This is only a VERY brief list of our favorites as well as those favorites recommended by some of our guests.  We keep a current copy of the book “Maui Revealed” on the coffee table inside of our condo.  We have found it to be the best resource and extremely detailed for guests with a desire to immerse themselves into the island of Maui.

We strongly encourage our guests to email us their own favorite activities and tell us why they had a great time so that we can continue to expand this list for the benefit of other guests.

Thank you in advance. mauipapakeae310@aol.com

PAPAKEA RESORT

Swimmercize – Monday and Friday 9 a.m. at the Lanai Pool (free)

Yoga Lates (Yoga and Pilates) – Wednesday 8 a.m. Beach Front near the Molokai Cabana (free)

Tennis – Tennis Pro at the courts every Wednesday at 5:00 p.m.(free)

Putting Tournament – Lanai Putting Green Sunday 3:00 p.m. bring the kids (free)

Mai Tai Party – Wednesday Afternoon 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Lanai Cabana (free)

The Power of the Force- Spectacular Sunset at Papakea (free)

A personal favorite (in addition to beach and board walk from Papakea to Blackrock).   Grab a glass of your favorite wine and enjoy the sunset, the best sunset on the planet. It is different and amazing every day. It becomes even more spectacular few minutes after the sunset. Watch for green flash (we have not seen yet but you may be the lucky one)

Ali’I Kula Lavendar Farm (free)

Enjoy the spectacular views as you stroll around the peaceful lavender gardens, or take a guided tour.  It is a great place to pick up gifts made in Maui.  Be sure to try a homemade lavender scone and some lavender tea.  The scenery is spectacular.  You can visit their website at: http://www.aliikulalavender.com.

Art Night in Lahaina (free)

Stroll through a number of art galleries along Front Street in Lahaina every Friday for special gallery activities, featured artists-in-action, and refreshments.  Lahaina has the nick-name of “The Art Capital of the Pacific” due to more art galleries per capita than any other American town.  A walking map of participating galleries is available at the Lahaina Visitor Center.

Black Rock at Sunset (free)

About 2 miles south of the condo (at the Sheraton at Ka’anapali Beach) is the legendary jump-off site of Black Rock.  Legendary, because some daredevils daily enjoy jumping from the top of the rock to the ocean below.  If you’re not a daredevil, the Sheraton Hotel is a great place to wander through just before sunset when you will witness the torch lighting ceremony where torches are lit along Black Rock and then the native along with his torch makes the legendary dive to the ocean below.  If you are ambitious, you can walk the beach from Papakea to the Sheraton, but you will need to be on the south side to witness the torch lighting ceremony.

Black Sand Beach (free)

Waianapanapa State Park has the only black sand beach on Maui.  The contrast between the black sand and the bright blue ocean makes for great photographs.  The waves break on a shelf, so caution is recommended when swimming.  It is located off Highway 360 at Mile Marker #32.

Blue Water Rafting

Explore the sea caves and lava arches of Maui’s remote and rugged Kanaio Coast on the most challenging and invigorating snorkeling adventure.  We have heard great comments from guests but this is probably not an activity for children.  They offer whale watching, swimming with dolphins and turtles etc.  but we continue to hear great things about exploring the caves.  This is not an activity of which most tourists are even aware. www.bluewaterrafting.com.

Charles Lindbergh’s Grave (free)

The well-known aviator, Charles Lindbergh, passed away on August 26, 1974.  He lived his final days on the Hana coast, and lies at rest on the serene grounds of the Palapala Ho’omau Church in beautiful Kipahulu.  The beautifully decorated grave was designed by Charles Lindbergh himself.  Highway 350, Mile Marker #41.

Haleakala Sunrise (free)

Wake up early and drive to the summit at Haleakala to watch sunrise.  You will find spectacular views from the 10,000+ foot elevation.  There is a nominal fee of $10.00 per vehicle to enter the National Park which is valid for 3 days and includes all passengers.  You can visit their website at:  http://www.nps.gov/hale.

IAO Valley State Park (free)

This six acre state park is designated a National Natural Landmark.  Walk the paved trail to view the Iao Needle, a natural rock formation that stands 2250 feet above sea level.  It is surrounded by the cliffs and covered with vegetation.  The park is located at the end of the Iao Valley Road in Wailuku.  It is a very easy hike and incredibly scenic.

