Driving 101

Of course, the actual act of driving down the Road to Hāna can be intimidating for folks behind the wheel. But contrary to popular belief, it’s really not that bad once you tackle the first few hairpin turns. Drivers will find themselves falling into a rhythm with the road and it’s not a bad idea to have only one person in your party doing the driving since they’ll grow more and more accustomed to it. There are a few things to keep in mind, however. 

The sections of the road that converge two lanes—going opposite directions—into one can throw people for a loop, so be sure to keep your eyes far ahead of where you are to see whether or not another car has already started coming down the now one-lane road. If so, simply wait for them to pass (if they’re coming toward you) before proceeding. If this isn’t judged correctly, you may end up in a jam with a car in front of you—which is fine, but be prepared to reverse until the point where the road becomes two lanes once more. 

It’s also a safe idea to give a short honk around blind corners. This will allow fellow drivers to know that there is a car coming toward them, and they may respond to your honk with one of their own. And if you are taking it slow on the Road to Hāna—a good call if you’re feeling uncomfortable behind the wheel—be sure to let cars behind you pass by pulling off slightly onto the shoulder. 

Riding

If you’re not driving, congratulations. You get to pay full attention to the Road to Hāna, and you won’t want to take your eyes off the road for a second. But, you may want to account for motion sickness during the drive, which can take well over an hour. To combat this, Dramamine or some ginger before starting the journey can make a world of difference. If you know you’re prone to motion sickness, asking to sit upfront—with the window rolled down—can also be a lifesaver. And while you may want to be snapping pictures and videos on the entire drive, looking at your phone while on the drive can increase your chances of feeling queasy and uncomfortable. 

What to Pack

Proper provisions can be a lifesaver on the Road to Hāna, which is really a day’s worth of activities by itself. Snacks, sunscreen and bug repellent are obvious inclusions, however you’ll also need to download music on your phone or bring CDs with you in the car, as the road is known for its lack of reception—meaning music streaming services like Spotify won’t work. A couple of towels, hiking shoes along with slippers and minor first-aid items—such as bandages and antibiotic ointments—are also good things to have.

In addition to packing items for yourself, be sure to pack your car with gas and fill up the tank before starting the Road to Hāna. It is a lot of driving, so you really don’t want to be worrying about the low gas light on your dashboard miles away from the closest gas station. 

Road Rules

As gorgeous as the scenery is, stopping in the middle of the road to take pictures of a waterfall or vista is highly discouraged. While the Road to Hāna may seem like it was built solely to show the beauty and natural wonders of the Valley Isle, it is still a road that the residents of Hāna, and those who work in Hāna, use as a commute. This also means not pulling off and parking on the side of the road where there isn’t enough room for other cars to easily pass. And please, please, don’t enter any old trail or hike without making sure it’s actually legal for you to do so. There are numerous private properties along the Road to Hāna that don’t want to have hikers, visitors or locals alike, on their land. 

It’s also important to note that you may not want to leave valuables inside of your car, especially left out in plain sight. While Hawaiʻi is paradise, it isn’t crime-free, and rental cars are often targeted by thieves. 

Restrooms

Look, when you gotta go, you gotta go. But on the Road to Hāna, you may not always have that luxury. There are a few restrooms on the road, such as the ones at Ho’okipa Beach Park, Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park and Wai’ānapanapa State Park.

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1 Day Itinerary

Even with only a single day in Maui, you can squeeze in a lot of adventure. Start the day with an express tour of snorkeling at Molokini Crater, as some boats, like Kai Kanani, have you back before 9 a.m. From there just focus on one part of the island, whether it’s beach-hopping in Wailea or simply taking the entire day to drive the Road to Hāna.

2 Day Itinerary

2 days in Maui is best spent experiencing mauka and makai — taking one day to explore on land and the other to soak in the sea. For the land portion of the two-day adventure, consider a hike with Hike Maui or tackling the Waiheʻe Ridge Trail and stop in Pāʻia to shop and eat in the island’s happiest town. The second day will be spent on the water and start early with a catamaran cruise to Honolua Bay or maybe a surf lesson with Hawaiian Paddle Sports or Maui Surfer Girls. Then, let the sunset bring your two-day island adventure to a close.

3 Day Itinerary

With 3 days on Maui, you can start to explore a little bit more in-depth. Definitely take one day to drive the Road to Hāna — allotting the entire day — and the other two to focus solely on one corner of the island. If based in South Maui, hike the Hoapili Trail and watch the sunset from Mākena State Park and spend your other day snorkeling and relaxing at Mōkapu or Keawakapu Beach. If based in West Maui, spend a day exploring the island’s northwestern coast and another relaxing at Kāʻanapali Beach before catching a lūʻau that night.

4 Day Itinerary

If you’ve got four days on Maui, you can start considering splitting your stay into two different parts of the island. Spend 2 days around Wailea, or 2 in a resort setting at glitzy Kā‘anapali before 2 more days on the North Shore. You can also dig a little bit deeper into Maui’s history and museums, maybe stopping at the Bailey House Museum in Wailuku.

