street and across the highway (by Maui Brewing). If you're looking for cooler temperatures, go up country to Pukalani Country Club. Not too far from Kihei in Wailuku, there's Kahili Golf Club or The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course. |
Twin Falls Hike
The is a relatively easy, 1-mile hike through a lush tropical jungle. Follow the lesser known first off-shoot on the right to go a waterfall and swimming hole. Hike the trail above it to another waterfall and pool. Stay on the main path to the left to go to the larger waterfall and pool. Wear appropriate shoes and clothing for getting wet (you have to walk through a stream and you may want to swim in the water). Be sure to wear a lot of mosquito repellent! 45-60 minute drive |
Hana
The winding road to Hana goes through a beautiful tropical rain forest. Take along the CD tour of the drive. Start this day early! One day is just not enough for all the wonders of the Hana area. There are places along the road where you can hike to beautiful waterfall pools, and about halfway there you can stop at a small food stand (only one you'll see - it's on the left). Visit Wai'anapanapa State Park and walk along the spectacular waterfront. See the secluded red sand beach in Hana. Explore at Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools). After a long hike, we love the burgers at Hana Ranch Restaurant. Spend the night at one of the inexpensive rustic cabins at Wai'anapanapa (808.984.8109), a B&B in town, or enjoy the luxury at the Travaasa Hana Resort. 3 hour drive |
Haleakala
Drive to the top of this 10,000 foot mountain and watch the sunrise. Allow two hours for the drive and be sure to take warm clothes. Take a hike down into the crater. We like the hikes that start down the road a bit from the summit. Adventurous types can cruise down Haleakala on rented bicycles or take an unforgettable helicopter tour. Check with the Haleakala National Park before you go for hours, fees, and weather conditions. It can be a beautiful day at the beach while winds are gusting up to 60mph on top of Haleakala! 2 hour drive |
Kula Lodge
For one of the best panoramic views of the island, visit Kula Lodge. Tour the beautiful gardens and visit Kula Marketplace one of the island's best gift shops for locally made goods. We love the chili & rice bowl from the gift shop. 45 minute drive |
La Perouse Bay
This bay sits in Makenna at the south-eastern point of the island amidst lava fields. You can walk or hike around the area. It's a beautiful and remote part of the island that's a scenic 20-minute drive from the house. If you go in the morning, snorkel at Ahihi Cove. If you go in the afternoon, watch the sunset at Secret Beach. 30 minute drive |
Skyline Eco Adventures (Kula)
Zip Lining in Maui is a special treat, and we've had fun at Skyline Eco Adventures. It's up country in the Haleakala National Park, so you're surrounded by eucalyptus trees and the temperatures are cooler. We think it's a good one for kids. For bigger and more adventurous lines, check out their Ka'anapali location. Buy your tickets through Costco (online). 45 minute drive |
Kihei Aquatic Center
If you have children, we recommend spending some time swimming at the community pool . This outdoor pool has a large shallow section for older kids, and a little water park area for toddlers. A few blocks up Lipoa - it's free. 5 minute drive |
Wailea Hotels & Walk
Don't miss seeing the grounds and architecture at the Grand Wailea Hotel, The Andaz and the Fairmont Kea Lani. There is a nice walking path along the beach that stretches about 1.5 miles. Start at The Andaz (park at Ulua beach) and end at the Fairmont Kea Lani. 10-15 minute drive |
Lahaina Old Town / Ka'anapali
If you haven't been to Lahaina, it's worth the 45-minute drive to spend half a day. The main street is lined with art galleries, historical points of interest, shops, and restaurants. Do not miss the Banyan Tree at the south end of the street - it takes up the entire city block! Although it's touristy, we love the quaint, open-air Cheeseburger In Paradise restaurant on the water. If you go in the evening, book ahead to see Warren & Annabelle's Magic Show. People rave about it! Head 15 minutes north of Lahaina and you're at the resort town of Ka'anapali. Whaler's Village is a popular shopping destination and the beaches here are sprawling. 45 minute drive |
Maui Arts & Cultural Center
Located in Kahului, this performing arts facility has indoor & outdoor stages, an arts gallery, and dance studios. It's a great venue to see performances in an intimate setting, and some performances are free. 25-30 minute drive |
Luaus
We recommend consulting Trip Advisor for the best-rated Luau's, or contacting the larger hotels in Wailea. |
Botanical Gardens
Maui has several botanical gardens that exhibit the island's native flora. Note that some gardens also have reptiles and birds, which make it fun for kids. |
Maui Wine
Another stop in Kula with breathtaking views is the Maui Wine's tasting room. Schedule a tour of the grounds or just enjoy a tasting. 1-hour drive |
Surfing Goat Dairy
If you like cheese, this is the place for you! Located in lower Kula, Surfing Goat Dairy offers daily tours and no reservations required. 30 minute drive |
Hawaii Sea Spirits Farm & Distillery
Enjoy Maui Ocean vodka? Take a tour at the lovely organic farm in Kula where these spirits are made. Reservations required. 30 minute drive |
Kahului Swap Meet
Every Saturday from 7am-1pm, this "swap meet" hosts over 200 vendors selling crafts and food. |
Kihei Kalama Village
If you're looking for souvenirs, we recommend the two open-air markets across from Kalama park on South Kihei Road. The Local Boys shaved ice stand is delish! |