Kapalua Coastal Trail (free)

Great low impact hike with beautiful scenery.   There are several entry points to the 1.76 mile trail but we have found the best one is the parking lot at Kapalua Bay near the Napili Kai hotel.  Rest rooms are provided here and a trail map shows the route.  There is a stairway leading to the beach and access to the trail.  (try not to be jealous of the homes you will see along the way!)

Kula Lodge

Located in the agricultural town of Kula on the western slope of Haleakala Crater at the elevation of 3200 feet. This is a great place to stop on your drive around upcountry.  Enjoy the panoramic views from one side of the island to the other.  The Kula lodge serves a great lunch (a bit expensive).  We usually share a pizza baked in an outdoor oven adjacent to the restaurant.  On warm days, you will want to enjoy the temperature change and dine outside.  It is a great stop on a gorgeous drive.

Makawao Town (free)

Enjoy a stroll through Makawao Town where you will discover old-west style buildings in one of the state’s last paniolo (cowboy) towns.  There are plenty of art galleries, boutiques, craft stores and eateries.  Don’t forget to stop by Komoda’s Bakery (just ask around when you get to Makawao) and be sure to try some “malasadas”.  They sell out of everything about mid-morning.

Maui Sailing Canoe

Exceptionally unique Hawaiian tour.  Sail into Hawaii’s ancient past aboard the Hawaiian Sailing Canoe with an experienced, knowledgeable crew who are mostly born and raised in Hawaii.  You can see all kinds of ocean life (turtles, dolphins and whales) while learning about them in the setting of an outrigger Canoe.  We have not done this, but it is on our list of “things to do” next time we are on Maui.  Friends and guests have both recommended this tour.  More info at:  www.mauisailingcanoe.com .

Jet Ski with

Maui Water Sports

This is a personal favorite!  Experience the thrill of riding a jet ski over the blue Pacific.  This is an activity which you can do by yourself, or with a loved one, or with the kids.  You can ride by yourself or take one passenger.  You can either park at the Hyatt Hotel or at the park on the south side of the hotel.  This activity is not for everyone but we keep hearing how much fun people are having.  This activity is closed for whale season (December 15 to March 15).  For more details check out www.mauiwatersports.com.

Napili Bay Beach (free)

Napili Beach is located next to the Napili Kai Resort, north of Ka’anapali.  It is a large beautiful white sand beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling.  The beach is a popular spot for families.  The slope of the beach can be steep so always use caution when entering the water.  Don’t be surprised if you are in the water and swimming along side a giant sea turtle.  It’s an amazing feeling.

Road to Hana (free, but a lot of curves and driving!)

The winding road to Hana is a well known attraction and a popular day trip.  On the 52 mile drive you will encounter breathtaking views, spectacular waterfalls, tropical rain-forests and much much more.  The return trip will take over 5 hours without stopping, however many state that it is the journey not the destination!

Safari Boat Excursions

“Captain David” has a very unique touring/snorkeling excursion.  In his own words, “When I designed this trip, I wanted to recreate the sense of discovery you might experience on a safari.  You will experience the haunting power the Hawaiians feel the islands possess.  Together, we share the wild beauty that comes with the remoteness of such a journey.”  Definitely a unique excursion.  (www.safariboatexcursions.com)

Skyline Eco Adventures  (not cheap!)

In 2002, Skyline opened its first zipline tour in Maui.  There are two tours on Maui and each offers a one-of-a-kind adventure.  It’s a thrill.  Eco Adventures have locations in the up-country of Haleakala as well as on the Ka’anapali side of the island.  A bit expensive, but loads of memorable fun!  More information can be found at www.zipline.com.

Surfing Goat Dairy Farm (free)

The Surfing Goad Dairy Farm is located on the slopes of Haleakala in lower Kula.  Enjoy a tour of one of Maui’s Ag-Tourism venues and learn more about goats and their award winning gourmet goat cheese (tour is $7.00 but not required).  The kids will love all of the baby goats!

Swap Meet

Everything you would expect to find at your local swap meet at home but with a bit of Hawaiiana.  The Maui Swap Meet is conveniently located on the campus of Maui Community College in Kahalui.  This is a great place to purchase everything from souvenirs to art from local artists to fresh flowers and produce all at a comparatively great price.  Admission is only $0.50.

