About half an hour from Kahului Airport is Kīhei, a sunny area that stretches for 6 miles along Maui’s south coast. Once a destination for vacationing aliʻi (Hawaiian royalty), this laid-back beach town still lures visitors, with its golden sands, snorkeling, whale-watching, beachy eateries and a wide assortment of affordable accommodations. It’s easy to see why Kīhei has long been a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.

1. Get Breakfast at Kīhei Caffe

 

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The motto at Kīhei Caffe says it all: “Eat, talk, share, and eat some more.” This popular breakfast spot—which opens at 5 a.m.!—doesn’t mess around: Its menu is packed with classic and local fare, including fresh buttermilk pancakes, crab cakes eggs Bennies and a kālua pork loco moco. The Surfer Dude sammie is a must-try, with three eggs, two pieces of bacon, tomato, avocado and cheddar cheese on a brioche bun. (The café also serves lunch.) The coffee and drinks menu is great, too, with fresh juices and smoothies. 1945 S. Kīhei Road, (808) 879-2230, kiheicaffe.com

2. Hit the Surf

Surfers heading out from Kalama Beach Park in Kīhei on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/mudskipperanne

Maui is a great place to hit the waves—whether you’re a beginning or veteran rider. In fact, one of Hawaiʻi’s best big-wave spots is Peʻahi—aka Jaws—on the north shore of the island. But there are gentle waves all over the island, and surf schools like Maui Surf Lessons that offer small-group lessons perfect for the entire family. (Recommended for ages 8 and older.) Plus, you’ll get free digital photos of your session—so you can brag about it later to your friends!

3. Enjoy Shave Ice

 

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Rain or shine, shave ice is always a good idea. And in Kīhei, there are a handful of spots that serve this Hawaiʻi treat. Check out Beach Street Maui in Rainbow Mall; it offers dozens of flavors and toppings like haupia (sweet coconut cream), chocolate, caramel and li hing mui powder. You can also get shave ice with vanilla ice cream, gummy bears, mochi balls or sweet azuki beans. The shop—which also serves açaí bowls, bagel sandwiches and smoothies—has a few signature shave ice combos, if you can’t decide what to get. The Hula Girl consists of raspberry, coconut and passion fruit syrups with vanilla ice cream and haupia; the Happy Honu is a combination of blue vanilla and Melona syrups with ice cream, azuki beans and haupia. Rainbow Mall, 2439 S. Kīhei Road, (808) 344-6598, beachstreetmaui.com

4. Learn about Humpback Whales

A humpback whale breaching off Lahaina on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/Beth Cagnoni/500px

During the winter months—November through May, with the peak season running from January to March—you’ll likely see koholā, or North Pacific humpback whales, off Maui’s southern shores. These magnificent mammals migrate to the warmer waters in Hawaiʻi to mate, give birth and frolic. Maui is one of the best places in the world to see these whales—and you don’t need to charter a whale-watching tour. The whales are visible from shore. Learn about these whales at the Humpback Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center, where you can tour the exhibits and interactive displays. 726 S. Kīhei Road,  (808) 879-2818, hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov/visit/visitor-centers.html

5. Hit the Beach(es)

Keawakapu Beach in Kīhei on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/7Michael

Kīhei boasts 6 miles of sandy beaches where you can surf, snorkel, swim or just lounge on the golden sands and enjoy the town’s perpetual sunshine. Keawakapu Beach has clear waters perfect for snorkeling around the coral reef. (You can often spot honu, of Hawaiian green sea turtles, here.) Kamaʻole Beach Parks is really three beaches, all with incredible views of Kahoʻolawe, Lānaʻi and Molokini offshore. The first of these beaches is Kamaʻole 1, a gorgeous white-sand, crescent-shaped beach that stretches for 1/3 of a mile.

6. Drink Mai Tais and Sing Karaoke

 

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There are parts of Maui that shut down when the sun goes down—but not Kīhei. Haui’s Life’s a Beach, for example, is open daily from 1 p.m. to midnight, with karaoke most nights until 11:30 p.m. Get there for sunset and watch from the lānai with a cold local beer or mai tai. If you’re hungry, LAB offers a variety of Mexican fare, from enchiladas to fish tacos. (Football fans can games Sunday morning games here, too.) 1913 S. Kīhei Road, (808) 891-8010, mauibars.com

Keālia Pond National National Wildlife Refuge on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/RASimon

8. Learn How to Stand-Up Paddleboard

Stand-up paddleboarding is a fun way to catch waves—or just be in the water. The family-run Maui Waveriders offers SUP lessons for all ages, and provides everything you need for a fun day in the sun. Lessons are 90 minutes long and start at $95 a person. 2021 S. Kīhei Road, Kīhei (808) 875-4761, mauiwaveriders.com

9. Take a Workshop

 

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Paper Garden Maui, a charming boutique in Wailea Village Center, offers small and unique workshops every month, ranging from macrame to candle-making. You can even sign up for a one-day watercolor painting class for beginners. Not only will you learn something new, but you’ll have a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take back home with you. Check its Instagram for workshop updates. Wailea Village Center, 116 Wailea Ike Dr., Suite 2202, Wailea, (808) 871-5541, papergardenmaui.com

