After nine wonderful days on the island of Oahu, it was time to explore the island of Maui. A few weeks before our trip, I booked an island hop flight with Island Air through Expedia. The cost was approximately $70 a person and the flight time was about 50 minutes. We departed from the Honolulu airport at 10:50 am and landed at the Kahului Airport on the island of Maui at 11:40 am. I had already booked a rental car through Budget that was conveniently located at the airport. After much planning, we chose to stay only one night at the Royal Lahaina Resort located in the town of Lahaina.
DAY 1
Welcome to Maui!!!!It is about a 50 minute drive from the airport to the town of Lahaina. Along the way, the views are absolutely stunning. Seen here is a line of windmills positioned up one of the mountain sides.Along the Honoapiilani Highway there is an area to pull off for a scenic view. We were amazed when we got out of the car and were met with the beautiful deep blue ocean of Maalaea Bay.It was too early to check into our resort and we were all starving, so we decided to grab lunch at Aloha Mixed Plate. It was so relaxing to sit on the patio and overlook the ocean while we ate lunch. The restaurant is located right on the ocean at 1285 Front Street in Lahaina and is open daily from 8 am-10 pm.The waitress suggested that we try the Banana Lumpia because Aloha Mixed Plate is the only place that you could order this dessert on the island of Maui. A Banana Lumpia is bananas rolled in sugar and cinnamon, then wrapped in a crispy wrapper, and served with Ice Cream and powdered sugar. This was one of the best desserts that I have ever eaten. I highly recommend trying this deliciousness while visiting the island of Maui.I booked a cottage at the Royal Lahaina Resort through www.Hotels.com. The Resort is located at 2780 Kekaa Drive right outside the town of Lahaina.The Royal Lahaina Resort is known for “The Myths of Maui Luau”. We did not attend the luau while we visited the island, however, Lil’ Man wanted his picture made at the entrance of the Luau because he liked the Tiki statue.After we checked into our cottage, we decided to drive back to the town of Lahaina for a little shopping and exploring, as it is one of Hawaii’s most historic towns. Lahaina was the capital of Hawaii for a short time from 1820 to 1845, however, the capital was then moved to Honolulu. This is such a beautiful and quaint town and I highly recommend spending some time here.While walking up Front Street in the town of Lahaina, you can see the islands of Lanai and Molokai. Being able to stand at the harbor and see two other islands was amazing.There is a historic walking path that you can do while in Lahaina. There are about 28-30 items on the list and because of a late start, we only had time to see a few of the places. Seen here is the Baldwin Home Museum which was built in 1835 and is the oldest home still standing on the island of Maui. It is open daily from 10 am-4 pm and the admission price is $7/person. Unfortunately we did not have time to go inside, but that is just one reason to go back to beautiful Maui.We were all getting a little thirsty from the walking, so we stopped at a small stand that was selling drinks. We decided to try the Aloha Maid Strawberry Orange and we ended up going back and buying three more! This drink was so delicious that we still look for it on the mainland to this day.In the center of one of the shopping areas, there was a stage set up for a school hula competition. The hula dancers ranged in age from elementary school to middle school.The town of Lahaina is between the ocean and beautiful mountains. This is the view of the mountains; the town is stunning from every angle.Watching the boats at sunset was peaceful and serene.We all stood on Front Street and watched the sunset over the ocean. Peanut was trying to touch the water while we waited for the sun to go down.A beautiful Maui sunset over the other two islands.I think one of the most famous landmarks in Lahaina is the Banyan Tree. This tree was planted in 1873 in the courthouse square and is the largest Banyan Tree in the United States. It covers almost two acres! We actually went to an art show that was taking place underneath the tree.The Pioneer Mill Company was established in 1860 and was the first sugar cane plantation in Lahaina. The Smokestack and Locomotive exhibit is located at 275 LahainaLuna Road and is open daily from dawn until dusk.The Smokestack located at the Pioneer Mill Company is 225 feet tall and was built in 1928. This was a landmark for not only drivers but also fishermen when they were out at sea. When the Pioneer Mill Company stopped their operations in 1999, the smokestack was enhanced and restored.
