Make your trip to Maui even more memorable by Island hopping from Maui to Lanai.

Have you been to Maui many times and already seen it all? Jump on a boat for a short trip to the neighboring island of Lanai! There is only one ferry connecting islands in the state of Hawaii, and it connects Maui to Lanai! Nowadays, everyone travels by plane, but a trip on a ferry is worth a try! Save money, be more eco-friendly, and enjoy the beautiful experience of crossing the Auau Channel.

1.How to get to Lanai

There is no direct plane from the mainland to Lanai. You can connect a flight from Honolulu, Kahului, or catch the only ferry connecting two Hawaiian Islands.

Traveling on a boat through the Pacific Ocean is an experience of a lifetime! Breathtaking views of Maui and Lanai from further away. Enjoy the fresh air and the company of dolphins and maybe whales during your trip! Travel from harbor to harbor just like during the old times!

No long check ins and boarding in another airport. The ferry is only 1 hour long, only 30 USD per adult per trip and 20 USD for children. Departing from Lahaina Harbor.

There are five round-trips daily.  For more information call (800) 695-2624, (808) 661-3756 or visit www.go-lanai.com

2. Where to stay in Lanai

Lanai has two world-class luxury resorts, the Four Season Resort Lanai and lodge at Koele. You can also stay at the historical Hotel Lanai in Lanai City for a more budget friendly and authentic experience.

This Island is extremely wild and uninhabited, only 3,102 people live on the island all year round. Which explains the lack of accommodation and keeps the amount of tourists on the island very limited!

3. What to do in Lanai

There are two ways to experience Lanai:

Have a luxurious experience, enjoying all the comfort and activities that one of the best and most luxurious hotels in the world has to offer.

Go on adventures! Rent a 4 wheel drive and get lost in the roads of Lanai. There are absolutely no traffic lights and only one stop sign in Lanai! Get on the dirt roads and go discover all the treasures this Island has to offer! Outdoor activities such as diving, horseback riding, hiking or even shooting clays are available!

But our favorite trip is getting away from all signs of civilization by driving to Polihua beach, two miles of pristine white sand and clear water. Chances to see anyone else there are very low! Enjoy the unique experience to have a beach for yourself and feel like Robin Crusoe for a few hours.

4. Fun facts about Lanai

Larry Ellison owns 97% of Lanai, he bought the Island for 300 million USD in 2012 from David Murdock. Mr Ellison now lives full time on the island since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. Ellison’s ambitions extend beyond tourism. He plans to create “the first economically viable, 100% green community”.

Cats are overpopulating the island. The feline does not have any predator on Lanai and they kept reproducing since they were brought on the island more than a century ago. Ellison created a cat sanctuary known as “The Fur Season”. The sanctuary hosts more than 500 cats, and is open to visitors.

Lanai is also known as the “Pineapple Island”. Around 1930, Lanai was exporting 65,000 tons of pineapples per year! Or about 75% of the world’s pineapple! Production ended in 1992 when Lanai was bought by Murdock, but the name remains.

So…did this make you want to jump in the ferry from Lahaina? Make sure you load up on some energy for the trip with some of our take away smoothie bowls and coffees. We are located right near the harbor where the departure is!

Looking for different types of Hawaiian fish to eat can be overwhelming. There are many different species of tropical fish, many unfamiliar to people from the mainland. Sometimes while on vacation, many of the meals you are eating are way different than what you are normally used to. Whether you want to eat sushi, sashimi, Hawaiian poke, or an unforgettable seafood entree, Hawaii is the place to do it.We have created a list of Hawaiian fish to eat on your next vacation so that you don’t miss out on anything!

Ahi

Ahi is a name that refers to either the Bigeye Tuna or Yellowfin Tuna. Both are popular and delicious fish. This fish is often grilled or eaten raw, as sashimi, sushi, or poke (the Hawaiian version of ceviche). All Hawaii yellowfin tuna are line-caught.  Most of Hawaii’s yellowfin tuna are caught by deep-set longline fishing gear off shore of Hawaii. The remainder of Hawaii landings come from trollers, handliners and pole & line boats (aku boats). Fresh Hawaii yellowfin tuna are not caught in purse seine nets as they are in fisheries that supply tuna canneries. Caught year-round in Hawaii’s waters, yellowfin tuna is usually most abundant during the summer season (May-September).

Ono

Typically everywhere else calls this fish the “Wahoo”. In Hawaii, this fish is known as “Ono” and very popular. It is a fast fish and it is difficult to catch, making it a prize catch. This fish tastes similar to the mackeral, though the flavor is more subtle. Hawaiians love this fish so much, it is named after the Hawaiian word for “delicious.”