10. Watch the Sunset

Sunset in Kīhei on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/sanfel

Because of its location on the south shore, Kīhei is one of the best places on Maui to watch the sunset. Sit on one of Kīhei’s many beaches—we like Sugar Beach—or grab a bite to eat at a beachfront eatery with a front-row seat. Nalu’s South Shore Grill, a locally owned restaurant across the street from the shoreline, has great sunset views plus a menu that will satisfy any craving: classic loco mocos, chicken and waffles, salads, burgers and, of course, tropical cocktails. The live music provides the perfect soundtrack to the unforgettable Maui sunset. Azeka Shopping Center, 1280 S. Kīhei Road, Suite 132, (808) 891-8650, naluskihei.com

Pāʻia is, without a doubt, one of the best towns to visit on Maui. The Valley Isle’s own Haleʻiwa—an equally beach-y town found on the North Shore of Oʻahu—,there are countless things to do in Pāʻia, even though the town only consists of a handful of blocks and bays. So if you’re looking to experience the best of this north shore Maui town, here are the top things to do in Pāʻia that we recommend.

1. Pāʻia Bay

Pāʻia Bay.
Photo: Getty Images

One of Pā‘ia’s star attractions, Pā‘ia Bay can be found just across a sand-dusted stretch of Hāna Highway. The white-sand beach provides plenty of room to lay down your towel, and while the bay is known for its pounding shorebreak, you’ll find calmer conditions in Hawai‘i’s summer months, from May to July. Regardless of whether or not you enter the water, Pāʻia Bay is a great place to catch the sunset or just take in the rays during your visit to Pāʻia. 19 Hāna Hwy

2. Maui Dharma Center

Definitely one of the top things to do in Pāʻia, the Maui Dharma Center is a colorful Tibetan Buddhism temple in the Karma Kagyu and Shangpa Kagyu Vajrayana tradition. Visitors can check out the vibrant temple and even join Sunday and Thursday services, where dharma teachings are led by the Venerable Lama Gyaltsen. At 91 Baldwin Ave., next to the temple, you can also find the Maui Dharma Center gift shop, which sells study and ritual materials—like mala beads, incense, Tibetan singing bowls, small thankgas and prayer flags. 81 Baldwin Ave

3. Flatbread Co.

If you’ve got pizza on the mind—don’t we all?—Flatbread Co. in Pāʻia will satisfy your every need. Started in 1998, Flatbread Co.’s mission was to use local farmers and local produce to make the best pizza you’ve ever had, and they’ve been doing just that for the past two-and-a-half decades. Flatbread Co. also wheels-and-deals in interesting pizza topping combinations exclusive to Hawaiʻi, like kalua pig and pineapple. 89 Hāna Hwy, (808) 579-8989 

4. Cesere Brothers Photography

Dan and John Cesere have dedicated their lives to underwater photography, moving to Maui from Maine to pursue their dreams of capturing vibrant, unique and dynamic underwater images. You can find—and purchase—some of the brothers’ artwork here at their only brick-and-mortar gallery. 83 Hāna Hwy, (808) 268-4405, ceserebrothers.com 

5. Mama’s Fish House

Exterior of Mama’s Fish House.
Photo: Kevin Allen

On the outskirts of Pāʻia, Mama’s Fish House serves some of the freshest seafood dishes in the state. How fresh are we talking? They not only source from local Maui fishermen, but they even list the names of said fishermen and where they caught the fish on the menu. And the quality of the ingredients is palpable, not only in taste but in price—most entrees are around $50-$60 and the price only rises from there. However, if you can swing it, a visit to Mama’s Fish House will redefine what you think of as “fresh seafood.” 799 Poho Pl, (808) 579-8488, mamasfishhouse.com

READ MORE: Dining at the celebrated Maui classic, Mama’s Fish House

6. Hoʻokipa Beach Park

Hoʻokipa Bay.
Photo: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA)/Tor Johnson

Yet another excellent bay to spend the day at, Hoʻokipa Beach Park is a spacious white sand beach with picnic areas and pavilions perfect for traveling families. Not only is this beach park great for swimming and snorkeling, but you can also watch an impressive display of windsurfing off the coast, as the beach is considered to be one of the best in the state for windsurfers. 179 Hana Hwy

7. Nylos

There’s no menu at nyloS, just a three-course meal that changes nightly. Entrées, pūpū (appetizers) and desserts are concocted by chef Jeremy Solyn, who astounds diners with expertly crafted meals using produce sourced from local farms. Best of all, the restaurant feels more like Solyn’s own home kitchen, with intimate seating, lowlights and exceptionally cozy vibes. 115 Baldwin Ave., (808) 579-3354, nylosmaui.com

8. Pāʻia Inn

A room at Pāʻia Inn.
Photo: David Croxford

If there’s one thing that’s truly troublesome about Pā‘ia, it’s the parking. The remedy? Staying at the Pā‘ia Inn, which is smack-dab in the middle of town and, yes, has reserved parking stalls for guests. The accommodations are perfectly matched with the fun, beach-y vibes of Pāʻia town, and rooms in this little country hotel feel upscale while maintaining a degree of bohemian chic. 93 Hāna Hwy, (808) 579-6000, paiainn.com

A staple fruit in the Islands for centuries, the pineapple—which originated from South America—has become intrinsically linked with Hawaiʻi. And there aren’t a lot of people who know more about the subject than Darren Strand, who joins Cat and Kevin on this episode of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast. A self-proclaimed “pineapple nerd,” Strand has been in the pineapple farming business for decades, and currently helps run and operate Maui Gold Pineapple Company.

