The Grand Wailea Resort has lots of pools and water slides

The most striking aspect of Maui’s Grand Wailea Resort is its pools. They call it the Wailea Canyon Activity Pool, though that may be a gross understatement. The pool is actually nine pools on six tiers, all of which are interconnected by water slides and rivers including whitewater rapids, a rope swing, a sand beach, a toddler pool, six cascading waterfalls, caves and charming grottos, three Jacuzzis, a swim-up bar, the world’s first water elevator, and more. It is a veritable water park nestled among lush tropical gardens on the resort’s forty beachfront acres at Maui’s renowned Wailea Beach.

Pools with cascading waterfalls add to the charm of this amazing resort

Oh, and did I mention the Hibiscus Pool with its two Jacuzzis? This 4,850-square-foot watery haven is an adults-only (18+ years) pool. Because let’s face it: sometimes you want to take a quiet dip in a pool that is not overrun by squealing children. And what a pool. It’s gorgeous. We’re talking Mexican glass mosaic tiles that make you feel as though you’ve stepped into the private luxury villa belonging to a mogul in the tropics.

The accommodations are inviting and very comfortable

What else could anyone ask for? How about luxury accommodations with expansive views of the beach. And dining. And shops. As far as accommodations go, the beds are easily the most comfortable I’ve slept on in any resort. This is important because when you are active all day, you need a good night’s rest to recharge so you can get up and do it all over again. After all, vacations are only a few days, so you want them to be well spent, not just leave you spent.

The resort grounds are lush, fragrant and so beautiful

DINING

The resort offers multiple options so you do not even need to leave the premises. There is the Grand Dining Room with ocean views and an amazing breakfast buffet including an omelet bar, fresh fruit, cereals, waffles, freshly baked pastries, rolls, eggs, bacon, juices, coffee, tea and so much more. Guests can lunch poolside at the Volcano Bar & Grill. There is the casual Bistro Molokini for lunch and dinner, as well as the more elegant dining at Humuhumunukunukuapua (try saying that one time, let alone more than once) with fresh fish, lobster, savory meats prepared with a Polynesian flare, and locally sourced ingredients right from Hawaii.

The game room is a great place for kids to unwind after a long day in the pools

For parents with young children, kids 5 and younger dine free with a paying adult. This is only one example of the Grand Wailea’s commitment to families. It’s called the Kids Eat Free and Kids Dine All Day. The restaurants also have keiki (kids) menus which include a beverage, entrée and dessert.

DAILY ACTIVITIES

The Grand Wailea also offers daily activities for guests including arts and crafts like jewelry making, bath salts creations, custom-made pizza stations for kids, dive-in movie features, guided meditation and fitness, and much more.

Wailea Beach is gorgeous, and the water is warm

But there’s more. A spa and a fitness center make a stay here the ultimate in luxury, so there is no excuse for not staying fit in paradise. You can pamper yourself to a spa treatment if that is something which entices you. What is so lovely about the Grand Wailea is that there are a variety of options and activities to suit most tastes. Those who love partaking of activities can do everything from scuba diving to sport fishing, golf, hiking, ziplining, lu’aus, sunset cruises, helicopter tours and so much more. While those who prefer to slow down and savor the moment will find that this resort is the perfect place to lose yourself amid the sea’s spectacular vistas or a walk on the powdery golden sand.

The sun rises in tranquil splendor beyond the resort as seen from Wailea Beach

The Grand Wailea is located on Maui’s stunning Wailea beach, and is walking distance to offsite shopping and dining as well. Like its name implies, it is truly a grand resort in every way, and perfect for couples or families seeking a memorable vacation on the beautiful island of Maui. Take a little Hawaiian aloha home with you after leaving this piece of paradise.

Hyatt Regency Maui – Pool and Ocean View

Basking in the sun on pristine beaches, among lush vegetation, along the crystal-clear, diamond-sparkling sea describes a typical day in the tropical paradise of Maui. In addition to relaxation and sun bathing, the island offers plenty of other activities for young families. Planning to celebrate a Hawaiian birthday vacation? Take a break from shopping for birthday supplies at ShinDigz and excite over all the family-fun activities that you must take advantage of while in Maui.

Whimsical Whale Watching

Witnessing Pacific humpback whales in their natural habitat mesmerizes tourists, especially families and kids of all ages. GoHawaii.com describes the gorgeous seawater off the coasts of West and South Maui as calm and clear. This creates the perfect ocean environment for observing whales surfacing and showing off. You and your family can soak in breathtaking coastal views, breath in the breezy, salty sea air and admire beautiful marine life while on a whale-watching voyage. The historic town of Lahaina is known as Maui’s whaling village, and a variety of whale-watching tours launch from Lahaina Harbor during the winter months. The Maalaea Harbor is another option for whale-watching tours. According to MauiActivities.com, Maalaea offers two-hour tours led by a trained naturalist who provides educational facts about these majestic creatures.

Haleakala National Park Sunrise & Hikes

The stunning natural beauty of Maui alone will make your island vacation unforgettable. But dedicate one of your mornings to waking up early and journeying to the Haleakala summit to see an astonishing sunrise. If you’re on a summer trip, make sure you reach the summit before 5:38 a.m. During the winter, arrive no later than 6:55 a.m. While the sun continues to start the day, the gorgeous coalescence of the dynamic colors of dawn painting the blue sky among heavenly clouds will amaze you and your family. Make a morning out of the event and pack a picnic breakfast to eat in your car, or check out Longhi’s in historic Lahaina afterward. Continue to immerse your family in nature’s beauty with a hike on trailheads Halemauu or Keoneheehee throughout the Haleakala wilderness Area. NPS.gov also provides a schedule of events, such as an “easy, guided hike to Kuloa Point” and cultural demonstrations in Kipahulu.

