Hawaii holds a special place in my heart. I've been traveling there for years, and its always been a perfect escape - first growing up, and now with my husband, and, soon, our daughter too. If you're dreaming of a destination where it rarely rains, offers both relaxation and adventures, is full of incredible restaurants, and ends each day with a breathtaking sunset, Maui is your place.
Packing List
✓ Bathing Suit
✓ Sunscreen
Where We Stayed
We're lucky that my parents have a timeshare in Maui, which makes visiting extra special. If you're planning a trip to the island, I highly recommend staying anywhere along Kaanapali Beach. Whether it's a resort or a condo, you'll find plenty of great options. This side of the island has so much to offer within walking distance - restaurants, shops, and activities - all with the bonus of a beautiful beach just steps away. Plus, you'll get front-row seats to the most breathtaking sunsets every evening.
What To Do
Parasailing
We've gone parasailing for years, and we always choose
UFO Parasailing - they never disappoint. Whether it's your first time or your twentieth, their crew is incredibly
friendly and professional, walking you through every step - from getting harnessed to gently lifting you into the sky and bringing you back down. If you're lucky, they might even lower you for a quick dip in the ocean mid-flight. The whole experience only takes a couple of hours, so you'll still have
plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your day in paradise.
Heads up! If you’re planning water excursions like parasailing, snorkeling, or boat cruises, keep in mind that options can be more limited during whale season — which runs from mid-November to May. But it’s also one of the most magical times to visit! You can book a whale watching tour, or even hear the whales communicating underwater if you swim near Black Rock. An unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss.
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is a breathtaking 64-mile journey through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, lava tubes, and along dramatic coastal cliffs. Formerly known as the Hana Highway, this narrow, winding road features 50 one-lane bridges and countless curves - making it both thrilling and unforgettable.
If you're confident behind the wheel, rent a car and enjoy the drive at your own pace. Be sure to
research the best photo-worthy stops ahead of time so you don't miss out. Prefer to relax and take in the views without the stress of navigating?
Temptation Tours offers a fantastic
guided experience - complete with expert drivers who know every hidden gem, scenic stop, and perfect swimming spot (like a black sand beach!).
And once you reach Hana? You can either brave the road back or treat yourself to a scenic helicopter ride for a jaw-dropping aerial view of everything you just explored and more! We saw celebrity houses (hey Willie Nelson!) and the infamous Jurassic Park rock. It's the perfect grand finale to an epic day.
Olivine Pools
Ready for an epic adventure? If you're looking to live on the edge - literally - take a short walk along the
Olivine trail to reach the stunning
Olivine Pools.
Don't forget water shoes (or be prepared for soggy sneakers). Once you arrive, you'll be rewarded with
natural tidal pools carved into lava rock, perfect for a refreshing dip or a bit of exploring. Take in the dramatic views, but always stay mindful of your footing and the ocean's waves for safety. It's a
thrilling and memorable experience - equal parts magical and exhilarating.
Turtle Beach
Looking for a relaxing stroll along the beach? Of course - you're in Maui! Why not take a walk somewhere seriously one-of-a-kind, like a beach filled with boulders...wait, are those turtles? At
Ho'okipa Beach Park, keep your eyes peeled - these
giant sea turtles blend right in with the rocks as they sunbathe on the shore. Once you spot them, it's mesmerizing to watch them lounge, waddle, and take leisurely dips in the ocean.
Nature at its most chill.
Snorkeling
Maui’s underwater world is just as stunning as its beaches! Whether you’re gliding through the clear waters of Honolua Bay, exploring the volcanic crescent of Molokini, or paddling out by canoe for a truly adventurous combo, there’s no shortage of unforgettable snorkeling spots. Dive in, explore vibrant marine life, and soak up the magic below the surface — it’s an experience you’ll never forget!
Whaler's Village
Just a short stroll from anywhere along Kaanapali Beach, you'll find
Whalers Village - a lively beachfront hub
filled with shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to
browse for souvenirs,
beachwear, or a
sweet treat. When hunger strikes, grab a table at
Lelani's,
Hula Grill, or
Monkey Pod to enjoy a delicious meal with an ocean breeze and a view that can't be beat.
