Local Knowlege

Here’s a list of our favourite restaurants and things to do on Maui

Restaurants

We love Brunch at Mala in Lahaina. Check it out Saturdays & Sundays. Dinner at Merimans is pricey, but very good and the setting is out of this world. Another great choice is the Lahaina Grill. Make sure you make reservations though. For more casual food, Monkey Pod at the Whalers Shops is fabulous casual dining with a killer view. For take out go to the Fish Market in Honokowai, literally a 2 minute drive from Papakea. There you can order Ahi Burgers to go, or select a fresh piece of local fish to put on the BBQ. In Lahaina we enjoy Kool Kats Burgers or Take Home Maui for a quick but excellent sandwich. A great place within walking distance is Dukes at Honua Kai.

Road Trips

We do a lot of road trips. The Hana Highway is worthwhile, but be careful if you’re prone to car sickness. Drive Upcountry for a fabulous day trip. Visit Kula, Makawao or Paia. Paia is very busy, but worth the stop if you’ve never been. Once there you can google directions to Oprah’s ranch. It’s a fun diversion and kids think its fun.

We always make time to visit Kapalua. This is on the northern weather side of the island and it is stunning. The hotels are amazing and the golfing (I’m told) is fabulous. We enjoy “the coastal walk” close to Kapalua Beach for its stunning scenery plus Parking is easy to find.

A beach day at either Napili Bay or Kapalua Bay is a must too. Both beaches are fantastic.

Snorkeling

If you’re looking for snorkeling and you want it easy, spare yourself the pain of getting to Honolua Bay and simply drive to Airport Beach Park also known as Kahekili Beach. This is a five minute drive south of Papakea to Kaanapali Beach. The plentiful public parking is right on the beach. The snorkeling is great. Last year, Michelle and I swam with spinner dolphins while snorkeling, It was very special.