5 Day Itinerary

5 days in Maui is starting to get closer to a classic island itinerary. In addition to the beach time, snorkeling, hiking, and lūʻau we’ve already mentioned add in a day for exploring Upcountry — the island’s pastoral ranchland. If you’re ambitious, start the day with sunrise at Haleakalā Crater and then make your way down to O‘o Farm for the gourmet luncheon and farm tour. Follow the serpentine, pasture-lined road out to ‘Ulupalakua, where MauiWine offers complimentary tastings of their grape and pineapple wines. Finish the day with dinner in Makawao, the heart and soul of Upcountry.

Maui 6 Day Itinerary

The biggest change with a 6-day itinerary is spending a night in Hāna. You now have enough time to properly experience the eastern end of the island — rather than trying to cram it all in by visiting in a single day. Start with a walk on Baldwin Beach and then grab some breakfast in Pāʻia before casually making the drive to Hāna and stopping multiple times. Find a small bed and breakfast and wake up early the next morning to watch sunrise from a black sand beach. By choosing to stay a night in Hāna, you can make it out to the Pīpīwai Trail before all the day visitors arrive.

Maui 7 Day Itinerary

A week in Maui is the quintessential amount of time on the island. You can hike Haleakalā and watch the sunrise, visit Molokini Crater, and spend at least a couple of days enjoying the journey to Hāna. Spend a solid beach day in Makena just snorkeling and soaking up sun, and sample the beaches on the northwestern coast like hidden Mokulei‘a. You can squeeze in some golf, go paragliding in Kula — maybe even learn to scuba dive — and possibly even spend a day exploring the island of Lānaʻi.

The funny thing about a place like Maui, where there’s simply so much to do, is that spending more time here doesn’t exactly accomplish a feeling of completion, but ironically only makes you realize how much there still is to do. Many of Maui’s visitors return for a second, third, and fourth time, intoxicated by the tropical illusion they’ll check all their empty, unchecked boxes — only to find there’s never enough time to truly see it all.

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Explore this heavenly, undeveloped town by foot, taking special notice of its steepled churches. Take a swim and sunbathe at Hana Beach Park and snorkel at Waianapanapa State Park, a beautiful black sand beach. See a red sand beach after a hike to the secret and isolated Kaihalulu Beach. Or hike to the 400 foot Waimoku Falls through the Bamboo Forrest.

Hana Bay is a family gathering place for local residents on the weekend. It is the perfect spot for picnics and water activities such as outrigger canoe races. About nine miles beyond Hana at Haleakala National Park in Kipahulu are the popular pools of Oheo Gulch.

Thank goodness the development of this isolated town has been limited so visitors can enjoy a truer sense of Hawaii.

Tips from Hawaii.com Facebook Friends

We asked our Facebook friends the question, “What are your favorite stops along the Road to Hana?” Here’s what they said!

Hana is awesome, ever part of it is different, from ocean to mountains, waterfalls, ginger blossoms, picking mountain apples, jungles of ferns & ti plants. I can go on & on…everyone needs to experience a trip to beautiful Hana Maui. – Vanessa W.

Shop the local stands on the way. If Auntie Tutu’s is still there, Go there!!! Best lil burger ever. Be sure u get the coconut candy as well!! – Randa P.

Auntie Sandie’s Banana Bread and of course all the waterfalls and scared pools. – Nicole C.

We stopped at the half way point and had the BEST banana bread! – Linda G.

Keanae!!!! – Stephanie S.

The eucalyptus trees are awesome. – Kay C.

I loved stopping at all the little stores. – Gus R.

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Or the silence, peace, and sense of calm from high in the seat of a parasail?

Maui is an island where memories are made — the type that ends up on Christmas cards — and there’s little wonder why families have named it the best island in the world.

With all the attractions, activities, and excursions that are offered around the island, one of Maui’s best family activities is simply a day at the beach.

Bodysurfing, after all, doesn’t cost a dime, nor does building a massive sandcastle or scouring the tide pools for fish. For a few extra bucks you can rent some snorkels and maybe a couple of boogie boards—just don’t forget the reef-safe sunscreen since nobody wants to get burned.

For family-friendly beaches in Maui, Kapalua Bay has easy access, showers, restrooms, and snorkeling, and Ka‘anapali Beach is an island classic for snorkeling and jumping off “Black Rock.”

If the family is staying in South Maui, there’s plenty of parking at Keawakapu Beach and a park at Kamaole III, or choose to hop from beach to beach while strolling Wailea’s boardwalk.

To see all the action that’s happening underwater without even getting your hair wet, head to the Maui Ocean Center—Maui’s best spot for families.

Watch in wonder as rays and sharks go swimming above your head, and learn about turtles, coral reefs, and ways that Ancient Hawaiians survived by living in tune with the sea.To up the adrenaline and soar through the trees, strap on a helmet, clip in a harness, and watch the family jump off a cliff while attached to a thin metal zipline.

Every operator is a little bit different, and which company you choose to go with depends on the age of your children. Some companies, like Flyin’ Hawaiian, have a minimum age of 10, whereas others like Maui Zipline Company take children as young as 5 years old as long as they’re with an adult.

