Topic Wiki

Maui Overview/DansMeals:
http://www.dansdeals.com/archives/39407

Trip Reports:
Dan 1, Dan 2, SpillTheBeans, e-Lawyer, Eli, lfas25, RJ898, gavhaller, daganster, Something Fishy, Yehoshua, Marco Polo, @Yehuda, @Yehuda - Grand Wailea, Wizmanison's Maui TR 2018
Sam28 Maui TR Nov 2020 Covid 19, CGR, Rcarentals (Post Maui Fires), Joel



Related DDF Threads:
-Hawaii Master Thread: General Questions And Which Island To Visit?
-Big Island Of Hawaii Master Thread
-Kauai Master Thread
-Oahu Master Thread
-Lanai, Molokai, and Niihau, Hawaii Master Thread


Before you go:

How long should I go for?
You could spend 10 years on Maui and not get your fill. That being said, the bare minimum to enjoy your stay is 4 days on the ground. A week is ideal.

It's possible to do a short trip by leaving early Sunday morning, getting there in the afternoon, and then leaving Thursday night and being back home for shabbos.

Do I need a guide book?
Very definitely. Sure you could find most info online, but nothing compares to a good, written-by-a-local, guide book. Maui Revealed is by far the best option, and will possibly be the best $16 you spent on your trip.

Here it is for FREE.

There is also an app version available for both iOS and Android for $7.99. The app has all the content of the book, plus navigation, offline maps, and links when applicable. You don't really need both, but some people find it useful to have the book while planning (much easier to use) and the app while on the island (for the maps and navigation).

What about Shabbos?
Some authorities hold that there's a dateline issue with Shabbos.
The local communities keep Shabbos on Saturday.
Definitely ask your LOR before you go - some hold simply that Shabbos is on Saturday, some hold that you have to keep Shabbos on both Friday and Saturday, and some hold that you have to keep D'oreisas on Friday and full Shabbos on Saturday.

If you must keep 2 days, remember that there are many questions that could come up (such as when to light Shabbos candles, how to warm up food, etc.), so make sure to discuss it all with your LOR.

There have been books written about the Chabad opinion of keeping Shabbos only on Saturday. Rabbi Aharon Dovid Gancz gives an absolutely fascinating pilpul on the topic, if you get a chance to attend one please record it (with permission) and upload the video online.

Note that you may run into this issue even if you leave the islands Thursday afternoon, as it may already be considered Shabbos. Ask your LOR.


Getting there and getting around:

Air:
The main airport is in Kahului, and is designated OGG. The are two other small airports - Kapalua (JHM) in the West Maui Mountains and Hana (HNM) in the east.
You could fly directly from the mainland to OGG from (bold is seasonal only):

ANC (AS)
BLI (AS, Allegiant Air)
DEN (UA)
DFW (AA)
LAX (AA, DL, HA, UA)
OAK (AS, HA)
ORD (UA)
PDX (AS)
PHX (US)
SAN (AS, HA)
SEA (AS, HA)
SFO (UA)
SJC (AS)
SMF (AS)
YEG (WestJet)
YVR (AC, WestJet)
YYC (AC, WestJet)

There are no direct flights from the East coast, so you will stop in one of these cities.
Alternately, you could fly directly to Honolulu (HNL) and continue to OGG from there.

Hawaiian and Go fly interisland from HNL, KOA, and LIH, Go, and Island Air flies from HNL. Mokulele flies from HNL and KOA, as well as to Kapalua (JHM), Hana (HNM), Molokai (MKK), Lanai (LNY), and Waimea-Kohala (MUE) on the Big Island.

Alternatively, you can also use 5k AA, 6k UA or 7.5k HA miles each way to fly interisland. You can use 15k DL pesos for a RT interisland. United allows a free stopover on a round-trip, so for instance you can fly HNL-LIH-OGG-HNL for just 12K miles.
HA has several tiers, similar to DL, the lowest tier is the only one that's available using partner miles, but with HA miles you can purchase tickets that are otherwise unavailable for additional miles.

Car:
A car is necessary on Maui. All major companies have branches, mostly at the airport. There are also some local companies.

Getting to the Car Rentals is easy and a fun experience (for some). It starts with a 1 or 2 stop Tram ride in a green tram. It takes all of 3 minutes - and the walk with one suitcase would likely take the same 3 minutes - but - it's a very cute welcome to Maui.

Hertz has Gold Choice at the airport. According to National's website there is no Executive Aisle/Selection at the airport, but according to reports there is one, albeit sparse to the point of uselessness. Also check out www.discounthawaiicarrental.com - they book from the major brands, and are worth a try. Costco Travel very often has great prices too.

Make sure to check your reservations often, as prices tend to drop a few weeks before pickup. If it does, make a new reservation and only then cancel your original one.

There's nothing like a convertible on Maui (especially on the Road to Hana). A 4WD is not really necessary, however some people feel more comfortable in one on the 'other side' of the Road to Hana and the hairy parts of Kahekill Hwy (east of the blowhole).

Air Maui will mail you a nice free paper map of the island - click here to request it. It usually takes a week or two to arrive.


Where to stay:

The two most popular area to stay are on the West side (Lahaina, Ka'anapali, Kapalua) and the South side (Wailea, Kihei), due to the better weather there. The South side could sometimes get windy in the winter, though. There are also many places to rent Upcountry (Kula, Pukalani), where the air is cooler and the views smashing (but farther from the beach).