Mahi Mahi

Mahi mahi is another Hawaiian fish to eat, even if you’ve had it at your favorite mainland seafood restaurant. Though popular around the world, Hawaiians probably have more experience cooking and eating this fish than any other groups of people. It’s common in restaurants and you should be able to find it without much trouble. Raw mahimahi fillet is a white to pink color. Cooked meat is off-white, moist and flakey. The flesh is less than 1 percent fat and adapts well to grilling and blackening. Mahimahi’s flavor ranges from somewhat sweet in the lighter sections to less sweet and more swordfish-like in the darker portions.

Opakapaka

The Hawaiian pink snapper, or the opakapaka, has light pink flesh and a delicate flavor. It holds the reputation as the islands’ most premium snapper. When caught during the winter months, it is high in fat, making it ideal for sushi or sashimi.

Hapu’upu’u

This fish is local to Hawaii and doesn’t live anywhere else in the world. Most of the ones you will see at the market are black, with clear white flesh that has a delicate taste. Hapu’upu’u are often steamed by locals. If you find this on a restaurant menu, it may not be cheap, but remember that this fish is rare. You may not get many chances to enjoy it!

We hope that our suggestions with Hawaiian fish to eat on your next vacation help! You can either go on a fishing boat and catch your own fish, or order fish from any local fish market or restaurant. One thing is for sure… Hawaii has some delicious and fresh fish cuisine that you do not want to miss out on!

Do you like to travel differently? Not interested in condos, resorts or renting a beach house? We have got you covered!                        For adventurers, and people who are looking to live a unique experience, we curated a list of the most unique airbnb and places to stay on Maui.

It is tempting to choose the safe, easy and comfortable option of booking a resort or renting a beach condo, but where is the fun in that?! Make your holiday on Maui much more memorable by sleeping in a dome under the stars, staring at the Milky Way or inside a villa entirely made out of bamboo!

Here is a selection of our favorite and most unique places to stay on Maui. This may not be ideal for your entire trip, but we definitely recommend booking a night or two in one of these locations!

1. Kula Star Dome

Hawaii, and mainly Maui is famous for star gazing. Far away from city lights and pollution, our island is one of the best places in the world to observe the constellations.

You will gain some altitude and get above the clouds in Kula.   This will certainly help you observe the brightest stars you have ever seen.

This lovely and affordable loft has a rooftop. On this rooftop you will find a dome-a transparent giant bubble with a bed inside!

Ideal for amateur astronomers, big romantics and whoever is looking for a unique experience!

Image: booking.com

2. Cliff House

Perched directly upon the edge of a three hundred foot cliff, this place is incredible!

Not only will you get the best views of the entire north shore coast all the way to Hana, but you will enjoy them while sitting in a hot tub surrounded by lush jungle.

This private luxury residence is full of charm, including a spa and a pool surrounded by plants and trees.

Ideal for someone looking for peace, and quiet. Children and more adventurous members of the family will love exploring the nearby hikes and waterfalls.

Image: Airbnb

3. Suite Vans Maui

Did the Cliff House sound too boring to you? Do you need to see EVERYTHING that Maui has to offer? Then this Camper Van is definitely for you!

We already talked about van life in Maui in one of our previous blogs. With some tips and location recommendations.

But again, if you are looking to live the full island adventure, wake-up with a different viewpoint every morning, and enjoy sunset from a different spot each evening, this is the right accommodation for you!

Remember… you will save on a vehicle rental!

With this Suite Van, you can do it all. Spend the night star gazing, or sleep on the edge of a cliff!

4. Bamboo Temple

This accommodation is for architecture enthusiasts, and tree house lovers… or simply anyone who loves tropical homes!

Mostly made out of Bamboo coming from the local bamboo forests, this rental is definitely unique.

Observe the ingenious bamboo craftsmanship or feel like a child in a cabana.

It is not literally a tree house. But the elevation of the house and the fact that it is surrounded by tress definitely makes you feel like you are suspended in a tree.

The very “Zen” like vibe is ideal for a romantic gateway.

Image: Airbnb

Well, now it’s time to start packing your bags for Maui! Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions, or check out our other blogs for tips and tricks on traveling here. We hope you enjoyed reading about the most unique Airbnb and places to stay on Maui. Maybe you will get lucky enough to stay in one, or better yet, all of these places!