Spectacular Authentic Luaus

In true Hawaiian style, experience a traditional luau with hula and fire dancers, fire knife performers and authentic Hawaiian cuisine. MauiHawaii.org recommends the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort luau on Kaanapali Beach for its kid-friendly atmosphere. Known as “Drums of the Pacific,” the Hyatt Luau entertains families with echoing Hawaiian chants and a traditional Imu ceremony. Guests will enjoy exotic fare, such as Kalua Pork and Polynesian Rice, musical performances and art demonstrations among lit torches and the beautiful Hyatt landscape. Also family-friendly, the Grand Wailea Maui Luau along the south shores of Maui is a local and tourist favorite. The Grand Wailea Resort Spa hosts one of the best Hawaiian fun-filled extravaganzas that immerses guests into South Pacific culture, folklore and chanting. With a tropical sunset backdrop, your kids will have the time of their lives watching fire dances while wearing shell leis.

Don’t forget about indulging in a delicious buffet that includes Imu Baked Kalua Pig, Hawaiian fried rice and Taro Rolls.

Related Articles:

5 Top Maui Resorts for Families

Maui Family Attractions – Sheraton Maui, Lahaina and Volcanoes

If you think summer is ending, think again. Hawaii offers year-round family getaways with gorgeous beaches, balmy weather and a leisurely pace. The island of Maui is known for its beaches, stunning Haleakala Crater, lush Hana rainforest, and fantastic recreation from scuba diving and snorkeling, water sports, boat tours and cruises, eco adventures, to a variety of cultural activities. Listed alphabetically, these top Maui resorts feature the best in recreation and relaxation. Come discover paradise. Come to Maui.

Four Seasons Resort Maui

Four Seasons Resort Maui

The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is a spectacular beachfront retreat with picturesque manicured gardens, inviting accommodations, fine dining that includes children’s menus, spa, extensive art collection and boundless recreation with numerous complimentary activities.

Pool and beach view at the resort

There is a lagoon pool with cascading waterfall, small children’s slide and a shallow wading section for toddlers; a large fountain pool with two hot tubs; and an adult infinity pool with stunning ocean vistas.

Children share in the resort’s exceptional treatment with complementary milk and cookies upon their first day’s arrival, children’s bathrobes, and free baby and kid’s bath product amenities. The year-round kids program is complementary and boasts a fantastic array of games, sports, arts and crafts, storytelling and more. During peak seasons the resort offers themed night kid’s programs as well that include a dinner buffet for a nominal fee. Everyone in the family is in for a treat here.

For more information on this top resort visit their website at www.fourseasons.com/maui

Grand Wailea

Grand Wailea

The Grand Wailea Maui is aptly named because everything about this resort is grand: from the luxurious accommodations, the water park, an exquisite collection of art, to the pristine location. Situated on 40 acres overlooking beautiful Wailea Beach, the Grand Wailea boasts an award-winning spa, delicious array of dining, shopping, and an endless variety of recreation.

One of the pools with cascading fountain

The water park features nine pools, seven waterslides, caves and grottos, waterfalls and rapids. There is even a pool designated for scuba diving lessons, and an adult pool with an ornate hibiscus flower mosaic gracing its floor. Children ages 5-12 have a special place of their own at the Camp Grande with a theater, craft room, children’s restaurant, outside play area and game room. Activities include nature walks, hikes, arts and crafts, and creative projects like making leis, t-shirt dyeing and ukulele lessons. There are plenty of activities for children under five and teens also, as well as daily poolside workshops.

For more information on this lovely resort visit www.grandwailea.com

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

Maui Hayatt Regency Resort & Spa

40 lush acres on the shores of gorgeous Kaanapali Beach beckon families to the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa. Guests are first welcomed by the breathtaking atrium lobby, alive with tropical birds, flowers, plants, trees, and various tranquil ponds with koi and swans. Another special and exotic treat for visitors in the lobby area are the family of African Black-footed Penguins. This enchanting reception sets the tone to an idyllic stay at this resort where recreation, a spa, shops, stunning art collection, luxurious accommodations, and dining and entertainment abound.

View of the Hyatt Maui pool

Children will love the water playground with its shimmering pools, spouting geysers, waterfalls, slide and rope suspension bridge. Activities like hula dance lessons, lei making and other programs offer memory-making opportunities. The resort’s own Cirque Polynesia showcases exciting acrobatics, while the nightly luaus give guests a delightful taste of traditional culture with music, dances, arts and crafts demonstrations, all-you-can-eat buffet and open bar.

For more information on this fantastic resort read a first hand account from one of our family writers: The Hyatt Regency Resort in Maui – Kid Heaven!

You can also visit their official website at: www.maui.hyatt.com

Napili Kai Beach Resort

Napili Kai Beach Resort

Nestled among the palms of the serene Napili Bay in Lahaina, the Napili Kai Beach Resort offers families an unhurried, uncomplicated, unpretentious and totally authentic Hawaiian experience. This gem of a resort exudes all the warmth and gracious hospitality of old Hawaii with comfortably appointed spacious accommodations, dining and recreation. Complimentary tea, coffee, juice, and fresh pineapple welcome guests each morning at the beach cabana, along with cultural presentations. There are free weekly activities including Mai Tai and putting parties, hula dancing, lei-making lessons and garden tours.

The tranquil waters are perfect for snorkeling

Some of the island’s best snorkeling and swimming is found here. Guests will also enjoy the four swimming pools, hot tub, water sports and a host of other activities and resort amenities. The seasonal Keiki Club for kids features complimentary activities for children ages 6-10 that include painting, drawing, music, and a variety of wonderful crafts.