Operating 800 acres of pineapple farms is no joke, and Strand gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to manage such a large operation. Maui Gold was also one of the fastest acting businesses to get involved in relief efforts for those affected by the Maui wildfires, and Strand discusses what the situation has been like since the catastrophe.

Got questions or comments for us? You can email us at media@hawaiimagazine.com. Follow us on social media @hawaiimagazine, and be sure to subscribe to our channel on SoundCloud, iTunes or Spotify. Also, be sure to check out our Shopify for HAWAIʻI Magazine products. 

Planning a trip to Maui—but not sure if you should go?

Many visitors are opting to postpone or cancel vacations to Maui right now, three weeks after deadly wildfires destroyed Lahaina and killed at least 115 people. But the state is urging people to keep their travel plans to the Valley Isle—just don’t visit West Maui.

Wildfires mainly affected Lahaina, but all nonessential travel to West Maui — which includes Nāpili, Kāʻanapali and Kapalua — is strongly discouraged.

But there are many other places on Maui you can visit, places that are open and eager to welcome visitors.

1. Hāna

Waterfalls on Pīpīwai Trail in Hāna, Maui.
Photo: Getty Images/Robert Haasmann

It’s no secret: Hāna is one of the most beautiful towns on Maui. Its remote location on the rugged eastern coastline of island is part of Hāna’s allure. The legendary 52-mile Road to Hāna (Highway 360) is part of the experience; it has 620 curves, 59 bridges and lots of scenic coastline and waterfall views. (Don’t forget to stop at roadside stands for banana bread.) Once in the sleepy town, enjoy empty beaches—like Hāmoa Beach—and browse family-run eateries and shops. Just outside of Hāna is Kīpahulu, where you can hike along the Pīpīwai Trail through a magical bamboo forest to the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

2. Wailea

Wailea Beach, Maui
Photo: Getty Images/YinYang

There’s so much to do in South Maui, with its sunny golden beaches and award-winning golf courses. Plus, so many of the island’s best hotels and resorts—from the luxe Fairmont Kealani and to the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort—are located here. The crescent-shaped Wailea Beach is one of Maui’s top-rated beaches, with warm, relatively calm water and lots of space to lounge and watch the sunset. There are great restaurants here, including the gorgeous Kō, the signature restaurant at the Fairmont Kealani, with its cloudlike roof and a dinner menu that highlights local ingredients and flavors. The cocktails are great, too.

3. Upcountry Maui

Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm in Upcountry Maui
Photo: Getty Images/MNStudio

A contrast to sunny beaches, Upcountry Maui boasts rolling hills and cooler climes. Visit the Surfing Goat Dairy, pick strawberries at Kula Country Farms, sip local wines at MauiWines at ʻUlupalakua Ranch, and take in the sunrise (or sunset) atop the 10,023-foot Haleakalā. Explore the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town of Makawao or wander the lush gardens and farms—we highly recommend Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm—in Kula. If you’re looking for an easy hike, the Waihou Spring Trail in Makawao is a 1.8-mile loop that follows an old plantation road through a forest of pine, Cyprus and eucalyptus trees planted in the 1920s.

4. Wailuku

ʻĪao Valley, Maui
Photo: Getty Images/ 7Michael

About 10 minutes from Kahului Airport is Wailuku, the county seat of Maui. Walk down Market Street, lined with local boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants, or visit ʻĪao Valley State Monument, a 4,000-acre park once a sacred burial ground for Hawaiian chiefs and home to the green-mantled ʻĪao Needle. (Reservations now required.)

5. Pāʻia

Hoʻokipa Beach, Maui
Photo: Getty Images/MNStudio

On Maui’s north coast, the colorful town of Pāʻia has local boutiques, surf shops, art galleries and eateries. It’s a quick drive to Hoʻokipa Beach, considering the windsurfing capital of the world. Winter brings huge surf—and professionals!—to this spot. Stop by Mana Foods, one of the best natural food stores on the island, or dine at Nuka in Haʻikū, a 50-seat izakaya (Japanese tavern) and sushi bar.

With what’s been happening on Maui, it’s safe to say that everybody on island could use a day, or really quite a few days, to calm the mind and recover mentally. It’s just been such a draining time for kamaʻāina. To help the community, Maui Ocean Center is looking to let residents of Maui enjoy a pop-up wellness clinic in the parking lot of their facilities—for free—this Friday and Saturday.

And it’s not going to be all centered around the aquarium’s attractions, which by the way are fantastic, as dozens of wellness providers have volunteered their time and expertise. From massage therapists to mental health counselors and more, the pop-up clinic will be open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday and is free for all Maui Nui residents.

The jellyfish exhibit.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

“As we continue down this long and difficult path, it’s important to remember to surround yourself with community and to focus on self-care and personal mental health,” said Mark Matthews, marketing director at Maui Ocean Center. “Please join us as local healers offer massages, bodywork, chiropractic services, stretching, mental health checks, counseling, traditional healing modalities and much more.”

