MAUI – PARADISE ON EARTH!
Maui is an island in the Central Pacific, part of the Hawaiian archipelago. Sprawling Haleakala National Park encompasses the island’s highest peak, volcanic Haleakala, as well as the pools and waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch, accessed via scenic, winding Hana Highway. The island’s 30 miles of beaches include golden-crescent Kapalua, sheltered from strong currents by lava-rock promontories.
The island of Maui Hawaiian: is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands at 727.2 square miles (1,883 km2) and is the 17th largest island in the United States. Maui is part of the State of Hawaii and is the largest of Maui County’s four islands, which include Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, and unpopulated Kahoʻolawe. In 2010, Maui had a population of 144,444, third-highest of the Hawaiian Islands, behind that of Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island. Kahului is the largest census-designated place (CDP) on the island with a population of 26,337 as of 2010 and is the commercial and financial hub of the island Wailuku is the seat of Maui County and is the third-largest CDP as of 2010. Other significant places include Kīhei (including Wailea and Makena in the Kihei Town CDP, the island’s second-most-populated CDP), Lahaina (including Kāʻanapali and Kapalua in the Lahaina Town CDP), Makawao, Pukalani, Pāʻia, Kula, Haʻikū, and Hāna.
PACIFIC WHALE FOUNDATION
We sailed on the Ocean Spirit Snorkel Sail which departed from the docks at Lahaina. We enjoyed fantastic leisurely snorkeling amidst a spectacular setting which offered an abundance of ocean wildlife. Along the way we encountered dolphins that swam along with our boat giving us an amazing show. There are two snorkeling stops along the way, our first stop we saw amazing coral reefs, turtles and stunning fish. It was like being in an aquarium swimming with gorgeous fish. We then headed to another stunning reef where we participated in a free guided reef tour with our certified marine naturalists before being treated to a delicious lunch and drinks. Our lunch was cooked onboard by our amazing captain. It was delicious and perfectly prepared. Then we headed back out to the channel where we sat back, relaxed and took in the scenery as we ride the trade winds for an exciting sail back to Lahaina Harbor. On the way back we were treated and entertained again by some of Maui’s wild dolphins.
Our Captain and First Mate where absolutely the best crew ever providing for our every need and question. Our First Mate was a Marine Biologist and he gave us a quick tutorial on sharks. He worked in conservation and tagged many species of sharks, his knowledge was impeccable and we learn so much.
Our trip included all of our top quality snorkeling equipment, a Continental breakfast: consisting of Maui Vegetable Fritatta (eggs, potato, bell pepper, onion, spinach, mushroom, cheddar, parmesan), assorted pastries, fresh island fruit, juice, Maui coffee. Plus lunch aboard the Ocean Spirit was prepared fresh on board by our gracious and beautiful Captain. Yes, we had a female boat Captain, she was amazing. For lunch she prepared Kiawe smoked pork sandwiches with guava BBQ sauce, grilled chicken, hot dogs, garden burgers, potato-mac salad, house fried trio chips, corn bean salad and dessert. Our trip also included all you can drink soda, juice and filtered water.
The Pacific Whale Foundation is a non-governmental organization founded in 1980 and based in Maui, Hawaii that conducts whale research and educates the public in an effort to save vulnerable species of whales from extinction. As of 2012 the organization had about 150 employees. The Pacific Whale Foundation offers many tours to various sites and options.
The Pacific Whale Foundation hosts the largest variety of tour excursions on Maui. Book a Pacific Whale Foundation Tour. Marine experts aboard. Discover the beauty. Book Online & Save 10% Dolphin Watching Tour. Top Rated Snorkeling Tour. Ultimate Whale Watch Tour. Ultimate Adventure. Award Winning Whale Watch. Check them out at PacificWhale.Org or ReservationsPacificWhale.Org (808) 202-2895
Down the Hatch
This casual seafood eatery with cocktails and shave ice and adult alcohol shaved ice is located in the Wharf Cinema Center Shops in Lahaina. We had the pleasure of meeting with owner Javier Barberi. We found him not only handsome, but extremely brilliant in his vision for this restaurant. His knowledge and presentation of freshly prepared dishes and local catch of the day specials was absolutely amazing. Down The Hatch features an open air courtyard and patio. It’s an amazing space and great location. The food.. oh wow it was simply fabulously amazing. Every dish we tried was hands down some of the best and most amazing freshly prepared dishes all moderately priced. They also have a full service bar and offer Bloody Mary and Mimosas pitchers for only $10. We had the Mimosas pitcher and it was one of the best mimosas we had while on Maui.
Food selections include signature dishes like Chicken and Waffles, southern fried chicken breast, waffles, lava lava sauce, country gravy, maple syrup, served with house made ranch. Hotcakes and Flake, fluffy hotcakes, cereal, strawberries, bananas, blueberries, cream coconut syrup. Fried Rice Plate, scrambled eggs, green onions, rice, soy sauce, Portuguese sausage, topped with a fried egg. Southern Style Loco Moco, two angus beef patties, melted cheese, two fried eggs, country gravy, choice of home fries or garlic white rice. Huevos Rancheros Montaña, two eggs, chorizo, crispy corn tortillas, black beans, cheese, spanish rice, avocado cream, house made salsa. Hobo Plate, 2 eggs, coffee, choice of home fries or garlic white rice
They offer Benny’s: Pork Belly Benny, crispy pork belly, poached egg, hollandaise, baguette. Southern Chicken Biscuits ‘n Gravy Benny, fried chicken, fried egg, country gravy, and warm biscuit. Spinach Avocado Benny, sautéed spinach, avocado, poached egg, tomato, hollandaise, mango salsa, and baguette. Seared Ahi Benny, ahi tuna, poached egg, wasabi hollandaise, green onions, sesame, baguette.