For more information on this exclusive resort visit their website at www.napilikai.com

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

Maui Sheraton Resort & Spa

Sitting on 22 acres along the golden sugary sands of Kaanapali Beach by the renowned Black Rock, the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa boasts lovely accommodations, dining and entertainment, and a plethora of recreation and activities for the whole family including the Sheraton Adventure Club for children. Experience the nightly distinctive torch lighting and cliff diving ceremony off Black Rock at sunset where legend holds that ancient spirits jumped from this world.

Pool and ocean view of this lovely resort

There are luau celebrations with vibrant festival dances and a sumptuous feast, cultural activities, great snorkeling by Black Rock, a 142-foot swimming lagoon tucked within lush tropical gardens, soothing hot tub, flowing waterfalls, and shallow (one foot depth) children’s pool. This oasis is one of Maui’s best resorts and a favorite among many.

The Maui Sheraton Resort & Spa is a great location for an outdoor wedding.  See the following article about one of our family writers visiting the Sheraton Maui Resort for a beautiful wedding: Ocean Lawn Wedding at the Maui Sheraton Resort

For more information on this great venue visit their official website at: www.sheraton-maui.com

We loved the north shore of Maui and eclectic Paia town

Paia is a north shore Maui enclave not that far from the airport in Kahilui. Here locals-dominated beaches are found at the end of short trails; boutique shops and interesting, artist owned galleries push up against old fashioned grocery stores and straight-from-the-70′s New Age book shops, and the very well known Mana foods, a large health food grocery with a good supply of organic staples and vitamin supplements, for those so inclined. Crepe shops and Mexican restaurants are joined by Willie Nelson’s own eatery, Charley’s. Charley’s features some of the best pancakes on the island and a road house ambiance. Sometimes, Willie himself will provide an evenings entertainment – we were told we’d just missed him when we stayed in town. 

And where did we stay? At the small, modern Paia Inn Hotel, located right in town. We had small but sleek looking adjoining rooms with a view of the town itself rather than the coast. Room service is provided but from a town restaurant, Anthony’s, with sandwiches and smoothies the main staples. Breakfast cereals and tea and coffee were free in the lobby. We loved the small town, local atmosphere of the Paia community and the mix of upscale shops and counter culture stores that could’ve been transported via time machine from 1960 San Francisco‘s Haight Ashbury. We also loved being able to wander out of our hotel to nibble on the aforementioned crepes and pancakes, or try the cool pizza bar, Flatbread, just across the street. We also enjoyed a pleasant early evening stroll to the Paia Contemporary Gallery for an evening opening that offered wine and cheese for adults and fruit juice for kids, who were welcomed to the reception. 

As to beach going, the hotel offers private access but via a fairly complicated path between houses. We were led to our gated destination by hotel staff who also helped us master the gate security code provided only to guests. We loved the pretty soft sand cove with gentle waves, a perfect place to spend the day with the kids. The small adventure of reaching the shore line added to a ‘secret garden’ feeling; the hotel thoughtfully provides and sets up beach chairs and umbrellas. If you stopped at Flatbread first, you’re set for a relaxing, private day. 

Once the site of a bustling sugar plantation and sugar town, Paia turned into a sleepy surfing and counter culture community with the waning of the sugar industry. Paia shows its history with its pastel colored plantation style cottage homes. Today, without the tourist crowds of Lahaina and the posh resorts in Wailea, Paia remains fairly quiet, fairly local, but is also becoming more and more of a beacon for those who enjoy an eclectic, gallery-rich street scene with a laid back, family friendly vibe. 

Paia is still situated in the midst of expansive sugar cane fields. Here on quiet northern Maui, it serves as the entry point for traversing the Highway to Hana and Maui’s upcountry communities and Haleakala volcano. It’s a small town that hearkens back to early, sleepy Maui days. 

At busy, mostly locals Baldwin Beach we enjoyed a favorite Paia past time – watching surfers. If you’re not a surfer yourself, you will still enjoy watching world class masters at play on Paia’s justifiably well known waves. You’ll find wind surfers at the beaches just north of town, which also makes for some awesome viewing. Hookipa Beach Park, is known as the wind surfing capital of the world. The rocky shore here isn’t good for swimming, but it’s fun for the kids to scramble over the stones with the wind surfers as a colorful backdrop. 

We also enjoyed chatting with the owner of Konrad’s Ship Gallery, an artistic enclave that sells hand-carved miniatures of Hawaiian canoes. The kids had to be convinced these weren’t easily purchased cool toys, but they were fascinating to look at and equally fascinating to learn about the care and technique involved in creating this art. 

Fabulous food and a fun Polynesian setting makes Mama's Fish House special

Just south of Paia, but before beginning the actual Highway to Hana drive, you’ll find fish eating heaven at Mama’s Fish house as well as another great way to spend a seaside afternoon. Come to the cover for its tide pools and soft white sand, stay for dinner in a bamboo walled, Polynesian style setting with friendly waitresses wearing flowers behind their ears and offering non-alcoholic versions of fresh fruit infused drinks to the kids. The kids are well treated on the food side of the menu as well, with junior sized portions of fish crusted with macadamia nuts or baked in ti leaves. Lots of organic veggies for those who want to pass on the seafood experience, and fresh coconut offered as a side dish. The cove is also a great place to view a sunset. 

On “Final Friday’s” Paia shops stay open late, galleries serve treats, and local musicians hit the streets to perform. Children who like to dance, clap, and sing along are more than welcome to indulge. The Maui Cooperative, an artist’s collective, also stays open late, with music, snacks, and a wide variety of art works and crafts for sale. 