For the chance to zipline side-by-side, Kapalua Ziplines has tandem lines where siblings can zip together, and Piʻiholo Ziplines often runs offers where children can zipline for free.

To spend the day on another island—as well as go sailing and snorkeling—book an all-day tour to Lāna‘i aboard Trilogy Excursions, a family-run company that’s been making memories on Maui for 45 years. Snorkel the reef at Hulopo‘e Bay, or even upgrade to Snuba, and the cruise between islands doubles as a whale watch when visiting Maui in winter.

Or, for a budget-friendly cruise to Lāna‘i where the snorkeling is done off the boat, Pacific Whale Foundation often has deals where children snorkel for free.

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In comparison to other resort areas on Maui, Kapalua has a bit more of a refined, subdued elegance to it. There are no giant malls or tacky tourist traps here. While fun, this place leaves all of that silliness to its nearby neighbors, Kaanapali and Lahaina, in favor of elite resorts, world-renowned restaurants, and championship golf courses.

Kapalua, Maui

This small West Maui town is dominated by the resort, which consists of three properties – The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua; Montage Kapalua Bay; and The Kapalua Villas. But even if you’re not staying in the area, the beautiful bay is worth a visit, as is Honolua Bay for snorkeling during the summer months.

World Class Events

While the history here is deeply rooted in pineapple and coffee farming, today it is best known for its golf courses and exclusive events. When planning a visit, prime time would be every January and June. In January, this resort hosts the PGA Hyundai Tournament of Champions and in June, the Kapalua Wine and Food Festival takes place. So depending on your vacation preferences, you’ll either want to book early to make sure you make it to the event or avoid these times like the plague. Your call!

See our events calendar for the most current Kapalua event listings.

Kapalua Golf

The PGA Hyundai Tournament of Champions (formerly the Mercedes Championship) takes place at Kapalua’s Plantation Course each January. This course was also named Hawaii’s #1 Golf Course by Golfweek Magazine and features the only hole to play over the ocean on the island. So if you’re unable to make it there to watch the tournament, you can always test your skills on the same course as the pros. Just be sure to book your tee time well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Kapalua Wine and Food Festival

And for those with a tendency toward things less sporty and more scrumptious, the Kapalua Wine and Food Festival happens each June on the resort grounds. Started in 1981, this festival now hosts some of the world’s most elite chefs, sommeliers, and wine makers each year who offer cooking demonstrations and wine seminars and tastings among other events. Once again, if you’d like to attend, be sure to purchase your tickets early, as attendance is limited to just 3500 guests over the 4-day Festival.

Fine Dining in Paradise

But fret not if you happen to be here during any of the other 51 weeks of the year! There is still plenty of fine dining to be experienced in this little corner of paradise. A few of our favorites include Merriman’s, Pineapple Grill, The Plantation House, and Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar.

Where is Kapalua?

This Maui hideaway is located on the northwestern edge of West Maui, ten miles past Lahaina. If you travel along the Honoapiilani Highway from Lahaina, you will pass Kāʻanapali and Napili along the way. If you hit Honolua Bay, you have gone too far.

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There are no fewer than ten different beaches to choose from when visiting Kihei, a town where the sun nearly always shines on Maui’s southern coast.

Maui’s Hot Spot

Given the wealth of beaches and sunshine, it’s little surprise that Kihei is one of Maui’s top visitor hot spots. It’s also a literal Maui hot spot, as the island’s warmest temperatures are almost always recorded in Kihei. The average high temperature in the middle of winter is a balmy 81°, and by summer that figure can regularly top 90° with zero chance of rain. Then again, with snorkeling, diving, boogie boarding, surfing, and paddling just minutes away, escaping the constant Kihei heat is as easy as hitting the beach.

So what’s the downside to Kihei’s climate if it’s always warm and sunny? Afternoons are relentlessly windy — particularly in summer.

The Triangle

The weather aside, Kihei is also Maui’s hottest town for drinking, dancing, and nightlife. Much of the action is at Kihei Kalama Village, though because you can often get lost in the maze of bars, restaurants, and dance halls, locals have dubbed it “The Bermuda Triangle” — or to many, simply “The Triangle.”

Maui’s largest brewing facility is also located in Kihei, and by visiting Maui Brewing Company you can tour behind the scenes of Hawaii’s largest local craft brewery and sample dozens of different beers in their small but popular tasting room.

Kihei’s Place in WII History

All of this growth has taken place in only the past 40 years, and Kihei as late as the 1950s was little more than a barren string of beaches lining the coast. The area was so remote, in fact, that in World War II the military practiced amphibious assault on the beaches.

Koiekie Fishpond

Going back even further in time, Kihei was once called “Kama‘ole” in the days of Ancient Hawaii — a word that loosely translated as “barren,” because it was lifeless and dry. It wasn’t until water was pumped from East Maui that Kihei started its growth spurt, though the one place in Kihei where Hawaiians built homes was around Ko‘ie‘ie Fishpond.