READ MORE: The Maui Ocean Center Isn’t Your Everyday Aquarium

But that’s not all. On Sunday, Aug. 27, kamaʻāina can enter the park for free from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Opened in 1998, Maui Ocean Center has earned critical acclaim, being named one of the “Top 10 Aquariums in the World” by Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards and has become a favorite among locals and visitors. And while the main attraction at the sustainable, eco-friendly aquarium is definitely the collection of tropical fish, otherworldly sea life and vibrant corals, Maui Ocean Center’s main mission is to educate kids and adults about the importance of protecting our oceans.

Under the sea … under the sea.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

There’s really so much to see in the aquarium. From the deep sea tanks to the immersive North Pacific humpback whale exhibits, you can spend hours in the park learning about Hawaiʻi’s unique underwater ecosystem. And most importantly, when you’re at the aquarium looking at the exhibit, watching otherworldly fish and florescent coral in the dimly lit rooms of the aquarium, it’s hard not to feel a sense of ease.

“As our island community continues to heal from this month’s tragic wildfires, we hope that you will find a moment of peace surrounded by the tranquil marine life here at Maui Ocean Center,” said Jessica Colla, the park’s director of education.

Maui Ocean Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit mauioceancenter.com, call (808) 270-7000 or email aloha@mauioceancenter.com.

In the late 1960s, a family friend introduced then-10-year-old Laurie Loney to a tennislike game. The sport used a smaller flat paddle and a plastic ball full of holes. Most people know of this now-popular game as pickleball. But to Loney, it has always been “pukaball.”

Today, Loney brings this game she loves to others who rent her court and take lessons at her Kula home. From the vibrantly hued blue, green and purple court, players catch sweeping views of Haleakalā and husband Steven’s (who goes by “Pocket’) banana and avocado trees. Loney’s 2 ½-year-old dachshund, Dottie, greets players, barking at newcomers and soliciting treats from those she knows.

Loney has been playing pickleball for 50 years. She and her father, Roger Knox—and the rest of her tennis-playing family—learned the game from pickleball pioneer and Bainbridge Island, Washington, resident Bob O’Brian while O’Brian was vacationing on Maui. Loney’s father was hooked instantly. On the driveway of their home on the beach in Kīhei, he built a court by paving over asphalt and adding green dye.

Laurie Loney.
Photo: Courtesy of Pickleball Maui

“It was all kinds of shades of greens and part of the driveway was pretty funky,” Laurie Loney says.

Loney and her family made paddles out of plywood, wrapping rope on the grip to make them more “fancy.” Knox dubbed it  “pukaball” after an especially frustrating game in which he exclaimed, “That dang pukaball,” and the name stuck.

Some of the Knox’s friends never even thought of the game as pickleball. It was always pukaball. In 2003, her husband built Loney a pickleball court on their Kula property as an anniversary gift. Loney continued to hone her skills, and in 2015, she participated in the Aloha State Games Senior Olympics Pickleball Tournament in Kona with her friend, Megan, as a partner. The pair won 10 of the 13 games they played to take home the gold medal. 

Soon after, the game’s rapidly rising popularity convinced Loney that renting out her home court could be lucrative.

The court has been repainted and paved, making it even more fun to look at.
Photo: Courtesy of Pickleball Maui

Business was slow in the beginning but soon picked up. Later, Loney was laid off from her job of 20 years. It was a devastating loss, but also a golden opportunity: The perfect job was right in front of her. “I figured, I’ve been playing this game for 50 years; I can teach it,” she says.

And the business took off.

“By the time Covid came around, it exploded,” she said. Loney still strives to offer affordable rates for court rentals and lessons to keep the game accessible. Today, there’s a three-week wait to rent the court and get lessons. The game “has definitely grown since we were just banging balls around with plywood paddles,” she says.

One of Loney’s students, Kīhei resident Carol Wallack, grew up surfing and scoffed when a friend suggested she take up pickleball. “I was a little reluctant initially because the name sounded so stupid,” Wallack says. She calls Loney a “lovely and supportive teacher and friend.”

There’s no doubt about it, pickleball is loads of fun.
Photo: Courtesy of Pickleball Maui

“She has different ways to explain the task to get you to learn and understand,” Wallack says. “As I have progressed, I still see her weekly and we work on specific shots to have in my arsenal.”

Over time, Loney’s pukaball students have become dear friends, both to her and husband Pocket.

“It’s the greatest bunch of people,” she says. “My pickleball people are my IT people, and my law and medical advisers.” A restaurant owner brings her food, and a jeweler made her a custom pickleball charm.  

The Maui community the Loneys have built for lovers of the game has much to do with Laurie Loney’s teaching style. She spares no effort.

“I give a lot to try to make it a great experience,” she says. “If I were to take a lesson, that’s what I’d want.”

Find out more about how you can get lessons or rent the court at pickleballmaui.com. 

Maui may be the perfect destination for honeymooners—but the Valley Isle has a lot to offer vacationing families, too. There are kid-friendly hikes, beaches great for snorkeling, farms to visit, even fun playgrounds that will give parents a much-needed break. Here are our picks for the best things to do with kids if you’re planning a vacation this Spring Break or summer—and none of these involve the hotel pool. (Though we’re big fans of pools!)