All that surfing and exploring will make you hungry! And this is why we are here, to satisfy your cravings and fuel you for the next adventure! You can’t leave Hawaii without trying some of the local specialities. Culinary discovery is a huge part of the fun with traveling. Don’t miss out on what our island has to offer, and learn about the 5 must try Hawaiian Dishes in Maui!

1.Poke

If you are a fish lover, you have probably tried poke before. It most likely wasn’t as delicious as the ones made here! Poke means “To Slice” in Hawaiian. It is a delicious salad of sliced raw fish or seafood. You can find all kinds of different Pokes, made of Tuna, Salmon, Octopus or other seafood. They are combined with other ingredients like avocado, onion, chili peppers, soy sauce, sesame oil, lime etc.

You can find Poke in pretty much every market on the Island.  Served with rice, it makes a perfect snack or light meal for a very affordable price. If you are a fish connoisseur, we recommend trying your poke at the Paia Fish Market located in Lahaina, right next to us!

2. Loco Moko

A pretty basic, but classic Hawaiian dish. On a mountain of white rice you will find a Hamburger Patty covered by a fried egg and brown gravy. That’s it! Simple but efficient, workers and big eaters favorite, this plate is cheap and will fill you up for the day.

3. Shaved Ice

In a very different category, is the shave ice! You have most likely heard of this or tried it before. You can find shave ice in many other places of the world. There is no better place then a warm tropical Island like Maui to fully appreciate this refreshing treat!

During the hot afternoons in Maui you will see long lines of people waiting to grab their shave ice. If you are not very patient, we recommend driving to Maui Mike’s Beach House. This is an old school surf shop, that offers delicious Shaved Ice in the back of their shop! Go check them out, you can’t miss it! Everything is painted yellow green and red- the food truck, Vintage Car as well as the entire building!

4. Musubi

Yes, you better like rice if you want to eat local food! A Musubi basically looks like a big Sushi! The most famous kind is the Spam musubi. A ball of rice covered by fried Spam and rolled in seaweed. Spam is a big Hawaiian favorite, it is a canned lunch meat product, easy to store and conserve.

Local people love their Spam Musubi. Filling and easy to pack and carry, you can find Spam Musubi in pretty much any market of the Island.

Personally, our favorite is the chicken Musubi! A slice of fried chicken covered in teriyaki sauce, on top of a ball of rice and rolled in seaweed. The ideal snack to pack up for long days hiking or at the beach!

5. Kalua Pig

Last but not least, the Kalua Pig. This dish is for special occasions and big celebrations. When visiting Hawaii you will definitely end up at a Luau. This is a Hawaiian feast featuring music and dancing. During this feast, not only will you enjoy the most beautiful dancing and music, but you will get a chance to taste the most tender and flavorful, yet crispy piece of pork.

The Kalua Pig is cooked in a underground oven called an Imu. You will need to return to Hawaii to enjoy this delicacy.

Hawaii has many more dishes and specialities- these are only 5 must try Hawaiian Dishes in Maui. Go out and explore small local restaurants, food trucks, and if you want to learn more about Food in Maui, comment below!

The papaya is a beautiful orange and green tropical fruit. It tastes sweet and has a soft texture that many find appealing. Papaya seeds are also edible, although they’re more bitter than the fruit itself. Papayas are originally from Central America. This fruit grows best in tropical regions where there is plentiful rainfall but little long-term flooding. Freezing temperatures may damage a papaya crop. Indigenous people ate papayas and used them for medicinal purposes. In the 1500s and 1600s, Spanish and Portuguese colonizers brought the seeds to other tropical areas of the globe, including the Philippines and India. Today, Hawaii, the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, Australia, and tropical regions in Africa are the most fruitful papaya-producing regions. Smaller papaya-farming operations still exist in Central and South America. Here are 5 health benefits of the papaya.

Protection against heart disease

Did you know that papayas protect you against heart disease?! Firstly, papayas contain high levels of antioxidants vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Diets high in antioxidants may reduce the risk of heart disease.  Secondly, the antioxidants prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. When cholesterol oxidizes, it’s more likely to create blockages that lead to heart disease. Additionally, papayas are high in fiber. High fiber diets lower cholesterol, thus reducing the risk of heart disease. Eat your papayas folks!

Boosts the immune system

Eating foods high in vitamin C can help to boost the immune system, allowing the body to fight off bacterial and viral illnesses. Papaya contains good amounts of this antioxidant, making it part of an immune-healthy diet. Papaya is also a good source of Vitamin A, another important vitamin for a healthy and functional immune system.

