#Makawao Town

[xtruss]

Illustration by João Fazenda

The Burning of Maui

The governor called the fires Hawaii’s “largest natural disaster” ever. They would more accurately be labelled an “unnatural disaster.”

— By Elizabeth Kolbert | August 20, 2023

The ‘alalā, or Hawaiian crow, is a remarkably clever bird. ‘Alalā fashion tools out of sticks, which they use, a bit like skewers, to get at hard-to-reach food. The birds were once abundant, but by the late nineteen-nineties their population had dropped so low that they were facing extinction. Since 2003, all the world’s remaining ‘alalā have been confined to aviaries. In a last-ditch effort to preserve the species, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has been breeding the crows in captivity. The alliance keeps about a third of the birds—some forty ‘alalā—at a facility outside the town of Volcano, on the Big Island, and the rest outside the town of Makawao, on Maui. Earlier this month, the Maui population was very nearly wiped out. On the morning of August 8th, flames came within a few hundred feet of the birds’ home and would probably have engulfed it were it not for an enterprising alliance employee, one of her neighbors, and a garden hose.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, “many factors” contributed to the ‘alalā’s decline, including habitat destruction, invasive species, and the effects of agriculture on the landscape. Owing to these developments, Hawaii’s native fauna in general is in crisis; the state has earned an unfortunate title as “the extinction capital of the world.” Of the nearly hundred and fifty bird species that used to be found in Hawaii and nowhere else, two-thirds are gone. Among the islands’ distinctive native snails, the losses have been even more catastrophic.

Last week, as the death toll from the fires in West Maui continued to mount—late on Friday, the number stood at a hundred and eleven—it became clear that the same “factors” that have decimated Hawaii’s wildlife also contributed to the deadliness of the blazes. Roughly a thousand people have been reported as still missing, and some two thousand homes have been destroyed or damaged. The worst-hit locality, the town of Lahaina, which lies in ruins, was built on what was once a wetland. Starting in the mid-nineteenth century, much of the vegetation surrounding the town was cleared to make way for sugar plantations. Then, when these went out of business, in the late twentieth century, the formerly cultivated acres were taken over by introduced grasses. In contrast to Hawaii’s native plants, the imported grasses have evolved to reseed after fires and, in dry times, they become highly flammable.

“The lands around Lahaina were all sugarcane from the eighteen-sixties to the late nineteen-nineties,” Clay Trauernicht, a specialist in fire ecology at the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, told the Guardian. “Nothing’s been done since then—hence the problem with invasive grasses and fire risk.”

Also contributing to the devastation was climate change. Since the nineteen-fifties, average temperatures in Hawaii have risen by about two degrees, and there has been a sharp uptick in warming in just the past decade. This has made the state more fire-prone and, at the same time, it has fostered the spread of the sorts of plants that provide wildfires with fuel. Hotter summers help invasive shrubs and grasses “outgrow our native tree species,” the state’s official Climate Change Portal notes.

As Hawaii has warmed, it has also dried out. According, again, to the Climate Change Portal, “rainfall and streamflow have declined significantly over the past 30 years.” In the weeks leading up to the fires in West Maui, parts of the region were classified as suffering from “severe drought.” Meanwhile, climate change is shifting storm tracks in the Pacific farther north. Hurricane Dora, which made history as the longest-lasting Category 4 hurricane on record in the Pacific, passed to the south of Maui and helped produce the gusts that spread the Lahaina fire at a speed that’s been estimated to be a mile per minute.

After visiting the wreckage of Lahaina, Hawaii’s governor, Josh Green, called the Maui fires the “largest natural disaster Hawaii has ever experienced.” In fact, the fires would more accurately be labelled an “unnatural disaster.” As David Beilman, a professor of geography and environment at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, recently pointed out, for most of Hawaii’s history fire simply wasn’t part of the islands’ ecology. “This Maui situation is an Anthropocene phenomenon,” he told USA Today.

A great many more unnatural disasters lie ahead. Last month was, by a large margin, the hottest July on record, and 2023 seems likely to become the warmest year on record. Two days after Lahaina burst into flames, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a revised forecast for the current Atlantic hurricane season, which runs through the end of November. The agency had been predicting a “near-normal” season, with between five and nine hurricanes. But, because of record sea-surface temperatures this summer—last month a buoy in Manatee Bay, south of Miami, registered 101.1 degrees, a reading that, as the Washington Post put it, is “more typical of a hot tub than ocean water”—noaa is now projecting that the season will be “above normal,” with up to eleven hurricanes. Rising sea levels and the loss of coastal wetlands mean that any hurricanes that make landfall will be that much more destructive.

A few days after noaa revised its forecast, officials ordered the evacuation of Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories. A wildfire burning about ten miles away would, they feared, grow to consume the city. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation called the evacuation order “extraordinary.” This summer has been Canada’s worst wildfire season on record, and, at times, the smoke has spread all the way to Europe. There are currently something like a thousand active fires in the country.

Two days after the Yellowknife evacuation was ordered, another Pacific hurricane—Hilary—intensified into a Category 4 storm. Hilary was being drawn north by a “heat dome” of high pressure over the central Plains, which was expected to bring record temperatures to parts of the Midwest. The storm’s unusual track put some twenty-six million people in four states—California, Utah, Nevada, and Arizona—under flash-flood watches.

How well humanity will fare on the new planet it is busy creating is an open question. Homo sapiens is a remarkably clever species. So, too, was the ‘alalā. ♦

— Published in the Print Edition of the August 28, 2023, New Yorker Issue, with the Headline “Fire Alarm.”

[ninetimesnetwork]

Maui's Hidden Gems: Underrated Areas to Consider Living

Maui's Hidden Gems: Underrated Areas to Consider Living

As a professional Maui real estate agent with Nine Times Network, I've had the privilege of exploring some of the most beautiful neighborhoods on the island. While popular areas like Wailea and Lahaina are undoubtedly stunning, there are many other hidden gems throughout Maui that are often overlooked by buyers. 

In this blog, I'll be sharing some of Maui's underrated neighborhoods that you should consider when looking for your dream home. 

Haiku

Haiku is a charming town located on the north shore of Maui, just a few miles from the famous Ho'okipa Beach Park. This area is known for its lush greenery, stunning ocean views, and tranquil atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas and immerse themselves in nature.

Haiku is home to a wide range of properties, including luxurious estates and affordable homes. The average home price in Haiku is around $1.5 million, but you can find more affordable options if you look around. 

Kula

Kula is a picturesque town located on the slopes of Haleakala, Maui's dormant volcano. This area is known for its stunning panoramic views, cool temperatures, and lush vegetation. It's a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Maui's natural landscapes without being too far away from the conveniences of city life.

Kula is home to a wide range of properties, including spacious estates and cozy cottages. The average home price in Kula is around $1.2 million, but you can find more affordable options if you look around. 