So if you’re looking for an old fashioned Maui, a small town eclectic ambiance, a private beach, and an excellent entrance point for driving the Highway to Hana, Paia is a perfect starting point – or a perfect spot to settle in and relax awhile.

Maui is both lush and green, and peaceful and a tourist destination of resorts and condos. The island has history and the island has nature; its neither as rural as much of Kauai or the Big Island, nor as urban as Oahu. The contrasts on this island are smaller than those between volcano and lava drenched sea scape on the Big Island, but equally pleasurable to discover and enjoy. One of our favorite discoveries on a recent trip was a beautiful, soft sand beach in South Maui. 

Nearly hidden between the condo community of Kihei and the resorts of Wailea, Keawakapu is a lovely half mile white sand crescent with waves gentle enough for the smallest tot. It also sports free parking along South Kihei road, and mansion-gawking for parents not privy to a majorly upscale lifestyle. We like this mellow beach with its soft fine sand more than other equally pristine beaches on South Maui because of its uncrowded atmosphere and those clear, shallow waves. We spent a wonderful afternoon here, and brought picnic fixings from a nearby Kihei grocery store, Foodland. A great deli there, with plenty of vegetarian sandwiches along with tasty cold cuts for the carnivores. 

We loved the flowers and the temple at Maui's Kahanu Garden

You’ll find a different kind of Maui treasure at the very lovely Kahanu Garden, which is one part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Located off the tourist path and not far from Hana Airport, this beautiful garden is best viewed when combined with a drive on the Hana Highway or a stay in Hana, rather than making a special trip just for the garden, as interesting and pretty as it is. The garden has both local, indigenous plants and botanical wonders from other islands brought by Maui’s Polynesian ancestors. There are pleasant, easy paths to stroll and many interesting examples of island flora and fauna. The garden also houses the very impressive Piilanihale Heiau, which is Maui’s largest ancient temple, in fact the largest ruin in all of the Hawaiian islands. This sacred spot features an enormous rock wall. While the rocks are plentiful, don’t be tempted to take a souvenir, legends and guide books relate stories of tourists who took a rock home, had bad luck, and sent them back to the temple. No bad luck ensues from admiring the impressive wall though, or letting your kids run the length of the temple area. 

In Central Maui, there’s fantastic bird watching to be had at the seven hundred acre Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, just off Highway 311. This large wetland is also a bird sanctuary, and we spent a wonderful morning watching stilts, herons, coots, and migrating sea birds. Bring binoculars or don’t – you’ll see plenty of feathered friends. 

For a fun time that has nothing at all to do with nature, try Wailea’s Matteo Pizzeria. This may very well be the lowest priced meal available in South Maui, but the most excellent pizza would be a great find at any price. Locals love the place, and so do the tourist’s who’ve discovered the thin crust crispy pizza. Now pizza isn’t health food, but we always look for the maximum of fresh and local ingredients and a minimum of sodium in ours, and we found both in the delicious thin-crust margherita pizza made with fresh mozzarella. This is not elegant spot, you place your order at the counter, and then take a table with a lush golf course view. The prices are so reasonable you can head over to the upscale Wailea mall for a decadent desert or two at Tommy Bahama’s. 

Another low budget food find is Grandma’s Coffee House. This cute coffee shop is near the town of Kula in upcountry Maui, located in the village of Keokea. This is a good stop if you are bound for a look at the Haleakala volcano or returning from a visit. There’s fresh made fruit juice or fruit plates for the tots and Maui grown organic coffee for the adults. Best of all there are amazing views if you sit out on the wooden deck. It’s a great way to start or complete a morning trip to this part of the island. If you prefer to cut your own fruit, hit the nearby Kula Farm Stand. We found guavas, mangos and pineapples here. 

So many favorite beaches in Maui.

Pricier but delicious – and very kid friendly, with ingredients carefully monitored upon parental request – is Merriman’s Kapalua which operates inside the Kapalua Resort. Organic, local, delicious, and ocean front. Great views of Molokai. We loved the fresh fish, and the kids filled up on reasonably priced corn chowder. 

Back in South Maui, we enjoyed just spending some time hanging out at the Four Seasons, although we were staying down the beach. Lunch on the patio is elegant and relaxing; or stay for just the thin, crispy french fries. Best of all the art work in the lobby is extensive and makes a pleasant introduction to artistic endeavors for small children. The collection features many local Hawaiian artists whose works you would not otherwise see outside of a museum. Naturally the beach here is lovely, too. 

One more favorite Maui activity: watching liquid glass spin into the shapes of waves, fish, jellyfish, and flowers at Hot Island Glass in the cowboy village of Makawao. The kids were riveted by the work of the glass blowers and the red flames of the furnace that heats the glass. Best of all, sometimes the craftsmen will offer discarded pieces of colored glass to be handled and treasured. 

We love all these Maui stops and hope you’ll enjoy discovering them and making them some of your favorite destinations too.

As with Hana Highway, this is a road of many twists and turns, and there is a section of it that still bears the name County Road 340 that is one lane and full of curves. If you have children – or adults – in your party that are prone to car sickness, this is a journey best foregone. But barring that possibility, it’s one you and your family should relish. Only sixty miles round trip, this road will bring you fantastic views, particularly as the road begins to climb through the mountains of West Maui.  

We loved the ocean views from Highway 30 on Maui

From these lovely heights you’ll see a glimpse of Maalaea Bay, and in the late fall through spring you may be able to spot some migrating humpback whales. You’ll also see the uninhabited island of Kahoolawe, and as you drive, Lanai, the pineapple island. All along this drive you’ll see both ocean views and the West Maui mountains as you take this road. The road was deserted enough even at this beginning portion of the drive that we were able to make a few stops to watch lizards on rocks and the steady and beautiful undulation of the sea, and raise our binoculars to watch for the whales. We didn’t spot any, but as our visit was the very end of May, we might have missed them.  