Located in North Kihei by Kalepolepo Beach Park, Ko‘ie‘ie Fishpond was first built in the middle of the 1500s. Legend says it was built by menehune — the mythical “little people” of Hawaii — and that they built the fishpond in only one night, where it still stands to this day. Regardless of how it came to be, the pond was used to raise ‘anae, or mullet, as well as ‘awa, or milk fish, and the same area in the 1800s was a popular trading post with whalers and merchants selling wood, potatoes and produce.

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center

Today the area around Kalepolepo is home to the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center, where in addition to learning about the winter visitors that breach and splash offshore, you can find exhibits on island marine life from dolphins to Monk seals and turtles. As an added bonus, the fishpond creates a gentle lagoon for wading, and if you visit before the wind picks up, it’s the perfect place for families with children to spend a few hours enjoying what Kihei is ultimately known for — the beach.

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Maybe it’s the shop-lined streets of Lahaina, or blissfully laidback Pa‘ia, or maybe it’s Hāna with its black sand beach and waterfall-laden road.

While these towns have always been cornerstones of any visit to Maui, lately a new spot has started to emerge on savvy visitors’ radars.

Wailuku is One of Maui’s Oldest Towns

Despite its recent, newfound spark, Wailuku, ironically, is actually one of Maui’s oldest towns. Ancient Hawaiians who lived in Wailuku built heiau, or temples, high on a hill that overlooked the sea and harnessed the wai, or fresh-flowing water, to irrigate orchards and fields. In the 1800s, after the royal capital moved from Lahaina to Honolulu, Wailuku gradually assumed the role of Maui’s political hub, but when resort areas like Kā‘anapali and Wailea emerged on the scene, Wailuku slowly faded away into relative visitor obscurity.

Wailuku is on the Rise

Within the last few years, however, the town has experienced a massive revival on a cultural and culinary front, which has somehow managed to slip by unnoticed by the visitor industry as a whole.

That is, of course, until now.

With no fewer than a dozen new eateries serving fresh, affordable cuisine, and a growing collection of shops selling goods that are designed, and made, here on Maui, Wailuku has suddenly transformed itself from a sleepy backwater of aging buildings to an energetic, progressive hub of dining, theater and shopping.

True to its Local Roots

What makes Wailuku unique, however, is how the town is “modernizing” by staying true to its local roots and helping grow the culture. For an idea of this new-school, old-school fusion, take a look at the “Wai Side” bowl served up at The Farmacy Health Bar. The burgeoning superfood, acai — which originally hails from Brazil — is mixed with organic, locally made poi that’s made from Maui-grown taro. A couple of steps down Market Street, Ha Wahine is a clothing boutique selling modern women’s clothing, that’s not only designed and made here on Maui but features authentic, traditional designs with strong cultural roots.

Then there’s the case of Native Intelligence — which is arguably Maui’s best store — where exquisite Hawaiian cultural items are crafted by local, master artisans and then gathered here on the shelves. Unlike a traditional art gallery, however, the merchandise isn’t meant to be sold to collectors or casual visitors, but rather practitioners of native culture who actively use the crafts.

Iao Theater

Aside from the food and shopping scene, Wailuku is also home to some of Maui’s best local theater, with plays regularly taking place in historic Iao Theater. Built in a Spanish Mission style, this Market Street theater was originally built in 1928 and because of its style and architecture is listed on the National Register of Historic Places — though still being actively used.

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What if we told you this coastal wilderness is just minutes from high-end resorts and is also packed full of white sand beaches that offer up Maui’s best sunsets?

Fall in Love With Ruggedly Beautiful Makena

Chances are you’d want to know more about this area known as Makena — a rugged, adventurous, outdoor playground on Maui’s southern coast.

Just ten minutes from Wailea, Makena is home to a smattering of condos and ultra-luxurious homes and could be the site of large-scale development taking place in the upcoming decade.

As it currently stands, however, much of Makena is still undeveloped and under-visited by tourists and remains the island’s best stretch of coast for active outdoor pursuits.

Check out “Turtle Town”

At Makena Landing and Maluaka Beach, protected coves create perfect conditions for snorkeling, paddling and kayaking and are home to canoeing and kayaking tours that cruise the rocky coast. More famously known as “Turtle Town,” the area is packed with Hawaiian Green sea turtles that live in underwater caves and occasionally surface to sip some air before swimming off into the blue.

Discover Beach Bliss

If you just want to find a long stretch of sand for soaking up some rays, head to “Big Beach” in Makena State Park, which aside from being one of Maui’s longest and widest beaches, still exists in its natural state, as it’s blissfully undeveloped. The other two beaches inside the park are black sand Oneuli Beach and “Little Beach,” which is officially Maui’s unofficial nude beach. To sample Makena’s other beaches, you can bask on the sands of Po‘olenalena and snorkel around the rocks or literally walk through a hole in the wall to emerge at pocket-sized Puako Cove, more commonly known as “Secret Beach.”

Get Windswept

Continue south from Makena State Park and the coastline truly gets wild, where the road at parts is a single lane that’s close enough to the crashing surf that waves can splash on your tires. Look to your left, away from the coast, and a frozen black river of lava flows down from a vent on the verdant green hillside, where in 1790 Haleakalā volcano experienced its last eruption.