1. Take a Hike

The Pīpīwai Trail in Hāna is great for older kids—and ends at a waterfall.
Photo: Getty Images

Maui has dozens of hiking trails great for all ages, from toddlers to teens. The Waihou Spring Trail in Makawao is great for young kids. It’s a 1.8-mile loop that follows an old plantation road through a forest of pine, Cyprus and eucalyptus trees planted in the 1920s. The state-run Waihou Spring Forest Reserve was established in 1909 to protect one of the few perennial springs on the west slope of Haleakalā. The loop trail follows a ridgeline, then descends into a gulch. Along the way, you’ll walk through native koa and hala pepe, a species found in the Hawaiian dryland forest that sprout green pom-poms of leaves atop its slender trunks. Older kids will enjoy the 4-mile Pīpīwai Trail, located in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park on Maui’s east side. The scenic hike snakes through a thick bamboo forest and ends at the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

BOOK HALEAKALĀ TOUR

2. Visit Haleakalā National Park

The sunrise atop Haleakalā.
Photo: Getty Images

Towering at 10,023 feet above sea level, Haleakalā is as magnificent as it is massive. The otherworldly landscapes will fascinate any kid, and the spectacular sunrises—or sunsets—are worth the long drive to the visitor center at Haleakalā National Park. (Drive times from Kāʻanapali and Wailea to reach the summit average 2 hours.) The National Park Service now requires a reservation for personal and rental vehicles to view the sunrise from the summit district, so make sure you get your spot secured beforehand. But there are other things to do in this 30,000-acre public park, including hike, bike, camp and spot nēnē (Hawaiian geese). Visit at night for epic stargazing.

BOOK HALEAKALĀ TOUR

3. Tour the Maui Ocean Center

Photo: Courtesy of Maui Ocean Center

Visitors of all ages will enjoy the immersive experiences and exhibits about Hawaiʻi’s vibrant ocean life at the Maui Ocean Center in Māʻalaea. The ocean center is part of Coral World, an international collection of eco-conscious aquariums, and is home to octopuses, seahorses, jellyfish, honu (turtle) and manō (sharks). And throughout the aquarium are comprehensive displays about various facets of Hawaiian culture, including a fascinating exhibit on Kahoʻolawe.

BOOK MAUI OCEAN CENTER

4. Feed and Milk Goats

These goats at Surfing Goat Dairy love taking photos with you. Book a tour and you can feed and milk these cuties, too.
Photo: Rolland Allan & Jessica Marie

Feed adorable goats and learn how to make goat milk and cheese on a farm tour of the Surfing Goat Dairy in Upcountry Maui. This dairy farm, on the slopes of Haleakalā, has been producing award-winning Maui gourmet goat cheese for nearly a decade. The 30-minute walking tour, which is offered daily, gives you a glimpse into life on this farm—and you can feed and pet goats, too! But the hourlong Evening Chore & Milking Tour is our pick; your kids can help with farm chores (even if they don’t do the ones at home) and milk goats, too.

5. Go Ziplining

 

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Got a daredevil in your family? There are a handful of zipline options on Maui, all of which will take you soaring over the island’s lush forests and valleys. Skyline Hawaiʻi has been offering zipline tours and eco-adventures since 2002. It has a package that includes taking in the sunrise atop Halekalā, then zipping over 90-foot drops and canyons that are part of its native forest restoration project. Maui Zipline, the island’s newest zipline company, has five side-by-side ziplines, ranging from 300 to 900 feet, centrally located in Waikupū.

BOOK MAUI ZIPLINE

BOOK SKYLINE MAUI

6. Pick Strawberries at Kula Country Farms

Kids love picking strawberries—or just walking around the farm—at Kula Country Farms.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

From February to June—on Wednesdays and Saturdays only—Kula Country Farms runs its Strawberry U-Pick, where you can harvest a basket of strawberries from the farm. (It’s $5 a pound.) It’s fun to walk the rows of strawberry plants and find the luscious red fruits peeking out from behind the thick leaves. The farm stand is open Mondays through Saturdays and you can buy fresh produce from the farm (and nearby farms), honey, jams and baked goods—great for gifts to bring home. The strawberry lemonade is also a must.

VISIT KULA COUNTRY FARMS

7. Visit Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm

Photo: David Croxford

Walk through the beautiful—and fragrant—Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm in Upcountry Maui. The 13.5-acre farm grows 45 varieties of lavender, some of which bloom all year round. (Lavender is typically a summer bloomer.) But there are also olive trees, hydrangea, Protea and succulents, too. Snap photos, shop at its gift shop, dine in the café or just relax. All the soaps, lotions, teas and jams are made with the farm’s lavender.

VISIT KULA COUNTRY FARMS

8. Go Whale Watching

Photo: Courtesy of the Pacific Whale Foundation

Whale watching season on Maui runs from November to May, with the peak time for seeing the migrating koholā (humpback whales) between January and March. While you can often see breaching whales from shores, boat tours are the best way to get up-close-and-personal with these magnificent marine mammals. PacWhale Eco-Adventures eco-tours are led by naturalists and support whale conservation and research. Remember to pack binoculars.