New adventures awaited. We loved following the dictates of a Maui superstition that honking your vehicle’s horn inside a tunnel fends away evil spirits. The small rock tunnel made the sound echo and the kids cheer. Shortly after the tunnel what were low rising hills truly turn into mountains, as West Maui mounts to nearly six thousand feet. Here you’ll get stunning views of rich, wet green valleys and the land that leads into Iao Valley away from the coast and the scene of an historic island battle. There is a lush primal feeling to this area, and the bright greens and golds are somehow quintessentially Mauian.  

Soon you’ll be entering Lahaina, a true tourist town but a great stop for lunch, whether you want a burger or an elegant meal. We liked lunching on appetizers at the Mala Ocean Tavern, sharing orders of local mahi mahi ceviche with crisp house made tortilla chips, coconut shrimp, and a great platter of hummus, olives, babaganoush and feta cheese with fresh pita bread. The kids chose tomato shitake mushroom flat bread, with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil – an avant garde pizza with style. The food was all made with organic, island sourced ingredients and tasted like it, too. We browsed the galleries, with their large collection of ocean scenes and fish-centric animal portraits, ukelele shops, tee shirt stores, and flip flop havens.  

We walked along the slightly oily harbor area, admiring the boats, and took some photos with a guy who made his living charging tourists like us to pose with the parrot perched on his shoulder. We also strolled through the historic prison, Hale Paahao, once a second home to drunken sailors subdued into better behavior by turn of the century missionaries. Better than the cool and echoing passageways was the giant monkeypod tree – around which a small crafts fair was strung for some browsing before we hit the road again. We found wonderful handmade soaps while the kids enjoyed running around the grassy area. Note: the town beach in Lahaina is just a narrow stretch for jumping on and off nearby boats; drive up the coast further along Highway 30 to wiggle your toes in the sand.  

Highway 30 swings loosely around the condo-dominated Kaanapali resort community. You can make a beach stop here if you wish, at any number of high rise beach front hotels. There’s plenty of hotel parking and it’s easy to access the beach; but instead we took our stop here at the small Whalers Village Museum, which depicts an interesting but rather sad chronicle of the whaling enterprises that would’ve led the humpbacks circling the Maui coast today to the harpoon.  

Historic Maui is fun to browse, taking a walking break from the Highway 30 drive.

As the road climbs again, the coastal view includes a glimpse of Molokai, a leper colony no more, while inland, impressive looking ironwood trees mark the start of the luxurious Kapalua resort.  

This is a good last stop for sodas or restroom facilities, or a longer stop to enjoy the beach facilities the elegant new Ritz Carlton has to offer. Regardless, from this point on, as the road narrows and wind bowed trees mix with dark lava rock, facilities will be limited. Tight curves led us to several magnificent pull outs that offer vast views of open aqua blue sea. While the speed limit here is indicated as twenty five miles per hour, we didn’t push it much past ten as the road is also down to one lane here. Coming out of this narrow stretch you’ll enter the lovely beach town of Kahakuloa, which lines a pretty black rock beach.  

We found kids selling mangos and lemonade here, and stopped for refreshments and a nice leg stretching for the kids before hugging the one lane road again. Lava rock gives way to green grassy farm country that might be Kentucky or Central California, except for those empty, gorgeous ocean views.  

Next view up: the north side Haleakala volcano and then you’re back in the civilized town of Wailuku, not that far from the airport. Before finishing our loop drive we stopped at the highly recommended Saigon Cafe for tasty and inexpensive noodles in fish broth and an early dinner. Somehow all that driving made us ravenous!

Let’s start with that produce. The vegetable farms here were once given the nickname of Nu Kaleponi, a Hawaiianized version of  “New California.” Immigrants who’d left work at sugar cane factories moved on to start their own farms which source onions, tomatoes, carrots, and cabbage. Flower farms abound here too with the protea crop providing the flowers for most of the leis in Hawaii. We stopped at several fresh produce stands and bought fixings for our own, hotel- lanai created salads, and our kids munched on super sweet fresh tomatoes while we drove. 

We loved discovering the flora, fauna, and fruits and veggies of up-country Maui.

On Kula Road we explored the octagonal Holy Ghost Catholic Church, dating from the mid- 1800′s. This unusually shaped eight sided church has a shiny silver roof and some wonderful artwork inside and Portugese inscriptions, another tribute to Hawaii’s diverse ethnic mix. Our kids were fascinated by the shape of the building. 

But they were most fascinated by Alii Kula Lavender farm. The heavenly smelling blossoms grown year round and the lovely grassy Hawaiian setting makes this a must-stop if you are in or near Kula. We took the  Lavender Garden Tea Tour a morning tour that provides a unique breakfast of lavender scones and tea. And you get a tour of the beautiful gardens and the art studio on the property. Maybe it’s just that intoxicating scent, but we enjoyed the tour almost as much as our wonderful beach going. We spent a long time lingering over the souvenirs in the shop, and bought some lavender honey that made even plain old crackers into a delicious snack while touring the island. 

Makawao is known as the cowboy town on Maui. Perched on the slopes of  Haleakala volcano, the town has lots of interesting shops and restaurants. For those families who like meat, you can’t beat the fresh from the range fare at the Makawao Steak House. We found a small, sushi and smoothie shop called Makawao Sushi and Deli with delicious vegan sushi cut up at lightening speed and sold at bargain prices. You can find it near the Braun Gallery on Makawao Avenue. Local artists exhibit here and at other galleries along the main street; you’ll find Hawaiian landscapes and modern sculptures in galleries where kids are welcomed and even offered candy sticks while you browse. Shops sell cowboy shirts, horse feed, and fine art – often in the same store. Nearby you can watch artisans at work at the Hot Island Glass company. We also enjoyed the shop at the Anuhea Flower Farm, with a witty owner who favored our family with some insights into the lovely, artistic protea arrangements she shaped. 