Crossing the craggy black lava fields, the pavement finally comes to an end in windswept Keone‘o‘io, which is also known as La Perouse Bay since it’s here where the French explorer, Jean Francois de Galaup, comte de La Pérouse, became the very first European to set foot on Maui’s shore.

Walk the Ancient Trails

It’s also here where the trail begins for the ancient Hoapili Trail, a footpath built from lava rock that was commissioned by Governor Hoapili back in the 1830s. With its impressively long, straight stone walls, the trail is a testament to early Hawaiian strength and engineering and crosses narrower sections of trail that date all the way back to the 16th century when King Hoapili would use the path to circle the island on foot.

Swing Seaside to the Sound of Crashing Waves

Walk for two miles down the ancient stone trail and eventually you’ll reach the coral-strewn shore that makes up Kanaio Beach, where a swing that’s made out of driftwood hangs just inches away from the sea.

It isn’t the island’s most popular beach, and definitely not it’s most scenic, but there’s something invigorating about having a stretch of shoreline all to yourself, where the only sounds are the crash of the waves and the cooling rush of the wind.

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Here in this two street, one stop sign town, life continues to drift along as it has for generations, where ranchers, farmers, artists, and yogis all form an eclectic, tight-knit community that’s unlike anywhere on Maui.

Get a Taste of Makawao’s Old School Charm

To get a taste of this old school charm, grab a coffee at Casanova deli and sit on the street-facing porch, where Upcountry locals have quaffed caffeine since 1986. Over the course of your morning brew, you’re likely to overhear conversations between clusters of New Age townsfolk, who discuss the benefits of harnessing our energies and the power of positive thinking. The vibe continues at Dragon’s Den, where locals shop for holistic medicine, herbs, and natural remedies, as well as in Makawao’s colorful shops full of global, exotic imports.

Annual Makawao Parade and Rodeo

Aside from the artisan shops and lifestyles, the other side of Makawao is gruff and classically country, where ranchers still gather around the bar after long days out in the pasture, and wild chickens casually cluck and strut their way across town.

While paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboys, no longer tie up their horses to hitching posts that line the length of downtown, horses in trailers hitched firmly to trucks still rattle their way down the road. Visit around the 4th of July, and the town comes alive with the clop of hooves during the popular Makawao Parade, before the party moves to Oskie Rice arena for the bull-riding, calf-wrangling, barrel racing spectacle that’s the annual Makawao Rodeo.

Komoda Store and Bakery

Even when it isn’t rodeo time, however, visitors will still get that old country feel when casually strolling through Makawao, despite the fact that trendy boutiques now inhabit the wood-shingled storefronts. If Komoda bakery is open when you visit, grab a perfectly glazed “Stick” donut from the family-run establishment, which in 2016 celebrated 100 years of satisfying Makawao’s sweet tooth. Or, for a classic Makawao happy hour, belly up to the bar at Polli’s, a favorite Mexican restaurant, where locals have sipped on margaritas since 1981.

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Haleakala. The name alone evokes an air of magic. It ripples off the tongue until slowly dissolving into a whispered exhale. Simply saying the word summons a cloud of mystique — one that is only realized by experiencing the mountain firsthand.

Translated as “House of the Sun,” Haleakala is quite literally the stuff of legends. The story goes, it was here that the demigod Maui captured the sun as it passed overhead, slowing it just long enough to afford his mother, Hina, enough time to dry her Kapa (bark cloth).

Haleakala lives up to its name, beckoning each day with a dramatic awakening. Experiencing the sunrise from atop the 10,023-foot mountain is no easy task. Early birds must brave the 2-hour drive from central Maui that weaves up 37 miles of snaking pavement.

Once at the summit, blurry-eyed visitors quietly gather at the edge of the observation deck. There, under layers of thermals, they wait. As if setting the stage for the grand finale, the faintest hints of pink and gold color the sky. Then perfectly on cue, the sun coyly flirts with the new day, breaking ever so gently over the Technicolor horizon.

Haleakala’s summit is a place that exists as a world unto itself, bearing little resemblance to the Maui most people know. Absent are the palm trees and Pacific waters. Gone are the white sandy beaches and fertile rain forests. The naked environment at its peak is more likely to be the backdrop of a sci-fi movie than the subject of a tropical postcard.

Native Hawaiians consider the area a physical manifestation of the fire goddess Pele, and thus a place that should be regarded as sacred. An area now known as Na ‘Iwi O Pele (The Bones of Pele) refers to mounds of broken lava, remnants of a fierce battle between Pele and her sister Namakaokaha’i, goddess of the ocean.

Those with enough energy to get a close-up of the volcano can hike the Keonehe’ehe’e (Sliding Sands) trail, which begins near the visitor center at the summit. The trail zig-zags through rustic landscapes dotted with moon-like peaks and prickly patches of silversword— the only place on earth to see to this bloom.

In fact, Haleakala has the highest number of rare and endangered species of any national park in the United States. And although the area is legally protected against human destruction, invasive species pose the greatest threat to this delicate ecosystem. The volunteer-fueled Friends of Haleakala have answered with monthly service trips that range from invasive species removal to native planting.