Makawao

Makawao is a charming town located in upcountry Maui. This area is known for its unique architecture, small-town charm, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It's a perfect spot for those who want to experience the beauty of Maui's countryside while still being close to the beaches and attractions of the island.

Makawao is home to a wide range of properties, including historic homes and modern condos. The average home price in Makawao is around $1 million, but you can find more affordable options if you look around. 

Pukalani

Pukalani is a small town located in upcountry Maui, just a few miles from Makawao. This area is known for its mild climate, stunning views, and quiet neighborhoods. It's a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the beauty of Maui's countryside while still being close to the conveniences of city life.

Pukalani is home to a wide range of properties, including spacious homes and affordable condos. The average home price in Pukalani is around $800,000, but you can find more affordable options if you look around. 

Wailuku

Wailuku is the county seat of Maui and a historic town with a rich cultural heritage. This area is known for its stunning architecture, charming downtown area, and proximity to the island's main attractions. It's a perfect spot for those who want to experience the island's history and culture while still enjoying modern amenities.

Wailuku is home to a wide range of properties, including historic homes and modern condos. The average home price in Wailuku is around $600,000, but you can find more affordable options if you look around. 

Paia

Paia is a small town located on the north shore of Maui, just a few miles from Haiku. This area is known for its laid-back atmosphere, charming downtown area, and stunning beaches. It's a perfect spot for those who want to live near the ocean and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle.

Paia is home to a wide range of properties, including historic homes and modern condos. The average home price in Paia is around $1 million, but you can find more affordable options if you look around.

Upcountry Maui

Upcountry Maui refers to the region of the island located above sea level, including areas like Kula, Makawao, and Pukalani. This area is known for its stunning panoramic views, lush vegetation, and cool temperatures. It's a perfect spot for those who want to escape the heat of the coast and enjoy a more temperate climate.

Upcountry Maui is home to a wide range of properties, including spacious estates and cozy cottages. The average home price in Upcountry Maui is around $1.2 million, but you can find more affordable options if you look around.

Conclusion

Maui is a beautiful island with many hidden gems that are often overlooked by buyers. From charming towns like Haiku and Makawao to Paia.  There are many areas throughout Maui that offer a unique living experience.

As a professional Maui real estate agent with Nine Times Network, I can help you find the perfect home in one of these underrated neighborhoods. Whether you're looking for a luxurious estate or an affordable condo, there's something for everyone on this beautiful island.

So if you're ready to start your search for your dream home in Maui, contact me today. Let's explore these hidden gems together and find the perfect place for you to call home.

 Real Estate with Aloha is not just a catchy tagline for us. It is how we conduct business every day.

Adam Miller R(S)81648

808-866-6606

Real Broker, LLC

www.NineTimesNetwork.com

 Ten Things to Know Before Moving to Maui

Maui Home Buying Guide

Maui Relocation Guide

Maui Home Sellers Guide

The Ultimate Moving to Hawaii Guide

Top 20 annual Home Maintenance Tasks

Your Guide to Buying a Condo on Maui

[menuandprice]

Stopwatch 1127 Bar & Grill – Makawao, Maui, HI

Happy Hour at Stopwatch 1127 Bar & Grill – Makawao, Maui, HI

Updated 2/17/2023 by the Maui Happy Hours team

Happy Hour at Stopwatch Bar Maui from 3:30pm-6:30pm Daily

- $1 off well liquor and shots - $1 off wine - $1 off 12 oz draft beer mugs - $1 off domestic bottled beer *We stock our well with above-average liquor. —————————— Address: 1127 Makawao Ave, Makawao, HI 96768 Phone: (808) 572-1380 Website

About Stopwatch Bar & Grill Maui

Stopwatch is a family-owned restaurant built in 1994 by Chris and Haru Arian. What started out as a sports bar has now transitioned into a fun, family-friendly restaurant, and bar catering to all sorts of hungry locals and visitors. They offer local beers on tap, fresh, local burgers, and great local classics. Located in Makawao in the heart of Upcountry Maui, Stopwatch is the perfect stopover after visiting the nearby sites. The world-famous burgers at Stopwatch are handcrafted using 100% grass-fed Maui Cattle beef, offering a mouthwatering farm-to-table experience. Stopwatch Bar & Grill has been a well-known favorite of Maui locals for decades and continues to bring delicious food and top-notch service in 2022.

According to these recent Stopwatch Bar & Grill patrons

“Great food, great service. Small Town bar and open kitchen. Was really nice.” Karen M., February 2023 “My Dad and his best friend have gone here for years. They’re both angels now so we cheers them whenever we go! Recently went with my Mom and pup to watch some football playoffs during happy hour. Good service, kind crowd, good pub food. Mahalo!” Laura P., February 2023 “Simple menu, good food, nice little private back patio, would definitely recommend it.” Jerome B., January 2023 “The food and service was great. Wife and I had the fish and chips and a happy hour beer. Good menu and good selection of beers and drinks. Save room for the mud pie!” Mike C., January 2023 “Great dive sports bar. Perfect spot to get wings and a burger to watch any game. Good crowd and fun bartenders. Highly recommend.” John C., December 2021 “Pleasantly surprised by this little dive bar. Good drinks and hurricane fries. The margaritas were great and the beer was cold. What else could you ask for?” Leesha S., December 2021 “This is a local dive with good food and cold beers at the right price. The back patio is cute but extremely limited in space. But this place deserves 5 stars as our waitress was excellent and went above and beyond!” Joben G., November 2021 “Our second visit to this fun, local spot with great food, Mango Cart on tap, yummy sandwiches and the sweetest waitress. And  the onion rings. Do yourself a favor. Some of the best onion rings I’ve ever had.” Gail C., July 2021 “Nice town (Makawao) off the beaten path. Gypsy tour guide shared little gems like this along the way. Murals on the back entrance wall of this restaurant. Amazing service. Our server took our orders perfectly, the kitchen delivered some of the best bacon cheese burgers I’ve had with a side of mashed potatoes, and the general feel of the pub was inviting.” Justy T., July 2021 Happy hour at Stopwatch Bar and Grill Maui is daily from 3:30pm-6:30pm, featuring discounted draft beer, bottled beer, wine, and liquor.

Want to make a comment or ask a question? Are you a fan of Stopwatch Maui? Tell us in the comments below.

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The post Stopwatch 1127 Bar & Grill – Makawao, Maui, HI appeared first on Maui Happy Hours. Read the full article

[abroadfortheride]

Haleakala, Need for Speed

Today was downhill biking day!

We began with a 45 minute van ride up the side of Haleakala. Luke and I were squished in the back seat with another couple and thr road was pretty winding, but we made it through.