We loved the scenery of inland, upcountry Maui.

If you’re looking for more art, try Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center, just outside of town. This lovingly curated  arts center offers work shops, including a great looking pottery making class for kids. Called The Hui by locals, the center also has shows that feature the work of artists in residence, and the gift shop here offers one of a kind gifts that are truly one of a kind. The grassy area around the center is a good place for the kids to run around, and the main building is an historic missionary home, worth seeing in its own right. 

Plan ahead, and you might be able to take in an authentic Hawaiian rodeo or cowboy parade in Makawao. We’d just missed the 4th of July extravaganza, but from the photos the small, exciting locals rodeo event seemed like just the kind of activity kids of all ages would enjoy. 

Moving on from the art and cowboys in Makawao, we found Puunene Maui  a once booming sugar-plantation town approaching ghost town status with only the sugar mill and museum to mark its passing. But the museum is well worth a stop. The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum has good displays that depict the history and structure of Maui’s sugar industry, and offers insight into Maui’s ethnic diversity as well. We liked seeing the inner workings of a sugar mill. And we found the exhibits in The Geography Room explaining Maui’s weather patterns and how they impacted sugar growing to be fascinating. From the kids’ perspective however, the best part was the interactive displays including a scale model of cane-crushing machinery. Do it yourself industrial geniuses, our kids didn’t want to leave this room. 

Nearby, on the Honoapiilani Highway, we discovered the small one street town called  Waikapu Maui, where you can get a look at the history of this plantation-rich region. We took a kid-friendly forty minute tram ride that led us through pineapple, sugar cane, macadamia nut, and papaya fields at Maui Tropical Plantation. It’s still a real, working plantation today. Halfway through the tram ride, we were given a coconut husking demonstration and offered a few bites of fresh coconut. The tour guide was amusing, there were fresh fruit samples available in the shop, and this sixty acre plantation gave us a good look at both what’s grown and how it’s grown in Hawaii. 

Another attraction that allows little feet to ride instead of walk is the Sugar Cane Train, which we loved. A steam engine powers open air cars on a twelve mile round trip through sugar cane fields. The folksy conductor sang songs and pointed out scenery and historical landmarks as the train made its way to the coast. We had great views of Lanai and Molokai from the cars. 

Your kids will love the change of scenery – exploring a side of Maui that’s not experienced from beneath a beach umbrella or bobbing in those delicious, warm waves.

Sunset in southern Maui is always spectacular.

We stayed at the Maui Prince Hotel, the resort farthest south in a strip of gorgeous beaches and many resort hotels to choose from. We loved its pristine sand crescent, the fact that Molokini early morning snorkeling trips run directly off the beach in front of the hotel, and the general laid- back vibe of the property. We also liked the large lanais in the guest room with flower garden, ocean, or partial ocean views. The hotel is Japanese owned and has a certain austere quality to the furnishings and a distinctly zen like feeling to many of the garden areas on the property. 

While the hotel is a very short drive to Big Beach Maui - a gorgeous, broad, and big stretch of sand just a few miles farther south from the hotel property, the beach at the Maui Prince is really everything you could want for your family. It’s uncrowded, the water is clear and the waves are gentle, and for adults and kids old enough to participate, the snorkeling right off the beach is one of the best spots on the island.  There’s also a luau held on the hotel’s manicured grounds several nights a week. The entertainment is first rate, and you can hear and enjoy the music even if you’re not attending, and just taking a twilight beach stroll or swim. Nearby you’ll find the shops at Wailea, an upscale mall with many restaurant choices; our kids enjoyed the coconut shrimp at Tommy Bahamas. One meal you shouldn’t miss is the hotel’s Sunday brunch, which even locals love. The fresh fruit choices alone are worth the price of admission, and kid’s prices are a comparative bargain and will keep everyone stoked for a day’s beach going or driving adventure. 

En route to the south end of Maui from the airport, you’ll travel past Kealia Pond National Wildlife Preserve. Take the time to walk through at least a portion of this seven hundred plus acre wetland either coming or going. The bird watching is simply awesome, and our kids loved seeing the variety of wild life and being able to see so many interesting birds. You’ll see coots, herons, plovers, ducks and other beautiful birds as you take an easy walk along a boardwalk with informational signs and plenty of shaded shelters for relaxing and watching the birds. You’ll also see sand dunes, pretty ponds, and a view of windy Maalaea Harbor. 

Once you’ve crossed the island’s center and headed south, be forewarned that the town of Kihei Maui has a lot of traffic – and many, many condos to rent. This is a great place to stop at a grocery store to provision up; there’s also an ABC store in town. If you haven’t enjoyed a trip to this haven of cheap fruit drinks, macadamia nuts, souvenirs, beach towels, and floaties, now is an excellent time. The beach toys are inexpensive and we’ve always donated our floaties to other hotel guests when we leave a destination. In Kihei, the town beaches invariably offer white sand and blue surf; however the water clarity and beach beauty is going to get better as you drive on to Wailea and Makena further south. A lovely stop here is the one and a half mile nature trail that hugs the coast line between two elegant hotels: the Fairmont Kea Lani Hotel and the Wailea Marriott Resort. The winding, easy path will take you past plants and trees and lead you to clearly marked shoreline access points. You’ll see great ocean views and there are several well placed benches where you can take a rest, have a snack, look for whales, and view Lanai in the distance. 