Haleakala is more than just the summit. The national park extends down the southeastern flank to Kipahulu, a town bookended between the rural outposts of Hana and Kaupo, where the landscape transforms from a volcanic desert into a vibrant blanket of vegetation sprawling in every direction. With no direct link from the summit to the coast, it is nearly impossible to experience the entire mountain in one day — a blessing considering all there is to see along the way.

Nestled on the flanks of Haleakala at elevations of 1,200 to 2,800 feet lies Kula, also known as Maui’s breadbasket. Farmers tend to some of the island’s most illustrious produce including the world-famous sweet Maui onion and juicy Kula strawberries. The roadside Kula Country Farms offers a true farm-to-tummy experience, inviting visitors and locals to savor fruits and vegetables harvested by local growers. The panoramic views of the central Maui valley are just a bonus.

Maui’s version of turning leaves rivals even the brightest New England autumn. Every spring, Kula’s green vistas are replaced by lavender-hued jacaranda trees, which lure no shortage of Plein air painters who flock to set up an easel.

A drive towards Makawao town is where cowboy charm meets boutique chic. Storefronts hearken an era where four-hoofed traffic ruled the streets and the still-standing hitching posts saw plenty of action. Beyond the rustic facade are delicately crafted homeware, fine art, luxurious threads, a bookstore, and even a gourmet bistro.

Heed the gravitational pull toward the surfer-chic town of Paia. Avoid the four-lane Haleakala Highway, and instead navigate the twists of charming Bald win Avenue, which begins at the edge of Makawao town and winds through the residential enclaves of Ha‘iku and Hali‘imaile.

Although small in size, Paia teems with personality. Its bikini and surf shops, casual eateries, and laid-back ambiance attract a diverse lot. Don’t be surprised if you hear Brazilian or German accents from the windsurfers sharing the sidewalks or spot a high-heeled fashionista crossing paths with a barefoot hippie.  Here, yoga and massage studios live in peace with antique shops and galleries,  trendy boutiques, and a bustling fish joint that anchors the main corner in town.

From Baldwin Avenue, head east on Hana Highway to reach Haleakala’s other half — Kipahulu. You’ll pass waterfalls, jungles, and majestic coastal views to get here, and upon arrival, you’ll find … not much going on. That’s the point. It may be the most relaxing spot on the planet.

A place that is sure to draw a crowd, however, is the famous ‘O‘heo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools). While seven is more than enough to set the scene, there are many others that make up this natural aqua park. For another dose of water-soaked adventure, head to the nearby Pipiwai trail, where you’ll witness a string of waterfalls, the final being the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

Here, Haleakala’s striking diversity is evident. From the summit’s arid expanse to the sheltered Shangri-La of Kipahulu, the mountain seems to mold and transform before one’s very eyes. That, after all, may just be the magic of Haleakala. to-tummy experience, inviting visitors and locals to savor fruits and vegetables harvested by local growers. The panoramic views of the central Maui valley are just a bonus.

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The 37th Annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival returns June 6 – 9, 2019 for a magical weekend on the shores of the Kapalua Resort. This annual ‘migration’ brings together oenophiles, gourmands and enthusiasts of the good life to celebrate, learn and experience the finest culinary trends and viniculture.

For information on accommodations packages and travel information or to purchase your tickets online please visit www.kapaluawineandfoodfestival.com.

Taste Buds Will Be Dazzled

Kapalua Wine & Food Festival. Photo: Tony Novak Clifford.

Highlights of the weekend include interactive wine tasting seminars:
• Regional focused seminars – Santa Maria Valley, International Wines/Hungary, Italy, France
• Varietal focused seminars – World Famous Pinot Noir, World Cabernet Franc, Champagne
• Historical focus – Family Tree – Scions of Family Wineries – second and third generation winemakers

Featured Celebrity Chefs Hubert Keller of the Food Network, Chef Nancy Silverton Chef/co-owner of several Italian-inspired restaurants in the LA area and Chef Nancy Oakes pioneer of haute American cuisine will dazzle taste buds with their interactive cooking demonstrations paired with rare and hard-to-find wines. Signature evening galas, The Grand Tasting, sponsored by Hawaii.com, and Seafood Festival, sponsored by Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card and Mileage Program, will showcase the culinary delights of Maui’s top restaurants.

A Tribute to International Wines and Foods

Kapalua Wine & Food Festival. Photo: Tony Novak Clifford.

Host Master Sommelier, Michael Jordan will lead the charge for the weekend festivities. “The 37th annual festival is a tribute to international wines and foods and a celebration of this longest running food and wine festival in the country. We have invited top winemakers and chefs from throughout the globe, and here on Maui, to feature their most revered vintages and dishes and share their love for food and wine.”

2018 Event Sponsors

Kapalua Wine & Food Festival. Photo: Tony Novak Clifford.

To date, major sponsors for the 2018 event include The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Montage Kapalua Bay, Troon Golf/Kapalua, Maui Visitors Bureau, County of Maui, Hawaii.com, Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card and Mileage Program, FIJI and Grey Goose.

Tickets Are Now on Sale

Kapalua Wine & Food Festival. Photo: Tony Novak Clifford.