Swing Bridges

Swinging Bridges is a popular hike in northeastern Maui, just a few miles north of the IAO Valley.  It is a mile trail that crosses the Waihe’e River four times, with two plank ‘swinging’ bridges and a waterfall (that visitors swim in) at the end.  The hike crosses privately owned land, and the farmer has set up the small stand where he charges a nominal fee of $6.00 for tourists and $3.00 for residents to cross his property and also make use of the restroom facilities.

Tedeschi Winery (free)

Tour the Tedeschi Winery in upcountry and sample wine made in Maui.  You will find wines made from grapes, pineapple, passion fruit and even raspberries.  Guided tours of the winery are at 10:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3 pm.  The tasting room also has an amazing white chocolate candy with a hint of coconut which is sold by the box.  This is unique to the winery and makes a great souvenir gift to take home.

Teralani Sailing Adventures

This is a new addition to our list.  While they do all of the other “standard” cruises, our guests have recommended the sunset cocktail sail.  You are able to view the incredible Maui sunsets in the romantic setting of the Moloka’i channel, but this is also a great activity for the family.  Teralani leaves daily from Ka’anapali Beach.  They use slightly smaller catamarans and the crew was safe, friendly and accommodating.  The food, while not necessarily gourmet, exceeded our expectations.  It is also a lot of fun to look back at the Papakea from the ocean side.  As you are coming in from the ocean, pay attention to the torch lighting ceremony at Black Rock (ask your Captain)  www.teralani.net

Triology Sunset Set Sail Cruise

View Maui’s incredible sunsets aboard one of the Trilogy.  This safe and comfortable ocean sailing catamaran provides the most romantic way to experience the beauty of a Maui sunset. Their chef prepares an assortment of hot and cold appetizers. With breathtaking views of Moloka‘i and Lana‘i, spinner dolphins and flying fish, this two-hour Maui sunset sail is relaxing, delicious, and fun for the whole family!  Trilogy leaves directly from Ka‘anapali Beach.  You can view their website at:  http://www.sailtrilogy.com.

Warren and Annabelle’s

Hawaii Magazine voted “favorite activity/show on Maui”.  The evening starts off with a full dinner and then moves to a great show of magic and comedy.  A really clean family show but unfortunately does not admit anyone under the age of 21.  Tickets are hard to come by while guests are on Maui.  We recommend checking out their website (http://www.warrenandannabelles.com) and reserving well in advance of your visit.

Whale Watching from Lahaina

If you are on Maui during whale season the most knowledge and great value is setting out on your whale excursion on the boats of the Maui Whale Foundation.  The crew is well informed and we have never heard a story about not seeing any whales.  If you are lucky, you will get “Maui Mugged” which is a sighting of numerous whales all at one time.  Tours are often but we have found the best tours to be in the morning.  If you don’t feel like going out on a boat, just stay home on the beach.  If you are there during whale season we have never failed to see whales!

Whaler’s Village

Located on Ka’anapali beach the outdoor shopping mall offers a range of local stores, designer boutiques, fashion, art and restaurants.  There are daily activities on center stage including hula lessons, lei making and evening performances featuring everything from Polynesian dance to Japanese taiko drums.

‘AIPONO WINNERS

(“’ai” means “to eat”; “pono” means “excellence”)

All Around Favorites

1. Pineapple Grill, Kapalua
2. Hula Grill, Whaler’s Village, Lahaina
3. Lahaina Grill, Lahaina

Best Waterfront Dining

1. Mama’s Fish House, Ku’au (see Most “Maui-est” below)
2. Waterfront, Ma’alaea

Best Service

1. Lahaina Grill, Lahaina
2. Banyan Tree, Kapalua

Best New Restaurant

1. Merriman’s, Kapalua
2. Wokstar, Kihei

Best-Kept Secret

1. Mala Wailea, Wailea
2. Ambrosia, Kihei

Most Romantic

1. Son’z Maui at Swan Court (Hyatt Hotel Ka’anapali Beach).  Known for their “classic cuisine for the next generation”.  As you dine you are encircled by waterfalls and koi ponds almost to the point of feeling the rest of the world has gone away.  Not an inexpensive place to dine but in addition to the phenomenal atmosphere, Swan Court offers good “early bird” menu pricing.  If you are able to plan ahead you can print coupons or check specials at www.sonzmaui.com.
2. Ferraro’s, Wailea

