Author Topic: Maui Master Thread (Read 1346715 times)

Something Fishy · « **Reply #3080 on:** July 08, 2016, 03:14:08 PM »

Quote from: Mootkim on July 08, 2016, 02:50:44 PM

thanks so much for the advice and btw great TR sf! where would you suggest leaving my luggage for 2 days while I do the rth?is there a place that you know of in maybe kula that I can stay in one night,leave my luggage there for 2 days and pick it up after the rth on my way back to the west side of maui?

There's a place right by the airport with very good prices. I think it was dicsussed here very recently.

Mootkim · « **Reply #3081 on:** July 08, 2016, 04:46:36 PM »

do you mind showing me i cant find anything about it

Buruch · « **Reply #3082 on:** July 10, 2016, 03:38:08 PM »

Just google "storage place in Kahului".

Emkay · « **Reply #3083 on:** July 24, 2016, 05:40:13 PM »

Hawaii is one of the most reviewed destinations here so I'm not gonna rehash it all, just a couple random points.

1) real rainbows are produced in Hawaii, all others are knockoffs.
2) The cars in the Aloha State don't come equipped with horns.
3) Don't mind the forecast, it's always beautiful. If it starts raining just drive 12 ft in either direction or wait half a minute.
4) the pricing algorithm is simple, either free or substantially overpriced. There are almost no activities in the $1-$100 range.
5) there are more timeshare sellers than timeshare properties, any ads that show an amazing price for an activity are a timeshare presentation.
6) Maui, and I'm sure the other islands to an extent are not really the ideal vacation destination at all for infants or toddlers. There are closer and cheaper locations with the same activities that they would be able to partake in.
7) Dont limit your reading to just Maui Revealed.

The following is a my likely not very popular opinion and I take no responsibility for any of it. This is my perceptive findings and I understand that many may even find it offensive. By no means am I trying to imply that some of these things aren't great, on the contrary I had an awesome time with everything I did. It's hard to go wrong in a place as fabulous as Hawaii.

Overrated.
1) Convertible - Im not saying it isn't great but if it's double the price I'm not so sure it's necessary.
2) Pom meals - The meals were very decent and there are times I would still purchase them but I don't think it's necessary here, between the price, storage, and inconvenience of transport, I would prob stick with some other options next time.
3) Tabis - I'm sure they are absolutely unbelievable but I bought standard water sneakers and didn't find a void that necessitated wearing those hideous looking things.
4) Haleakala sunrise - I haven't personally done it but I went for sunset which according to those I spoke to who have seen both is pretty high up if not equal to sunrise. While it was absolutely stunning and I very well may go for sunset again next time, I personally would never be able to justify waking up 3 hrs before sunrise to drive over 3 hrs RT just for a photo op. (BTW admission went up to $20 and you can usually throw every national park in this category, including seven sacred pools)

Underrated.
1) RTH south loop - driving the RTH and then turning around is missing out on so much.
2) Ka'anapali beach walk at sunset - if you would sacrifice so much to go to Haleakala it is ridiculous not to do this.
3) Wailea Iki Falls - an uphill but very easy 10 minute hike on a hunters road to a phenomenal view and gorgeous waterfall with likely not a soul to join you. (Obviously get a permit from EMI prior

)
4) Warren & Annabelle - there's a reason around 3/4 of the audience when I was there has been there at least once prior with many having been there more than 5 times. Every local I spoke to swore by it. Tickets aren't super cheap but still one of the cheaper of the paid activities on the island. Pair it with a half hour walk down front street in downtown Lahaina.

yoohoo · « **Reply #3084 on:** July 24, 2016, 05:53:29 PM »

Quote from: Emkay on July 24, 2016, 05:40:13 PM

Hawaii is one of the most reviewed destinations here so I'm not gonna rehash it all, just a couple random points.