GO WHALE WATCHING

9. Hit the Beach

Kāʻanapali Beach on Maui.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

Maui is for beach lovers. There are so many different kinds of beaches on the island, from the golden crescent of Wailea Beach that’s lined with resorts to the blustery Hoʻokipa, which is often packed with windsurfers. Families love Baldwin Beach just outside of Pāʻia; it features lifeguards, bathrooms, showers, picnic tables and a covered pavilion. There are protected swimming areas on both ends of the beach, perfect for little ones. Kāʻanapali Beach is one of the island’s most popular beaches—and for good reason. This 3-mile-long, white-sand beach boasts crystal-clear water that’s great for swimming and surfing. (There are some kiosks on the beach that rent snorkel gear and surfboards.) Lining the beach are some of Maui’s best resorts, too, so you have easy access to food and shopping. As with all beaches in Hawaiʻi, check with lifeguards about conditions and when in doubt, don’t go out.

10. Walk around Lahaina

Photo: Getty Images

The historic town of Lahaina—in particular Front Street—is a bustling area with art galleries, restaurants and other shops, including ones that sell fudge, candy, shave ice and gelato. The Hawaiʻi Wildlife Discovery Center is located here, too, in Whalers Village; it features interactive exhibits on conservation and Hawaiʻi’s whaling era, photos and videos features native marine wildlife, and a Kids Zone learn-and-play area. Lahaina Banyan Court is also a fun stop for kids; the park’s main feature is a banyan tree planted in 1873 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Lahaina’s first American Protestant mission. It’s now the largest banyan tree in the state, and kids love to climb on it.

11. Do Yoga with Goats

The writer—with a Nigerian dwarf goat on her back.
Photo: David Croxford

The writer—with a Nigerian dwarf goat on her back. Photo: David Croxford

What kid wouldn’t love doing yoga with baby Nigerian dwarf goats climbing all over them? That’s what happens at Maui Goat Yoga, located on the slopes of Haleakalā. The farm offers daily yoga classes with 360-degree views of Haleakalā and the stunning Maui coastline—all while adorable goats nuzzle and snuggle with you. It’s fun, it’s relaxing and it’s one of the most unique experiences you’ll have on Maui. Reservations are required, but yoga experience isn’t.

TRY GOAT YOGA

12. Take a Surfing Lessons with Maui Surfer Girls

Book a surf lesson on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images

Get your kids surfing with a surf lesson from Maui Surfer Girls. This female-owned surf school offers lessons for everyone—not just girls!—and for all surfing levels. Classes run two hours in the friendly waves at Ukumehame Beach Park, about 15 minutes from Lahaina. It also offers a week-long camp for teen girls—the 2023 camps are all sold out—and includes surf lessons, oceanfront accommodations and healthy meals.

TAKE SURF LESSONS

13. Go Snorkeling

A Hawaiian green sea turtle underwater.
Photo: Getty Images

Rent snorkel gear and head underwater. Malauka Beach (aka Turtle Beach) near Kīhei has a good snorkeling spot to the left side of the beach; spot butterflyfish, coronetfish, humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, sea urchins and other marine life. (There’s better snorkeling farther out.) The beach also has showers, restrooms and picnic tables. For more of an adventure, consider a visit to Molokini Crater, a crescent moon-shaped island located about 3 miles of Maui’s southwestern coast. The waters surrounding this 18-acre submerged crater is home to more than 250 species of tropical fish, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Tours leave nearby Māʻalaea Harbor and Lahaina daily. Early mornings are best.

14. Hit a Playground

Parents love playgrounds just as much as kids do—especially if there are shady trees and benches. Kalakupua Playground in Haʻikū is a local favorite, with fun equipment, a huge grassy park, toddler swings, slides, a parkour area, covered picnic areas and tons of parking. (It’s located at the Fourth Marine Division Memorial Park.) South Maui Community Park in Kīhei is another fave with a variety of climbing, jumping and sliding equipment. The best part? It’s covered! Wailuku Heights Park is a neighborhood park with a great playground, too; it’s often uncrowded and the views are amazing.

15. Eat Sweet Treats

Guri Guri.
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino

There are no shortage of sweet treats on Maui. Kids will love guri-guri, a frozen dessert that has a creamy texture similar to sherbet. Find this only at Tasaka Guri Guri at the Maui Mall; it serves only two flavors, strawberry and pineapple, and both are delicious. And you can’t visit the Islands without getting shave ice. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, which has multiple locations on Maui, takes it to a new level. Its ultra-fine ice is topped with its signature syrups and finished with creative toppings. At Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, there are more than 50 flavors and a variety of premium add-ons.

16. Walk around ʻĪao Valley State Park

Photo: Rolland and Jessica

Situated above the bustling town of Wailuku, ‘Īao Valley is a serene and peaceful park. In the lush, stream-cut valley, kid-friendly walking paths are lined with native flora as well as informational signs about the cultural significance of the area. What draws visitors is Kūkaemoku, a 1,200-foot rock formation also known as the ʻĪao Needle. (Update: ʻĪao Valley State Monument is closed through April 15, 2023.)

17. Drive the Road to Hāna

The picturesque Road to Hāna on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images

If you’ve got a few days on Maui—and if you’ve never been to Hāna—driving the 52-mile Hāna Highway is a must. There are 620 curves and 59 bridges, so if your kids are prone to motion sickness, have them sit up front—or (safely) stop often to gawk at the waterfalls and coastal views along the way. Stop for banana bread at the handful of roadside stands along the way, and lounge at Waiʻānapanapa State Park (advanced reservations required), a beautiful black sand beach.