Tickets are on sale now! For information on accommodations packages and travel information or to purchase your tickets online please visit www.kapaluawineandfoodfestival.com.

The 37th Annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival Schedule of Events

Kapalua Wine & Food Festival. Photo: Tony Novak Clifford.

THURSDAY, June 7
A Master Class Introduction to Deductive Wine Tasting
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Invitation only; for Hospitality Industry Professionals
Hosted by Rob Bigelow, Master Sommelier & Michael Jordan, Master Sommelier

Local Industry Wine Trade Show & Gourmet Products Sampling
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Invitation only, Hospitality Industry Professionals

Welcome Reception
The Plantation House Restaurant
5 – 6:30 pm
Invitation only & 4-day pass holders

FRIDAY, June 8
Festival Golf Tournament
The Bay Course, Kapalua – 7:00 am
Not included in 4-day pass; sold separately. Advance registration required

Regional Focus:
“Sand & Fog” Santa Maria Valley Wine Seminar & Tasting
MERRIMAN’S Kapalua – 12:30 pm –2:00 pm
Part of the Central Coast AVA, this appellation is the oldest in this portion of California. Owing to the cool growing climate, the valley is best known for its Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc. Sample some of the areas’ finest producers favorite vintages.
Confirmed winemakers/wineries to date:
Wes Hagen – J. Wilkes
James Onteveros – Native 9
Jill Russell – Cambria Estate Winery
Jonathan Nagy – Byron/Neilson

Varietal Focus:
“Let’s Be Franc!” – New World Cabernet Franc Wine Seminar & Tasting
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – 3:00 – 4:30 pm
One of the major grape varieties worldwide, principally grown for blending with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the Bordeaux style, but can also be vinified alone. A lesser-known and lighter varietal than Cabernet, join us to learn more about this worldwide favorite.
Confirmed winemakers/wineries to date:
Pam Starr – Crocker & Starr
Manny Pires – Gandona
Raj Patel – Patel Wines

The Grand Tasting – Kapalua Style
Sponsored by Hawaii.com
Montage Kapalua Bay– 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Premium wines are showcased with fabulous gastronomic indulgences from Kapalua Resort restaurants and friends. A walk-around tasting and evening under the stars; all on the oceanfront grounds of Montage Kapalua Bay. Also featuring Petrossian Caviar station, a phenomenal Cheese Display by Kent Torrey of The Cheese Shop in Carmel, CA and Maui-made sweets display.
Kapalua Restaurant participants:
Cane & Canoe
Honolua Store
Merriman’s
Pineapple Grill
Plantation House
Sansei Seafood Restaurant and Sushi Bar
Taverna
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

SATURDAY, June 9
Regional Focus:
Digging in to Unique Terroir – France, Italy and Hungary – International Wine Seminar & Tasting
Hosted by SOMM Journal
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Moderator Jessie “JABS” Birschbach, Managing Editor of The SOMM Journal hosts a journey through a handful of the Old World’s most distinctive examples of terroir: renowned wine regions where the earth and climate can actually be tasted! Travel to Montalcino and Alto Adige in Italy, Burgundy in France, ending in the Tokaj region of Hungary.
Lars Leicht, Trade Development Director for Banfi Vinters presenting Castello Banfi’s Brunello di Montalcino
Kristina Sazama, DipWSET, Wine Educator for Santa Margherita highlighting the Kettmeir wines of Alto Adige
Patrick Okubo, MS, CWE, Young’s Market for Kobrand and the Burgundian wines of Maison Louis Jadot
Enikő Magyar, Project Director for Wines of Excellence, pouring Mád Hungarian wines

Cooking Demonstration “The Two Nancys” Celebrity Chefs Nancy Silverton & Nancy Oakes
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Hosted by Master Sommelier Michael Jordan and paired with the wines from “The Two Jeffs” – Jeff Stewart of Hartford Court and Jeff Mangahas of Williams Selyem – and cuisine of famed chefs and good friends Nancy Silverton/Pizzeria and Osteria Mozza Los Angeles and Nancy Oakes/Boulevard San Francisco.

Historical Focus
Family Tree – Scions of Family Wineries
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
This seminar brings together second and third generation winemakers and their winemaker parents to share their secrets, stories and wines.
Confirmed winemakers/wineries to date:
David & Laura Long – David Arthur Vineyards
Doug & Ryan Hill – Hill Family Vineyards

SUNDAY, June 10
Varietal Focus – Champagne & Caviar
Wine Seminar & Tasting
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Hosted by Master Sommeliers Rob Bigelow and Patrick Okubo with Christopher Klapp of Petrossian Caviar. Sample the finest in caviars alongside paired Champagnes.

Cooking Demonstration with Celebrity Chef Hubert Keller
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Celebrity Chef Hubert Keller of Food TV fame and a Frenchman classically trained by France’s top Chefs, will present his French-inspired healthy cuisine paired with wines of and James Hall of Patz & Hall Winery.