1) real rainbows are produced in Hawaii, all others are knockoffs.
2) The cars in the Aloha State don't come equipped with horns.
3) Don't mind the forecast, it's always beautiful. If it starts raining just drive 12 ft in either direction or wait half a minute.
4) the pricing algorithm is simple, either free or substantially overpriced. There are almost no activities in the $1-$100 range.
5) there are more timeshare sellers than timeshare properties, any ads that show an amazing price for an activity are a timeshare presentation.
6) Maui, and I'm sure the other islands to an extent are not really the ideal vacation destination at all for infants or toddlers. There are closer and cheaper locations with the same activities that they would be able to partake in.
7) Dont limit your reading to just Maui Revealed.

The following is a my likely not very popular opinion and I take no responsibility for any of it. This is my perceptive findings and I understand that many may even find it offensive. By no means am I trying to imply that some of these things aren't great, on the contrary I had an awesome time with everything I did. It's hard to go wrong in a place as fabulous as Hawaii.

Overrated.
1) Convertible - Im not saying it isn't great but if it's double the price I'm not so sure it's necessary.
2) Pom meals - The meals were very decent and there are times I would still purchase them but I don't think it's necessary here, between the price, storage, and inconvenience of transport, I would prob stick with some other options next time.
3) Tabis - I'm sure they are absolutely unbelievable but I bought standard water sneakers and didn't find a void that necessitated wearing those hideous looking things.
4) Haleakala sunrise - I haven't personally done it but I went for sunset which according to those I spoke to who have seen both is pretty high up if not equal to sunrise. While it was absolutely stunning and I very well may go for sunset again next time, I personally would never be able to justify waking up 3 hrs before sunrise to drive over 3 hrs RT just for a photo op. (BTW admission went up to $20 and you can usually throw every national park in this category, including seven sacred pools)

Underrated.
1) RTH south loop - driving the RTH and then turning around is missing out on so much.
2) Ka'anapali beach walk at sunset - if you would sacrifice so much to go to Haleakala it is ridiculous not to do this.
3) Wailea Iki Falls - an uphill but very easy 10 minute hike on a hunters road to a phenomenal view and gorgeous waterfall with likely not a soul to join you. (Obviously get a permit from EMI prior )
4) Warren & Annabelle - there's a reason around 3/4 of the audience when I was there has been there at least once prior with many having been there more than 5 times. Every local I spoke to swore by it. Tickets aren't super cheap but still one of the cheaper of the paid activities on the island. Pair it with a half hour walk down front street in downtown Lahaina.

1. Dont see why Pom Meals are a pain, Felt like i was in a restaurant every night.
2. I was advised against doing W&A a second time (same performer).

agree with e/t else

Emkay · « **Reply #3085 on:** July 24, 2016, 05:57:18 PM »

Quote from: yoohoo on July 24, 2016, 05:53:29 PM

1. Dont see why Pom Meals are a pain, Felt like i was in a restaurant every night.

I dont recall saying they were a pain but between the price point and lack of convenience I dont think they are absolutely as great as they are made out to be.

Dan · « **Reply #3086 on:** July 24, 2016, 06:54:51 PM »

Quote from: Emkay on July 24, 2016, 05:40:13 PM

7) Dont limit your reading to just Maui Revealed.

What else did you enjoy?

Quote from: Emkay on July 24, 2016, 05:40:13 PM

Overrated.
1) Convertible - Im not saying it isn't great but if it's double the price I'm not so sure it's necessary.
2) Pom meals - The meals were very decent and there are times I would still purchase them but I don't think it's necessary here, between the price, storage, and inconvenience of transport, I would prob stick with some other options next time.
3) Tabis - I'm sure they are absolutely unbelievable but I bought standard water sneakers and didn't find a void that necessitated wearing those hideous looking things.
4) Haleakala sunrise - I haven't personally done it but I went for sunset which according to those I spoke to who have seen both is pretty high up if not equal to sunrise. While it was absolutely stunning and I very well may go for sunset again next time, I personally would never be able to justify waking up 3 hrs before sunrise to drive over 3 hrs RT just for a photo op. (BTW admission went up to $20 and you can usually throw every national park in this category, including seven sacred pools)