At 6500 feet the van pulled over and unloaded the bikes and set us free. After a few curves of excessively squeezing my brakes I got the hang of it. Luke was so excited to zoom around the twisting mountain road hitting over 30mph. He was also quite happy I could keep up, mostly! The ride down was both exhilarating and breath taking as we took in the landscape between the two volcanos. We also rode through several eucalyptus groves and the air smelled like heaven. As we neared the end of the mountain side, we stopped in a town called Makawao for brunch and to admire local art.

Once we dropped the bikes off, we decided that we hadn't had enough of Haleakala and got back in our car to head up the mountain again. We stopped at the Kula Botanical Gardens because the internet told me it was a great place to find Jackson Chameleons in the wild. Despite our best efforts the only ones we could find were the two they have as pets to help visitors spot wild ones. Elusive little monsters.

We continued our drive up to the entrance of Haleakala National Park, and discovered it was another 30 minutes to the summit. We thoroughly enjoyed the changing scenery as we made our way up to the 10,000ft peak. Luke was giddy to discover that we had driven through and were now higher than the clouds. After about 8000ft the surface changes to black lava rock and small scrubby bushes dotted around. At the 10023ft summit, it looks like the surface of Mars. It was so amazing. But also 57 degrees with sustained wind speeds of 15mph. We were freezing! Which I think makes it even more Mars like. We weren't able to tolerate the cold for long, we really didn't prepare well, but I'm grateful we were able to check that sight off the bucket list.

We zipped back down the mountain side, top down, and heat blasting. We were running low on gas, so I found to closest gas station on GPS - another 30 minutes away. We ended up in around the south side of Maui, which is apparently much more populated than the rural-ish rainforest of Haiku where we're staying.

We had a very delicious dinner and then went looking for a bar to unwind at. We discovered a cute clustering of bars nearby. We chose the one with craft beer, "What Ales You." It had comfortable patio chairs with flaming tiki torches and a very calming acoustic guitar player.

On the way home we were lucky enough to see the last bits of gold from sunset blanketing the coast and the West Maui Mountains.

Tomorrow we have no plans so we shall see what actually happens

7/20/22

[allalohaplumbing]

Business Name: All Aloha Plumbing and Drain Cleaning

Street Address: 805 Kolu St Unit A-3

City: Wailuku

State: Hawaii (HI)

Zip Code: 96793

Country: USA

Business Phone: (808) 871-7586

Business Email: admin@allalohaplumbing.com

Website: https://www.allalohaplumbing.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allalohaplumbing/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2OJOIoLCPmM

Business Description: At All Aloha Plumbing, we make it our priority to serve the communities of Maui with high-quality traditional and trenchless plumbing services. We work hard to be the trusted plumbers for Makawao, Haliimaile, Spreckelsville, Palu, Keokea, Kahului, Maalaea, and every other island town. We are committed to bringing harmony, helpfulness, humility, and unity to everything that we do, and because of this dedication to the Spirit of Aloha, we always put people first.

When you work with All Aloha Plumbing, your project will be our priority. To learn more about our business and services, give our friendly team a call today or reach out through our online form. Our insured, licensed, and bonded team is here and ready to serve Maui with top-notch plumbing services now and well into the future.

Business Timing: Open 24 Hours

Payment Methods: Cash, Check, Visa, Master, Discover, Amex

Services: Plumbing Services, Drain Cleaning, Sewer Inspections, Plumbing Repairs, Trenchless Pipe Lining, Leak Detection

Business/Company Establishment Date: 2017

Owner Name: Deven Tells

Location:-

https://g.page/alllalohaplumbing?share

Service Area:-

https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1CGH2odbShSdfTMGNlgJoMM8H4uJP2k0o

[mattholicguilt]

when i come to makawao i always stop in the makawao history museum because they do really nice exhibits (and there's a photo of my great-great-great grandfather on the wall lol) and today when i went i learned about kitada's kau kau korner, a restaurant that was founded in 1947 by the kitada family.

it closed in 2007 and now there's a Sip Me coffee shop in its place. i stopped by for a cold brew and the coffee shop is just... well, see for yourself.

minimalism meets uh. more minimalism? the chalkboard menu said "sustainability is sexy" and a sign on the counter assured me that all their straws were made of corn, not plastic.

it's just such a stark difference from the "homey clutter" description of kitada's that it made me kinda sad. (i never went to kitada's. i think 2006 was the first time i came to maui, and we didn't go to the restaurant.)

and like, there's a difference, i guess, between modern minimal millennial businesses replacing native hawaiian-owned shops and restaurants and replacing japanese-owned businesses. i understand that me being bummed out is not comparable to the feelings of hawaiian people watching new age hippies and essential oil saleswomen opening up boutiques full of identical t-shirts that say Live Aloha and Maui Is My Happy Place.

it just kinda sucks. i wanna be able to take my kids to the same bakery i used to go to with my grandma. i want "historic" makawao town to actually feel historic.

[agent-bash]

One of my biggest recommendations for anyone coming to Maui is to hit up a Maui Friday’s event. There block parties that happen in different towns every Friday. First Friday of the month is Wailuku, second is in Lahaina third Makawao, fourth Kihei and fifth is on Lāna’i. We’re talking live music, dancing, local vendors, and food trucks. Some of the best food on the island. Each one is different, but all are worth it.

[vacationsoup]

New Post has been published on https://vacationsoup.com/10-awesome-things-to-see-and-do-in-maui-hawaii/

10 Awesome Things to See and Do in Maui, Hawaii

Ever think about taking a trip to paradise? Maui’s got you covered. Being Hawaii’s second largest island, it has no shortage of interesting and exciting things to do.

Itching to see some truly wonderful natural wonders? Maui’s got it. Have a hankering to try water sports or just relax on some remote beach? You can find them there. Good food? Nice hotels? Beautiful hula-clad girls? Yes, yes and yes.

1. The Old Lahaina Luau

Some things are just unavoidably interwoven with a particular place’s identity. In Maui’s cause, perhaps this is never more apparent than with The Old Lahaina Luau, one of the biggest and most popular venues to view the traditional Hawaiian hula dance, fire-eating shows and sampling some delicious native dishes.

2. Haleakala National Park

Home to the world’s largest dormant volcano, millions of visitors come by to see this majestic sleeping giant. Sitting 10,000 feet above sea level, it is a place where you can wonder about the powers and dangers of Mother Earth—without getting too close to red-hot lava, ala Mt. Kilauea.

Seeing the majestic sunrise from the top of Haleakala (pronounced “hah-lay-ah-kah-lah”) is one of the most favourite things to do here, but that also means dragging yourself out of bed at three in the morning, making a two and a half hour drive up to the summit, and bundling up in every piece of clothing you’ve brought, because although it could be one of the most beautiful sights you would see in your lifetime, the temperature there is frigid and the winds are relentless.

3. Snorkelling and Other Ocean Activities

I don’t think anyone’s ever managed to disassociate Hawaii with the ocean, and there is certainly a surfeit of potential places and tours in Maui.

