Moonlight follows a path from the beach at Ka’anapali; Stop for
a dive at Molokini; The fresh smell of eucalyptus while passing
through Makawao’s ranch country; A huge, stunning 20-foot-long
whale suddenly breaches off of Kihei; Ride a horse in the Haleakala
Crater; Explore the historical Hana coast. These are treasures to
remember and dream about. This is Maui, the island that the natives
call
”
no ka oi
”
.
Moonlight follows a path from the beach at Ka’anapali; Stop for a dive at Molokini; The fresh smell of eucalyptus while passing through Makawao’s ranch country; A huge, stunning 20-foot-long whale suddenly breaches off of Kihei; Ride a horse in the Haleakala Crater; Explore the historical Hana coast. These are treasures to remember and dream about. This is Maui, the island that the natives call “no ka oi”.
Isle of many facets
Maui, the most spiritual and magical of the Hawaiian islands, has so many areas to discover that a minimum of a week should be set aside to explore this fascinating land. While you’re at it, stay in some of the most comfortable, service-oriented accommodations on the islands.
An award-winning gem
The award-winning Ka’anapali Ali’i is an example of the ultimate in condominiums, offering oceanfront views of the Pacific from capacious lanais. With a spacious, elegant living area, each condo includes a fully equipped kitchen, living room, dining room, two full baths, two televisions and a complete laundry room with washer and dryer – along with all the services of a resort hotel. Rated as Maui’s “best” luxury condominium, the Ka’anapali lives up to its reputation and was rated as one of the 10 greatest places to gather the family. The only problem with these accommodations is you have to force yourself to leave the comfort and relaxing aura of the surroundings to do anything else.
Children can participate in the Ali’i Kids Club (seasonally at no charge). Those under age 12 learn lei making and lauhala weaving while kids older than 12 can enjoy complimentary tennis clinics and scuba orientation classes.
The concierge department is prepared to take your grocery list and stock your kitchen or arrange for a picnic. They are prepared to assist in any way, from arranging tours to renewing wedding vows on a romantic beach at sunset.
For rates, brochures and information for apartments and special packages call (800) 642-6284 or visit www.kaanapalialii.com for a 360-degree of detailed indoor and outdoor views.
Remarkable history
About 10 miles south of Ka’anapali, the historical, whaling town of Lahaina and her cobblestone streets call out to tell her remarkable history. A stop at the Baldwin Home on Front and Dickerson streets offers a delightful taste of the history of this interesting town. You can walk Lahaina’s Front Street and enjoy her colorful shops and historical sites. Try and be by the Banyon Tree for a great sunset experience, and if you’re looking for a rustic reasonable place to stay, make reservations at the historical Lahaina Inn. (Book early: there are only 10 guest rooms and three suites, and they are in demand with their antique decor.)
For reservations and information, call (808) 661-0577
David Paul’s Island Grill on Front Street sits in the middle of the action. The chef offers what he calls his “New Island Cuisine” and is noted for serving the finest food on any of the islands. For information, call (808) 662-3000.
A winding, beautiful experience
The road to Hana is an experience from which you should not be deterred. Its winding road – with 617 curves and 56 bridges – encompasses 52 miles of historical beauty and adventure. The natives will zip by, but the Hana Road is to be savored. It is edged by ferns, scampered across by small animals and splattered by falling mangos. It twists in and out of deep gorges on the east Maui coast, passes beneath waterfalls and crosses streams on old concert bridges. It follows the coastline, shadowed by a green jungle canopy with views of the blue Pacific spread out below. It passes fields where King Kamehameha threw his first spear in battle. It passes the Seven Pools and coconut groves. Then the road leaves Kiphulu for Kaupo, where once stood the weathered store of Nick Soon, the old man who introduced electricity and the automobile to this coast. It straightens out to run through the dry country beyond. There are markers to point out the historical spots and points of interest. Trust me, this is an unforgettable experience.
Go to Hana
Go at least as far as Hana. The beauty of the drive, the history of the town and the people will fascinate and delight. If you are really adventurous, ask for directions 10 miles down the road to the Seven Pools and the tiny Palapala Ho’omau Congregational Church. It sits on a bluff over the sea where you will find the grave of Charles Lindbergh.
Nature at her best
If you time your visit to Maui between November and April, you will be treated to one of the most exciting attractions the island has to offer. If you are fortunate enough to be in the right place at the right time and see whales breaching just off shore, you will experience nature at her ultimate. Up close and personal whale-watching excursions depart from the wharves at Lahaina and Ma’alaca every day during the season. These splendid giants come to mate and birth in the warm Hawaiian waters. A better view of nature is hard to come by.
For the budget minded, a stay at a bed and breakfast can be affordable and charming. They are scattered throughout the island. Call the Maui Visitors Bureau for information at (808) 244-3530 or visit www.visitmaui.com.
Getting there
Service to Maui is offered from San Jose, San Francisco and Oakland. At times Sun Trips, Pleasant Hawaiian and Blue Sky Tours to name a few venders offer charters and packages at excellent rates. Check with a knowledgeable, reliable travel consultant for the best deals available.