DAY 2
After reading tons and tons of literature on the the proper way to drive the highway to Hana, we came to realize that this may be the only time that we are ever on the island of Maui and we do not want to rush this iconic drive. Therefore, we decided to book a hotel in the town of Hana. We did this so we could get up and enjoy the beautiful morning in Lahaina and take our time along the route by driving the road to Hana one day and driving it back the next day. We did this for a few of reasons. First, if we missed something the first day we would have plenty of time to stop on the way back the second day. Second, we decided this was a drive of a lifetime and we wanted everyone on the trip to take it and enjoy it. Third, I wanted to have ample time at the Seven Sacred Pools and bamboo forest.
While shopping in Lahainia the night before, a local had told us that the best place to eat breakfast was Sunrise Cafe. We decided to try it out the next morning because in all of our years traveling we have learned that if a local says to eat there, it must be good. Sunrise Cafe did not disappoint, their breakfast was delicious!Sunrise Cafe is located at 693A Front Street in Lahaina. The hours are daily from 7am-4pm and it is a Cash Only restaurant.The Maria Lanakila Catholic Church is located at 712 Wainee Street in Lahaina. Maria Lanakila means “Our Lady Victory” and was established in 1846. The church seen here today was improved in 1918 from its original stone church in 1873.While driving on the Hanoapiilani Highway making our way to the Highway to Hana, we decided to stop at the Papalua Beach Park for a beautiful view.It was odd and beautiful seeing this tree in the sand at the Papalua Beach park.We decided to take the Kuihelani Highway to the town of Paia, where we were starting our Highway to Hana journey. The views while driving this road are indescribably gorgeous.There is more than one surfboard fence on the island of Maui. This one happens to be in the town of Paia at the corner of Hana Highway and Homelani Place.
We wanted to take our time driving the Highway to Hana so, we decided to stop in the town of Paia to explore. It was suggested to us to stop at a convenience store and pick up a Highway to Hana Guided Tour CD. We went back and forth on whether to grab one but ended up buying one anyway. I am so glad that we did because even though I spent nine months researching this drive, the CD pointed out three amazing stops that I did not have listed and we would have missed. Therefore, I highly recommend spending the $15-20 bucks for this CD even if you feel completely prepared for the journey to Hana.
Our first stop was Ho’okipa Beach. This famous beach on the island of Maui is known for its’ professional windsurfing competitions.We had heard about the original surfboard fence that you can drive by while on the highway to Hana. After a little research, we found out that right at the “Beginning” of the Highway to Hana at Mile marker zero, you can turn right onto Kaupakalua Road and the surfboard fence is on the right hand side. We snapped a few photos, then turned around and continued onto the Highway to Hana.This is the mile marker Zero statue where highway 36 turns into Highway 360. The 64 miles to Hana is iconic because of the 620 curves, 59 bridges, and countless incredible views.Our first stop was Huelo Lookout. This is a quirky little stop between mile markers 4 and 5. We grabbed some banana bread and a delicious smoothie for our journey.We pulled over at Mile Marker 6 to snap a picture of the “Painted Forest.” The eucalyptus trees will peel away their outer layer which reveals fresh bark underneath. The freshest bark color is vibrant green, then after time the color darkens. Since the bark peels at different times, in different areas, the layers are multiple colors giving the tree a “rainbow” effect.Haupua’ena Falls is located at Mile Marker 11.5. This was a small swimming hole that we stopped at to watch some kids jump off the rock into the water.While driving the Highway to Hana, you can see the Ke’anae Peninsula before you get to the turn off at Mile Marker 16.5.This short drive along the