High nutritional content

A medium-sized papaya contains more than 200% of the vitamin C you need per day. This helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and boost the immune system. It’s also a great source of Vitamin A, Folate, Fiber, Copper, Magnesium and Potassium.

Skin benefits

Have you ever considered using papaya topically?! Mashed papaya appears to be beneficial for promoting wound healing and preventing infection of burned areas. Researchers believe that the proteolytic enzymes chymopapain and papain in papaya are responsible for their beneficial effects. Ointments containing the papain enzyme have also been used to treat decubitus ulcers (bedsores). The enzymes papain and chymopapain in papaya can also decrease inflammation. The protein-dissolving papain can be found in many exfoliating products. These products help reduce acne by removing dead skin cells that can clog pores. Papain can also remove damaged keratin that can build up on the skin and form small bumps. When I eat a papaya, sometimes I like to take the skin and meat that’s left over, and rub it on my face or body for a nice little mask! After a long day in the sun, this can be very soothing.

Hair health

Papaya is also great for hair because it contains vitamin A. This nutrient is required for sebum production, which keeps hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair. If you have an adequate intake of vitamin C, which papaya can provide… this will help with the building and maintenance of collagen, which provides structure to skin.

How to eat a papaya

When choosing or eating papaya, look for fresh papayas with reddish orange skin that are soft to the touch.

Cutting them open is just like cutting a melon. Scoop out the seeds, and enjoy. Or if you want to experience the benefits of the seeds, you can blend them in a smoothie with the fruit. The seeds of the papaya are edible but have a bitter, peppery taste. Using a spoon, it is possible to scoop out the soft flesh of the fruit.

Papaya is a soft, versatile fruit. It can be incorporated into many recipes.

Here are a few ideas for eating a papaya: 

Make a tropical fruit salad with fresh papaya, pineapple, and mango.
Make a fresh salsa with papaya, mango, jalapeno, red peppers, and chipotle pepper. Use as a topping for tacos.
Add a few slices of frozen papaya to smoothies. Combine with pineapple juice, half a frozen banana, and Greek yogurt for a sweet tropical treat.

While visiting Maui, you must try a papaya! You will find these vibrant fruits in grocery stores or fruit stands. We hope reading about our 5 health benefits of the papaya will entice you to eat them. Bon appetit!

Carissa Moore is a professional surfer from Hawaii. At 28 years of age, she has won 4 world titles, and is now the first woman in history and in her sport, to win a gold medal in the Olympics. If you ask any surfer about her, their eyes will glow as they talk about how great of an athlete she is. Every year, the Women’s World Surf League does a contest at Honolua Bay, Maui. Carissa has competed here multiple times. When my friends see her in the water, they say she is nothing but happy and kind. Then you see the BIG set of waves coming our way… and bam! This sweet young lady is getting deep in the barrel of the best wave of the day. Her skills are incredibly impressive, and it’s no wonder that she is now an olympic champion. Native Hawaiian Surfer wins the Olympics, and makes Hawaii proud! Continue reading more below.

History of Surfing getting into Olympics

Wherever there’s been a nearby ocean, people have been surfing in one form or another. Ancient warriors in Tahiti and Samoa used to train by surfing. In Polynesia, surfing was considered an art form. Now, there is modern surfing which is balancing on top of a board to ride waves for fun! This became incredibly popular near the start of the 20th century in Hawaii.

Getting surfing to the Olympics was a dream of Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku more than a century ago. Decades before Hawaii became a U.S. state, he earned five Olympic medals (three gold and two silver) for swimming, starting in 1912. Kahanamoku had grown up surfing with his brothers in Waikiki.

This is the first year that surfing was considered a sport in the Olympics. For surfers all around the world, this was huge! The sport that has been progressing for hundreds of years, is finally making it’s big debut. Surfing is one of five additional sports proposed by the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee in order to bring more youthful and vibrant events and culture into the Olympics.

Wave pool or ocean?

The special thing about surfing, is that no wave is exactly the same! This makes surfing a competition where athletes compete against each other while balancing the changing conditions of nature. There was the choice between a wave pool, or the ocean. If the ocean conditions are not ideal for surfing, a wave pool is very nice because you can control the conditions here. However, a wave pool stirred mixed emotions in the surf community. On the one hand, the ocean showcases the true spirit of the surfing lifestyle much better than the mechanical pool. On the other hand, the venue is home to decidedly average quality waves and the timing is a touch early for typhoon season. The final decision was to hold the competition in the ocean during a three day competition at Tsurigasaki Beach, in Chiba province. This is 40 miles from Tokyo. A Brazilian surfer, Italo Ferreira took gold in the men’s event.