Most “Maui-est”

1. Mama’s Fish House, Ku’au (a bit on the expensive side but unbelievable scenery) Fish so fresh, dozens of fishermen head out in their small boats every day in search of fish. It is most crowded in the evening and a great (yet expensive) place to celebrate a special occasion.  However, we have found you miss the incredible scenery at night.  That’s why we think it is a great place for lunch.
2. Cheeseburger in Paradise (in Lahaina…great food and atmosphere with live music right on the water)
3. Hula Grill, Whaler’s Village, Ka’anapali Beach. Another favorite.  A common favorite for us as well as our guests seems to be the “Barefoot Bar” inside of the Hula Grill.  The tables are in the sand but don’t be fooled.  The food and the service are great.   This is yet another place to see a great sunset but time your visit as there is usually a wait around that time.

Best Business Lunch

1. Café O Lei, Kihei & Wailuku and now in Napili.  Not always a great view but definitely a nice restaurant and great value.  They offer a great ahi special on Sundays.
2. Tommy Bahama’s, Wailea

Most Innovative

1. Spago, Wailea
2. Hali’imaile General Store, Hali’imaile

Best Sushi

1. Sansei, Kapalua (25% off on Sunday and Monday but be there by 4:30).  If you are not sure of sushi, this is definitely the place to convince you!  They serve everything for the novice sushi eater as well as the more experienced.  The butterfish alone will convince you.
2. Kai Sushi, Kapalua

Best Bakery

1. Komoda’s, Makawao (plan to bring some goodies home but arrive early as they sell out long before noon by the locals.  On the weekend, you can expect a line.)
2. Stillwell’s, Wailuku

Most Keiki (“child”) Friendly

1. Flatbread, Pa’ia
2. Bubba Gump, Lahaina

Best Dessert

1. Roy’s Restaurants, Kahana & Kihei
2. Mama’s Fish House, Ku’au (see “Most Maui-est”)
3. Ono Gelato Company, Paia, Lahaina and Kihei. As good as any Gelato in Italy.  We like to visit here as a part of our walk through downtown Lahaina.

Best Vegetarian Menu

1. Mala, Lahaina
2. Joy’s Place, Kihei

Best Plate Lunch

1. Aloha Mixed Plate, Lahaina

Best Lu’au

1. Old Lahaina Lu’au, Lahaina (consider making reservations before you leave home)
2. Feast at Lele, Lahaina

Best Breakfast

1. Gazebo, Napili (almost always a line but really quaint and reasonably priced)
2. Kihei Caffe, Kihei

3. Plantation Restaurant, Kapalua (awesome views overlooking the pacific-great service and great place for breakfast. They are known for their eggs Benedict)

Best Lobby Lounge

1. Four Seasons, Wailea
2. Alaloa Lounge, Kapalua

Best Asian

1. A Saigon Café, Wailuku
2. Sansei, Kapalua & Kihei

Best Italian

1. Ferraro’s, Wailea
2. (tie) Capische?, Waile
3. Casanova’s, Makawao

Best Steak

1. Ruth’s Chris, Wailea & Lahaina.  Definitely not a cheap place to eat but they have a good “early bird” special which includes appetizer, main course and desert.
2. Duo, Wailea

Best Seafood

1. Mama’s Fish House, Ku’au
2. Pineapple Grill, Kapalua

Best Bar

1. Cheeseburger in Paradise, Lahaina.  Live music every evening.  Great views in an extremely laid back atmosphere.  Can be crowded at peak times.
2. Barefoot Bar at the Hula Grill. Offers a unique atmosphere and awesome appetizers.  It is a great atmosphere either for sunset or taking a break from shopping at the famous Whaler’s Village.
3. Tommy Bahama’s, Wailea
4. Four Seasons, Wailea

Best Late Night

1. Sansei, Kapalua & Kihei. Happy hour prices are available after 10:00 p.m.
2. Wokstar, Kihei

Best Hawai’i Regional

1. Roy’s Restaurants, Kahana & Kihei
2. Hali’imaile General Store, Hali’imaile

Everyone’s Favorite

1. Kimono’s Restaurant in Lahaina
2. Duke’s Restaurant, by Honoa Kai, walking distance from Papakea