All of these beaches are perfect – great sand, warm, gentle surf. Even if you’re not staying at one of the resorts, you’ll be able to rent umbrella and chairs and enjoy a long and restful day in paradise. The soft fine sand here is great for sand castle building, too. The Maui Prince Hotel, where we stayed, is just down the road, where Wailea meets Makena. 

We loved having a view of Lanai from the southern end of Maui.

As you cross into Makena, the golf courses and manicured gardens give way to a more wild coast line marked with lava as well as the large sandy stretches of Big Beach. Makena Landing is a beach park with facilities for boats and kayaks; and it’s fully equipped with bathroom facilities and picnic tables. 

If you go south on Makena Road you’ll reach an historic church, the Keawalai Congregational Church which dates from 1855. This isn’t an ordinary church in any sense,  with walls 3 feet thick and surrounded by ti plants. Its built of lava and coral, and it is situated on its own lovely sandy beach. We found the cemetery fascinating, with some graves decorated with a photo of the departed. Sunday mornings the church holds a Hawaiian language service with wonderful music. Out kids loved just hearing the Hawaiian words, and the setting adds a beautiful reverential feeling to the proceedings. 

Continuing south, you’ll come to another historic spot, the La Pérouse Monument, a mound of  lava rocks indicating the place French explorer Admiral Comte de La Perouse first arrived  on Maui in 1786. He was the first western visitor to explore the island, although he didn’t stay around very long and found the climate too hot for his taste. Near the monument you’ll find a parking area and a rocky coast line that is best for walking along rather than beach going. Because of the sharpness of the lava rocks, if your kids are large enough to be ambulatory but not small enough that spills can happen, be sure to carry them. Even a short stroll across the lava affords some lovely views, and if you’re up for a longer trail, a three quarters of a mile round trip will take you to the lighthouse at the tip of Cape Hanamanioa. 

Whether you’re relaxing on the soft sandy beaches or exploring the history of Makena, your family will love the southern side of Maui.

Hana is truly its own destination, all rain forest, water falls, pristine beaches and lovely blue ocean pools. This part of Maui gets over ninety inches of rain annually, so no wonder you’ll see plenty of wild flowers like plumeria and ginger in constant bloom. Along the road your children will be able to spot many beautiful trees and blossoms. You’ll also find fun road-side honor stands that allow you to buy your own bouquets and fresh fruits and just leave your cash in the money box. Our kids loved stopping to get do-it-yourself snacks – homemade cookies, mangos, papayas, pineapple, and coconut chunks.  

We loved the beautiful waterfall views driving along the highway to Hana.

While you can easily traverse Hana highway in a single day, it’s even more pleasurable if you explore it in small chunks. Only sixty miles long, it will take about three hours to drive with frequent stops included, and it is truly all about the journey – as well as a beautiful destination.  

You’ll start in the small, funky town of Paia Maui, where there are charming boutique stores and plenty of restaurants to pick up some food to go. The last stop for food is the Maui Grown Market about seven miles outside of Paia, where you can get sandwiches, fruit, and a potty stop. In Paia proper you’ll find choices ranging from a crepe restaurant – with excellent veggie crepes – to sandwiches and full meals. There are also gas stations to fill your rental vehicle’s tank if necessary. You’ll end your journey either with a return trip through Paia or a night’s stay at the Hotel Hana’s lovely if expensive cottages, or in a condo by the sea. Hana itself is a quiet, pretty small town which has its own gentle, swimmable bay, a small cultural center and museum and  the Hasegawa General Store, a Maui staple with its odds and ends of sometimes exotic merchandise for picnic lunches.  

If you zero out your odometer in Paia, you’ll find a lovely half mile nature trail through ferns and lush bamboo forest at the roadside Waikamoi Ridge Trail, about .6 miles past mile marker 9.  Overlooks of splendid valleys and curving hills, picnic tables, and an easy ramble await you along the trail.  

Another easy walk is inside the Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanical Garden at mile marker 10½. Our kids loved exploring the flowers and folliage here on well marked, gentle paths. You’ll learn a lot about the native plants, too.  

At Kaumahina State Wayside Park, a bit beyond mile marker twelve, you’ll find lovely views of the wild ocean coast, a sheltered picnic spot and that all important road-travel necessity for small children, restrooms.  

We also enjoyed a good look at Honomanu Bay two miles further along, which has a stunning black sand beach.  

All along the road in this part of the drive you’ll see and be able to simply pull over to the side of the road to experience up close, many small water falls. Larger falls are visible from a distance, or if you’re up for the walk and your little ones are either backpack portable or able to hold your hand along flat but sometimes muddy trails, you can see the falls up close. We found Puohokamoa Stream at mile marker eleven a good stop for a walk to the falls.  

More easy trails lasting only about fifteen minutes and with stellar coast line views are found at the Keanae Arboretum at around mile market sixteen. There’s a small Hawaiian village and a lovely old missionary church at Keanae Village a mile further along. You can walk down a gentle gravel road for a closer look at a small, pretty waterfall.  

We had a hard time deciding which ocean view on the Hana Highway was the best.

A tourist mecca to be sure, the so-called Half Way to Hana Store, Uncle Harry’s Fruit Stand, is another good purveyor of clean restrooms and fruit-related, fresh Hawaiian snacks. When we passed by there was a band playing Hawaiian music and an outdoor grille set up offering shrimp, kailua pork, and vegetable sandwiches, too.  

Our favorite overlook was just one mile further along, the Wailua Valley viewpoint. Here you can view a beautiful patchwork of green land and ocean. The next must-stop is at the Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park just beyond mile marker twenty two. Our kids loved the small stream here, perfect for pitching rocks, and an easy-to-see small waterfall with a small wading pool around it. This was a great leg-stretcher with lots of beautiful ferns and flowers growing wild around the stream.  

