Has anyone gone here for spa services? Do you recommend it or do you like others better in the area??
The Sheraton Spa is pretty new....not a whole lot of reviews yet. It is a boutique spa, and the rooms are nice and open air. It is not a full service spa. For more facility, visit the Westin Hotel or the Hyatt. Both are down the street and offer all amenities. The Westin has an awesome co-ed relaxation room that overlooks the ocean.
What might the weater be like in early September? Thinking about a trip to Maui over Labor Day weekend, and wondering what I might expect. My impression is that the weather in Maui is always perfect, but wondering if this is really the case. Thanks!
Forgot to add thinking about staying in the Wailea area. Thanks.
In Spetember I think you will find the weather hot and dry, but of course nobody can predict it this far out. Some might argue the %26#39;always perfect%26#39;, but I think it%26#39;s always good.
Hot. Dry.
Sept is our Maui travel time. Spring is ok but love Sept. If you stay in a condo be sure you have a/c..can get hot.
September is a great time to go. Temps are warm, and the ocean temp is at its warmest...
hawaiiweathertoday.com/index.php…
Hi,
I know that there is a heap of info on this site about things to do in Oahu, but I don%26#39;t have the time right now to go through them all..
Can anyone give me a hint on things to do in Oahu for about 8 days. I like the snorkelling and hiking type of stuff as well as some of the history stuff like Pearl Harbour.
I see there is a water park - is this any good. We are a group of 29-35 (going on 16) year olds.
Thanks in advance.
I am plannning a trip there as well for July. I found the info on this thread very helpful.
tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g29222-i37-k647862…
BT -- even if you take the effort to scroll down through the posts from the last two weeks, you will find a treasure trove of excellent suggestions.
Our time is precious, too! :)
Make the time. Also, look at the top/left side of this page and click on the various topics. Like previously said, other people%26#39;s time is valuable, too. Chuck...
Thank You,
Sorry, I didn%26#39;t mean to sound like a snob when saying that I didn%26#39;t have time to look.
I meant any suggestions and I would research them, rather than imply that fellow TA posters do all the work.
Thanks also for pointing out the ';things to do'; tab. Maybe I shoud look to the right AND left of screen.
Regards
Regarding your comment that you are a group 29-35 going on 16 - The last time my husband and I were in Waikiki we were 29 and he took a surfing lesson and had a blast. He was having as much fun as any kid on surfboard.
We are planning on doing this hike with our two children ages 7 %26amp; 9 in late July and am wondering if in general it is better to try do this hike at any particular time during the day. Does it tend to perhaps get cloudy and/or rain more in the afternoon vs. the morning? Does it get very hot in this area in the afternoons or is it always fairly cool?
Any feedback would be appreciated!
Manoa Falls Trail is considered the second most popular hike on O%26#39;ahu, next to the Diamond Head Hike.
Manoa Falls is a towering 160 foot high waterfall in the beautiful rainforest behind Manoa Valley and the University of Hawaii, Manoa.
The Manoa Falls trail parallel%26#39;s Waihi Stream through the rain forest reserve to the falls. From the beginning of the hike, giant trees with luxuriant clinging vines, elephant-eared ape (pronouned AH-PAY) plants and every shade of green you could want along with a soundtrack of tropical birds create an Eden-like atmosphere. The path is dense with vegetation, including wild ginger, guava and giant ferns. Long before, mosaic of sinuous tree roots lay across the muddy and sometime slippery, jungle path. Today, gravel of rocks lay across the sinuous tree roots.
The stream is always nearby and the verdant growth is ever present. Once at the falls, there was a bench (haven%26#39;t been there in years) to sit on and listen to the hissing water from the falls. If you want a deep in the cold mountain water, go ahead. All in all, a very rewarding hike for the family with relatively little effort.
To get there, either take McCully out of Waikiki, past H-1 and onto Metcalf then left on University Avenue, or if you%26#39;re on H-1, take the University Avenue exit (24B) and head mauka (towards the mountain). University will become O%26#39;ahu Avenue. Go past my home on O%26#39;ahu Avenue until you come to the five way intersection. Take the right at the fork into Manoa Road and drive to the end, past the pay parking lot (for now) and keep going till the blacktop ends and trail begins. If there%26#39;s parking available, grab it. Read the road signs. If not, drop off your family and head back to the pay parking lot (I believe $5.00 for parking). Car break-ins are a problem here, so don%26#39;t leave anything valuable in them. Bring mosquito repellent and expect some muddiness if it%26#39;s been raining the day or two before --- that%26#39;s why it%26#39;s so lush here in Manoa Valley.
What time of the day to go hiking? I have done it in the morning and done it in the afternoon. I pretend to like the mornings because of the early morning mist, fresh air and the sunshine over head through the lush greenery. In the afternoon if you take a dip, it tends to get chilly. The sun has disappear over the Tantlus Mountain Range. If you%26#39;re hiking, don%26#39;t intend to go into the fresh mountain water, I say it makes no different when you go to Manoa Falls. All up to you ....
Enjoy the hike, bring water.
Thanks Islekane for the reply - very helpful.
After reading your desription we will plan to do this hike in the morning.
Thanks again.
Hi all, here is a snapshot of our first trip to Kauai.
mon- arrived, raining hard and windy--not a great first impression. Was not raining for a few minutes--full storm all day. Went to our condo(sunset kahilli) in poipu. poipu was partly sunny but cool. Visited spouting horn and froze.
Tues--went to North shore--it was raining. Went to Kee beach and walked in the rain with high surf. Delia was not happy. Went to annini beach--looked like a bay of mud. I said, forget this let%26#39; go back to poipu and lo and behold, sun. We had a nice beach day. But the idea of beautiful weather back in the bay area while we were in rain, wind and mud was not siting well.
Wed-- Weather looked better. went for morning walk around poipu--Went to waterfalls--kipu( report of this and queens bath separate post), wailua( got a big wow from Delia), and opaeka%26#39;a--very nice, especially the river view). Did a little shopping and eating in Coconut marketplace. Went for aftenoon helicopter tour....great views but a little dizzying.
Thursday--weather improved to perfection--went for morning walk along beach. Went to kapaa and lihue for shopping and came back to poipu--did some snorkeling. Went to mahau ulepu(sp) for afternoon. Very scenic and peaceful.
Friday--went to waimea canyon. Vista of canyon perfect, but the view of napalli from the top perspective was fogged in. Went west from here to glass beach(kinda cool), salt pond park and kekaha beach which was very relaxing and fun waves.Drove to end of road and saw polihale was closed.
Stopped by jojos for shaved ice. Went back to poipu and walked around sheraton beach and was told by someone we saw earlier at waimea that queens bath was beautiful..and then that night I was watching the news and they announced that polihale would open tomorrow.
Sat--Did a morning walk along shore near the point along lithified cliffs--really spectacular. With
weather hot and clear we thought we would give the north shore another chance and we would not be disappointed. The drive up at 10 am had temps of 80 degrees. Went to Queens bath(separate post later), went to kee beach--quite crowded but very warm, beautiful weather.Water was some of the clearest I have ever seen. Snorkeled here too.
Did a slow drive back--we thouroughly enjoyed the North Shore now. Did our evening stroll around poipu.
Sun--Went to polihale--was everything billed up to be--big beach, scenic cliffs, and a feeling of being somewhere else. The water was quite swimmable. Got stunning pictures. Went to spouting horn again. Went to beach near beach house and snorkeled--good stuff here.
Mon--did our morning walk, and enjoyed our last panoramic ocean views from our room and came back.
There are many little things we did that I did not mention
and we ate at a few places which were good such as the Fish Hut
and Keoki%26#39;s paradise. Most our meals we had at our condo because we had such a great view.
So there you have it, hope that helps those who have not been.
Jody
Just wondered if you saw any whales, breaching or tail flapping from your condo?
Thanks for reporting, Jody. I envy you the trip to Polihale. Always something has stopped us from going - usually roads! Maha%26#39;ulepu and the cliffs are magnificent and a favorite of ours, too. I hope you did see Anini in the sun as well - we enjoy in stormy weather, but loved it first in the sun and that%26#39;s probably what has made the difference!
I do hope you enjoyed yourselves!
Glad the weather cleared up for you!!!!!!!
Thanks for the report. Brings back lots of good memories.
What condo were you in at Sunset Kahilli? So have you started planning a return trip? Thanks for the report.
We did see whales, I saw the first one from the lanai..thought it was a boat at first but when it jumped out of the water I knew it wasn%26#39;t. We saw dolphins, monk seals, turtles, fish.... you know all the usual suspects.
We were in #307.
%26lt;%26lt;We did see whales, I saw the first one from the lanai%26gt;%26gt;
That is WONDERFUL! keep them around! :) That will make this trip even more special. We normally go in Feb. but this trip is just a mom - daughter trip and I picked May - 2 days after she graduates college LOL she has to get back and FIND a job and WORK LOL but whales will make it even more special haahaa
I was just wondering, if I just go to the USS Arizona Memorial (watching the video, walking around) and I don%26#39;t go to the museums near it, about how long would it take?