1. Either you're a convertible person or you're not. Either way with the right codes or shmoozing it won't cost nearly double.
2. What are the other options? And please don't say Meal Mart for a week.
3. You lose all credibility when you overrate something you didn't try. Hiking down to Olivine Pools in these are a cinch, nor are they as ugly as you make them out to be:

4. I agree, though there are some days that are much better than others.

Quote from: Emkay on July 24, 2016, 05:40:13 PM

Underrated.
1) RTH south loop - driving the RTH and then turning around is missing out on so much.
2) Ka'anapali beach walk at sunset - if you would sacrifice so much to go to Haleakala it is ridiculous not to do this.
3) Wailea Iki Falls - an uphill but very easy 10 minute hike on a hunters road to a phenomenal view and gorgeous waterfall with likely not a soul to join you. (Obviously get a permit from EMI prior )
4) Warren & Annabelle - there's a reason around 3/4 of the audience when I was there has been there at least once prior with many having been there more than 5 times. Every local I spoke to swore by it. Tickets aren't super cheap but still one of the cheaper of the paid activities on the island. Pair it with a half hour walk down front street in downtown Lahaina.

1. Who underrated this? SF and I have called it just as critical as the RTH. Only one who didn't care for it was @Yahuda IIRC
2. Why specifically this? Any western facing point in HI will have amazing sunsets.
3. Who underrated this? I've written it was one of my favorite parts of RTH.
4. Who underrated this? Everyone who has done it has loved it.

Dan · « **Reply #3087 on:** July 24, 2016, 06:56:20 PM »

Quote from: yoohoo on July 24, 2016, 05:53:29 PM

1. Dont see why Pom Meals are a pain, Felt like i was in a restaurant every night.
2. I was advised against doing W&A a second time (same performer).

agree with e/t else

I did W&A a 2nd time with the same performers. It was still good, but it was the exact same act. Like watching a favorite movie it's still enjoyable, but probably not worth the time and money unless at least 1 performer is new.

yoohoo · « **Reply #3088 on:** July 24, 2016, 07:08:12 PM »

Quote from: Dan on July 24, 2016, 06:56:20 PM

I did W&A a 2nd time with the same performers. It was still good, but it was the exact same act. Like watching a favorite movie it's still enjoyable, but probably not worth the time and money unless at least 1 performer is new.

i wouldve gone back in a heartbeat if it was a dif act

Dan · « **Reply #3089 on:** July 24, 2016, 07:13:31 PM »

Quote from: yoohoo on July 24, 2016, 07:08:12 PM

i wouldve gone back in a heartbeat if it was a dif act

Of course. I don't know anyone who didn't love it.

Emkay · « **Reply #3090 on:** July 24, 2016, 10:10:18 PM »

Quote

What else did you enjoy?

Nothing in particular that I can remember offhand,But had I only followed him i woudnt have found some great spots. And its always good to have a second opinion.

Quote

1. Either you're a convertible person or you're not. Either way with the right codes or shmoozing it won't cost nearly double.

I personally got (what I think is) a great deal and I would prob get it again. I was simply stating my opinion if you you arent able to get a great price.

Quote

2. What are the other options? And please don't say Meal Mart for a week.

Im honestly not sure, what did people do before the Pom came around? Being that im based out of Israel for most of my trips I dont have the liberty of picking up frozen travel meals so I usually make do with what I have or cook my own travel meals prior. I was just expecting to be blown away when paying $40 minimum per couple from the great Pom.

Quote

4. I agree, though there are some days that are much better than others.

good to see we somewhat see eye to eye on something.