Keanae Peninsula is worth the detour. This is a one way in and one way out paved road along the ocean edge.At the end of the half-mile Ke’anae Peninsula you can see waves crashing against newer lava that is sticking out above the ocean water.Ke’anae Peninsula was formed from lava flow originating from Haleakala, which is the Volcano that makes up 75% of Maui’s land mass.A view of the lava rock from the water looking up.You will find yourself getting lost in the gorgeous blue water hitting the lava.Ke’anae’s Old Stone Church was built in 1856 and is the only surviving building from a tsunami that hit the island on April 1st, 1946. Due to this deadly Tsunami that killed 24, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center was created at Ewa Beach on the island of Oahu.Legend has it that Ke’anae Peninsula was built by workers hauling in baskets of soil by hand to fill in the entire area so the land would be farmable. Today, the peninsula is known for its’ Taro farming.Located at Mile Marker 17 is The Halfway to Hana sign along with a small stand that sells refreshments. We only pulled into the parking lot long enough to snap a picture.Wailua State Wayside Park is one of the stops that was noted on the CD. I would have never stopped here but I am so glad that we did. This by far was one of the most beautiful views along the drive.If you blink you will miss the pull in to Wailua Valley State Wayside near mile marker 19. There is a small, hidden pull off large enough for about three cars. As soon as you pull in, there will be a set of steps to your right. It is a very short walk up to a small platform to see the coastline, Koolau Gap, and multiple waterfalls throughout Wailua Valley.This is the view of Wailua Valley from the top of the stairs.Here you can see the distant waterfalls of Wailua Valley.Upper Waikani Falls, also known as Three Bears, is located at mile marker 19.6 and is a beautiful stop. The parking situation is not great even though this stop is very popular, therefore we drove past the waterfall and parked at the top of the hill and walked back down to the bridge. Chris, little man, and I then hiked down to the waterfalls for a closer photo.This is looking from the Waikani Falls up to the Bridge that you drive over. The bridge is where most people stand to take their photos of the falls.Coconut Glen’s at mile marker 27.5 is a must stop while driving the Road to Hana. The ice cream is Vegan and delicious. The hours vary but they are usually open between 11am-5pm daily and the costs are around $7 for a scoop.This photo op was located right behind Coconut Glen’s!At mile marker 32, you turn onto Honokalani Rd to arrive at Waiʻanapanapa State Park. This is also known as the black sand beach. The opportunity to see a volcanic-sand beach cannot be skipped when driving the Highway to Hana.At the bottom of the steps that lead to the black sand beach, to your immediate right, there will be a lava tube. Go inside and walk all the way to the end where you meet this view.I had previously booked a suite at the Travaasa Hana Resort, located in the heart of Hana. We wanted to take our time and immerse ourselves in the beauty of Maui while driving the road to Hana.The view from the pool area looking right at our suite. The Travaasa Resort is expensive and usually books for at least $400 a night. We decided that we may not ever be back to Maui or on the road to Hana therefore, spending the money was worth it.After a long day of driving, we were all getting hungry. We asked the front desk where the best place to eat was located and they suggested The Ranch Restaurant. The Ranch is located at 5031 Hana Highway and is open daily from 11am-8:30 pm.After dinner, we decided to relax for a late evening swim at one of the pools located on the resort.
DAY 3
Our third and last day on the island of Maui was very busy. I had planned a short hike for just me and Chris early that morning along with a very long hike for the entire family later in the day. After the long hike, we had to drive the Highway to Hana back to make it to the airport in time for our 5:05 pm flight to Kona. We did it with plenty of time to spare.