How do the surfing olympics work?

20 men and 20 women qualified to compete on high performance short boards. There was a maximum of 2 surfers per nation per gender (i.e. 4 maximum over both categories). The best two of each heat continued to the next round. Each heat ran for 20 to 25 minutes, with their top two scores being used.

Even if you aren’t a surfer, we recommend watching the surfing olympics and contests! This sport is filled with fun and competitive energy. It’s amazing what these athletes can do on these tiny boards. If you have ever tried surfing, you will understand it’s definitely not as easy as it appears to be!

Carissa Moore-Native Hawaiian Surfer wins the Olympics

Carissa Moore grew up surfing with her father off Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii. At the age of 18, she became the youngest world champion surfer. Now, at 28, she’s the first woman to win the Olympic gold medal in the sport.

Her family back home in Hawaii cheered as they watched her win with a beautiful rainbow appearing beyond the surf in the final round. Carissa made Hawaii very proud. Our island chain in the middle of the Pacific ocean may be small, but the waves that come from here, breed some of the worlds best athletes.

After reading this post, you are probably itching to take up surfing! If you are visiting Hawaii soon, book a lesson… or 5! Bring your friends and family to celebrate the Spirit of Aloha while you get to experience the magical ride of being on a wave. You will then understand what all the fuss is about!

If you’re an avid coffee drinker, you may have already been experimenting with plant-based milk alternatives for your coffee. Maybe you’re a vegan with your own preferences firmly in place. Or, you have a dairy allergy that is forcing you to change your diet. Either way, coffee can be delicious no matter which milk you are using! We have tried and tested many different drinks, so here is our list of the best coffee drinks with non dairy milk.

Milk can definitely impact the flavor of coffee along with the aesthetic. Modern coffees use steamed milk, in an attempt to produce a foam by ‘stretching’ the milk. Many coffees, such as the latte, cappuccino and flat white, all depend on this style of the milk to fulfil their criteria. When having a coffee with non dairy milk, there are a few pros and cons. Some drinks will taste better than others, but that is ok! You just need to find your favorite combination.

At Belle Surf Cafe, we offer many plant based milk alternatives :

Keep in mind this list may change depending on availability

Almond Milk
Soy Milk
Macadamia Nut Milk
Oat Milk

Oat Milk Hazelnut Latte

This drink is my newest favorite! Oat milk provides the creamiest texture (in my opinion) of all the plant based milks. It definitely tastes a bit “oaty”, but if that doesn’t bother you, then I would definitely give this one a try. I tend to like my coffee on the sweeter side. The Oat Milk Hazelnut Latte is the perfect balance with a bit of sweet, and a creamy milky texture. If you aren’t much of a sweet coffee drinker, then just remove the hazelnut and try the oat milk latte on its own.

Iced Nutella Latte with Almond Milk

Our Nutella Latte is one of the most popular drinks on the menu! It is definitely made for those with a major sweet tooth. Want to sub with a plant based milk? No problem! We can customize any drink for you. Try our Nutella Latte iced, with almond milk! This delicious treat will leave you wanting another one! Keep in mind, if you are strictly vegan, Nutella does contain animal derived ingredients.

Spiced Lavender Mocha with Soy milk

Our Spiced Lavender Mocha is one of our specialty drinks, another very popular one! We make our own fresh, home made lavender syrup. Soy milk is voted to be one of the best milk alternatives because it doesn’t effect the flavor of the coffee. With this drink, we really want you to be able to taste the delicious lavender syrup and espresso, so we recommend soy milk! Originally this drink comes with regular milk, so don’t forget to ask for your milk preference!

Dirty Chai with Macadamia Nut Milk

Many reading this may be wondering what Macadamia Nut Milk is?! This is a dairy free milk alternative made by blending soaked macadamia nuts with water. Macadamia milk has a rich, smooth texture. It serves as a creamy substitute for cow’s milk. We love our Dirty Chai with Macadamia Nut Milk! If you are in Hawaii (home of the Macadamia Nuts) you should definitely try this milk!

Oat Milk Latte with Honey

Looking for a creamy latte with a tiny bit of sweetener? We love an oat milk latte with honey! Honey is not vegan, but it can be substituted for something else. Let us know what you think about this tasty yet simple drink!

There are many different options with coffee drinks. Some people like their coffee black, others want all the bells and whistles with it. Then, there is always someone in-between! With all of the options and alternatives, there is bound to be a favorite for everyone!