Quote

3. You lose all credibility when you overrate something you didn't try. Hiking down to Olivine Pools in these are a cinch, nor are they as ugly as you make them out to be:

Im not sure why you say that, I think I was very clear. I specifically said I didn't try them. All I said is that I believe they fill a nonexistent void. At no time did I think to myself, man I wish I had those Tabi things. I am not talking bad about them rather that if its more convenient to stick with reg water sneakers so be it. And to be honest the pictures I was showed of Tabis look different then these.

Quote

1. Who underrated this? SF and I have called it just as critical as the RTH. Only one who didn't care for it was @Yahuda IIRC

OK, next.

Quote

2. Why specifically this? Any western facing point in HI will have amazing sunsets.

Im not sure what it was. Maybe it was the surroundings, the vibes, the weather.... Whatever it was a quick google search shows im def not alone.

Quote

3. Who underrated this? I've written it was one of my favorite parts of RTH.

I was sure I read all your reports and I didnt recall seeing it.

Quote from: Dan on July 24, 2016, 06:54:51 PM

4. Who underrated this? Everyone who has done it has loved it.

There seems to be a misunderstanding. I wasnt saying that anyone mentioned anything dispariging about any of it, rather that they dont get the publicity and ravings they deserve. I know everyone who goes loves it, it just seems that 8/10 dont do it. The same way I think Haleakale is beautiful but it gets more accolades and its higher on peoples lists then deserved.

yoohoo · « **Reply #3091 on:** July 24, 2016, 10:28:53 PM »

U flew from israel to HI?

Emkay · « **Reply #3092 on:** July 24, 2016, 10:32:15 PM »

Quote from: yoohoo on July 24, 2016, 10:28:53 PM

U flew from israel to HI?

No, NY.

skyguy918 · « **Reply #3093 on:** July 24, 2016, 10:56:56 PM »

@Emkay. Your sunrise/sunset comments are ridiculous. Basically you only saw sunset, from Haeakala and from Ka'anapali beach. And somehow from there you infer that Haleakala sunrise isn't worthwhile, and that Ka'anapali sunset is better than, say Wailea?

Emkay · « **Reply #3094 on:** July 24, 2016, 10:59:36 PM »

Quote from: skyguy918 on July 24, 2016, 10:56:56 PM

@Emkay. Your sunrise/sunset comments are ridiculous. Basically you only saw sunset, from Haeakala and from Ka'anapali beach. And somehow from there you infer that Haleakala sunrise isn't worthwhile, and that Ka'anapali sunset is better than, say Wailea?

I never said anything of that sort. I wasnt joking when I said people would get offended by it.....
And I saw sunset in 4 different places there.

Dan · « **Reply #3095 on:** July 24, 2016, 11:03:08 PM »

Wow, didn't even read that you didn't do Haleakala sunrise.
In that case it's another completely ridiculous statement.

Emkay · « **Reply #3096 on:** July 24, 2016, 11:07:41 PM »

Quote from: Dan on July 24, 2016, 11:03:08 PM

Wow, didn't even read that you didn't do Haleakala sunrise.
In that case it's another completely ridiculous statement.

Classic. You agree until you see I haven't gone.
Have you spoken to anyone that had done both? I spoke to at least 20 people that did. Once again please tell me which part of my clear statement is ridiculous?

Dan · « **Reply #3097 on:** July 24, 2016, 11:08:33 PM »

Judging things that you haven't done personally is a ridiculous thing to do.
/.02

Emkay · « **Reply #3098 on:** July 24, 2016, 11:15:30 PM »

Quote from: Dan on July 24, 2016, 11:08:33 PM

Judging things that you haven't done personally is a ridiculous thing to do.
/.02

This is sounding like a Lakewood argument. I hear them bashing Lakewood all the time but once they realize I'm not from there they start loving and staunchly defending it. 75% of people I spoke to agreed with me when they didn't know I didn't go.

skyguy918 · « **Reply #3099 on:** July 24, 2016, 11:16:07 PM »

Quote from: Emkay on July 24, 2016, 11:07:41 PM

Classic. You agree until you see I haven't gone.
Have you spoken to anyone that had done both? I spoke to at least 20 people that did. Once again please tell me which part of my clear statement is ridiculous?