Varietal Focus:
“World Famous” Pinot Noir Wine Seminar & Tasting
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Top Pinot Noir producers gather to showcase their premium vintages and share their passion for this illustrious varietal.
Confirmed winemakers/wineries to date:
James Hall – Patz & Hall
Jeff Mangahas – Williams Selyem Winery
Jeff Stewart – Hartford Court Winery
Michael Browne – Cirq
Nico Cueva – Kosta Browne

Seafood Festival
Sponsored by Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card and Mileage Plan
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua – Beach House Lawn – 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
14 of Maui’s Top Restaurants showcase a seafood specialty and culinary creation in competition for Maui No Ka Oi Magazine’s “Best of the Fest” award. Hawaiian entertainment provided by Nuff Sedd.
Restaurants confirmed to date:
Fleetwoods on Front St.
Joey’s Kitchen
Japengo
Mauka Makai
Pacific’o
Roy’s Ka’anapali
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
The Banyan Tree
The Mill House
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar, Wailea
Gannon’s
Hula Grill Ka‘anapali
Humuhumunukunukuapua’a
UH Maui Culinary Arts Program

Again, for information on accommodations packages and travel information or to purchase your tickets online please visit www.kapaluawineandfoodfestival.com.

The post 38th Annual Kapalua Wine & Food Festival: An International Tribute To Premier Wines & Culinary Delights appeared first on Hawaii.com.

There’s really no comparison between the two, which is why a Maui whale watching tour should be atop any visitor’s list when traveling to Maui in winter. You’ll learn the tale of their epic journey from Alaskan to tropical waters and experience their awesome power firsthand when they spy hop, breach and playfully slap their enormous, 15 ft. fins.

That said, there are a lot of different options to choose from for whale watching tours on Maui, and each of them have their different benefits depending on the needs of your group. By looking at the following companies below, you can not only find some of the best options for Maui whale watching tours but also determine which is a fit for the most memorable day of your trip.

Pacific Whale Foundation

As the name implies, this Maui non-profit is firmly dedicated to watching and researching whales. Their diesel catamarans can hold 120 people, and they also have a sailing catamaran that departs from Lahaina and Maʻalaea Harbors. Virtually all of the crew are actively involved in researching Humpback whales, and it’s the membership and merchandise wing of the business that helps to raise funds for education and Humpback conservation. Cruises begin at $39 and each paying adult gets complimentary admission for a child up to age 12.

Trilogy Excursions

With their sparkling fleet of sailing catamarans and departures from multiple harbors, Trilogy Excursions is Maui’s most recognized name in ocean tourism. They’ve been welcoming guests since 1973 and offer Maui whale watching tours from Ma‘alaea Harbor, Lahaina Harbor and Kā‘anapali Beach. Pricing is $59 for adults and $30 for children.

Pride of Maui

Operating out of Ma‘alaea Harbor, Pride of Maui is a diesel catamaran that combines the chance to go snorkeling and whale watching on the same 2-hour tour. You aren’t exclusively focused on whales, but you do get the chance to combine activities if you’re on a budget or time crunch. Adult prices are $48 and $36 for children.

Ultimate Whale Watch and Snorkel

While some of the larger diesel catamarans have the benefit of being very stable, the smaller, zippier inflatable rafts get you closer to the water and allow you to search a larger area for whales. One of those rafts is Ultimate Whale Watch, which operates out of Lahaina Harbor and focuses on personalized, small-group experiences with only around 20 guests. Because these rafts are so bouncy and fast, they aren’t for women who might be pregnant or anyone with back or neck issues, but for everyone else it’s an adventurous trip that puts you within inches of the water.

Redline Rafting

If you find yourself staying in South Maui around Kihei, Makena, or Wailea, Redline Rafting is another option for visitors seeking some high-speed whale watching adventure. The inflatabe raft puts you close to the water, though it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or children under 8 years old. What’s nice about Redline Rafting is the fact that the raft actually has a bathroom, and that it conveniently departs out of Kihei Boat Ramp within minutes of dozens of South Kihei condos. Adult price: $45.

Kai Kanani Sailing Charters

If you want the convenience of a South Maui boat — but also the stability of a catamaran — Kai Kanani is a luxurious yacht that leaves from Makena’s Maluaka Beach. The whale watches last for over three hours and also feature complimentary shuttles from many Wailea resorts. At $75 the price point is higher than budget and family options, but it’s worth the cost for the added convenience and additional tropical comforts.

Gung Ho

If you’d rather have a private excursion, Gung Ho is a 36 ft. sailboat that can accommodate groups of up to six people and sails out of Lahaina Harbor. You can charter the boat for $250/hour and also learn a bit about sailing while keeping your eyes peeled for whales.

Hawaiian Paddle Sports

Finally, for a unique, early morning Maui excursion and front row view to the whales, consider joining a paddling tour with the team at Hawaiian Paddle Sports. They offer kayak, paddleboard and outrigger canoe tours, and while they still adhere to the mandated limits of keeping a 100-yard distance, the whales will sometimes choose to swim closer — even right under the boat.

Note about Hawaiian Paddle Sports: an eco tour company called travel2change offers lower rate Hawaiian Paddle Sports adventures in exchange for volunteering a portion of your time to making Maui a better place!

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