These are just some of the offering for a complete menu check them out online at dthmaui.com
Located in the heart of Lahaina – 658 Front Street, #102 – Phone (808) 731-2386 – Open Breakfast 7:30-10:30am: Lunch/Dinner 10:30am-Midnight: Kitchen open till midnight: Bar 8am-2am: Happy Hour 2p–6p – 15% Off Appetizers – $3.5 Select Drafts/$4.5 Wells/$5.5 Hawaiian Cocktails.
This is a definitely one of our favorites and must try restaurant while on Maui. It will having you coming back for more you may even decide you love it so much that you choose to have breakfast, lunch and dinner there. We give this restaurant a definite 5 stars!!
Old Lahaina Luau – Traditional Hula and Feast
This is the original and best luau on Maui. Your magical journey begins as you enter. You will be greeted by the performers and they will place a traditional flower lei around your neck. Aw the smell of the fresh plumeria flowers, breathtaking. As you enter into this beachside paradise you will be greeted by servers presenting you with traditional island cocktails. Once seated the wait staff was attentive to our every need continually checking on us and making sure you had fresh cocktails. There was island music playing as we strolled along the beach and watching the sunset and enjoying this magical paradise.
In ancient Hawaii, food meant much more than sustenance or even pleasure. The feast that is presented at the Old Lahania Luau is one truly fit for a king. Every dish is carefully and skillfully prepared using the freshest and highest quality meats, vegetable and fruits and ingredients. They have Pua’a Kalua traditional roasted pig done beachside in their “imu” – the Hawaiian underground oven. The best roast pork you will ever have. This giant feast includes island traditional favorites like: Laulau leafed wrapped pork, Poi, mashed taro, Poke Ahi Tuna; Poke He’e, Octopus; Luau Kalo – taro leaf stew; Uala, sweet potato mash; Pipi ko’ala – grilled steak; Chicken long rice; Moa, Island style chcken; I’a, Maui style fish; Stir Fry Vegetables; Local Style Rice, Island Crab Salad; Pohole Salad; Lomiloni Salmon; Freshly baked Hawaiian sweet bread rolls and banana bread, fresh island fruit and assorted island desserts and so much much more! Every dish is fantastic and authentic island food.
The outdoor seating is very comfortable and inviting. They begin the evening entertainment with a tribute to the compelling tradition of the pabu (drum) with the Ote’s, the famous and festive drum dance of Tabiti. Then Kahiko – the Ancient Hula – which presents a series of the most riveting stories in all of Hawaiian mythology, these performances are truly amazing. The next performance is Missionaries and The Merry Monarch, which gives the audience a glimpse into Hawaii missionary era and a celebration for King David Kalakaua. The next performance is Auana – the Modern Hula – which takes you back on a nostalgic journey. The Finale ends the program by returning to their roots. Off to Tabiti for the exciting annual Fete Celebration. A fantastic ending to the best meal and luau on Maui. “Aloha nui loa”
The Old Lahaina Luau is located along the ocean in Historic Lahaina Town at 1251 Front Street – call them to make your reservations toll free 800.248-5828 or visit them on the web OldLahainaLuau.com
Trilogy Excursions
Departing directly from Ka’anapali Beach, we climbed aboard our luxury Trilogy sailing catamaran and escaped the crowded restaurants onshore. As we are escorted to our table, the evening began with cocktails and sailing along Maui’s scenic coast. We enjoyed sipping on premium signature cocktails brought to our private two top table by our server. The crew served us delicious plated appetizers, cooked with locally sourced ingredients that were simply delicious. As we set sail we took in a breathtaking Maui sunset, If you have never seen a Maui sunset, you really don’t know what you’re missing simply breathtaking an unforgettable experience. Our Captain also shared stories of Maui’s local history and marine life.
After mooring in a protected cove, the first course was served. The Trilogy crew was quick to accommodate our every need and served our remaining three courses including a delicious chef-prepared entrée. This is no ordinary dinner! Dinner entrée choices include Steak (with rosemary & garlic crust) Chicken (with citrus & thyme) Fish (panko-crusted, with lemon caper butter). We chose the steak and chicken entrées which were beautiful plated and delicious. The steak was extremely tender and done to perfection. The chicken was moist and delicious. This is definitely 4 star quality entrees, the Trilogy Chefs are amazing and the entire crew was accommodating and right there to tend to your every need. After the sunset, we enjoy starlight sailing and after-dinner drinks and dessert. Amazing desserts!
With Trilogy cruises you’re sure to build lasting memories with this intimate, relaxing and romantic tour!
For additional information and reservations plus special discounts use the address below:
sailtrilogy.com