Maui - Kaanapali & Lahaina

After spending two nights in the Kapalua area we have traveled just a bit south (15 minutes or so) to the Kaanapali and Lahania area. You have many resort choices in this area.  This is a more active area with shops and activities.  Many of the snorkel and sail trips leave out of Kaanapali and Lahanai.

Joey and our amazing guide.

 If you are looking for walkable dining options, long walks on the beach, great pools and more of a value resort the Kaanapali/ Lahania area is a great choice. 

We took a full day adventure to the island of Molokia.  You will need to either fly there or take a two hour ferry there and back.  Warning - if you prone to sea sickness come prepared.  On the island's northern Kalaupapa Peninsula is a steep path leading to Kalaupapa National Historical Park, an isolated former leper colony below towering cliffs. The island is deep in history and I encourage you to read more about it.  Our local guide was outstanding and interesting stops along the way included a sustainable Macadamia Nut farm and sipping the local coffee.  

Maui - Exploring the North

Hawaii has always been a special destination to me and my family. You can't beat the combination of beach, culture, mountains, activities and cuisine. The list goes on and on why it's a perfect destination for both couples and families. As we embark on our 6^th trip to Hawaii (Joey's 5^th) we decided to spend our entire stay on the island of Maui dividing it up in three parts - Kapalua, Lahaina and Wailea.

Kapalua is located along the northwest coast of Maui along Route 30, known as the Honoapiʻilani Highway. I have driven the road to Hana several times but this was a first for me on the Honoapiʻilani Highway. One of the stops along the way is the Nakalele Blowhole. When the waves reach the shore the water is forced into a hole in the lava levels that causes an eruption that looks a geyser. For the hikers where tennis shoes to get a better grip. If you want don't want to hike down you will still see the dramatic views. For the best viewing go at high tide.

 Another great stop is Honoua Bay. Definitely off the beaten path and they say some of the best snorkeling in Maui. It is one of the few sheltered bays to snorkel on Maui. It's a beautiful short hike through a forest and you end up to a very rocky beach called Honolua-Mokule’ia Bay. I would strongly suggest you wear water shoes as it is very difficult to get in and out of the water. But if you are a snorkeling this would be a special place to be.

If you are a golfer Kapalua is the place for you. You have several award winning courses up here. Not to mention to fantastic Virtuoso resorts - the Montage Kapalua Bay and the Ritz Carlton Kapalua.  Both resorts offer excellent rooming options including residence suites where you have full kitchens, living area and separate bedrooms.  

Amazing pools at the Montage