There are also packages available for snorkeling, surfing, whale watching, cruises, kayaking, outrigger canoeing, scuba diving, fishing, surfing, parasailing, kite-boarding, stand up paddling, windsurfing, and jet skiing. You can experience all those thrills in this island.

The white-sand beaches found all around Maui also offer a truly spectacular opportunity to see the secrets of the depths, from vibrantly-colored fish to ghostly shipwrecks such as the wreck of the Carthaginian. Watch out for sharks, though!

On the flip side, if being in the ocean scares you, there are other ways to appreciate it without actually jumping in it. The Ocean Center in Maui is a conservatory and aquarium all in one, home to a fantastic, teeming variety of fish and other marine life for the curious.

4. Helicopter Tours

If you’re the kind of adventurer going for something different, consider going on a helicopter ride and afford yourself some breathtaking views of not just Maui, but of all Hawaii’s islands. Take a ride to the skies and experience the majestic islands in all their glory.

5. Take the Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is also another favourite tourist activity in Maui. The journey through this winding and steep road begins at Maui’s northern shore and proceeds along the coastline to the small East Maui town, Hana, a peaceful community bordered by abundant green pastures decorated with white-coloured cattle.

Hana is a beautiful destination, but the road to get to it is also a destination. You would not want to rush this road trip and you would definitely make more than a handful of stops to enjoy and take Instagram-worthy pictures of lush greeneries, remarkable waterfalls, and breathe in the fragrant smell of guavas and ginger that grow along the roadside.

6. Play Golf!

Yes, this small Hawaiian island also boasts of impressive golf courses open to the public. Maui offers a great variety of golf experiences for both novice or amateur and professional players. So whether you just play to relax, or you’re a pro-golfer, you will definitely find Maui’s golf courses remarkable and the view spectacular and breathtaking.

7. Take a Bite of Maui’s Gastronomic Paradise

Who doesn’t like to eat? Everybody loves grub and if you are in Maui, you will have even more reasons to love food! Dining is one of the top things to do here and the experience is one for the books. Though the area is just small, Maui unbelievably offers a vast array of dining choices from affordable mom-and-pop cafes to posh and luxurious celebrity-chef owned restaurants.

The locals would advise you to taste a bit of everything in Maui: Hawaiian-style fast food, fine-dining restaurants, local favourites like Spam musubi, or ethnic foods like Portuguese malasadas that represents the island’s culinary identity.

8. Immerse Yourself in Maui’s Rich Culture

Hawaii’s rich and colourful culture is absolutely unique; and there’s nowhere in the world like it. There’s the famous Hula dance and a lot of festivals, art galleries, museums, and special shows that immerse you in the beautiful Hawaiian culture.

Music is also an immense part of Maui’s cultural heritage. You will hear their music everywhere—in your hotel, in the beaches, parks, and even shopping centers.

9. Shop til’ You Drop

Because the island of Maui offers a vast pool of choices to shop in—from large shopping malls with high-end designer brands to tiny hole-in-the-wall boutiques, chances are you are going to end up buying something during your stay. Maui’s largest Swap Meet happens every Saturday from 7am to 1pm at the UH Maui College campus in Kahului. Here, you will meet both visitors and locals roving through the rows of booths. Arts and crafts, clothing, jewelery, souvenirs, flowers, produce, and everything you could think of from some couple of hundreds of vendors.

10. Sightsee

Aside from Road to Hana and Haleakala, Iao Valley is also a notable natural park for photography and hiking. Upcountry Maui (on the slopes of Haleakala) has quaint little towns, wide grazing grounds, and a picturesque landscape. Other towns like Wailuku, Makawao, Paia, and Lahaina, offer local food and are perfect for day or afternoon strolling.

[7s3v3n7s3v3n7-blog]

Happy Aloha Friday 🤙🏽 . . . . . . . #ionstudioz #art #redyellowgreen #rasta #creation #graphicdesign #7s3v3n7 #hawaii #jamaica #rootsmusic #goodvibes #consciousness #conscioushiphop #wisdom #awakening #woke #awareness (at Historic Makawao Town) https://www.instagram.com/p/B09cD7xBEah/?igshid=vc6peioz4x9g

[mauitime]

Makawao Third Friday Town Party

Makawao Third Friday Town Party

On Friday, May 19, you can check out the Third Friday town party in Makawao. The evening will be dedicated to the grads, so bring your family and friends to celebrate. There’ll be live entertainment and opportunities to taste ono grinds from Maui food trucks and vendors. Peruse the classic car showcase while your kids have fun in the Keiki Zone with face painting, balloon animals and a spider…

[artahmadshariff]

View from #makawao #maui beautiful small town with a lot of hearts https://www.instagram.com/p/BznGTFWn1YD/?igshid=wim12009bwch

[duncanbarker-blog]

We weren’t initially going to visit Maui on our Hawaii trip as we’d heard it was too overdeveloped and touristy. While this is true in certain areas, it’s also possible to get off the beaten path, and the island has so much to offer including gorgeous beaches, whales, turtles, snorkelling, waterfalls, hikes, volcanoes, bamboo forests, and some stunning scenery.

Maui isn’t a huge island and you could explore everywhere on day trips from one base, but we really enjoyed spending a few nights in less touristed areas. For our Maui itinerary, we chose three places to stay, which enabled us to explore the island without any long exhausting day trips.

Most visitors to Maui stay in West or South Maui where the best beaches are. You definitely want to spend time here for some relaxation and activities like whale watching, snorkelling at Molokini Crater, and exploring the historic town of Lahaina.

But I also think less-visited East Maui deserves more than just a day trip for the popular Road to Hana drive, and there’s a lot to see in Upcountry (the centre of the island) too.

Maui Tips

At Wai‘anapanapa State Park near Hana

If you want to see humpback whales in Maui (the best thing we did on the island), the best time to visit is from January to March, although you may be able to see a few from November to May.

Prices are higher in the winter, though, so for lower rates visit in the spring (April and May) and fall (September to early November).

It can be rainier and cooler (70ºF at worst) in the winter. In late January/early February, we had a mix of hot sunny days and cloudy, windy days with some rain.

You’ll need to rent a car to make the most of your time on the island. We used Rental Cars to search for the best deal and ended up renting with Thrifty. We just chose the cheapest economy car and it was fine.

If you want to snorkel at Molokini Crater (details below), schedule it for early in your trip as it can be cancelled if it’s windy, and this will allow you time to reschedule.

I also recommend booking a whale watching trip for early on too. They usually run even in bad weather (we got soaked but it was still wonderful!), but you might love it so much like us that you decide to go out on another trip.

Sign up to the Snorkel Store’s snorkel report and you’ll get an email at 8 am every day with information on snorkelling conditions and the best beaches to visit that day. They also have reasonable rental rates for snorkelling gear, beach chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards. 