I am thinking of taking a shuttle to Pearl Harbor instead of taking The Bus, and most of the shuttle companies ask you for a return time, so I just wanted to get a time estimate and see if it%26#39;s worth being on a set schedule rather than just taking the 45-minute bus ride.
Renting a car isn%26#39;t a good option, since I%26#39;ll only be in Honolulu for two days.
Thanks in advance!
A couple weeks ago I dropped my husband and son off at Pearl Harbor at 1:45pm. They received tickets for the 2:00pm tour (movie %26amp; ferry to memorial). They called at 3:05 to come pick them up. We had toured the little museum the day before. We were there for about 1/2 hour before going to tour the Missouri.
Buses can sometimes be fun to get a slow look at the neighborhoods and its cheaper. Leave plenty of time for Pearl Harbor and the Arizona and Mighty Mo. Imagine being in your bunk below decks early Sunday when the bombs started to fall (as my Dad was). Very moving to see the pictures from WWII. I would suggest at least two hours. With a short schedule consider one of the tours offered. They can give you a quick city tour, get you to Pearl %26amp; arrange entrance, take you to the Punchbowl (also moving) and include a lot in 1/2 day.
Understand that the Arizona Memorial is in the middle of the Harbor. You are tendered out there and back. And, sometimes you need to wait for one of those ferries to pick you up.
With only 2 days, rent a car %26amp; make the best of those days.
By the time you pay for airport transportation, cabs %26amp; buses, you won%26#39;t save any $$ by not renting a car. Plus you will spend many hours on or waiting for public transportation.
I wouldn%26#39;t miss either the battleship USS Missouri or walking through the WWII submarine USS Bowfin. While the Mighty Mo%26#39; is a 10-minute ride away from the Arizona Memorial, the Bowfin is moored very close to the visitor center.
For just the Arizona, get there early because you have a time that they will ferry you out to the memorial, and that could be two hours later, depending on the tourist season. If you want to get a look at the Missouri and air Museum as well then a quick tour could be around 4 hours, but just the Arizona depends on your time of tour. We planned to be there all day, and we were. saw all but the bowfin. Took the bus at our leisure. The locals will talk to you on the bus ride as well. Great people.
Thanks for the replies, everyone. I was just torn between hiring a shuttle service to get to Pearl Harbor or taking the 45-minute bus ride (I wanted to cram as much into the two days as possible, but now realize that would be a stupid thing to do!).
I%26#39;ll just take The Bus now as I%26#39;ll be coming from a week in Maui and will probably already be in the ';Hawaii'; frame of mind and want to take the relaxed, laid-back approach to things instead of worrying about time. I can also make a stop off at the swap meet on the way back for last-minute souvenirs, too.
The swap meet is great. But keep in mind, it is open only on Wed, Sat and Sun. http://www.alohastadiumswapmeet.net/
I%26#39;m thinking of taking one whole day to do a circle-isle trip via The Bus, getting on and off at different places: North Shore, towns, beaches, etc. I am wondering if anyone has ever done this and how the day went; and if it is in fact do-able?
If it%26#39;s not such a good idea, I could rent a car for the day, but I would like to avoid driving so that is why I am asking.
Also, should I start out going clock-wise or counter clock-wise regardless if I take the bus or drive?
Thanks.
I%26#39;ve done this trip a few times via The Bus. It%26#39;s definitely do-able, but you need to make sure you%26#39;ve looked at a map and know exactly where you want to go. Also keep in mind that at some places there may be a bit of walking to get to the actual site. (This may entice you more into using a car.)
From there just let the bus driver know when you get on where you%26#39;re looking to get off. They are used to doing this won%26#39;t lead you astray.
Just some of the places I would go:
- Blow Hole
- Sandy Beach
- Makapuu Beach
- Laie Point
- Sunset Beach
- Waimea Bay
With regards to direction, go counter-clockwise. I would start at around 9am and even with several stops you should be back where you started by 5 or so.
Another point is that I would do it on a weekday - there%26#39;s more bus service then!
Aloha!
thebus.org is a good website for bus info.
Thanks for the info.
I can see it%26#39;s do-able and now was wondering if there might be one or two beach spots that aren%26#39;t so far from a bus stop? There%26#39;s one stop called Kaaawa Beach.
Also, Bus 55/52 goes all around the island, but doesn%26#39;t go around the blow hole, Sandy Beach, Makapuu area (I think bus 57 does that).
I%26#39;m planning on getting the 4-day pass, but was wondering if transferring bus(es) would be worth the time involved for one day (???)
Maybe a separate trip back and forth on bus 57 another day would be better.
Thanks again.
We were able to use our Continental frequent flyer myles to upgrade to first class. We were put on Northwest out of Atlanta direct to Honolulu.
We have never flown on Northwest and was wondering what anyone can tell us about their first class service. I checked their website would like first hand reports if possible. We are in one of those larger planes that have an upstairs cabin.
are u sure about the upstairs cabin -- i was under the impression that the 747s were taken out of service for among other things that they were gas guzzlers -----am not familiar with any other plane configuration with an upstairs cabin
my bad --- northwest is still flying 747s to hnl
is this your final destination or are you flying interisland to maui
you might be interested in this link for seat selection
just not my day --here is the link
seatguru.com/airlines/Northwest_Airlines/Nor…
I flew NWA%26#39;s 747 in first class aka World Business class last year. The upper deck was quiet and had plenty of storage space. I%26#39;ve flown NWA in first on several different planes types. Their service is very good and the seats are comfortable.
Thank you - Do you know if they give you a toiletry kit? On Continental when we flew first they gave us a little kit with toothbrush, toothpaste, eye mask, ear plugs, etc. If they also give you that I don%26#39;t have to pack some of these items in my carry on.
We did choose seats in the upper cabin. Do they have snacks throughout the flight? I have a son who is a picky eater and will pack some snacks but if they offer some I don%26#39;t have to pack as much.
Honolulu is not our final destination we will be on Hawaiian Air from there to Maui.
Greetings happytraveler,
My DH and I are also on the NW flight from Atlanta to Honolulu in July. We are booked on Delta, and yes it is the 747 with the upper deck, our first time with NW, usually use AA. Keep track of your flight as ours keeps changing times and airlines!
Delta is famous for constantly changing the times. We will be on the flight July 19th. When are you going?
This aircraft is one of NWA 747%26#39;s, but it is a Delta flight as far as I know. It really doesn%26#39;t matter, at they have integrated the service to be the same between the two airlines recently. They are slowly repainting all the NWA planes in the Delta colors, but all the planes belong to Delta now. This is just a 2 class plane without a middle business class. The seats upstairs are the same as the seats in the front of the plane downstairs. They are very nice seats with a good interactive entertainment system/video screen. The seatguru link gives you more info. NWA/Delta does not have toiletry kits on this or other domestic flights, only to Orient and Europe. You will be able to get snacks (pretzels and nuts, not a sandwich) and drinks at any time, and there should be 2 meal services during the flight.
We are planning a trip to the Big Island next Feb.and would like to keep our lodging costs in the $100-$125 per night range. Is it possible to get something decent in this price range? We don%26#39;t require anything fancy and don%26#39;t have to be on the beach, but something well maintained, clean and in a desireable area is a priority. We thought about spending 3 nights in the Volcano area and 3 nights somewhere on the northwest side of the island. Would appreciate any information.
This will be tough....as there is about a 12% tax added to any rate... So your looking at stuff in the 110 max range
The will not be in prime spots but near them...within a short drive
1. Kona Tiki Hotel @ $79
2. Magic Sands.... I think this is over budget@ $125
3. Seaside Hotel @ $79
4. Kona Islander.@.$69.
None of these places except Magic sands will have a kitchen... These are all older 30-40 year old properties... they aregood for a bed and a shower.
They will be very basic and minimal, dont expect AC or a fridg at this price.
Most all B%26amp;B s are remote and a very mixed bag..and charges as much as hotels. Beware of ads that say minutes to the beach....Remember thats less than 60 min...in reality
There is a hostel in Kona for $30 pp per night in a dorm...share bath.
In this economy dont discount Sheraton Hotel... they have has a speccila for 119 a night.... but thats over your budget with tax.... Try Priceline,Or expedia. Be leary of rentals by owner... lots of problems await... you can get burned easily unless you use a credit card.
Dont consider Uncle Billies or King Kam hotel....till it is remodeled.... but then it will become a Marriott..... and rates will be way out of your budget
Consider more and cooking your meals to amortize the difference.... It will easily cost $100 a day for 2 eating on the cheap... without drinks
I forgot...these are in Kona...
Be leery of places south of Kona...as the traffic, the remotness and access to recreation, food is a total hassel
There are some condos listed on vrbo in Waikoloa Village in your price range. This is not one of the major resort areas, and would be a 10-15 minute drive to beaches, but they should be decent accomodations.
