By: Barbra Richeson
Aloha! If you are longing for consistent 80-degree temperature and sunshine every day, then Maui is the place for you! You have the added benefit of still being in the USA. There are numerous regions around Maui and for its small size (727 sq. miles), the diversity is incredible.
The Lahaina area, with lively Front Street, is loaded with restaurants and shops. You can visit Bubba Gump’s, Cheeseburger in Paradise or, my personal favorite, Kimo’s, and have a delicious dinner there while watching the fabulous sunset. Walk further down Front St. to the infamous Banyan Tree, where local artists set up their outdoor market several times a week. It’s also where you will find the Old Lahania luau, known for its authentic history, culture, and understanding of the native Hawaiian people.
It’s a great idea to start your day at Longhi’s, which has been serving the best breakfast in town since 1976 and then head for the Road to Hana, or a bike ride down Haleakala. Every day in Maui could be spent in a different location within 30-45 minutes away. Kapalua has beautiful beaches and Wailea has gorgeous beach resorts and prestigious shops. My favorite there was the Andaz property, a relatively small (297 rooms) beach-side resort with a casual vibe and incredible amenities, including their signature Ka’Ana Kitchen restaurant … truly a foodie’s paradise! Paia is a charming little hippie town with local restaurants and shops and a great beach on which to picnic and watch the surfers.
If you are looking for a beautiful hike, then head over to the Sacred Valley near Oia. It provides a warm, friendly and laid-back atmosphere wherever you decide to spend your time. You may even find yourself saying “aloha” after a few days there!
Maui is the kind of place you will want to return to as often as possible … and isn’t that the best compliment a destination can have?