Our Maui Itinerary at a Glance

Hana (East Maui) – 2 nights

Makawao (Upcountry) – 2 nights

Kahana (West Maui) – 10 nights

We arrived in Maui at 10 am on a short flight from Kauai, so we weren’t too tired to drive the Road to Hana on our first day.

If you are arriving from the mainland US, it would make more sense to reverse this itinerary and start with the relaxing beach portion of your trip in West or South Maui and finish with overnight stays in Hana and then Upcountry (where you’ll be closer to the airport).

We had plenty of downtime during our two weeks in Maui, so you could easily adapt this itinerary for 7 days in Maui.

Wai‘anapanapa State Park is a Maui highlight

A 7 Day Maui Itinerary

Here’s what I would recommend for the perfect week in Maui:

West or South Maui – 5 nights

Hana – 1 night

Upcountry – 1 night

If you’ll looking for a 5 day Maui itinerary, I would spend one night in Hana at the beginning or end of your trip and the other four nights in South or West Maui. You’ll still have time for the Road to Hana, sunrise at Haleakalā, and then choose the other activities you are most interested in from below.

Our Maui Road Trip Map

Note: The distances of each leg of our journey are taken from Google Maps (which we used for navigation) and the times are the actual time it took us including stops along the way.

Day 1 Kahului Airport to Hana (2 nights)

Distance: 50 miles Time: 4 hours including breaks

We arrived at the airport at 10 am and within an hour we had rented a car and were on our way. On our first day we drove the Road to Hana, which is one of the most popular things to do in Maui.

This narrow, windy road through the rainforest passes waterfalls, beaches, gardens, and bamboo forests. There are many places to stop to hike, swim, enjoy the view, or buy homemade treats from local snack stands.

Most visitors to Maui do the Road to Hana in one exhausting 12-hour day, but I think it’s worth spending a night in Hana (ideally two as we did in this itinerary). This allows you to enjoy the area at a more leisurely pace and avoid the crowds by visiting the most popular places near Hana early in the morning.

We first stopped in Paia to stock up on food at Mana Foods then visited the rainbow eucalyptus trees, the Ke’anae Arboretum for a short walk, the Ke’anae Peninsula for coastal views and banana bread, and Upper Waikani Falls.

At the rainbow eucalyptus trees on the Road to Hana

We left the rest of the road’s attractions for the next few days and arrived at our hotel by 3 pm where we relaxed for the afternoon then took a walk around the cute town in the early evening.

See my post on the best Road to Hana stops for more details about everywhere we visited in this area.

Where to Stay in Hana

We stayed in a studio condo at Hana Kai and it was our favourite place we stayed in Hawaii. The condo was comfortable and well-equipped and had a fantastic view of the quiet black sand beach and ocean in front of the hotel. Waking up to the sunrise over the ocean was magical. I highly recommend it. 

Hana Kai condos in Hana

There’s only one resort in town—the Travaasa Hana. It looks beautiful but is very expensive. 

Otherwise, it’s just B&Bs and vacation rentals—search on Airbnb and VRBO for the options. Make sure you book well in advance as accommodation is limited.

Where to Eat in Hana

We heard that there was nowhere to eat in Hana in the evenings, so we brought food to self-cater. We ended up only using it for breakfast and lunch as we couldn’t resist the town’s food trucks in the evenings.

We enjoyed our inexpensive meals at Ae’s Thai Kitchen and The Surfing Burro (Mexican) trucks and finished with ice-cream at Coconut Glens. These are all in the same area opposite Hana Ranch Restaurant.

There are a couple of restaurants open in the evening—Hana Ranch and The Preserve Kitchen at Travaasa—but they are pricey. I think eating early (before 7 pm) at the food trucks is a better option.

We also loved the Hana Farms snack stand about 15 minutes before Hana near Wai‘anapanapa State Park. The banana bread and chocolate macadamia cookies are divine. They also sell coffee, sandwiches, and lots of foodie souvenirs.

Day 2 Hana

On our second day, we left at 7 am to visit the Kipahulu section of Haleakalā National Park (also called Oheo Gulch), a 35-minute drive past Hana. Entrance costs $25 but includes the Haleakalā Summit and is valid for three days so you can use it when you get to Upcountry.

The Seven Sacred Pools here were a bit disappointing (you can no longer swim), but the Pipiwai Trail is a highlight of the Road to Hana. As we arrived early, we had the first half of this four-mile out and back trail entirely to ourselves. In the afternoons it gets very crowded, so this is a major reason for staying in Hana.

The hike took us two hours and included a large bamboo grove, banyan tree, and ended at a 400ft waterfall.

On the way back to Hana we stopped briefly at Wailua Falls, Koki Beach and Hamoa Beach.

After lunch and a rest at our condo, we walked 20 minutes to Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach. This was our favourite beach in Maui and is a magical place, but it can only be accessed down a steep, slippery trail.

Many people have been injured here so only visit if you are a confident hiker (it’s not suitable for small children). We spent the afternoon relaxing and swimming here.

Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach

Recommended Reading: 17 Stunning Road to Hana Stops.

Day 3 Hana to Makawao (2 nights)

Distance: 58 miles Time: 4.5 hours including breaks

Before we checked out, we left at 8.15am to visit Wai‘anapanapa State Park, a 15-minute drive before Hana. This is one of the most popular stops on the Road to Hana, but early in the morning there were only a few others around. We spent an hour visiting the beautiful black sand beach, sea cave, blowhole, and walking along the coastal trails.

Back at our hotel we checked out at 10.30am and drove past Hana on what is known as the Back Road to Hana. This road has a bad reputation, and there is a bumpy unpaved section, but after that it turns into a smooth and empty road. The scenery is very different on this side of the island—drier and more open with ocean views. I think it’s worth doing.

Our first stop was just past Oheo Gulch at Charles Lindbergh’s Grave. It’s not a must-do unless you are a big fan of the aviator, but it’s located in the lush gardens of the scenic Palapala Ho‘omau Church which overlooks the ocean.

The Back Road to Hana

We continued along the coast past black pebble beaches and rolling brown hills, before beginning the climb up into the centre of the island. This central area at higher elevations is known as Upcountry and surrounds the island’s highest peak, the Haleakalā volcano at 10,023 feet. It’s colder up here so keep a sweater handy.

Our first stop in Upcountry (just over two hours from Hana) was MauiWine (open 10 am – 5 pm), a winery with lovely views and an outdoor tasting area. We shared the tropical tasting ($12) which included three sweet pineapple wines and one white and snacked on goats cheese and crackers ($12). They also offer free tours at 10.30am and 1.30pm, but the timings didn’t work for us.

Twenty minutes further down the road is Ali‘i Kula Lavender Farm ($3 entry). Don’t expect the fields of Provence, but on the pretty grounds there are 45 varieties of lavender and views down to the ocean. It was chilly when we visited, but on a sunny day it would be a lovely place to hang out. You can also buy souvenirs and tasty lavender scones and tea in the shop.