ROAD TO HANA WATERFALLS TOUR

18. Experience a Lūʻau

 

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Many lūʻau shows in Hawaiʻi are striving to provide a more authentic experience, and Old Lahaina Lūʻau has been doing this since it started in 1986. It focuses on the history of Hawaiʻi as told through hula and mele (music) on the beach during sunset in Lahaina. The menu is stacked with traditional and modern fare, from lūʻau leaf-wrapped lau lau and kālua pig cooked in a traditional imu (underground oven) to ʻahi poke and kalo (taro) hummus. It’s a show—and dinner—your entire family will enjoy.

RESERVE YOUR SEATS

Maui has some of the best snorkeling in Hawaiʻi, from the pristine environment of Molokini Crater to the turtle haven at Maluaka Beach in Kīhei. These spots were voted as the best on the Valley Isle by our readers for the 2023 HAWAIʻI Magazine Readers’ Choice Awards. (Note: Snorkeling is fun and great way to explore Hawaiʻi’s waters. But it can be dangerous. Make sure you have proper equipment, check weather and ocean conditions, and when in doubt, don’t go out.)

1. Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater off Maui.
Photo: Courtesy of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority/Luc Delamare

Located 3 miles from Maui’s southwestern coast, Molokini is a small, crescent-shaped, uninhabited island surrounded by reef teeming with fish. The crystal-clear waters offer outstanding visibility to see more than 250 species of tropical fish, spinner dolphins and honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles). Molokini is only reachable by boat, and there are snorkeling and scuba tours to this islet daily.

2. Kā‘anapali Beach (aka Black Rock Beach)

Kāʻanapali Beach on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images

Kāʻanapali Beach is one of Maui’s most popular beaches for a lot of reasons: It’s a 3-mile stretch of white sand and aquamarine waters, fronting many of the island’s top resorts and restaurants, with amazing sunset views. It’s also a great place for snorkeling, especially near Puʻu Kekaʻa (aka Black Rock). This section of the beach has the most fish—but it can get deep very quickly. Like with all beaches, be safe and know your limits.

3. Kapalua Bay

Kapalua Bay on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images

Kapalua Bay, a horseshoe-shaped bay about 10 miles north of Lāhainā, is a convenient spot to snorkel, with a parking lot, bathroom and showers. (This is key for families!) The waters here are filled with fish, too, from Moorish idols to yellow tangs. Beginners should stay in the shallow waters; more advanced swimmers can venture into deeper waters. Be mindful of changing ocean conditions and strong currents.

4. Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay on Maui.
Photo: David Croxford

Many people know Honolua Bay on Maui’s northwest shore as a surfing spot. In fact, it hosts the big-wave Legends of the Bay contest in the winter. But during the calmer summer months, the bay, located about 20 minutes north of Lāhainā, is a great snorkeling spot, too. As part of the Mokulēʻia Marine Life Conservation District, the bay has an abundance of fish and coral formations to explore.

5. Maluaka Beach

It’s not uncommon to see honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) at Maluaka Beach on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images

Maluaka Beach (aka Turtle Town) is one of Maui’s best-kept secrets. Like its nickname suggests, this beach, located south of Wailea and at the end of Maluaka Road, is a great spot for—guess!—marveling at honu. But there’s also a variety of reef fish in the waters here and, for more experienced snorkelers, underwater sea aches you can explore. But remember, don’t get too close to the turtles. They are protected animals. You have to keep at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from them on land and in the water.

See all of the winners of our 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards in our latest issue, which you can buy here. Better yet, subscribe and get HAWAIʻI Magazine delivered to right to your mailbox. 

Once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom in the early 19th century, Lāhainā on Maui’s west side is now a bustling hub of activity, with art galleries, shops and restaurants, much of it centered around Front Street. And you don’t need a lot of money to experience all this historic town has to offer.

7:30 a.m. Grab a cold-brewed coffee at Belle Surf Café ($4—$6)

 

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Start your day with coffee from Belle Surf Café (640 Front St.). Get your caffeine to go or lounge in the charming café’s outdoor seating area. If you’re looking to splurge—meaning spending more than your allotted $40—the shop also serves bagels, loaded toasts and smoothies.

9 a.m. Visit Lāhainā’s historic sites (free)

Hale Pai Museum, House of First Hawaiian Language Newspaper.
Photo: Courtesy of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

On the National Register of Historic Places, Lāhainā boasts several historic stops right on Front Street. Here, you’ll glimpse into the town’s historic past, from Hale Paʻahao—the prison where rowdy sailors were often stuck in irons—to the Hale Pai Printing Museum—where the first Hawaiian language newspaper was printed in 1834. Check out the Lāhainā Historic Trail, a self-guided walking tour with 28 stops in Lāhainā. And it’s free!

10 a.m. Stop at the historic banyan tree (free)

The famous banyan tree in Lāhainā.
Photo: Getty Images

You can’t go to Lāhainā without visiting the famous banyan tree. Banyan Court Park features one of largest banyan trees in the U.S., imported from India and planted by William Owen Smith in 1873. It sprawls across an entire city block and stands more than 60 feet high. It’s a great place to rest, under its sweeping branches; if you’re visiting with your family, kids love to climb on it. This park hosts events and art exhibits, too, including Art in the Park, which is held every second and fourth weekend of the month.