Hapuna Prince Hotel is going for around $100. per night on ';name your price'; on Priceline.com. Several other top hotels are around the same. Check pricing on biddingfortravel.com
For Volcano, try Coconut Cabanas. $69/night - including breakfast! My wife and 2 grandchildren just returned from CC and it is fabulous as well as one of the best values on the Big Island. New, clean, and well located in Mountainview, just east of the National Park (10 min. drive) and about 15 min. from Hilo/Waterfalls/Gardens. I tried to do a review for TA but was rejected because it is only 1 unit. Found on craigslist under Hawaii vacation rentals. Views of Mauna Kea and the ocean too. Even has small kitchen w/ microwave and fridge. The owners Leslea and Darrel are very friendly and helpful. The breakfast was delicious. They grow their own fruit and vegetables on the 5 acre property. http://coconutcabanas.com/ The pics are very accurate. It doesn%26#39;t have a pool, which our granchildren usually want, but they didn%26#39;t want to leave. They loved the gardens, and feeding the goats and chickens.
One note there are 2 waikoloas..... Waikoloa Village, 8 miles and 1500 ft ele above the beach... it is a good 20 min drive to the nearest beach, The village is in a desert climate....very dry and dusty with strong winds.( its know localy as Waik-a-blow-a)
Its a bedroom and retirement community sort of like %26#39;sun city..... its NOTt what people think of as Hawaii.
Then Waikoloa Beach Resort.... is a totaly crafted resort with hotels and shopping, beaches, golf....
One factor to consider for economy.....if you stay in remote or resort areas.... aside from the room cost, youe going to find prices for everynting to be up to 50 % higher than in Kona... Its the Gold Goast......our coast, your gold.. In addition it will be hours of driving to get to polular places.
Price is one thing.... however do not discount location.... I would also caution any stay in Hilo...it is a industrial, port city...shopping malls, container port, govt buldings..its NOT a sleeply little tropical town. Hilo prides its self in not providing visitor services or facilities.
Stay in Volcano.... which is 3000 ft higher and 30 miles south west of Hilo
Dear Lets Go: Just remember budget means budget. You get lower quality or worse location regardless.
For Volcano budget I recommend the In Law Room at $105 per night w/ private bath and pretty good breakfast buffet and a stone%26#39;s throw from the park plus really nice gardens to stroll.
If you have 6 nights total then maybe other 4 at a Kona condo (lots of choices here) or Kona Tiki.
Manago Hotel is nice for Captain Cook activities but not convenient for any other locations.
If you want to focus on Waimea and Waikoloa with best beaches than maybe Kamuela Inn (but I haven%26#39;t stayed there yet, I%26#39;ll let everyone know soon).
Happy Travels, TheodoreJay
Thanks to all who have provided me with such good information. It has been very helpful to me!
Thanks rshin for the helpful info on Coconut Cabanas, I appreciate it. I went to their website and contacted the owner and I sent my $50 deposit in today for a one night%26#39;s stay in August. I have been looking for several month%26#39;s on and off for an inexpensive night%26#39;s stay by the lava flow and this will be perfect. We have visited the lava flows at night several years ago and then drove all the way back to our condo in Kona.......got home around 2 am. We decided not to do that this time around.
Thanks rshin for the helpful info on Coconut Cabanas, I appreciate it. I went to their website and contacted the owner and I sent my $50 deposit in today for a one night%26#39;s stay in August. I have been looking for several month%26#39;s on and off for an inexpensive night%26#39;s stay by the lava flow and this will be perfect. We have visited the lava flows at night several years ago and then drove all the way back to our condo in Kona.......got home around 2 am. We decided not to do that this time around.
Has anyone got a good deal with Kona village resort. if so, where do we book.
KVR is not known for ';specials'; or ';deals.'; The only way to save money there is to be a frequent guest and as a Coconut Member you will earn a free stay after a while. Make that a long time. Check eBay, KVR frequently donates 4-5 nights to charities that end up on eBay. Another option is make a friend with a local and your friend can get you a kamaaina rate. (He will have to be there with you when you check in.) Remember, May and September are the ';adults only'; months.
Any new info on the best places to book Kona Village? Thanks
We%26#39;ve been going to KV for a long time, and have never found a great deal. They often have 5th night free or 9th night free specials. You can try calling Kathy Lerner at Worldwide Travel in Long Beach, CA. She is an expert on the place, well connected, and if there are any deals to be had, she will know about them.
BTW, Coconut Club doesn%26#39;t offer free nights, just a slight discount - like 5% - after you%26#39;ve been there about 10 or 15 times. Not a great incentive program, but we loyalists keep going back, no matter what.
Aloha.
Aloha, Sadly no good deals...if you find one let us know! My feeling is once you get there you will be so happy you will not care ;o)
Actually, it looks like there IS a deal on the KonaVillage.com web site right now. Rates starting at $245 a person double occupancy ($490) .. Call 888-337-1242 or visit their web site.
this is a place that up-holds very standards and has a reputation quality over the years.........it does not wish or seek budget travel.
It is one of the last class acts in Hawaii.......... yes it cost more that others..... what it delivers speaks for its self..........it is worth what you pay..... very much worth what ever they charge. It is an experience more than a hotel.............. you will see
and with the utmost respect I point out that I can%26#39;t stay somewhere in Hawaii w/o air conditioning to sleep no matter how balmy the breezes are claimed to be...Vatulele was OK in winter with big fans but it was not so hot as Kona...if you go try to get a hale that gets some breeze at least.
Then Honu, KVR is not for you. Don%26#39;t go. Those of us who love it, love it!
When I booked our trip for Sept. there was a web special where you get the best available hale. I think it was $400 to $500 a night. It was a really good deal. However once you make your reservations you can%26#39;t cancel or you loose the money. Alsoyou will not know what hale until you get there but you are entitled to best availalbe up to a deluxe. There are never deals on the Royals except if you belong to the coconut club and that is I believe 5% off.
Has anyone booked recently? If so, how? Any news on renovations?
Thank you
Leaving for Kauai tomorrow morning from Philly and will be there until Friday 5/15.
I mentioned in previous posts that we were stying at The Cliff%26#39;s in Princeville unit 9305.
I stand corrected as it is actuaslly 9304.
Anyone there during the same time frame and wants to get together to say Hi, ring us up at that unit.
Aloha to all.
Pics and report when I return.
My husband and I are taking our honeymoon in July. What is the best part of the island to stay on? We are doing most recreational things in Maui just prior, so mainly want to relax and probably zipline. We are not high maintenance, but unfortunately, he will need internet access to do a little bit of work...
tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g29218-i304-k27470鈥?/a>
tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g60623-i610-k27378鈥?/a>
tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g29218-i304-k27447鈥?/a>
This a pretty common question and one that%26#39;s not easily answered without more info as to what you are looking for, budget etc. Many many older threads have many, many opinions. You may also wish to reviews the hotels/condos listed with recommendations under the Hotel tab. The more detailed your question, the greater the chance of a useful reply.
Sounds like from what info you%26#39;ve given that the north shore would fit the bill best. It is the greenest and lushest part of the island and in the summer that is where you will find the best ocean conditions.
Your options for lodgimg will be either a condo somewhere in Princeville (on a bluff above the ocean) or a private house or cottage in Kilauea, Anini Beach, Princeville, Hanalei or Haena. Dave is right, if you give us some more info you will get some good specific recommendations.
We have always traveled to Kauai in July. This year is the first we are doing May.
We love the North shore in July for it%26#39;s lush scenery, great beaches, etc.
We play a little golf, snorkel at Tunnels, eat out most every evening and generally just Veg out.
If you are looking for a relaxing place, then IMO try up North.
You say you are doing more ';recreational'; things on Maui. Kauai has fabulous activities as well and if you plan on a helicopter ride I would wait and do that on Kauai.
As the links Dave gave you will tell you take advantage of the good ocean conditions on the North Shore during the summer. This is the green, lush part of the island with the wonderful beaches. Much more laid back than Maui. Not much night life except hand holding on the beach watching the sunsets. No super fancy restaurants. Just put your sundress on and flip flops and relax. Lots of great activities to experience like kayaking down the Hanalei River to the bay, hiking, visiting Waimea Canyon (a don%26#39;t miss), zipline at Princeville Ranch and snorkel at Tunnels Beach. Many years ago, my honeymoon had the same plan. First Maui then Kauai. Great plan.
Better get cracking on accommodations. July is a busy month and I see the nicer homes and condos getting filled up.
Just remember no hotels on the North side. Condos and homes are the choices. Westin is a timeshare property and Hanalei Bay Resort is condos and timeshare combo. If you research HBR rent through a private owner only. VRBO is a good place to start.
If you want a bigger resort feel then look into The Grand Hyatt or Marriott Lihue. Both nice properties and popular with honeymooners.
I am looking at possible having my wedding in Maui in May 2010. I want something casual (for about 20 people) for a ceremony, possibly on the beach. I would love something in West Maui, maybe overlooking the ocean, but I would like a gazebo or a nice building (not a church). I want to keep it on the simpler side and cheap is always nice. Any suggestions?