You misunderstand. I have no issue with your decision of which to visit. If getting up for sunrise is a big deal to you, so be it. But don't make it sound like you're recommending one over the other when it's based someone else's experience.

Name	Area	More Info	Comments
____________________________________________________________________________________________________	_____________________________________________________	__________________________________________________________	____________________________________________________________________________
Hyatt Regency	West side (Lahaina)	Website	Hyatt Category 5. The Hyatt advertises having Kosher food. In the past, these meals came from Oahu Kosher (Chabad in Honolulu). However, in Dec 2016 they claimed the meals were prepared by the Chabad of Maui, while in actuality they were prepared by a reform temple (story explained at the bottom of this post), which is still true as of Feb 2017.
Andaz	South side (Wailea)	Website	Hyatt category 8. A favorite among DDFers, although award space isn't easy to come by.
Grand Wailea	South side (Wailea)	Website	Hilton - 80k-95k depending on season. Reminiscent of the GHK in Kauai with sprawling grounds and more pools than you count, located on the beautiful Wailea Beach.
Sheraton	West side (Lahaina)	Website	SPG category 6.
Westin	West side (Lahaina)	Website	SPG category 6.
Fairmont	South side (Wailea)	Website	All suite hotel.
Destination By Hyatt Residence - Polo Club	South side (Wailea)	Website	Condos with full kitchen, Ocean front views. The Polo Club has the closest beach access of any property in Wailea - it's no longer legal to build so close to the shore. The beach is known for good snorkeling. Unlike all the other beaches, access from land is completely restricted to Polo club guests. While technically it is a public beach, access is only available from the sea... so it's a de facto private beach perpetually empty and exclusive.

Name	Area	Comments
______________________________________________________________	____________________________________________________	_________________________________________________________________________________
Black Sand Beach	Waiʻānapanapa State Park	One of the highlights of any Maui trip is black sand beach in Waiʻānapanapa State Park. A bonus feature there is snorkeling at the black sand beach. The waters are exceptionally clear, allowing you to observe a vibrant array of marine life, we saw lobsters, coral, schools of tropical fish, and even an eel. The waters just behind where the waves begin to break are around 10ft deep and super calm. It's important to note that a reservation is required to access this beach, so planning ahead is crucial. https://gostateparks.hawaii.gov/waianapanapa
Beach 2	Area 2	Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
Beach 3	Area 3	Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut laoreet dolore magna aliquam erat volutpat. Ut wisi enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exerci tation ullamcorper suscipit lobortis nisl ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.

Name	Area	Comments
______________________________________________________________	____________________________________________________	_________________________________________________________________________________
Sliding Sands	Haleakala	An amazing hike into the crater from the upper visitors center. Quite challenging due to the constant downhill on a loose cinder trail. Amazing views unlike anything on the island, and no shade. The entire trail takes all day, but most people take it only partway in. Go as far as you like and remember that the way back is a constant uphill and will take twice as long. Bring lots of water.
Pipiwai Trail	Hana	One of the nicest trail on Maui. A bit past Hana, just before the Seven Sacred Pools. The hike goes through the jungle, past banyan trees and a 200-foot waterfall, and through a bamboo forest (this is the highlight for most people). The trail ends at the amazing 400-foot Waimoku Falls. Give this hike a couple of hours.
Lava Field	South Maui	At the end of the road, past the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve. This is an amazing and relatively difficult hike. You will be walking on sharp, loose lava rocks the entire time, but the views are smashing and the terrain interesting. Great views of a particularly wild stretch of ocean, interesting pools (not swimmable), and ends in a glorious (and generally empty) beach if you brave it till the end. Do the loop - hug the coast on the way out, and take the Kings Highway back. See Maui Revealed for all the details.
Makamakaole Stream: 13 Crossings	North East Maui	The name undersells this gorgeous hike by a lot. This hike has close to 20 or more crossings (each way). The crossings are pretty well orchestrated such that a teen or adult can cross dry, with no issues at all. toddlers will need a helping hand (my 3yr old did this entire hike with just some hand holding) and 7-8yr olds will likely manage the entire hike with no help at all. Crossing the beautiful lightly gushing stream is refreshing and mesmerizing. The hike includes a incredible bamboo forest, and has 2 waterfalls. To the left is the main one - which is easy to get to. You are rewarded with the ability to dip into the cool water and it's deep enough to get completely immersed (5-6ft at the deepest point it seemed) and stand under the waterfall for some great pictures and memories. The hike has a lot of rocks, and is a "technical" hike - but not hard at all. Highly recommended as one of the best hikes in Maui. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/hawaii/maui/makamakaole-stream-13-crossings