Here are a few tips :

Foaming dairy free milk– The foam with any dairy free milk, will unfortunately not have the same consistency with that of cows milk. Be easy on your barista! He or she is doing her best to foam that milk, but don’t be surprised if they are unable to successfully make that pretty latte art.

Cappuccinos with dairy free milk- Cappuccinos are half coffee, half foam. A typical cappuccino is made with whole milk, and the foam is made precisely to balance with the coffee. Unfortunately, after steaming thousands of milks, I can inform you that the cappuccino is not the same with a plant based milk. This doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy your cappuccino! Just expect the texture to be a little bit different.

We recommend trying all the dairy free milk alternatives, and discovering your favorite one! Each taste preference is different, and one might not like what the other does. Have fun with it, and we guarantee you will discover your favorite drink! We hope that our list of the best coffee drinks with non dairy milk helps you discover your favorite!

Maui is a very laid back place, and for the most part, people who live here are friendly, helpful, and welcoming to visitors. We love sharing the beauty and joys of our island. Especially to visitors who are polite and respectful of the Hawaiian Culture and land.  Life on Maui is definitely different from where you are accustomed to. Sometimes the best part of traveling, is diving into new cultures and stepping out of your comfort zone. I have gathered some travel tips Maui visitors in Maui in order to make your stay more welcome.

My helpful tips will earn you a smile of approval from those who live here. Maybe you will even get a friendly “shaka”!

Hawaii Time

Hawaiian time is a way of life on the islands. You will hear locals refer to things being done on “Hawaiian time” or “Maui time.” Life tends to move a lot slower here. Although we may set a specific time for something, most people aren’t as punctual as those on the mainland. And that is okay!  Make sure to be patient with this laid-back island approach to time. Hawaii is a small chain of islands. We like to drive slow, and not feel too rushed. That’s part of the beauty here. You will probably leave feeling refreshed!

No more plastic bags!

Plastic shopping bags are now prohibited on Maui. Unfortunately they were flying all over the island with the strong winds and nesting in the trees. This was a huge problem on the environment! Now, stores no longer provide them. Did you know that they will be fined if they do?! Maui shopkeepers will not ask you “paper or plastic?” Instead, they will offer you a paper bag or ask if you brought your own or need any bag at all. We highly encourage you to bring in your own reusable shopping bag. Either that, or re-use the brown paper bag that was used for a previous grocery run. Anyone trying to better the environment will be very appreciated here.

Shoes off at the door

It is customary when visiting a local’s home to remove your shoes and leave them just outside the door. You know you will be entering a good party when you see a pile of shoes outside the entrance! Some businesses, condos, and vacation homes might also ask you to honor this custom, and it is very polite for you to do so.  Sometimes it is also acceptable to place your shoes just inside the front door instead of outside. Don’t forget to remove your shoes before entering a local home! You will even get used to a lot of the local residents being barefoot frequently. Don’t be alarmed! It’s just that surfer island lifestyle

Hawaiian culture

Native Hawaiians are very proud of their rich history and culture. Hawaiian culture is unique in all the world. Visiting Maui, you will be exposed to Hawaiian language and music, see hula dancers, hear chants, and see various Hawaiian arts and crafts. Locals love when visitors show a genuine interest and respect for the historical and cultural aspects of this island. There are many opportunities to learn about and experience authentic cultural traditions on Maui. This will enhance your visit and make it all the more memorable. We recommend participating in a cultural activity while you’re here and be respectful toward Hawaii’s cultural traditions.

Respecting the environment

Hawaii’s land and sea environment is fragile. We ask that you keep this in mind as you are enjoying your vacation. People and endangered animals and species call this their home.  Much too often, especially this past year, we have seen people come from around the world and treat the environment poorly.

Here are a few pointers to help out :

Dispose of your trash properly Don’t leave cigarette butts or any trash for that matter on the beach.
Wear reef safe sunscreen– This one is incredibly important! Many, many sunscreen brands contain chemicals that are very harmful to the ocean, coral reefs, and its animals. Hawaii has ban two chemicals in sunscreen that have been proven bad. However, we are finding that there are still many harmful chemicals inside these sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens with titanium oxide or zinc oxide are reef friendly choices. Check out this list for some safe options! 
Don’t take any lava rock! This is considered bad luck.
Don’t touch the turtles or seals! These beautiful and endangered animals swim and roam freely on the islands. You will be ever so lucky to see them! It is our job to keep at least 10 feet of distance. I know it is tempting to get close for some photos or to pet them. However, this can be so harmful and startling to the animal! You can also get fined up to $10,000!
Recycle! Believe it or not, Hawaii doesn’t have the best recycling system. You will see many recycle bins on the streets of California and other states, but Hawaii unfortunately doesn’t have this luxury. What is recycled, is then shipped to Asia to start the actual recycling process. In the end, it is better to avoid all plastics when possible. However, you can collect your recyclables and bring them to the dumps located in multiple towns on island!