Thanks for the advice.
If you book several units at the Maui Eldorado I think you can use their beachfront big cabana building. Worth contacting them for details of if they still offer this and the number of units you need to book. Absolutely beautiful outlook.
Have you determined where you will be staying? That may have an impact, it%26#39;s a small island but the general economics of time and distance should be considered. A bit more information as to what you want is going to be helpful.
I think the gazebo is going to limit you a bit, but it%26#39;s quite possible. Napili Kai Resort has gorgeous grounds and is popular for weddings. In South Maui Makena is a favorite for weddings.
http://www.maui-angels.com/ http://mauimarryingman.com/
LeaRose has given you two really good choices. I am partial to maui-angels.com since that is who I used myself four years ago for my wedding. They have a great many things to offer and the prices are very good. Kolleen and Bruce are excellent to work with.
We visit with them every year when we return. They have become good friends of ours and I%26#39;m sure you will find the same thing will happen. You will feel you have known them all your life. I would certainly give them a chance. You will not be disappointed.
Best wishes to you and let us know what you decide.
I was thinking of doing the sunrise trip to Halakeala crater combined with some hiking in the area. I realize it can be quite a SPECIAL time but to get maximum participation from my family (who don%26#39;t want to rise so early) and to avoid the drive up the mountain in the dark, I was wondering if a more sober departure time (we will be in Kaanapali) like 5:00am would be wise? It might be a little warmer and more light yet not peak sun either for comfortable hiking. Any comments on this departure (which would get us there about 7:00am I%26#39;m supposing)? Crowds? Likelihood of getting a parking spot?
Thanks! We leave in six weeks.
If you%26#39;re not going for sunrise then any departure time is reasonable. You shouldn%26#39;t have any problems with crowds or parking. The lot clears pretty quickly after the sun rises.
which restaurants would you recommend for 1 lunch and 1 dinner! thanks!
At Whalers Village there is Leilani%26#39;s - our favorite, but many like Hula Grill which is directly across from Leilani%26#39;s. Cane %26amp; Taro is apparently not in a hurry, so your options are limited there.
So then I would suggest lunch at Hula Grill then dinner at Leilanis (upstairs is reportedly more upscale), but of course you could do it however you wish.
what type of food will Cane %26amp; Taro be? we are going in november so i%26#39;m assuming it will be open
Lunch - Hula Grill outside.
Dinner - Leilani%26#39;s inside.
Cane and Taro was supposed to be finished when we visited last December ... so who knows when they will open.
The thing about Cane and Taro is that they are supposed to be open for breakfast -- which would be wonderful! Neither Hula Grill nor Leilani%26#39;s is open for breakfast and the resort breakfasts are $$$$$!
I do hope Cane %26amp; Taro are open by November! A breakfast place is needed there, as well as just something slightly different.
A suggestion for your breakfasts - if you are so inclined - would be Castaway Cafe which is located just north of Black Rock on the beach in front ot Kaanapali Villas, not a bad walk or catch a shuttle.
We will be staying 10 nights in Waikiki. I want to explore all around the island and do lots of hiking and stuff. I%26#39;m thinking of having the car for a week and spending the first 3 days without a car. I don%26#39;t want to have it sit unused when we%26#39;re paying everyday to have it and for parking. Does that sound like a good amount of time to have it? Or will we need it less? Thanks for your help!
A week with a car will be about right.
Sounds OK.
Hi,
I just found out that there will be a parking fee at the hotel that i will be staying at (Hilton Hawaiian Village)and it%26#39;s $24 per day for self park! Wasn%26#39;t aware of the parking fee until after i booked the flight+Hotel+car. We will be at the hotel for 5 days,if anyone know of another cheap alternative, please help. Thank you.
You booked this as a package? Are you sure that the parking isn%26#39;t included?
I know when researching packages for our upcoming trip on sites like Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz et al. that if the hotel normally charges for parking that it was NOT included in the package price. Same for resort fees, internet charges and any other fees not part of the normal room rate.
Sometimes parking is included ...
We recently stayed at HHV. I was shocked about the $24 fee also, but did know in advance. I was even more shocked when my husband wanted to pay the additional $5 for valet (more with tipping). I didn%26#39;t use it obviously, but the only cheaper parking I found through using this site was at the Hale Koa, which is next door. Depending on where you%26#39;re staying at HHV, it can be a little bit of a walk. The Hale Koa is a hotel for military personnel, but does have general parking. According to their site, there is a 3 day pass you can purchase for $16 per day.
halekoa.com/about_us/…Parking
Hi,
Thanks for the link!
Because of all the interest a week ago in these places when I inquired about them I thought I would give a here%26#39;s how it was for us when we went.
Kipu falls--nice walk to it.. as for being dangerous--I can see the danger, if you are really, really uncoordinated and careless. The rope is not easy to get to really and all we did was check the area. Nice to see and worth stopping by. Access to the bottom area is not easy. The walk to the falls is very easy, quick and nice.
Queens Bath--The walk is pretty fun and nice. Once again if you are below average in coordination this might be difficult or dangerous. We saw elderly people as well as those with infants doing this short hike to the bath. We got there midday and the surf was ok--the bath was beautiful. The waves tumble over the shore into the bath--I went right up to the ';mouth'; to feel what the current was like and when a wave came in it was minimal. I saw how it can be unnerving when a bigh wave comes in for people who are more timid of the water. The whole bath becomes like a crazy jacuzzi. You have to know yourself and wath the bath for awile to see how the largest wave interacts with area. All in all if you can do this it is very rewarding.
I imagine later in the day when the surf comes up the bath is not too accomodating. When the bif waves come in the bath gets all churned up and is not clear anyway.
jodydelia: what were the conditions like when you were there? (Dry or wet?)
We experienced some hikes that I think would typically be considered mild to moderate, but were tricky at times because of very wet and slippery conditions.
I don%26#39;t consider us to be ';really really uncoordinated and careless'; - DH and I do alot of sports and so do our kids, including triathlons, and we%26#39;re always more cautious with the kids with us. And yet we had some slips.
My point is that conditions can change based on many factors, including the weather, and trails can be challenging even for coordinated and careful people.
I%26#39;m glad you enjoyed the hikes and I hope your entire trip was great. I appreciate the follow up to the thread, as it was clearly of interest to many people.
It sounds like your approach to Queens Bath was much like mine. I only went so far, and just didn%26#39;t feel safe swimming in the bath itself, even though the conditions were extremely calm (mid morning, late August). It was beautiful though. I haven%26#39;t made it to Kipu Falls, and again, if I did go there I would probably have the same approach....watch from the ';sidelines'; and not go too far. I%26#39;m just super cautious. I wouldn%26#39;t call myself seriously uncoordinated, but I%26#39;m also no olympic athlete and pretty much know my limits.
Thanks for sharing this with us! :-)
Thanks for your report but we will stay away from both places. Heck, we have been going to Kauai for nearly 20 years and still have not been to Queen%26#39;s Bath and only poked our heads into Kipu Falls last summer. We have other places we like to visit.
Thanks for your reply.........Nice to see you were able to enjoy.
Yep. If you go when conditions are ok, odds are you%26#39;ll come back. Thousands of people go to these places every year and only 1 or 2 get badly hurt/die.
Just don%26#39;t kid yourself that you can%26#39;t be one of the unlucky ones especially if you chance it when the surf is up at QB or when the falls are gushing and the water is brown.
Thanks for the report.
Our hike was actually to the bottom of the falls. Did you see the area where Jurassic Park was filmed?
We did see jurassic park falls from the helio.
Martik--you should check QB just for the walk to it....maybe when you get to the ocean you don%26#39;t even go over to where the pool is but the little 10 minute walk(slightly steep) with it%26#39;s two ';baby falls'; is worth the trip.
I have to say, the hike down to QB is at least 50% of the experience, and in fact is a good hike in and of itself. Seeing and hearing that small waterfall along the trail was very nice. I%26#39;m not a heavy duty hiker, so seeing a waterfall was really a treat for me. To see most waterfalls close up, you really need to do some hiking.
For another side of QB take a look at this video.
Yes, these people were supreme idiots. But this video shows what can happen when a rogue wave hits. I give the Dad an F in parenthood for even letting his kid be there.
www.youtube.com/watch鈥?/a>
Great video--When we were there QB was like the bonus part of the video(clear) with a small wave popping in every few minutes--the area where the kids are at when they get washed in was not visible--it was full of water so no one was getting flushed. The waves were basically hitting the outside of the pool and splashing over.
Nobody was on the rope swing at Kipu when we were there.
I need some help with hotel recommendations in Maui. I%26#39;ve read several reviews but am still not sure which one works best for me!!
My boyfriend and I are going this summer (June/July) and we%26#39;re looking at either Sheraton or Westin, hoping to use our Starwood points. We would prefer something more romantic and less crowded. My experience is that Westin is typically more upscale and has better rooms, but many reviews suggested that Sheraton is actually better!!