We were considering visiting the Surfing Goat Dairy Farm as well, but we felt too tired so continued 20 minutes further along to Makawao where we were staying.

Makawao is a cute little town with some early 20th-century shop fronts. It’s described as a Paniolo (Hawaiian Cowboy) town, but you won’t see many cowboys around any more. It does have a very local feel, though, and there are lots of unique shops and art galleries.

Where to Stay in Makawao

We rented an Airbnb room in someone’s house with a private entrance and bathroom. It was small but pleasant with windows overlooking the gardens and the owner gave us fruit from the garden. We enjoyed staying in a local residential neighbourhood that felt very different from the beach resorts.

The listing is no longer available, but you can search for other Airbnbs in Makawao here. Accommodation is limited in Upcountry so book as far in advance as possible.

The closest place to stay for the Haleakalā National Park summit is Kula Lodge. The setting is beautiful, but the rooms look dated for the price. 

Where to Eat in Makawao

Sip Me has good coffee including nitro cold brew.

The old-school Komoda Bakery is supposed to have the best donuts on the island, but they were sold out by the time we got there at 1 pm. It’s best to go early.

We had dinner one night at Casanova Italian Restaurant. It was nice enough but quite pricey (as are all restaurants in Hawaii) and I wouldn’t go out of your way to eat there. It’s cheaper at lunch. A better option for pizza is Flatbread in Paia, a 15-minute drive away.

On our second night we drove 10 minutes away to Hali’maile General Store. This is one of the best-rated restaurants on the island and was our one splurge meal on Maui. Reservations are essential for dinner. The service was excellent, and they have a separate vegetarian menu, but I have mixed feelings about whether it’s worth the high price.

We really enjoyed some of our dishes like the blackened tofu with wasabi greens and mashed potato and the Maui Gold pineapple upside down cake, but our $30 green curry was too mild and creamy for our tastes (we preferred the $11 version at the Hana food truck). If you are on a budget, I’d skip it, but otherwise, it’s worth a visit and is cheaper at lunch.

Habibi is a cute outdoor cafe in the centre of Makawao serving Middle Eastern food for lunch. We didn’t eat here, but it looked good.

Other restaurants we wanted to try in the Kula area were La Provence, Grandma’s Coffeehouse, and Kula Bistro. 

Day 4 Upcountry

Our main reason for staying overnight in Upcountry was to be close to Haleakalā National Park for sunrise at the crater. Many people do this from the other side of the island, but it requires a very early start.

For sunrise, you must make reservations here up to 60 days in advance and it costs $1 per vehicle. If you miss those tickets, they release another batch two days in advance. 

It’s a slow, windy drive up the mountain. Even staying in Makawao it took us over an hour—we left at 5.20am, arrived at the checkpoint at 6 am (where you pay the $25 fee), and reached the visitor centre below the summit at 6.30am. This was 25 minutes before sunrise, but they had already closed the road to the summit as the car park was full.

You need to arrive an hour before sunrise to get a place at the summit, but you can still get a good view at the visitor centre.

We knew it would be cold up there, so we wore many layers, jackets, hats, gloves, boots, and a blanket wrapped around us both. The temperature was below freezing with a ferocious wind, though, and I was still painfully cold as we stared down into the crater and waited for the sun to come up.

It was a crazy feeling to be above the clouds, and the sunrise was pretty, but honestly, I was too cold to enjoy it. Afterwards, we attempted walking down the Sliding Sands (Keonehe’ehe’e) Trail which does have fantastic views as you descend into the crater, but the extreme wind sent us back.

I’m sure on a less windy day it would have been more enjoyable, but next time I’d go in the late afternoon instead to enjoy a hike before sunset. No reservations or early starts needed, and the colours of the crater would be better (in the morning you are looking into the sun).

At 8.30am we were back down the mountain and stopped at Kula Lodge for breakfast. We weren’t the only ones with this idea and had to wait 10 minutes for a table—thankfully by the much-appreciated fireplace.

The restaurant has beautiful views, and we enjoyed our pancakes and french toast. Sunset here is also supposed to be good.

By 9.30am, we arrived at the Upcountry Farmers Market which takes place on Saturday mornings. It was the biggest we visited in Hawaii with lots of fresh produce, sweet treats, and prepared food stalls with tempting vegetarian options like vegan miso ramen and Thai curry.

We almost wished we hadn’t eaten breakfast already, but we did appreciate having a proper sit down and hot drink after the trauma of the summit.

We took it easy for the rest of the day—having a nap and then wandering the shops in Makawao. You could manage with one night in Upcountry, but we didn’t want to have to drive to the west coast and wait for an afternoon check-in after the early start. 

Here are some more ideas on things to do in Upcountry, including a vodka tour and farm visit. 

Day 5 Makawao to Kahana (10 nights)

Distance: 47 miles Time: 4 hours including breaks

After a 10 am check-out, we took a slow drive to the west side of the island as we couldn’t check in until the afternoon.

Our first stop was the Sacred Garden of Maliko. This tranquil spot is not very busy or well known and entrance is free, so it’s perfect for using up some time.

There’s a huge nursery with lots of plants and seating areas where you can hang out, read books, or play chess. Outside there’s a labyrinth where you can take a meditative walk.

We then drove to the Ho’okipa Lookout past Paia where you can watch surfers and windsurfers riding the huge waves. On the beach below we saw dozens of turtles.

In the cute hippy town of Paia, we had delicious pizza and salad at Flatbread followed by dessert at Ululani Shave Ice which is considered the best shave ice on Maui.

On our drive to the west coast we stopped at Papawai Point (aka Whale Lookout Point). We had to wait a few minutes to get parked in the small lot, but we saw a few whales immediately. It would have been better with binoculars as they were quite far away.

Finally, we reached Kahana, our home for the next ten days. It’s a quiet area of condos and a few shops and restaurants just north of the popular beach resort Kaanapali.

Anywhere along the coast in West or South Maui would be a good base for the beach portion of your trip. It’s about an hour’s drive between the two areas.

Where to Stay in West Maui

We stayed at Kahana Reef, an oceanfront condo building. All condos have lanais with ocean views, and we even saw whales breaching. The sunsets are superb. 

View from our lanai at Kahana Reef

A small pool and large grassy area with sun loungers are located in front of the ocean. There’s a small beach to the right, but it’s narrow and the water was a bit too murky for swimming. We did see a green Hawaiian sea turtle, though. There are excellent beaches a five-minute drive north and south.

All units are individually owned and decorated differently. We were in 314 on the third floor and liked being higher up. Our condo was comfortable and well-equipped.

Our oceanfront condo at Kahana Reef

If you’d prefer to be right on the beach, search for resorts on Kaanapali Beach or just north on the quieter Airport Beach (our favourite). 

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is a popular option on Kaanapali Beach with five pools, a water slide, four restaurants, and lots of activities. 

Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas is on our favourite part of Airport Beach and has both hotel rooms and apartments with kitchens. There are two pools, a gym and a spa. 

Further north near Napili Bay or Kapalua Bay would also be an excellent area to stay. There are lots of condos up here—search for options on Airbnb and VRBO.

Where to Eat in West Maui

Naked Summer Roll Bowl at A’a Roots in Napili

We mostly self-catered. The Napili Market is a five-minute drive north of Kahana and has a decent selection. Farmers Market Maui is five minutes south and has better fresh produce as well as health food items and locally made salsa and hummus. On Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, there’s a farmers market outside.

Other places to eat that we recommend:

A’a Roots in Napili – A vegan cafe with delicious healthy bowls, salads, smoothies, and daily specials (like an Indian plate). You can get salads to take to the beach.

Maui Tacos in Napili – Good, quick, cheap Mexican with vegetarian options and a salsa bar.

China Boat in Kahana – Surprisingly decent Chinese food at reasonable prices.

Maui Brewery in Kahana – Good beer and bar snacks like nachos and burgers.

Maika’i Lani Malasadas in Lahaina – This stand outside a church feels very local and sells freshly fried malasadas (Portuguese donuts). We preferred the sugar ones, but you can get various fillings.

Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop in Olowalu – Stop here on your way between the south and west coasts. The pies are delicious—we liked the macadamia chocolate and the apple crumble. We got takeout but you can also eat in.

Hula Grill on Kaanapali Beach – We didn’t eat here but enjoyed the Premium Mai Tai. It would be a good place for sunset.

Day 6 – 14 Exploring West and South Maui

There are many things to do in West and South Maui and you can pick and choose what to do each day based on the weather and your energy levels. Here were our favourite activities (all in the west except for the snorkelling trip):

Whale Watching

Our absolute favourite activity on Maui was taking a whale watching boat trip from Lahaina.

Thousands of humpback whales travel from Alaska to Hawaii during the winter to mate, give birth, and nurse their young in the warm, shallow water. Maui is the best place to see them—we did see some whales in Kauai but were blown away by how many we saw in Maui.

We chose a small boat trip with Makai Adventures and loved it so much we did the trip twice (you get 20% off repeat trips). The sunrise trip is fantastic value at $40 for two hours and the light is beautiful.

We couldn’t believe how quickly and easily we saw whales on these trips. We saw dozens of them including many baby whales (which aren’t so small), as well as adults breaching and tail slapping, and we even heard their otherworldly singing through a hydrophone. They are magnificent creatures and we were in awe the whole trip.

At one point we stayed with a mother and calf for over an hour. We turned off the engine and sometimes they’d approach us, so we got really close. The energetic baby was just a few weeks old but kept breaching (jumping out of the water) over and over again. The mother was over 50 feet long (and we were in a 37-foot boat!) and finally did a full breach herself along with her baby.

My camera had broken a few days before, but luckily we had a National Geographic naturalist on board, Jill Niederberger, who captured the moment.

Photo by Jill Niederberger

Do not miss a whale watching trip if you’re on Maui in the winter!

Lahaina Town

Lahaina is a pretty, historic small town. It’s a good place for shopping with lots of independent boutiques—I liked The Jewelry Stand Maui where they made me a custom design necklace.

The highlight is the incredible banyan tree. It dominates the Courthouse Square and looks like it’s many trees, but it’s all one huge connected one.

Kapalua Coastal Trail

The upside of our variable weather – lots of rainbows!

The Kapalua Coastal Trail is an easy, beautiful coastal walk in the northwest. We started at Kapalua Beach parking and walked to DT Fleming Beach and back, which was 3.5 miles round trip and took us 1 hour 20 mins. On a sunnier day than we had, you could take much longer and enjoy the beaches along the way. It’s also lovely at sunset.

I liked running along here too, although it’s best at sunrise before it gets too busy.

Kanapaali and Airport Beaches

Kanapaali is the main beach on the west coast and there’s a popular snorkelling spot called Black Rock. Parking is expensive here.

Kanapaali Beach

We found it too busy and preferred Airport Beach (aka Kahekili Beach) which is on the other side of the Sheraton. It’s just as long and beautiful but less crowded, the ocean was calmer, and it’s easier (and free) to park at Kahekili Beach Park (where there are toilets and other facilities). We spent a few relaxing afternoons here and even saw whales.

Airport Beach

Napili and Kapalua Bays

Kapalua Bay

Two lovely small beaches usually with calm water for swimming.

Snorkelling at Molokini Crater

Our one activity in South Maui was a snorkelling trip to Molokini Crater which departs from Kihei. Our first trip was cancelled (after we’d arrived) because of wind, so schedule this trip in early.

Molokini Crater is a partly submerged volcano and is a hugely popular snorkelling stop with up to 1000 visitors a day. We chose to visit on a raft (up to 20 people) with Redline Rafting as they leave at 7 am and are one of the first to arrive at the crater, so we snorkelled without the crowds. The large boats looked crowded and I wouldn’t have wanted to snorkel with 100+ other people.

Our trip included four snorkelling stops and lunch (make your own sandwiches) on the boat. The first stop at Molokini Crater was the best—the visibility was good and we saw parrotfish, pipefish, bannerfish, and even a white tipped reef shark. Best of all, we could hear the eerie sounds of whales singing under the water.

The back side of the crater was fun as there’s an area called the elevator where the sea lifts you up and drops you down again without crashing you into the rocks. The other snorkelling stops weren’t as good and we didn’t see any turtles as they often do.

We enjoyed the trip, and Redline Rafting was fantastic, but the snorkelling wasn’t amazing. If you haven’t snorkelled before, you’ll love it, but if you have done a lot of snorkelling (and are on a budget), you might want to skip it.

Summary

There are many more beaches and hikes we didn’t have time for in Maui, but this Maui itinerary covers the highlights of this beautiful island, and it’s just an excuse to return!

If you are also visiting Kauai on your Hawaii trip, see our posts on where to stay in Kauai and the best things to do in Kauai. 

[aimko]

Back story: I had been feeling extremely depressed and absolutely disgusted with myself for awhile and just could not get out of a funk. New health issues had come up and I was basically put on bed rest, cooped up in the house for two weeks now. My husband knew I was restless and feeling down and out. That morning he woke me up and let me make pancakes with a squeeze bottle to make all kinds of fun shapes and things. He then drove me up country and took me to get my hair cut so I could feel pretty again. He let me wander around Makawao town and had an amazing early dinner at kula bistro, completely with my favorite wine(sorry doc.). He then took me all the way to Haleakalā to try and catch some snow and a sunset. In a single day he made me the happiest I have been in months.

I love this man. This man who took two weeks off from work to make sure I was okay, got to all of my appointments and was well taken care of. This man who lets me not be okay without giving him a reason for not being okay. Who, while I’m still at home makes sure everything is okay and that I’m happy and safe.