11 a.m. Lunch at Pāʻia Fishmarket Lahaina ($12)

The first Pāʻia Fishmarket opened in 1989 and has since opened a location in Lāhainā (632 Front St.). The popular spot is known for its fresh catch and tacos; lunch plates ($12) feature one taco (fish or chicken, shrimp $1 more) with coleslaw and your choice of Cajun rice, home potatoes or french fries.

Noon: Hit Launiupoko Beach Park (free)

Launiupoko Beach Park near Lāhainā.
Photo: Getty Images

Maui beaches are spectacular—and there are a few right in Lāhainā that are worth visiting. Launiupoko Beach is a picturesque spot right off Honoapiʻilani Highway (State Route No. 30). There’s ample parking, a picnic area, fun-size waves and a natural swimming pool enclosed by lava rock perfect for keiki.

2 p.m. Stop for shave ice ($5.99)

 

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There’s nothing better than eating shave ice after a hot day at the beach. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice has been a popular stop for visitors and residents since it opened its first location in Lāhainā (790 Front St.) in 2008. The shop boasts speciality, housemade syrups and gourmet toppings, including vegan haupia cream, toasted coconut and fresh mochi. Choose from over 55 flavors—mango, coconut, pineapple, sour lemon, lychee. The most popular size is the Ulu at $7.25, but the keiki size ($5.99) is good enough.

3 p.m. Look for humpback whales (free)

Lāhainā is a great spot for watching humpback whales during the winter months.
Photo: Getty Images

During the winter months—November through May, with the peak season running from January to March—you’ll likely see koholā, or North Pacific humpback whales, off Lāhainā. These magnificent mammals migrate to the warmer waters in Hawaiʻi to mate, give birth and frolic. Lāhainā is one of the best places in the world to see these whales—and you don’t need to charter a whale-watching tour. The whales are visible from shore.

5 p.m. Happy hour at Down the Hatch ($15—$18)

 

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Located right on Front Street, Down the Hatch (658 Front St.) is a popular spot, especially for late-night eats. (The kitchen serves food until 11:30 p.m. and the bar is open until 1 a.m.) Happy hour is your best bet, and it runs from 2 to 5 p.m. daily. Get 15% off select appetizers, including crispy coconut shrimp and deep-fried calamari, and discounts on draft beers and cocktails. There’s live music and boozy shave ice (adults only), too.

7 p.m. Catch sunset and visit art galleries (free)

Sunset at Baby Beach in Lāhainā on Maui.
Photo: Getty Images

What would you do with a basket full of abalone?   

In round one of Food Network’s “Chopped” episode christened “A Bunch of Abalone,” contestants were tasked with turning these marine snails into creative, well-presented and of course, delicious, appetizers.  

Although McKenna Shea had never prepared sea snails leading up to the competition that was aired in March, she is adept at cooking a vast array of seafood and working with continuously changing ingredients thanks to her role as executive sous chef at Pacific’o on the Beach in Lahaina, Maui.   

McKenna Shea is the executive sous chef at Pacific’o on the Beach and a “Chopped” champion.
Photo: Courtesy of Pacific’o on the Beach/Spencer Starnes

After breading the abalone with veggie chips, Shea fried them to be a focal point in a bright and crunchy salad, which she finished with a drizzle of sweet ube niçoise vinaigrette. Shea’s creative appetizer was a standout in the competition, earning her praise from the panel of judges. The Maui chef not only survived the first round, she excelled in the entrée and dessert challenges, too, to become “Chopped” champion, taking home the grand prize of $10,000.   

“I’ve been a long-time fan of the show,” Shea says on episode 105 of HAWAI‘I Magazine’s “Have Aloha Will Travel” podcast. To prepare for the competition, Shea says she diligently studied reruns of old episodes, envisioning what she would make with a box of mystery ingredients. But the Maui chef also credits her time at Pacific’o on the Beach for expanding her repertoire and challenging her to create dishes with constantly changing ingredients. “Here at Pacific’o, we are a farm-to-table restaurant and we have our own farm. So, we’re very much using creativity, speed and flexibility with what ingredients are coming in the door and what we’re going to turn that into tonight and what we are going to run tomorrow,” the chef says. “This environment, this industry prepared me for the show.”

In 2019, Shea joined Pacific’o on the Beach as the youngest lead female chef. By 2020, she had risen to be sous chef and today she is executive sous chef. Shea works closely with executive chef Isaac Bancacao to create innovative dishes with locally sourced ingredients, resulting in the restaurant’s ever-evolving menu.  

Diners at the oceanfront restaurant in Lahaina can taste Shea’s award-winning salad now through April 15.
Photo: Courtesy of Pacific’o on the Beach/Spencer Starnes

Diners at the oceanfront restaurant in Lahaina can taste Shea’s award-winning salad now through April 15. “It’s pretty spot on to what I made on the show except for sourcing our local versions of the ingredients,” explains Shea. The abalones are from Hawaiʻi Island—and are still breaded with veggie chips—and served on a bed of Kula watercress with crunchy radicchio and finished with Shea’s ube niçoise vinaigrette. “This dish has turned into my signature dish; although technically I won with the dessert, this is the dish that’s correlated with my episode.”  

For more information and to make reservations at Pacific’o on the Beach, visit pacificomaui.com and find chef McKenna Shea on Instagram at @chefmckennashea.