Maui Vacation Rentals

The delectable bites to sample in Maui include laulau (oven-baked tender, juicy pork, fish or chicken wrapped in taro leaves), kalua pig which is smoky and more like the American pulled pork, except that it's not tangy, and chicken long rice–a mix of ginger-flavored chicken and clear mung bean noodles. The best places to find these are:

1. Mama's Fish House

Enjoy generous portions of seafood and exotic Hawaiian meals overlooking the ocean. The taste and experience is great, sometimes you have to book for dinner or lunch three months in advance.

2. Poi by the Pound

Both a door-to-door poi delivery business and a competitor among the best restaurants in Maui, Poi by the Pound is a staple of Hawaii. It's hard to have enough of their poi and other Hawaiian delicacies. They know it and that's why their Hawaii plate is bigger than average; with servings of lomi salmon, poke, pork laulau, kalua pork, poi, some chicken long rice, rice, and mac salad.

3. The Mill House

Here food comes straight from the farm to your plate. This picturesque dining destination sits at the heart of the Maui Tropical Plantation, offering vis itors a chance to savor fresh traditional and modern delicacies overlooking a calming lush plantation and the breathtaking Waikapu Valley.

There are 3 pods in Maui. The most common species are the spinner dolphins, spotted dolphins, and the Pacific bottlenose dolphins. For an up-close encounter (50 yards), take a boat ride. Turtles are also commonplace, especially Hawaiian green turtles, and here's where to find them:

1. Punalu'u Beach Park

Turtles love basking on this black sand beach. While the ocean is a little rough for snorkeling, walking on the shore (wearing swimming shoes is a good idea) or joining the turtles for a sun bath can be fun.

2. Lāhainā and Lāna‘i

Watch hundreds of spinner dolphins (Stenella longirostris) popularly known for their acrobatic spinning, aerial flips, and leap antics. You'll also find them on the West Maui coastline, and occasionally, at Honolua Bay.

3. La Perouse Bay

Encounter the rare, curious, overly social and intelligent Pacific bottleneck dolphins in a pod of 5-20.

To learn about Maui’s past, visit the Whalers Village Museum where you can discover Maui’s agricultural history or its whaling industry. At Hui No'eau Visual Arts Center or Maui Arts and Cultural Center, various exhibitions and events are frequently organized to celebrate Maui’s rich culture through the talents of local artisans and artists.

In ancient times, Hawaiian people held luaus to honour their gods or celebrate auspicious occasions. Through luaus, they share their prosperity with family and friends. Today, visitors can learn about the history of luaus at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Who can say no to traditional Polynesian food such as the mouth-watering kale pig? You can find authentic luaus at Drums of the Pacific at the Hyatt Regency, or the Royal Lahaina Resort.

Quality Family Time at the Beach

Considering you have nearly 200km of shoreline and over 80 sensational beaches to choose from, it's unlikely you'll ever be at a loss for things to do on a family beach vacation in Maui. However, that's not to say that this idyllic Hawaiian island doesn't have its fair share of activities worthy of a trip in and of themselves. It does.

Family Friendly Hikes in Maui

To begin, don't miss the amazing volcano at Haleakala National Park, sitting over 3000m above sea level. By driving to the on-site car park, even those visiting Maui with babies can access the summit, peer into the gigantic crater, and enjoy breathtaking views. Come early for an unforgettable sunrise, then traverse child-friendly trails through the national park. The local ranger station even has a ""Junior Ranger"" programme.

Lavender Farm and Petting Zoo Adventures

Another high-country family activity is the fun, free scavenger hunt at Alii Kula Lavender Farm, where kids can scramble through flowers and fruit trees searching for lavender cookies, while parents enjoy lovely views and a gentle stroll through these colourful, fragrant grounds. Just down the road from the lavender farm is Surfing Goat Dairy, where kids can pet-friendly goats.