Any feedback you have will be greatly appreciated!!
I hear what you are saying about Westins/Sheraton - but that%26#39;s not the case in Hawaii. If you want romantic and less crowded, stay at the Sheraton. Westin is a kid-magnet and noisy.
Sheraton has the best spot on the beach, large rooms and spacious, gracious grounds. Go for it.
I think the Sheraton would be a better choice as well.
#3 for the Sheraton! Use your points and you will get automatic upgrades! We went from oceanview to oceanfront! Can%26#39;t guarantee ';less crowded'; in the summer months but still the better beach and grounds.
I know what you mean, we normally prefer the Westins as well, just not on Maui!
Thank you all for your feedback. Looks like I will go with Sheraton, can%26#39;t wait :)
Considering going to Lanai to snorkel....any recommendations on day or 1/2 day trips....which companies are better vs. the ferry trip on our own?
Trilogy is an awesome trip if you want to spend the money.
The ferry is also a great way to go if you want to take your own stuff. They drop you right at the beach.
We went with Maui Ocean Adventures(I think that was the name) and had a great time. If you book through Activity Warehouse it isn%26#39;t much more than the ferry.
Definitely go with a full day. If you only do the 1/2 you will hate to get out of the water to return to Maui! I have done both the ferry and Trilogy. Trilogy is great fun, but no longer within my budget. Also, their full day trip feels like a half day because you leave to go back to Maui right after lunch. (It is a tasty lunch though.) The ferry is fun and affordable. I like using the money I save to rent a jeep and tour the island. Hulopo%26#39;e Bay is excellent snorkeling, but there%26#39;s so much more to see! Have fun!
Another option is to take the ferry over and snorkel on your own at Hulopo%26#39;e Beach (where Trilogy goes). It is only a 10 minute walk from the ferry dock. This is a much cheaper option, $60/person round trip. You would need to bring rented snorkel gear along from Maui, as there is none available for rent on Lana%26#39;i. Here is a link to their website:
http://www.go-lanai.com/
In addition you will still be able to look for whales (in season) and dolphins from the ferry, with the exception that the ferry will not go out of its way to get a better look. Once on Lana%26#39;i you can also take a nice short hike up to Pu%26#39;u Pehe Overlook (Sweetheart Rock), where you will have great views of Maui and Kaho%26#39;olawe. There are also great tidal pools to check out around the beach. You can also take the 5 minute walk up to the Four Seasons Manele Bay Resort and check out the great artwork and beautiful gardens. Lunch at the Ocean Grill there has great views although it is fairly expensive. Otherwise you can bring a picnic lunch and have it right on the beach. There are picnic tables, as well as facilities and showers there.
And if you are really interested in checking out the island, rent a Jeep from Adventure Lana%26#39;i Ecocentre and explore all the great isolated off-road sites. They will meet you right at the ferry dock with the Jeep, and you just leave it there at the end of the day. Their website is:
http://www.adventurelanai.com/
My only warning is that you will have such a good time on Lana%26#39;i that you will not want to return to Maui at the end of the day. ;-)
We took the ferry and there was a sandwich shop by the Lanai ferry terminal.
Then walked to the beach. Had a beer at the hotel pool. The beach has restrooms and a shower.
Snorkeled and walked the tide pool. Then took the ferry back to Lahaina. We parked all day for free at the lane that goes beside the Front St tennis courts (by Alano Club) in Lahaina.
I was wondering if I was to do lanai via ferry, is there any lockers or places where i can put my stuff ex: camcorders, snorkeling equipment, etc.
I am not aware of any lockers. I would guess that your snorkel gear would be relatively safe if you left it while walking around, but I would keep things like a camcorder with you at all times.
Thanks for all of the good advice! Can%26#39;t wait to go!
We took the tour with Trilogy to Lanai last year and had a ball! We are going back this July and will tour with them again. We did take the full day tour. We saw spiiner dolphins on the way over which my kids loved. They even let the kids ';steer'; the boat. We were fed sandwiches,drinks and chips on the way over and a really good barbecue chicken lunch on the beach. It was a really windy day so the snorkeling wasn%26#39;t very good that day. We were able to sail back and it was great. Trilogy has no alcohol so not sure if you would want that or not. Also I am not sure that taking the ferry,renting snorkel equipment and buying food on Lanai is much cheaper than the cost of the tour.
';Also I am not sure that taking the ferry,renting snorkel equipment and buying food on Lanai is much cheaper than the cost of the tour.';
It%26#39;d be about a hundred dollars a person cheaper, depending on what food is bought or brought.
I am going to Maui for my boyfriend%26#39;s birthday. Wanted to make the day special but am spending alot of money on a private massage on the beach, and a dinner evening set up. What I%26#39;ve been having a hard time finding is on renting a small little motor boat for 2 people that we can use to go maybe a mile off shore to relax and have a nice lunch for an hour or 2. The only things i%26#39;ve seen online are for huge poweboats or charter boats which are so expensive per hour AND you need a 3-5 hour minimum reservation. I heard they have tiny little local places that may rent out small boats hourly for good prices, which are not posted on online for me to check. Anyone have any suggestions or ideas?? I appreciate it very much!
Thanks
I have a hard time imagining that someone will allow you to rent a boat without a captain, or captain%26#39;s license. The liability is just too great.
I am not too sure that this is a viable idea, currents and weather conditions can change in an instant. Are you an experienced boater?
The only reliable one I am aware of is Sea Escape, located in central Kihei.
See:
http://www.maui-boat-rental.com/
I really don%26#39;t think this is gonna happen for you...it%26#39;s a big ocean where conditions change quickly. Not something I would want to experience and can%26#39;t imagine, as the last poster said, the liability issues. Suggest you take a nice picnic to a beach, the rest of your plans sound wonderful!
I%26#39;ve also now heard the same from different people about how dangerous it might be considering the abrupt weather change out there...if anyone has a suggestion on which place i can maybe find a small boat that offers a captain to drive instead of charter boats where there will also be alot of people around that would be great! It%26#39;s my first time to Hawaii so it%26#39;s been alot of hours of researching. Thanks for the help and replies =) Any other suggestions for a romantic time in Maui from your vacation experiences??
Thanks!
';Captain to drive'; equals ';charter boat'; equals bucks. You will pay for their gas and their time and it will not be cheap! I%26#39;m sure in this economy you can find a captain to take you out for only $500 or $600 bucks ,about half of the normal.
Another idea would be to take a sailing excursion, in Lahaina the America%26#39;s II takes a smaller amount of people for a lovely sail. The cost is $45. http://www.sailingonmaui.com/
Afterwards a lunch in Lahaina or a picnic would be nice.
Thank you for all your suggestions!
Hello, we are arriving Saturday May 2nd in Oahu for 4 nights.
We would like a quiet room, nice beach/pool access during the day and access to outside resturants for the evening. Our goal is to relax and read books and swim during the day!
I would really appreciate any thoughts on comparing the Moana Surfrider versus the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
BTW - we are probably looking at HHV Ali Tower and the Moana Tower based on comments found here.
These are two very different facilities.
HHV is a very large property with man-made (?) beach, restaurants, shops ... kinda amusement-parkish. Great for conventioners and families with kids. It%26#39;s a bit off the beaten path, not inthe heart of Waikiki. I have never eaten there, but posts generally agree that food it expensive. Pools are crowded (that can happen anywhere). Unless you want to walk into the main area of Waikiki, you are a bit of a captive audience. That%26#39;s how I felt.
The Moana Surfrider has at its base a 1901 restored building. Beautiful! The tower rooms are the best (newer and much larger). Large balconies. In the heart of Waikiki. Great location with easy access to restaurants and shops. We love the courtyard with the large banyan tree. Nice bar and food services with entertainment at night.
The resorts along the beach where the Moana Surfrider is located are scrunched together. It can get noisy from the beach and the street. The rooms in the Moana tower are amazingly soundproof. We were very impressed. But if you are thinking of (relatively) spacious grounds, consider the Royal Hawaiian or Halekulani, both in the same general vicinity.
I would prefer the Maona anytime, I don%26#39;t care for the HHV mini city atmosphere at all. However so many of us here love the HHV.
When I am taking visitors to see the sights of Waikiki, the Moana is one of our stops because it is so beautiful. The HHV is not.
When celebrating a special occasion or group birthday - my friends and I go to the Moana for tea. It is really lovely!
Thanks for the replies above.
I hate to complicate this but would we be better off looking at the turtle bay hotel/resort on the north shore? I realize that is really isolated but the more I think about the trip I wonder if a little quiet / seclusion is what we really need.
Thanks again for any info.
No, Turtle Bay would NOT be a good alternative, Ko%26#39;Olina, maybe, but not Turtle Bay.
BLBL%26#39;s comments were spot on. If you don%26#39;t have tweens or teens the HHV is too big and Vegasy.
You also might look at the New Otani Kaimana, although they don%26#39;t have a pool, it is the quietest spot in the Waikiki area other than the Halekulani.