Aloha and Mahalo

“Aloha” (ah-LOW-hah) can mean “hello” or “goodbye” depending on the circumstance. “Mahalo” (mah-HAH-low) is “thank you.” You will often hear these words on Maui. You can’t go wrong with these two words! Say “aloha” to people, respond in kind when it is said to you, and thank people with a sincere “mahalo.” It is totally okay to say “aloha” and “mahalo”!

Well, did these travel tips for visitors in Maui help? We sure hope so! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask us! We love sharing our island and advice with all of you beautiful people. Thank you for taking the time to read this and help make a positive impact on our islands!

Are your parents coming to visit you in Hawaii? Or, are you coming on vacation together?! Either way, I’m sure you are wondering what fun activities there might be to include mom and dad! Well, don’t worry… there are so many things to do that you will never get bored! Anything from relaxing on the beach to exhilarating adventures, Maui has it all! Here is a list of fun things to do in Maui with parents.

Ziplining

Going ziplining is a fun activity that is suitable for mostly all ages! Hopefully you aren’t too afraid of heights! Take mom and dad on a fun adventure through the lush mountains of Maui! Kapalua Zipline’s is West Maui’s only ALL dual-line course. They offer the longest ziplines, breathtaking views, a thrilling ATV ride and a spectacular 360 foot suspension bridge. Tours sellout sometimes weeks in advance so book early!

Helicopter Tours

Another fun and exciting activity would be a helicopter tour! These tours are incredibly comfortable, equipped with AC, tinted windows, panoramic views, and comfortable seating. They will provide you with noise canceling headphones that play relaxing Hawaiian music.

We highly recommend booking a tour with Sunshine Helicopters! This is our favorite helicopter tour company in Hawaii. They have many different tours to choose from, depending on what you would like to see!

Maui Chocolate Coffee Tours

Do your parents love chocolate? What about coffee?! Well, why not book a tour with Maui Chocolate Coffee Tours! Located Upcountry at Kupa’a Organic Farms, you can make a day trip out here with your tour. We definitely recommend spending the rest of the day exploring what this part of the island has to offer!

Wine Tasting

Are your parents wine lovers? Have you ever been wine tasting on a tropical island? You may definitely want to visit Maui Wine at Ulupalakua Vineyards! Open since 1974 and located in Kula, MauiWine produces wines made from estate-grown grapes, pineapple, and raspberries. Make a reservation for the King’s Cottage. Enjoy wine by the glass, wine flights, wine cocktails, and pupu. Discover an elevated way to see and taste Maui.

The Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is always lovely. You can either do an entire day, camp, or spend the night at a hotel! If your parents get carsick, then this is probably not the right choice. However, it is totally worth the spectacular views, waterfalls, and scenery! Hana is the most lush and green part of Maui. Don’t forget to bring a camera!

Hawaiian Luau

If you are looking for a cultural Hawaiian experience, a luau is definitely the way to go! Your parents will be entertained all night with hula dancing, fire dancing, traditional music and Hawaiian food. Click here for our luau recommendations. 

Whale Watching

Our final recommendation for today is Whale Watching!

Every year, the Humpback Whales travel to Hawaii to birth their young. If you are going to be on Maui during the winter months, there will be hundreds them in the water. This is something you don’t want to miss! Suited for all ages, these magical creatures can be seen up close and personal on a Whale Watching Tour. You can find these tours on the Westside or South Side of Maui. Early morning, or sunset is the best time!

If you happen to see whale’s from the beach, stick your head under the water and go for a swim! You may be lucky enough to hear their music.

Snorkeling and relaxing on the beach

Sometimes, the whole point of a vacation is to sit back and relax. As many people like to stay occupied the entire duration, others are exhausted from work and want to take it easy. Nothing is wrong with that! Hawaii is the best place to relax. With our pristine beaches, crystal clear water, and white sand you are bound to enjoy yourself. Typically your rental or resort will provide you with snorkel gear. And if not, local surf shops or snorkel shops will rent you what you need with your fitted size. Grab a towel, some reef safe sunscreen, and your snorkel gear and head to the beach!