Hawaiian Luau Festivities

Attending a traditional Luau (or feast) is a tasty way to immerse kids in Polynesian culture. These fun evenings showcase artisan crafts like wood carving and palm weaving, traditional live music and hula dances, with a gigantic buffet featuring authentic local delicacies like slow-roasted kalua pig, raw fish poke, or familiar kid-friendly meals like fried rice and chicken.

Maui is home to 81 beaches, so you are sure to find one that satisfies your taste. Some popular ones include Waihee Beach Park, Kite Beach, Kanaha Beach Park, Honomanu Beach, or Makena Beach. While you are at the beach, do not miss a chance to watch the sunset. Pack up a blanket, beverage, and snacks, then spend some relaxing time with your loved ones watching the sky change colours.

If you are in love with local Hawaiian tunes, do not miss a chance to enjoy live music at many free events such as the Shops at Wailea’s live music evening, or the music night that happens every Friday in Kihei. You can even learn the ukulele for free when signing up for lessons at the Lahaina Cannery Mall.

The most famous tree on the entire island is perhaps the banyan tree in Lahaina. Planted in 1873 by Sheriff William Owen Smith, the Indian banyan tree has witnessed numerous historical events and still stands tall to this day.

1. The Cove at Kalama Beach Park (Kihei)

This break is perfect for beginners. It is easy to access, safe, and clear of obstacles, the waves are under 3 feet high; the people are welcoming (something you really need as a beginner), and there are a ton of surf shops.

2. Ho'okipa Beach

An advanced wave-rider will love the Ho'okipa breaks. On this world renowned North Shore beach, you have obstacles to overcome including rip tides, rocks, and reefs, and sets of unrelenting waves. Take a stroll thereafter while watching turtles sun bathe.

3. Pe'ahi

This surfing break, Maui's biggest, has a treat for the daring advanced surfers seeking an adrenaline rush, a new challenge, a new personal best surfing record, or the tow-in experience. Aptly nicknamed 'Jaws', it features massive and fast waves reaching up to a world-record-breaking 77 feet. According to Billabong XXL Global Big Wave Contest, Jaws is a world-winning break.

The PGA TOUR’s Tournament of Champions is held on Maui every year. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, Maui is the ideal location to hone your golfing skills. 14 award-winning courses offer scenic surroundings and spectacular ocean views, having been designed by world-renown architects such as Ben Crenshaw.

During December to May, you have the highest chance of seeing humpback whales swimming in the shallow waters as they migrate from the Gulf of Alaska to Hawaii to breed. During this period, there are various ways to spot the magnificent creature: on a boat, paddleboard, canoe, kayak, or even from a helicopter, however, the best spot is Auʻau Channel - the shallow waters between Lanai, Molokai, and Maui. Whales have cultural significance in Hawaiian culture and are referred to as "kohola" in the local language. They are treated with great respect as Hawaiian people regard them as guardians of the island.

1. Haleakala National Park

Visit one of the most unique national parks in the world, featuring trails leading past lava fields caused by the park's dormant volcano. Ornithologists might also be lucky enough to spot a Nene, an endangered Hawaiian goose.

2. Wai'anapanapa State Park

This beautiful park is characterized by its glistening freshwater streams and pools. Camping facilities are available for those who wish to explore the park's natural environments and black sand beach over multiple days.

3. Ka'anapali Beach

No trip to Maui is complete without exploring some of its gorgeous coastline. This beach was once named America's best, with its crystal waters and white sandy shore stretching for three miles.

4. Red Sand Beach

Another fantastic natural location is the amazing Red Sand Beach, also on the eastern end of Maui. Though you need to hike here, the effort is worth it, with blood-red sand and lovely warm Pacific waters.

5. Maui Ocean Center

If you wish to get up close to the region’s wildlife, be sure to check out the expansive Maui Ocean Center, with a tide pool, underwater tunnel, and shark tank, ideal for observing the state's marine life.