If you find yourself in town on a Sunday morning, there's no better way to start your day than with
Kaanapali Beach Ministry. They host a beautiful,
open-air church service at
Lelani's, blending heartfelt worship music, hula dances, and an inspiring message - all set against the backdrop of the ocean. With the waves as your soundtrack and the breeze on your face, it's truly a moving experience.
I've never felt closer to God.
Where To Eat
With how popular these restaurants are, it's best to make reservations before your trip. Otherwise, you might find yourself eating dinner at 3PM - or 10PM - neither of which pairs well with island vibes. Planning ahead means you'll actually get to enjoy your meal at a normal hour (and with a view!).
Mamas Fish House
Mamas Fish House is a must every time we visit Maui. We always make a reservation for the day we arrive - it's the perfect way to kick off our vacation. Conveniently located between the airport and where we stay, it sets the tone for the trip with
incredible food,
tropical drinks, and unbeatable
ocean views. It's a popular spot, so you might have a short wait before being seated, but that just gives you time to soak in the scenery and snap some photos right on the water. Pro tip: start your vacation early with a Mai Tai served in a festive tiki cup - you're officially on island time.
Luau
When you're in Hawaii, attending a luau is a must to truly experience the island's rich history and vibrant culture. The Myths of Maui Luau offers the perfect evening experience - delicious Hawaiian cuisine served as you enjoy a lively, story-telling performance. The show often includes interactive moments that get the audience up and moving - perfect for working off some of that amazing food! It's a festive, memorable way to end your day in paradise.
The Plantation House
Tucked within the Kapalua Resort, The Plantation House offers a dining experience as stunning as its surroundings — sweeping views of the ocean paired with a perfectly manicured golf course. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the menu is stacked with top-tier dishes.
You can’t go wrong, but the Mahi Mahi or scallops come highly recommended. And if you’ve saved room for dessert (highly suggest you do), the chocolate bomb and lilikoi cheesecake are indulgences worth every bite — plate-licking good, seriously.
Sansei
Love sushi? Craving the freshest seafood around? Then Sansei Kapalua is a must. The catch is so fresh, our waiter once asked my mom if she’d mind waiting 20 minutes for the tuna to come straight off the boat — now that’s next-level fresh.
Bonus tip: Sansei doesn’t have a liquor license, so if you’d like to enjoy your meal with wine, swing by the shop next door beforehand. There’s just a small uncorking fee, and trust us — it’s worth every penny.
Dukes
This
iconic beachfront restaurant—because why not dine with ocean views?—pays tribute to Olympic swimmer and modern-day surfing legend, Duke Kahanamoku. While the aloha-filled history is reason enough to visit, it’s the food and stunning views that truly steal the show. We love going to
Duke’s for brunch, where we usually split the
DIY mimosa kit and dive into a
flavorful omelet or the irresistible
banana macadamia nut pancakes. It’s the perfect way to start (or end) your day in island bliss.
Mala Ocean Tavern
Mala Ocean Tavern is a must every time we visit Maui. Whether it’s
brunch or dinner, you can’t beat sitting
right on the water, watching sailboats drift by as you savor
ahi tuna bruschetta or
coconut shrimp. A dreamy way to welcome the morning - or toast to a beautiful evening.
Merriman's
Merriman’s is an
upscale farm-to-table gem nestled on a scenic point in Kapalua, offering front-row seats to sunsets that look like they were brushed onto the sky. Every dish is crafted with care and
local flavor — but do yourself a favor and save room for dessert. The
pineapple macadamia nut bread pudding is an absolute must.
Pilina
Tucked inside the Fairmont Hotel is Pilina Restaurant that’s just as stunning as its surroundings. With an elegant ambiance and dishes that’ll have you savoring every bite, it’s a must-visit in Maui. Seafood lovers — you’re in for a treat! Try the hot rock bar menu, where you can sear your seafood tableside, just the way you like it. A deliciously memorable experience!
Final Thoughts
Maui holds such a special place in my heart — it’s where I grew up vacationing and making some of my favorite memories. What I love most? The way it offers both peaceful relaxation and unforgettable adventures. I can’t wait to bring our daughter here one day, to watch her see the ocean for the first time and start creating new memories as a family.
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