Crowded with tourists, we didn’t stay nearly as long at the justifiably famous black sand beach at Wainapanapa State Park, ten miles further down the road at mile marker thirty-two. There is a cave that’s fun to explore, and the path to it, though a bit steep, is very easy to traverse. This park draws a large crowd though, and is probably the main stop for tourists en route to the town of Hana.  

And that’s your next stop, Hana Ranch, where once sugar cane and then cattle were raised. Tourism shares the land today along with today’s cattle rearing industry on a portion of the property. You’ll love the spacious, beautifully appointed free standing rooms of the Hotel Hana, but the prices are high. We opted instead to rent a condo near the bay. We enjoyed strolling the grassy meadow land of the hotel property though, and the hotel restaurant offers a bountiful breakfast with a gorgeous blue-ocean view.  

While interesting trails will lead you to red and black sand beaches, they’re not geared for small children. Hana Bay’s white sand beach is easy to access, calm, and pretty. Hamoa Beach, also soft white sand, is about a mile and a half on the far side of Hana, and also easy to access.  

As beautiful as the destination of Hana is, we loved the drive and the many scenic stops en route best of all, and we’ll bet your family does, too.

We loved exploring Maui's beautiful volcano.

Without the urban center of Honolulu that graces Oahu, Maui is more laid back and has less hustle and bustle in its towns. Still, Maui is a tourist paradise, and the balance between its pristine natural side and the large resorts and condo rentals is carefully maintained. With many visitors composed of family groups, there are children’s menus at most restaurants and many activities at resort hotels and island attractions that focus on the kids. It’s an easy trip for adults because the island opens its arms to your ohana (Hawaiian for family). 

Our first look at that natural side of island life was driving from the airport to the Maui Sheraton Resort and Spa, our chosen resort for a recent trip. En route, off the coast – whales! In migration season they’re clearly visible from a variety of pull out view points. Spotting humpbacks in the gorgeous aqua sea made us swing into a guide-book recommended spot: the Whalers Village Museum in Kaanapali. This free admission attraction focuses on a less benign form of whale-centric activity: hunting rather than watching the humpbacks in all their magnificence. Whale hunting was a major industry in Hawaii in the 1800′s, and this museum depicted it well, including recreated crew quarters, examples of carved scrimshaw, and hunting harpoons. 

Maui Sheraton Resort and Spa

On to the hotel. We’d had a difficult time choosing a resort out of many options, but the Sheraton Maui won out because of the family suite accommodation combining a bedroom and living room for plenty of space. We were also impressed by kid’s activities such as junior snorkeling, hula lessons, sand castle building, and lei making. The snorkeling is in a sheltered jetty, and available for ages 5 and up. Best of all, there’s a one foot deep children’s pool perfect for toddlers. 

The resort is located near Lahaina, a funky, fun town from which you can take a ferry to the completely laid back island of Lanai, attend a stellar luau, or take a sunset tour in a glass bottom vessel. Once the capital of Hawaii, there are historical buildings worth an afternoon stroll, plenty of restaurants and souvenir shops; and bars from which the music spills pleasantly. We browsed galleries, bought a few tee shirts, and took a ninety minute ride on a submarine. The sub was a great hit for its view of a sunken replica of a whaling ship, and a plethora of multi colored fish. While the sub tour requires kids to be three feet tall, the catamarans that offered whale watching and harbor cruises did not. 

Our favorite restaurant in Lahaina is the Lahaina Grille. This is an upscale restaurant with cordial, special-diet accommodating staff, and a laid back vibe. Our kids were treated to samples of a variety of appetizers, and their warm chocolate cake was absolutely amazing. As we loved the goat cheese and mango salad, the server recommended we make a visit to the goat cheese purveyor, the Surfing Goat Dairy perched at the entrance to Haleakala volcano. Not only are there free tastings, there are excellent tours for all ages, where kids are invited to try both milking and herding the goats. You can also buy a bag of hay for a dollar and just feed the baby goats — all with a view of the magnificent volcano. 

When you’ve tired of gazing up at the volcano, then it’s time to take a drive. The curving road leads up ten thousand feet, and many tourists tackle the drive early in the morning to watch the sun rise from the summit, while others pay for a hotel pick-up and a ride to the top followed by a bicycle adventure all the way down. We didn’t rise early or rent bikes; instead we took a lesiurely late afternoon drive. The view of ocean and island greenery below is still spectacular, and at the windy summit, clouds wafted around our heads. Easy trails lead from parking lots across the harsh volcanic rock to view points; although our kids were content with viewing the lush coast line. 

Exploring Maui took us from the beach to the volcano to the sugar cane fields.

Another great attraction is also located mid island, in the Iao Valley. Here you’ll find the Maui Nature Center, featuring excellent and interactive exhibits about the Hawaiian ecosystem.  A short drive away is the Iao Needle, situation in a deep green valley. This twenty two hundred fifty foot stone pillar is a rock pinnacle once used as an altar. Located in Iao Valley State park, the needle is impressive, and the park itself is lush with native flora. Easy hikes make this a great location for families to explore. 

Another great family spot: the Maui Ocean Center. This aquarium is focused solely on native Hawaiian marine life, and if you or your kids are going to snorkel, it’s a great introduction to just what fish you’re seeing there in the sea. Our kids enjoyed the massive tiger shark on display, too, and hoped not to meet him or his peers personally. 

Along with pleasant beach relaxation and the balmy warm Maui waters, these activities will easily fill one Maui vacation for you as it did for us. We’ll explore other Maui adventures in upcoming blogs. Aloha!