Take a look at Kahala. Gets great reviews. A little south of Waikiki. I wish I could go there! It might be perfect. Easy enough to get to Waikiki/Honolulu for dinner, shopping and activities, yet quiet and beautiful.
http://kahalaresort-px.trvlclick.com/
I love Turtle Bay and would stay there in a heartbeat. If you want to be near everything, I would second the Kahala.
Personally, I prefer the North Shore for vegging out, so Turtle Bay would work just fine for me.
I%26#39;ll be traveling to Maui with husband, 2 sons, daughter-in-law, and toddler at the end of August. Wondering whether there%26#39;s a difference in climate between south and west at that time of year and which would be best for our gang. Also, any suggestions for nice hotels to stay would be greatly appreciated.
In August there really is no difference. What are your interests? Activity levels? Budget? You will want to look at condos I think for your crew. Use the info to the left...check out ';before you go'; ';things to do'; then come back to us with more specific questions. Also go buy the book ';Hawaii for Dummies'; ...sorry name but great place to start!
The questions posed by mamma0223 are definitely pertinent. Budget, interests, activity level do play key roles. It would make it a lot easier if we knew just a bit more about what you are looking for and your interests.
I would also suggest a condo - unless you are specifically preferential to a hotel.
West Maui and South Maui are very different. West Maui is often described as having a %26#39;buzz%26#39; to it. Many lovely resorts and the activities are bountiful. Kaanapali is a major resort area, great hotels and condos on a top notch beach. Napili is a tranquil bay with condo properties hugging it%26#39;s curve. Between the two areas is Kahana and Honokawai, still the resort feeling and yet predominated by condos of all types. Kapalua is where the Ritz and upscale condos occupy some incredible coastline.
South Maui consists of Kihei, Wailea, and Makena. Kihei is a funky beach town with a laid back attitude. Wailea is beautifully maincured upscale condos and high end hotels. Makena is far less populated, but known for excellent snorkeling and gorgeous beaches.
August should be hot and dry. There is no shortage of great beaches in any area, but I do advise exploration to others outside of where you stay.
If you want a shortcut - take a look at wizardpub.com/maui and you can actually view aerial photos of many properties.
For many Chicagoans Kaanapali IS Maui, and Maui IS Hawaii. If your sons and DIL want the %26#39;buzz%26#39; Les mentions, that%26#39;s where it is: Kaanapali and Lahaina.
I%26#39;d second or third the suggestion for a condo or two -- something beachfront so the toddler and adults can go in and out as sun, wind, naptimes, etc. dictate. It%26#39;s convenient to have a kitchen and washer/dryer, and always nice to have more *space* and a more private lanai than hotels offer.
Do tell us more about the group%26#39;s interests and your lodging budget. Maui has Hawaii%26#39;s widest choice of lodgings and restaurants outside of Honolulu.
I agree that it%26#39;s time to get a map and a good travel guide featuring Maui.
You will have lots of choices - condos or hotels in W Maui or S Maui. Decide how much you all want to spend per night and if you want to cook some of your own meals. Don%26#39;t delay your decision as August is high season. Weather is the same in either location.
There are zillions of posts that tout the virtues of W Maui v S Maui and vice versa.
Many thanks to Dusty for linking this map -
www.aloha-hawaii.com/assets/resources/49.pdf
You need to reserve your car ASAP - as in yesterday, if you have not done so.
From what I gather, the main reason for me to buy the %26#39;Entertainment Book%26#39; is for the Polynesian Cultural Centre...which is fair enough (if I do in deed get $43 off)!
However, could you please tell me how else you have used it when walking around WAIKIKI (not Honolulu)...ie, an ice cream here, a Chinese there!
Any little hidden gems!?!
Many thanks.
I have used the PCC coupon, and the Pardise Cove coupon. There is also a coupon for Dole Whips at the dole plantation. We mainly got it for the PCC coupon.
I got the book for the hotel.
The entertainment give me such a good deal for the Aston Waikiki Circle. $96 for an Ocean Front room vs if you book directly on their website, it will be $145. I save at least $250 for 5 nights if not more.
from where can one ge tthis book or any other coupon book from please?
Go to http://www.entertainment.com and where it said ';Find a Book Near You';, just punch in Waikiki zip code which is 96815.
The book is not $15 and free shipping. You should called them find out.
Hope this help.
';The book is not $15 and free shipping.';
All of the books are now $15 with free shipping. But that is to a U.S. address. Don%26#39;t know what it would cost to U.K.
Disty, I meant to say the book is $15 with free shipping to US only.
You can also purchase the books at some stores on Oahu. I don%26#39;t know if they discount the books like entertainment.com does.
tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g60982-i38-k238673…
You can also print 3 free coupons from their free trial offer. You have to use the printed coupons within 14 days of printing.
www.entertainment.com/freetrial
Hi, I searched through the Hawaii Entertainment Book 2009 on their site and the Polynesian Cultural Center is not listed. Which section is the PCC listed under?
Stunnaz, I looked also for the PCC offer and it%26#39;s not listed. I also did a search by every offer alphabetically and it%26#39;s not there.
Any hints, anyone? This is the reason I%26#39;d buy the book.
Thanks
I couldn%26#39;t find the PCC discount online either, however I know that it is in the hardcopy book, as I ordered it last week and just received it a couple days ago. The PCC is listed in the Events and Attractions section I believe (I%26#39;m at work and don%26#39;t have the book with me). Not sure why it doesn%26#39;t show up online as a book discount though.
We are going to be in Maui in mid-June traveling with 2 adults and 3 teenagers (ages 12-17). Looking for a great hotel with nice rooms, swimming pools and beach. Suggestions?
1) establish where on Maui you would like to stay? South Maui or West Maui?
2) What is your nightly accomodations budget?
3) With 5 adults, you%26#39;ll need two hotel rooms. Would you consider a condo?
We loved the Marriott Maui Ocean Club.
1. Flexible on location within Maui
2. No specific budget - planning to spend $250 - $450 per room per night (7 nights stay for 2 rooms)
3. Prefer a hotel over a condo.
It sounds like you would like either Grand Wailea in Wailea or Hyatt Regency Maui in Kaanapali. Both of these resort have great pools and the teens would probably like the pools at Grand Wailea the most...also a great beach.
I would look at the Kaanapali area with teens..a little more ';action'; with Whaler%26#39;s Village and then Lahaina close by. You state that you are looking at hotels not condos...please take a look at the Westin Kaanapali Resort Villas. You can get a 2 bedroom lock-off well within your budget, that provides a lot more room to stretchout with teens plus kitchens for snacks etc. They really offer all the hotel amenities (except for daily maid service and you CAN add that)...they have on site resturants, grocery, plus free shuttles to Whaler%26#39;s and Lahina...the beach right in front is wonderful. The Hyatt has great pools as does the Westin, best beach on that side of Black Rock is infront of the Sheraton. Good luck!
We%26#39;ve narrowed it down to the Hyatt, Sheraton or Westin. Any suggestions on which one would be best for a family with teenagers?
The pools at the Hyatt are outstanding, the beach in front of the Sheraton is outstanding...and they are both a short walk to Whaler%26#39;s Village. Do will depend on if they are more into pools or the beach!
Rent a 3BR, 3BA at Honua Kai for as little as $400 per night on west maui then move over to Grand Wailea for the last couple nights with the money you save. Over a grand a night for two rooms at GW. This was my compromise with my 13, 16 and 19 yr olds for our upcoming trip. They wanted GW for the week. I wanted Honua Kai. We ended up with the above.
I heard that it is possible to bike down the volcano and stop half way to do some ziplining. Does anyone know of a bike company that allows you to bike down at your leisure and stop to do something like that? What about a zipline company. Can anyone reccomend one for me?
I don%26#39;t know about the ';ride at your own'; biking, but we did the Haleakala zipline and it is about 1/2 way down ( a small group of buildings on your right as you zoom down!) right next to an ATV ride. We loved it and it is less expensive than the Kaanapali ones...but also a few zips shorter. Plug in ziplines in the box up top and you will find lots of info. Same for bike rides.
Hello Helpful Forum Members!
I%26#39;ve been spending the past few weeks browsing the awesome forum here, mining facts and opinions from the wealth of posts and replies. You can truly lose yourself for hours just browsing through the topics and imagining the sights, sounds, and smells of Maui.