Activity	Comments
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________	_________________________________________________________________________________
Helicopter tours	A few companies offer this; Blue Hawaiian is generally considered to be the best. There are different routes to choose from - keep in mind that the ones going to Haleakala don't actually go into the crater. This is not as recommended on Maui as it is on other islands, since the entire island is pretty much easily accessible so you won't go anywhere remote or extremely amazing.
Road to Hana	Absolute must-do. Don't get scared off by misinformation and go all the way around - in a way the backside is even more spectacular that the more popular first half. You do NOT need a special car or 4WD; any regular car could do it happily. Best way to do the road is to spend the night in Hana, as that will leave the most time to explore the thousand different things along the road. If you're only going for the day, make sure to be on the road EARLY (7-7:30 the latest).
Haleakala Sunrise	A spectacular event that is not to be missed. You will wake up at the witching hour, it will be freezing cold, and it will be absolutely worth it. Be there at least 45 minutes before the listed sunrise - the earlier the better; they close the upper parking lot when it fills up and you'll have to park at the lower visitor center lot. Dress warmly and bring lots of jackets and blankets. Take the trail to Pakaoao (White Hill) and you'll have the sunrise to yourself (mostly, at least). Tip: for younger kids it may be more worthwhile to go for sunset and avoid disturbing their sleeping schedule.
'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools)	Also known as the Seven Sacred Pools, this is in the Hana side of Haleakala National Park. Save your receipt from sunrise; it's valid for three days and will get you in to the pools too. Short hike from the parking lot to the pools, and it's absolutely stunning. Will be absolutely PACKED from around 1PM and on (but still worth it). If you're staying in Hana go early in the morning and it'll be mostly empty.
Snorkling Molokini crater	Countless boat companies will take you out to Molokini. It has the best underwater visibility in the state, sometimes over 100 feet. Somewhat overrated and over-touristed, but generally considered to be worth it.
Whale watching	The waters surrounding Maui are the stage for some of the best whale watching in the world. Each winter (December through May), thousands of koholā (humpback whales) travel to Hawaiʻi from colder waters to breed, calve and nurse their young. If you are going during this season, grab a pair of binoculars or book a trip to go whale watching. It will blow your mind. Whales jumping 20-30ft into the air falling back in the water with a powerful splash. National geographic moments experienced in real life. If your kids like marine life, this will be unforgettable. People recommend the nonprofit: https://www.pacificwhale.org/ However if you're slightly more adventurous, and want more of a thrill, go for one of the speedboats. They go a lot closer, and the lower boat level next to the vast whales creates an experience hard to imagine. The key is - check the ocean with your own two eyes before you book. If you're seeing tons of spouts, breaches, fins and tails - you're going to have a really good time on the boat - up close. If you don't see activity... it probably won't be great.
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Author Topic: Maui Master Thread (Read 1346715 times)