Before planning this trip, I never knew that Kaihalulu: Maui’s Red Sand Beach even existed. This is a rare beach that I am glad we did not miss. Chris and I were the only ones that hiked to this beach for two reasons. One, the path is a little hard to find and we had no idea what we were getting into. Two, it is a clothing optional beach and again, we had no idea what we were getting into.This beach is in a hidden cove in Hana. To get to it, you drive to the dead end street of Uakea Road. We just walked from our hotel as it is located across the street from the trailhead entrance. The Hana community Center Complex will be on the same side as the trail head. If you are facing the community center, the trailhead will be to your right. You will have to walk through the grass and look for the trail head as it is hidden. There were times we were not even sure we were still on the trail which can be confusing, slippery, and dangerous. My advise would be to leave the flip flops at home and do this trail in closed toe shoes.The Red Sand Beach is a cove cut into the Ka’uiki Head, which is red lava cliffs. The loose crumbles from the cliff is what makes the sand red in color.This is the view from the parking lot of the Travaasa Hana Resort. I snapped this picture as we were getting in the car to head to our next adventure.Hasegawa General Store is a very unique stop in the town of Hana. I highly recommend just popping in and looking around this very eclectic store. They sell many items with different slogans. One T-shirt that they sell says: “Hasegawa General Store: Far from Waikiki”After leaving the Hasegawa Store, we kept driving along the Hana Highway toward the Seven Sacred Pools. Along the route at mile marker 45 is Wailua Falls, which can be seen from the road. There is a parking lot available so you can park and walk to the bridge for pictures of this 80 foot tall waterfall.We made it to Ohe’o Gulch which is part of Haleakala National Park. Seen here is the Visitors Center located at the parking lot. The cost is $15 admission or $25 for a Hawaii Park pass (Good for 3 different parks) which is what we obtained since we were on to the Big Island that afternoon.In 1969 Ohe’o Gulch (Also known as the Seven Sacred Pools) was added to Haleakala National Park. When the water level is low and there is no chance of flooding you can swim in these pools. Unfortunately the day we went it had rained alot the day before and we could not swim due to high water levels. The name Seven Sacred Pools was started decades ago by the owner of the Travassa Resort for marketing purposes due to the remote location of Hana.Our big hike for the day was Pipiwai Trail, which is a four mile round trip hike located near the Seven Sacred Pools in Haleakala National Park.I suggest giving yourself at least two to three hours for this hike, not for the length or difficulty but to take time to stop and take in the beauty of where you are.At approximately the half mile mark from the trail head, you will come to the 185 foot tall Mahahiku Falls.At almost the one mile mark you will enter the first of three bamboo forests.As you are walking, the wind is gently blowing causing the bamboo trees to make light music. Sometimes, we would just stop, listen, and take it all in.These wooden boardwalks have been built due to the marshy ground. They make the hike so much easier and more enjoyable.You walk through the Bamboo for approximately a mile.As you see the bamboo forest ending and trees start becoming the scenery again, you know you are almost at Waimoku Falls.Waimoku Falls is the tallest waterfall on the island of Maui at 400 feet. You can cross the stream to get right up under the waterfall.After spending as much time as you like at Waimoku Falls, you turn around and walk the same path back to the trail head.
After the hike, we drove the highway to Hana back to Kahului Airport. Our flight was at 5:05 pm however we arrived around 3 pm with plenty of time to spare. What you do not know when you island hop is that you do not go into the main airport or go through security. We literally rode a bus to a small, outside area where they drop you and your bags off at a check in counter. There is no security and only one counter. We arrived two hours early, when in all honesty you can arrive about 30 minutes early and have plenty of time. There was a 3:40 pm flight that had 4 spots open, however there were 6 of us. They put us on standby and said if 2 people do not show up by 5 minutes until departure we will let you all go on the earlier flight. At 3:35 pm, the lady came over and told us that we would all be on the 3:40 pm flight which was 90 minutes before our scheduled flight. As we were walking to the plane to board, the couple that we booted arrived and the look on their faces were priceless to say the least. The moral to the story is do not show up two hours before your flight as you will be bored waiting and do no show up right at the time the plane is scheduled to leave or you can be booted from the flight.
I booked the flight through Expedia for the 45 minute flight with Mokulele. However, the important thing to know is the plane only holds eight passengers and the two pilots. You can see the cockpit while in the air and the two pilots just turn around in their seats to give you the safety instructions before take off. This was an experience that we all still talk about to this day.The plane was small, however it was like having a helicopter tour of the island of Maui. The view was gorgeous.A view of the town of Paia while flying over Maui to the Big Island.You can see how lush and green the island of Maui is.The road to Hana from the sky!We did not get to visit Haleakala while we were on the island of Maui, however we did get to see it from the airplane!
Each island has their own uniqueness and differences with Maui being known for the famous road to Hana. However, there is so much more to this island with hikes, waterfalls, snorkeling, a Whale Museum, a National Park and many quaint little towns to explore. We spent three days on the island and only got a glimpse of what Maui has to offer. I would suggest staying a couple of days longer to see what else you can find on this great island.