We%26#39;ve never been to any Pacific islands, so Maui is our first foray to that side of the world. We%26#39;ve done tons of travel around the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. Check out our snorkeling photos from Grand Cayman and Cozumel:
http://tinyurl.com/dk4xg6
http://tinyurl.com/d6wtoj
I%26#39;m bring my girlfriend of 10 years to Maui to get married. We are going to pretend like we are rich and stay in an oceanfront villa in Kapalua. It is ridiculously expensive (for a single night we could pretty much take a full 4 day all-inclusive vacation to Cozumel I%26#39;ll bet!) but we want to do-it-up right on this trip, so we%26#39;ll suffer through paying off the debt until Christmas. We are coming in mid-June and staying for 10 nights and we are bringing 3 of our nieces and nephews with us (ages 10, 13, 15). They are all very good swimmers and snorkelers..so we are excited to have them along with us. For the wedding, our parents are flying out for 7 nights each, but that is all that is coming to the wedding since we wanted a nice, low-key ceremony. We don%26#39;t have to plan everything down to the nth degree - we are very flexible and footloose, but I figured why not run the itinerary past this most knowledgable group of people here! I%26#39;ve been reading through ';Maui Revealed'; and it is a hilarious guide book. It is a fun read and isn%26#39;t dry and stale like some books. I highly recommend it. Well, at least right now I do, if we do some things in the book and they turn out to be crap I%26#39;ll revise my comments in late June.. %26lt;wink%26gt;
Day 1 (Saturday) - We arrive in OGG at 5PM after leaving Charlotte and connecting through Phoenix. Now, I%26#39;ve read that we should consider going to Costco before we head to Kapalua, but I%26#39;m seriously doubting that we can get to Costco before the 6PM closing time since we have to grab a rental car and get our luggage and all of that. We are hoping to upgrade to a 4-door Jeep because we want to enjoy the open air traveling on the island (we won%26#39;t leave any valuables in the Jeep!)..but we%26#39;ve not found a single place where you can actually RESERVE a 4-door Jeep. So that will be pot-luck I guess. Assuming we can%26#39;t get to Costco before it closes, are there any other grocery stores we can stop at that are open later on a Saturday night?
Day 2 - NO ACTIVITIES PLANNED! We figure this day will be an ';Explore Kapalua'; day. The reason we picked Kapalua is because we are avid hikers and snorkelers and the property around Kapalua seemed perfect for roaming around, hiking, and snorkeling. The kids like to snorkel, but they also like the pool..so I figure we can mix and match a bit. I%26#39;ve been reading about some good breakfast places down the road toward Kaanapali but we%26#39;ll probably only splurge and eat out a few times since we%26#39;ll be doing most of our breakfast/dinner stuff at the condo. QUESTION - What kind of driving times can we expect between say Kapalua and Kaanapali and Lahaina? The mileage looks short, but I know that can be deceptive.
Day 3 - This day is up in the air still. I%26#39;ve been attempting to contact Maui Kayaks to see if the Makena/Wailea Explorer trip is doable for our youngest nephew (10 years old). Marisa and I are both strong paddlers, so we figure in a tandem with the nieces we can take care of them, but with an odd number of people in our party (5) we would need someone (perhaps the guide) paddling with the youngest. The trip sounds like so much fun and is listed for ages 8+. It sounds like more fun and adventure than the other tours listed on their site (Turtle Town Adventure) so we are hoping they eventually respond to our emails. Other kayak tour operators have a 12 year old age limit for their more ambitious trips. Anyway, the tour lasts until around noon or so, then we will trek back up to Lahaina for our appointment with our marriage licenseing agent (guess we better not miss that!). Our afternoon we will probably spend snorkeling around West Maui.
Day 4 - Paragon sailing trip to Molokini! This sounds like fun. The Paragon vessel looks a bit more exciting than the alternative (Trilogy), plus we read that they don%26#39;t require flotation vests (ugh). Ideally I would have liked a paired trip with Molokini AND Lana%26#39;i but I don%26#39;t think we are going to be able to swing that this time. Our pseudo-family (3 borrowed kids) is driving up the price of this vacation. Maybe on another visit we%26#39;ll hit Lana%26#39;i. After the sailing trip (ends around 1300) we%26#39;ll probably again strike out for scenic beaches and then retreat to Kapalua and meet up with both our parents who are flying in that evening.
Day 5 - Jungle Tour Maui. Yeah..I know..I read the messages on the forum that are a bit critical of Alec, but he actually sounds like just our kind of guy. For this trip we are leaving the kids with our parents and just my girl and I are going to head out. It sounds like Alec runs a unique tour and we are excited to run around areas that we would otherwise probably never find. I%26#39;ll post photos and a trip report for sure when we get back (if we get back..gulp)..
Day 6 - WEDDING DAY! Again, using Trip Advisor put us on to a good connection. We are a simple couple with simple tastes (err..except for the whole Kapalua thing I guess..) so we are going with Rev. Ron, the Maui Marrying Man! He has been GREAT to work with thus far via e-mail. His photographer looks like she is fantastic based on her photos at her website: http://paradisefoundimages.com/ We are super-excited about this. We are going to have it on Makena Surf Beach at sunset. Keeping with the simple theme only our parents are going to be there. We are hiring a videographer and a musician to play a bit of music while Rev. Ron does the ceremony. QUESTION - After the ceremony and photos are done..we are a bit clueless on what to do. Obviously we will all want to go have dinner somewhere - any suggestions on something nice, but affordable for a semi-big group (say 10 or so people)? (Don%26#39;t say the Luau because we are doing that the next night!). Suggestions on where we should go eat that night would be appreciated...
Day 7 - Nothing on the day schedule because we figure we%26#39;ll be recovering from the wedding libations. I%26#39;m sure we%26#39;ll go exploring again (perhaps the rugged area north of Kapalua or something?). That night though we are all going to the Old Lahaina Luau. I%26#39;ve heard it is a great show. Other luaus sound fantastic too..but we had to pick one!
Day 8 - Blue Water Rafting tour along the Kanaio Coast. Now this trip looks like fun. All the trip reports I%26#39;ve read have commented how great the tour guides are and how exciting the ride is. Great snorkel spots are on the menu and I think the kids will enjoy the wild ride. Maybe have to slip some Dramamine into their eggs in the morning perhaps. Our afternoon is free.
Day 9 - CONSIDERING, but not completely sure if just Marisa and I will do the Haleakala bike ride thing. If we do it, we%26#39;ll do it with the tour operator that just drops you off up there but doesn%26#39;t herd you down the slope. We tossed around the summit sunrise thing..but we%26#39;ve spent so many nights in the high Sierras freezing our butts off on camping and hiking trips that we might forgo the whole sunrise thing. If we could find a ride up the last 3,000+ feet, I%26#39;d prefer to actually rent the bikes in town and be able to start the ride from the true summit area, but I don%26#39;t know how to find a ride since the tour operators have to start from that lower visitor center. Still working that one out. Notice this tour is scheduled AFTER our wedding in case we wreck and lose some teeth or get road rash.
Day 10 - Completely open right now. Nothing on the agenda.
Day 11 - We have to leave. But not until 9PM or so..so I figure we will use this as ';shopping day'; or something. Probably grab a quick last snorkel in the morning before check-out time and then do some trinket shopping and soak in the last of the island. We won%26#39;t leave our luggage in the car unattended (!).
----
So what do you think? We are jammed up with tours or anything..and we are really flexible. I know we can%26#39;t see everything and we don%26#39;t want to schedule back-to-back-to-back trips..so we just accept that there will be lots of things we will have to catch on another trip. If it were just Marisa and I we%26#39;d definitely do the Hana Highway and hike up to some of the off-the-beaten path falls and stuff, but with 3 kids in the back of the Jeep I don%26#39;t want to force them to a long day of riding around and perhaps getting car sick. Besides, Alec with Jungle Tours might be taking us down that same road, so we won%26#39;t have to drive and we can keep our heads on a swivel looking at all the great scenery.
I posted looking for ideas, ways to make the plan better, suggestions, things we shouldn%26#39;t miss if we are conveniently located during a certain tour..etc.. And PLEASE..wish for good weather on our wedding day! %26lt;g%26gt;
Thanks in advance for the advice..and thanks to EVERYONE that has posted trip reports and opinions in the past to Trip Advisor. This is a great place to browse.. We%26#39;ll be posting up a huge trip report with photos when we get back. For sure.
Regards!
BeachAV8R
I%26#39;ll answer a couple of questions for you...first of all congrats! Sounds like a great plan.
Skip Costco you can stop at Safeway in Cannery Mall at the north end of Lahaina, or Star Mart Just a few minutes north. There is also the Market in Kapalua but don%26#39;t know their hours.
It%26#39;s about 10 minutes to Kaanapali and another 5 or 10 to Lahaina from Kapalua.
Check with Kapalua Adventures about all the hicking etc...they%26#39;ll be a great source for you.
You%26#39;ll get lots of recs for you big dinner. Nearly every time we have eaten at Leilani%26#39;s there have been wedding parties there..we love it but Seahouse, Merriman%26#39;s and Pineapple grill are all closer to you.
Oh yeah..that first morning go about 2 minutes south and have breakfast at the Gazebo...great way to start your trip with kids
Since you are getting married in South Maui you might want to look at eating in Wailea/Kihei or Maalaea Harbor area.
Capishe?
Ferraros
Five Palms
SeaWatch
Cafe O lei
The last three will be a little less than the top two.
Thanks for the info Mamma. We will consider Safeway for sure. As a matter of fact, we are probably going to get them to do a small wedding cake for us.