Having trouble deciding what to pack in your bags for Maui? Check out our packing list here! 

Maui is such a beautiful and fun place! Whether you live or vacation here, it’s also best to make sure your parents are happy! Lucky, all of the activities on the island are fun and there is always something for anyone of any age. We hope you enjoyed our list of fun things to do in Maui with parents.

A Hui Ho!

The second-largest Hawaiian island is a plethora of rainforests, sandy beaches and mountains. Maui’s nickname is “The Valley Isle” because it sits between two mountains, offering vacationers the opportunity to see true beauty in the raw. We have listed some fun facts about the island of Maui to get you excited for your trip!

Maui offers 30 miles of pristine beaches

Not all of the beaches on Maui are white or golden sand. We also have red and black sand beaches! Taking time to explore the island will result in seeing many different types of landscape. You will be in awe! I guess you could consider Maui a fairly small island, however the bio diversity will truly surprise you! In order to see the black or red sand beaches, you will need to take a day (or 2) on the Road to Hana. Hana is the lush, green rainforest in Maui. Hana has many different activities to offer such as hiking, bamboo forests, camping or hotels, waterfalls, beaches, and more!

Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island

Although Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island, if you are traveling from the mainland where you can road trip for as far and long as you want, it still may seem like a small island. Maui has a land area of 735 square miles, is 48 miles long and 26 miles wide.

A question I get asked frequently : how long would it take to drive around the entire island?

You can definitely drive around the whole island of Maui, and you could do this in an entire day. It would probably take around 12 hours including stopping and hiking. However, I would probably take a couple of days to do this, so that you can stop and enjoy the scenery and activities. There is plenty of camping, so make sure to scout the spots in advance to prepare your trip accordingly.

A popular attraction in Maui is the “Road to Hana”

This 45-mile stretch of road with 54 one-lane bridges and more than 600 tighter-than-ever turns is breathtaking! Bring a camera and snap pictures of the many waterfalls, pools, and the exceptional views! Some like to take a day trip to Hana, others like to stay a night or two and enjoy without rush. Personally, I have done the one day trip many times and it can be very exhausting. Next time around I will be camping or staying in a quaint resort to take some time to enjoy this beautiful place!

The largest dormant volcano in the world is Haleakala

Haleakala crater is 21 miles across and 4,000 feet deep. In comparison, the entire island of Manhattan could fit inside. Resting at a whopping 10,000 foot elevation, you will feel as though you have landed on Mars! The sunrise at Haleakala summit is incredibly popular, however it can be enjoyed at anytime of the day. With different hikes (for all levels), birdwatching, history, and views, you will be happy you came! Don’t forget some warm clothes, especially if you will be watching the sunrise! It can get to freezing temperatures up there!

The Banyan Tree

Fun face : the banyan tree in Lahaina was just 8 feet tall when it was brought to Maui from India. Now this tree stands more than 60 feet tall and takes up a whole block of land! You can watch concerts and enjoy arts activities under the shade of this magnificent tree. Enjoy an ice cream while taking a break from the hot sun! This tree is located on Front Street, Lahaina…. right across from Belle Surf Cafe! Come say hello and grab some food or coffee from our menu

Maui’s largest waterfall

Maui has some insane helicopter tours! Are you itching to see Maui’s largest waterfall?! Well, if you take a ride in a helicopter, you can see it from above! You will actually be lucky enough to see all that we cannot access on foot. Honokohau Falls, is a whopping 1,100 feet high and is located in the West Maui Mountains. Check here for more info on Helicopter tours! 

Ocean temperature

The average ocean temperature surrounding Maui is 78 degrees Fahrenheit! Yes, we are very spoiled! There are so many different types of ocean activities to be done. Surfing, swimming, snorkeling, stand up paddling, diving, and so much more! Make sure to take precautions and wear your reef safe sunscreen! Maui has an abundance of marine wildlife, and it is our job to watch from a distance. Make sure to respect these beautiful creatures so they don’t become endangered or extinct!

No billboards

Last but not least…. there are no billboards in Maui! The Outdoor Circle, an environmental group, led the campaign to ban billboards in Hawaii in the 1920s. Billboards can tend to give a city / advertisement kind of vibe to a place. Maui has an incredible amount of beauty to be watched even while driving in the car. There are the lower roads, and the small 1-2 lane highways. I think we all have to agree it’s pretty nice that they decided no billboards!

Well, those were some awesome fun facts about the island of Maui for you! We hope you are getting excited for your next trip here. Give us a follow on Instagram, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions about our amazing Valley Isle!