MBSS Travels: Wow’i Mau’i

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I LOVE Hawai’i. I’ve been to O’ahu and Kaua’i before with a short stop-over in Mau’i, but not long enough to explore – until now! (Especially since COVID restrictions have loosened.)

Why Mau’i? well, my S.O. (Oliver) and I knew we wanted to go away for a week during Labor Day, so when round trip delta flights from ATL to Mau’i (layover in LAX) popped up for 54k SkyMiles, it was a no brainer. With our flights booked, we researched Airbnb; wanted an entire place on the west coast of the island that sits on the beach with stunning views. Thankfully, there were several options and we landed with a condo in Ka’anapali/Lahaina at a resort called Papakea (managed by My Perfect Stay). Plenty of condos to choose from but we based our choice on the view. Lastly, a rental car. This is a MUST. Unlike Solat’s experience, there were plenty of cars available and whilst we did initially reserve a U-Haul (haha), rental car rates had dropped back down drastically so a car is what we did. With all the basics taken care of, the only thing left was building out an itinerary that was well balanced with food, beach, R’n’R, and adventure!

So what is so totally worth doing?!?

We researched places to eat and things to do/see but allowed for some flexibility in case we needed an audible. The activities I highly recommend you don’t miss are listed in order of priority:

Slaughterhouse Beach (officially known as Mokule’ia Beach) – one of the BEST BEACHES EVER! Great for swimming, people watching, snorkeling, relaxing. Crazy gorgeous ocean colors with sea life galore – yes, including turtles!

TIP: picnic there…so fun!

http://mauiguidebook.com/beaches/slaughterhouse-beach-and-mokuleia-bay/

Waihe’e Ridge Trail – in the West Maui Forest Reserve. After stopping to look at Iao Valley (we bypassed this), go on this epic hike. It’s a 1600ft incline so not for everyone, but well worth it if you are a good hiker and/or regularly exercise. Not only is the trail so much fun, the views are just WOW. Waterfalls from afar, you’re above the clouds, eye level with helicopters…it’s about 4.5 miles roundtrip and we did it in less than 2.5 hours.

TIP: good hiking shoes, water, snacks, and a picnic for when you reach the top. 

http://mauiguidebook.com/adventures/waihee-ridge-trail/

Sunset at the Summit of Haleakala National Park – yes! Take your annual national park pass. The drive to the summit can take some time and given you’re climbing in elevation, most of the drive is cloudy. Just when you wonder if it’s even worth the drive given you are submersed in clouds, voila! You are suddenly above them, and the clouds break, and you feel like you’re on top of the world. You are, afterall, at over 10k feet! We parked as high up as you can go. It is VERY cold so be sure to wear a jacket, hat, layers. it is simply incredible and peaceful and romantic. It’s like you’re at one with the universe, as you watch the sun set, and see an array of colors you’ve never witnessed before. An out of this world experience. Several folks go up to the summit for the sunrise, but I’m a sunset sorta gal ;) Also a great place for hiking if you plan on spending the day there too. TIP: watch out for COWS!!! They are everywhere and when you’re driving back down, it’s dark, and they love to keep you guessing as to where they are. Ha. 

TIP: be sure to pee before you start the drive up because there really are no private spots to squat when in a pinch. Haha. And layer up! It is chilly up there.

https://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm

Beach hopping from Lahaina to Kapalua – so so many amazing beaches that are all unique. Typically involves a bit of a trek down to the coastline which is also very fun. Some are quite secluded which again, makes it quite romantic. And those views…my goodness.

TIP: You’re bound to meet a lot of explorers from other parts of the world so don’t be afraid to say Hi and ask where they are from.

https://mauiguidebook.com/category/west-maui/beaches-west-maui/

West Mau’i’s North Shore - A great coastal drive is the northwest bump of the island. It takes you through a fishing town and it is waaaaaay more treacherous than the Road to Hana – which is probably why they don’t advertise it; trying to keep tourists out as it can be dangerous… blinding switchbacks, one lane roads, all on the cliffside. We took this road after our ridge trail hike by taking the road north then west along the coast. You eventually end up in Kapulua, driving south towards Lahaina towards all of those beaches. This is a rugged road with insane cliffside driving. For those who are thrill seekers, this is the drive for you!

TIP: if you’re not a confident driver, DON’T DO THIS!

http://mauiguidebook.com/adventures/west-mauis-north-shore-kapalua-to-wailuku/

Road to Hana and then some – the popular, tourist coastal drive that “stops” in Hana, but is so much more amazing if you continue on to the south side of the island where the road is unpaved for several miles…breathtaking views. The tourist stretch is listed as one of most dangerous roads in the WORLD. It essentially starts by the airport and runs along the top of the island all the way to Hana, which is on the lower east side, and often is a one lane road that is cliffside with hardly any visibility to oncoming cars. Tons of spots to park up and explore/hike so most allow a minimum of 7 hours in total. Can cause nausea so have that Nauzene or Dramamine or Benadryl handy! It’s an exhilarating drive for sure.
https://roadtohana.com/

Where you should eat:

• Lahaina Grill (dinner) – THE BEST. Rated #1 in Mau’i and #8 in USA

• Haliimaile General Store (dinner) – Incredible History and renowned Chef

• Monkeypod (dinner/lunch)

• Mal’a Ocean Tavern (lunch) – on the coast in downtown Lahaina

• Joey’s Kitchen (lunch) – great fusion eats

• Waicoco (Breakfast) – located in the Ka’anapali Westin 

TIP: make reservations EVERYWHERE and well in advance.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
So how would I rate this place?

Cleanliness - 4 stars

Amenities - 4 stars

Resort view - 5 stars

Value - 5 stars

Overall – 4.5 stars

Really is an incredible location with easy access to everything you need. I mean, why would you ever NOT want views of Moloka’i and Lana’i, have gorgeous beaches at your doorstep, see turtles and fishes at any given time, snorkel…and those insane sunsets. Amazing.