[titusanthony]

In the begging stages of planning a tour, and it feels like I just need to catch a breath on the surface! I am planning a run in September up the West Coast from CA~WA. Holler if you want us to come to your town or if you want to Host a show. 📷: @miahidema (at Haiku, Makawao, Hawaii)

[tglifestyle]

Wednesday

Cafe des Amis, Paia

Knowing the Road to Hana was going to be a test of my oldest daughter’s motion sickness tolerance, we decided to delay it a day due to her experience on the snorkeling trip the day before.  So we spent Wednesday exploring the Upcountry region of the island.  This area is more toward the interior of the island and includes the areas near Haleakala.  We started out in Paia at Café des Amis for some brunch.  This is a cute little open-air café on Baldwin Avenue featuring a variety of sweet and savory crepes, salads, and Indian food.  My husband and daughter ordered the ham, egg, and cheese breakfast crepe and the breakfast burrito.  I opted for the Kale Goat Cheese & Sprout Salad and my other daughter ordered a mixed greens salad.  Turns out they were out of sprouts, so they subbed cucumber which was fine with me.  We also ordered a sweet crepe – the maui cane sugar and lime juice – to share.  It was so good, not too sweet with just a hint of lime.  My husband added Bombay Potatoes to his order – they were very good and spicy with a nice Indian flavor profile.  As with everywhere else we went, the service was friendly and the food delicious. Paia is a cute hipster town, which we ended up re-visiting the following Monday to do a little shopping.

Brunch at Cafe des Amis

After lunch we headed over to Ho’okipa to hopefully see some sea turtles, but first took a quick peak at the Buddhist temple at the Maui Dharma Center.  The stupa is beautiful with bright colors and can be seen from the road; I took a quick peek inside but I didn’t want to be intrusive or disrespectful so I snapped a picture of the outside befoe leaving.  We did not visit the center, but it is open every day for visiting.

Ho’okipa Beach is sort of down below the main highway, with a lookout point above it, next to a field of cows. We didn’t go down to the actual beach area, but went up to the lookout point where there are a few vendors and some nice views. The turtles were not out that day, so we climbed on the rocks and took some pictures.

Ho’okipa Beach

We decided to head back to Baldwin Beach which is just outside of Paia and is a beautiful long sandy beach.  There is a covered area with picnic tables and a bathroom (not fancy).  I was shocked that the beach was nearly empty when we arrived – only a handful of folks were there on a sunny afternoon.  It only took a few minutes to discover why: the wind was blowing like crazy, which ended up blasting us with sand.  We joked that we were getting free microdermabrasion.  We tried toughing it out but only made it about 30 minutes before packing up and leaving.  It was a little disappointing, but we decided there were plenty of other places to explore so we headed over to Makawao.

Baldwin Beach

Makawao is a cute little town with art galleries, gift shops, boutiques, and cafes.  It’s really a charming place.  We spent the afternoon going in and out of the shops and galleries and purchased several items including a piece of locally made pottery, a cute dress, and snacks.  Pop into the Rodeo General Store to grab a snack and a drink.  They have an impressive selection of hot and cold deli items, organic snacks, and plenty of beverages (both regular and alcoholic!).  Most of the folks working in the shops were friendly, but I found some of the gallery people to be a bit stuffy.  Apparently they take their art seriously here.  There is a public restroom behind some of the shops (a sign will point the way) that was old but clean and allowed the opportunity to see some art in the garden areas behind the shops.

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm – Beautiful Sights and Smells

Next we drove up to the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm.  You must add this to your itinerary if you are on Maui. It sounded like a snooze-fest at first, but we all loved it.  The views are stunning, the scenery gorgeous, and the smells intoxicating.  It’s really sort of a magical place.  It usually costs $4 per person, however we didn’t arrive until 3:00 and they close at 4:00 so we were only charged $1 each.  There are several paths through the gardens and so many gorgeous sites.  I took dozens of photos here.  There is also a gift shop (of course) where you can purchase items made with lavender, including some white chocolate lavender popcorn that was just delicious!

Our next planned stop was dinner, but we were looking a bit rough from being sand-blasted on the beach earlier in the day, and shopping and exploring all afternoon, so we popped into a McDonald’s bathroom in Pukalani on our way to the restaurant to change and freshen up.  Yes, we used the McDonald’s as a changing room!  While we were there we noticed they had a couple local items on their menu:  a taro pie for dessert, and Portuguese sausage on the breakfast menu.  We considered trying one of the pies, but never got around to it!

Our final stop of the day was at the Hali’imaile General Store for dinner.  And it was fab!  Probably the best meal we had on the trip.  Chef Bev Gannon is an acclaimed and nationally recognized award-winning chef, and the menu reflects her experience and skills.  We started with the Kalua Pork & Goat Cheese Wontons and the appetizer special of the day, Avocado Fries.  Their signature appetizer is the Sashimi Napoleon, which we considered but at that point, I had consumed rare tuna about 3 or 4 times, so I decided I could live without it.  The wontons were delicious and served with a barbecue dipping sauce.  The avocado “fries” weren’t fries, but avocado halves that had been fried.  Good, but a bit much to dig into an entire half of an avocado.  For entrees, I ordered the Steamed Island Fresh Catch which was served with a creamy celery root puree, broccolini, and radishes.  It was both light and rich at the same time, with wonderful flavors of lemon grass and celery.  My husband ordered the Meyer Lemon Marinated Half-Chicken, which has a longer prep time, but since we had appetizers and drinks, we didn’t even notice if it actually took longer.  It was served with goat cheese mashed potatoes which were to die for.

Our daughters opted for appetizers for their mains. Madelyn ordered the popcorn shrimp, which has the cutest presentation in a take-out box with real popcorn sprinkled on top. She also ordered the Burrata and Tomato Salad, which was excellent. Sydney ordered the Brie and Grape Quesadilla which she said was her favorite meal of the trip.  It was a unique blend of unexpected flavors.  For dessert we ordered the Chocolate Decadence Cake which was good but tasted like the inside of a truffle.  The Pineapple Upside Down Cake was wonderful, served warm.

Continue to Day 4

Popcorn Shrimp and Hali’imaile General Store

Burrata and Tomato Salad

Travel Diaries: Maui Day 3 Wednesday Knowing the Road to Hana was going to be a test of my oldest daughter’s motion sickness tolerance, we decided to delay it a day due to her experience on the snorkeling trip the day before. 

[hawaiirealestateohana]

Makawao Town Party Tomorrow

Makawao Town Party Tomorrow

We Heart Makawao! Tomorrow night, Friday February 15th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm the first Friday town party is being held in Makawao.

Baldwin Avenue will be closed beginning at 5:15 pm. This rain or shine event will include live entertainment, food trucks, booths will local arts and craft, plus plenty of shopping and restaurants participating!

On the main stage from 6:00 pm to 7:15 pm will be…