We%26#39;ve heard that Merriman%26#39;s is fantastic..so maybe after the wedding we%26#39;ll retreat back to Kapalua and have dinner there perhaps.
And roger that on the Gazebo..I%26#39;ve read good things about their breakfast!
Barefoot - Thanks for those suggestions too. I%26#39;m a little worried about getting back up to Kapalua in time to eat dinner after our sunset wedding ceremony. I figure by the time the photos are taken and we out of there we might be too late to make the drive up north and get in someplace for dinner. So perhaps South Maui is a good idea for the after wedding dinner. Thanks for those suggestions..I%26#39;ll start researching!
Regards!
BeachAV8R
BeachAV8R - It looks like a great trip! If you trip report is an much fun as the inenerary, I will look forward to it. When are you traveling?
Re: dinner plans after your ceremony - another suggestion is Prince Court at the Maui Prince Hotel, a lovely setting. Otherwise the previous suggestions are excellent.
Congratulations on your upcoming marriage. Wish you all the best!
BeachAV8R -
I%26#39;m getting married on a Makena beach too. We%26#39;re doing a morning ceremony and we decided to host a reception on a private lanai at Merrimans Kapalua which we are very excited about. The big downside to that choice was the distance. And we have more time than you do to get over there. If you%26#39;re thinkig of going there though, you%26#39;re welcome to PM me or ask me here and I%26#39;ll pass on the costs, contacts etc I have for there.
We originally wanted to do the dinner in south Maui, but fell in love with Merriman%26#39;s on accident! (a TA-er suggested we try it on our recent wedding scouting trip and it was wonderful!). I%26#39;ll give you a run-down of some south Maui restaurants we considered.
Seawatch - at the wailea golf club. Really pretty, nice views (although by the time you get there it will be too dark to see much) and decent food. IMHO its consistent in food quality, but if you%26#39;re a foodie you may find it a bit lackluster. Not bad - just a bit simple. VERY popular location for weddings and wedding receptions.
Nick%26#39;s Fishmarket - at the Kea Lani resort in wailea. Good food. Very good. Had we not found Merriman%26#39;s this would have been our wedding reception location. No beach or water views, but a gorgeous setting inside the resort. Good and bad - the resort is fantastic, but you run the rish of people walking by the tables in their towels on their way to their rooms from the beach or pool.
Sarrentos - in Kihei very close to wailea. It%26#39;s the sister restaurant to Nick%26#39;s (by owner - not the same menu) BY FAR THE BEST VIEW - absolutely stunning beachfront location. The reason we didn%26#39;t go for it? They did a tasting menu for us knowing we were there trying to choose a reception location - we made plans with them and Nick%26#39;s well in advance - and the food was just so so. In fact, I%26#39;d call it hit or miss. Some stuff was great and some was plain bad or bland. We were blown away by the location, and very underwhelmed by the food. Juat my experience though - I%26#39;m sure after I post this someone will disagree.
Joe%26#39;s - in wailea at the wailea tennis club. A for food - C- for location/atmosphere. No real views and the interior doesn%26#39;t look like a high end or even hawaiian restaurant. More like a chili%26#39;s or tgi Fridays. Christmas lights and kitschy bar decor. SUPER good food - we hit this place evry year we go and its yummy heartwarming food - meatloaf, seared ahi, ono etc. IMHO not a wedding dinner location if only for the atmosphere and lack of views but worth going if just for a regular meal.
Roy%26#39;s - in Kihei. Not much to say. Terrible strip mall location. Convienent, but absolutley no views. Superior food and it%26#39;s pacific rim / hawaiian with a pretty big menu and to die for chocolate souffle. We go here often on our trips too, but didn%26#39;t bother to visit on the wedding scouting trip because we knew that the location was icky.
Other places we considered -
Humuhumu%26#39;s at the Grand Wailea resort - we ruled this one out due to the food being high priced - not to be unexpected at a high end resort - but pretty setting over saltwater ponds loaded with fish. Hut-like structures over the ponds - very differnt looking and gets a B for location / atmosphere.
Mama%26#39;s fish house - in Paia - IMHO its too far for you to drive afer the ceremony, but its certainly a place I would put on your list as a must visit. The beach in front is gorgeous. Good food, although we%26#39;ve always had better lunches there than dinner. The cost is a downside - most certainly one of the more expensive places to eat on Maui.
So there you go! You got all of my ideas and didn%26#39;t have to use miles or pay for a rental car or hotel room like we did a couple months ago, LOL. I have photos of almost all of these locations, so PM me if you want them. It%26#39;s all subjective too - remember these are just our opinions, and remmeber you%26#39;ll be on MAUI! How bad can it really be??? =)
Hope its helpful for you %26amp; your fiancee.
Lot%26#39;s of great info here so far. My only suggestion is to not over schedule yourself. It is your honeymoon afterall. Leave plenty of time to just kick back and enjoy the beach and the trade breezes.
Definitly check out the Kapalua hiking trails. you can see maps here...
kapalua.com/adventures/…hiking.php
We%26#39;re on the island now and did the Coastal Trail yesterday and it was terrific. Plan to do the village trails in the next few days and will be reporting on that afterwards.
Just curious... why are you getting married all the way down in Wailea if your are staying in Kapalua. Kapalua and Oneloa beaches in Kapalua are great places for a beach wedding. Just sayin...
LesRose - Thanks for the advice. We are traveling in the second week of June. Really, really looking forward to it!!
Lightnin - Thanks for all the great input. I%26#39;ve been researching the restaurants and there are so many fantastic ones to choose from it makes my head spin. I think I%26#39;ve narrowed it down to:
Humu%26#39;s at Grand Wailea
Seawatch
Sarento%26#39;s
Nicks %26lt;- My favorite!
Mala Wailea
Five Palms
Since it will be dark I don%26#39;t know that oceanfront is a requirement..and it seems like prices are going to be crazy no matter where we take our very small wedding party..
VCSnowbird - Thanks..we%26#39;ve left a lot of room in the schedule for wandering around, I think we are going to find we will enjoy just getting in the Jeep and wandering off to find good snorkeling spots. We live to snorkel..and it looks like there is an abundance of that in Maui! I%26#39;m a pretty good windsurfer too..but I%26#39;m not sure I can squeeze in a session or not. Perhaps..
As for the wedding location, I had asked Rev. Ron about getting married on Oneloa Beach right outside of our condo in Kapalua, but he recommended South Maui for a better chance at good weather. He said Kapalua weather can be a bit more finicky and windy.. But Kapalua and Oneloa sure do look nice in the photos I%26#39;ve seen!
Thanks for the tips folks..
BeachAV8R
BeachAV8R - I agree with the Marrying Man. In fact we renewed our vows at Makena! Just be sure to allow lots of time to get there from Kapalua I would advise at least two hours, - you might be able to do it in an hour but I wouldn%26#39;t cut that so close.
';another suggestion is Prince Court at the Maui Prince Hotel, a lovely setting.';
The Prince Court closed last year.
kiawahine - I thought they were merely remodeling? Times are tough though - Of course if they are closed they are off the list - we had dinner at Molokini lounge since the Court was closed, same kitchen, service and lovely view -
Just wondering if anyone has stayed in either one of these 2 units.
We have stayed at Sealodge before (in a 2 bedroom unit), but we are looking at a 1 bedroom now.
Thanks
Found one review of D6 here:
tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g60626-d8738…
I could not belive my eyes!!! Almost at sunset did we get a show at The Cliffs!!! Pod of whales with calfs learning the ropes Im Guessing!! Amazing show till after sun went down!
Aloha from Kaua%26#39;i!
Wow, you guys up North get all the luck - I haven%26#39;t seen any here on the South Side for several weeks now - maybe the whales are enjoying our North Shore more this year?
Good for you!
Malama Pono,
Janet
Cindy:
Are you SURE you saw whales and it wasn%26#39;t too many vinos or mai tais???????
Lucky you to still see them so close to May. Sounds like they are heading out. 7 years ago I sailed in Tonga during the summer and those whales were the same Hawaii saw during the winter. I know how exciting it is to see them. They do put on a show. It%26#39;s a unforgettable experience.
Not too many cocktails!! I have many witnesses. All the people watching from gazebo area and everyone on lanai with binoculars. It was quite a sight all the way around. Tonga must have been fascinating I would like to go.
Cindy, You were so lucky to have the whales put on a show for you and especially at sunset. We were on the N.S. during whale season and only saw a few in the distance. We had a little better luck at Poipu, but certainly never got the show you experienced.
That%26#39;s great that they are staying around a little longer this year!!!
I am thrilled. We used to go to Maui in January to see them and take whale watching trips. Since we got the timeshare here in Kauai during the month of April I had resigned myself to the fact they would be gone. So Im thrilled. You could really see the calves fins and tails last night.
We are at the Hyatt and saw the whales yesterday, too. We saw them at Ke%26#39;e Beach on Sunday. I couldn%26#39;t believe it either--it is kind of late. Maybe b/c of the crazy weather hawaii has been having they decided to stay a bit longer.