Here are some places that are discussed in this thread:

NameAreaMore InfoComments
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Hyatt RegencyWest side (Lahaina) WebsiteHyatt 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.
AndazSouth side (Wailea)WebsiteHyatt category 8. A favorite among DDFers, although award space isn't easy to come by.
Grand WaileaSouth side (Wailea)WebsiteHilton - 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.
SheratonWest side (Lahaina)WebsiteSPG category 6.
WestinWest side (Lahaina) WebsiteSPG category 6.
FairmontSouth side (Wailea)WebsiteAll suite hotel.
Destination By Hyatt Residence - Polo ClubSouth side (Wailea) WebsiteCondos 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.


"Get your own place"AnywhereWebsiteThere are countless condos, timeshares, or villas available to rent on the island. The advantages are that you get more for your money - a couple of bedrooms, living/dining rooms, and a full kitchen. There will usually be a pool, sometimes even a private one. Additionally, they're often cheaper than a hotel. There are many places to find them -
HomeAway Maui
VRBO Maui
Airbnb Maui




What to do:

Beaches:
There are countless beaches on Maui, and all are public. Most offer amazing snorkeling. The East and South side beaches are safe for swimming / snorkeling year round, while some North and West beaches could be deadly in winter. Here are some popular ones, in no particular order:

NameAreaComments
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Black Sand BeachWaiʻānapanapa State ParkOne 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 2Area 2Lorem 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 3Area 3Lorem 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.


Hiking:
There are a tremendous amount of great hikes on Maui. Check the Maui Revealed book for detailed info on all of them, with maps, difficulty ratings, etc. These are just a few which are discussed in this thread. Additionally check out AllTrails - this app/website is great for seeing local and recent reviews of hikes, including conditions, closures, and tips for how to see the best spots, how to avoid dangerous spots, and all round to get information that will help you decide your hiking plan it's free, and has a paid option that adds some extra features:

NameAreaComments
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Sliding SandsHaleakalaAn 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 TrailHanaOne 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 FieldSouth MauiAt 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 CrossingsNorth East MauiThe 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


Other activities:

ActivityComments
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Helicopter toursA 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 HanaAbsolute 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 SunriseA 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 craterCountless 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 watchingThe 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.
Kayaking
Biking
Horseback riding
Ziplining
Cruises


Shopping:
  • Costco in Kahului has some kosher food, as well as the cheapest gas on the island
  • Lapperts ice cream store


Kosher options in Maui

Chabad of Maui

**Contact Information:**
- **Rabbi:** Mendy Kras
- **Website:** [Kosher Maui Eats](https://www.koshermauieats.com)
- **Location:** Wailea, Maui
- **Contact:**
  - Phone: 808-222-9225
  - Email: chabadofmaui@gmail.com
  - WhatsApp: Available - same number as above.

**Services and Offerings:**
Chabad of Maui, led by Rabbi Mendy Kras, is dedicated to serving the needs of Jewish residents but also Jewish travelers in Maui. Known for their hospitality, they encourage visitors to get in touch for any assistance, particularly during peak vacation times like Yeshiva week.

1. **Kosher Food Options:**
   - **Shabbos Package:** A carefully prepared package for Shabbat, delivered on Fridays. Includes:
     - Meals for two: Double portions for both Friday night and Shabbat day.
     - Contents: First course with fish and salad, chicken with three sides for Friday night, double-wrapped for reheating. Saturday meals come with two courses, 3-4 sides, and dessert.
     - Extras: Challah, wine or grape juice, candles, and matches.
   - **Order Requirement:** Please place orders at least 48 hours in advance. However, if you find yourself in a pinch, do message Rabbi Kras for potential accommodations.
   - Note: This is a premium service due to the costs of maintaining kosher establishments in Maui. Your payments support the Chabad House overhead and operations.

2. **Community Engagement:**
   - **Minyan and Shul Services:** On request, Rabbi Kras can organize a minyan in a hotel over Shabbos, bringing a Sefer Torah and creating a temporary shul for tourists.
   - **Special Events:** During events like Yeshiva week, shul services have been organized in local hotels (e.g., the Four Seasons), complete with a minyan and kiddush. Contact Rabbi Kras for details.

**Supporting Chabad of Maui:**
Your contributions are highly appreciated to support Chabad of Maui's continued services for Jewish travelers.

**Additional Note:** Visitors are encouraged to bring or gift kosher products that are scarce in Maui, as a gesture of support for the Chabad house.

For any further information or assistance, you're welcome to reach out to Chabad of Maui. They are always eager to help ensure a comfortable and spiritually enriching experience for Jewish travelers in Maui.

And

Maui Kosher Farm
A Unique Kosher Experience in Maui

**Contact Information:**
- **Chef:** Mendel Zirkind
- **Cell and WhatsApp:** +1 (917) 440-2632
- **Websites:**
  - Kosher on Maui (https://www.kosheronmaui.com/)
  - Maui Kosher Farm (https://www.mauikosherfarm.com/)
- **Contact:** Use the provided phone number or websites for bookings and inquiries.

**Offerings and Services:**
Maui Kosher Farm, run by Mendel Zirkind and his wife, is a distinct destination offering a comprehensive kosher and Jewish experience in Maui.

1. **Farm Experience:**
   - **Family-Friendly Tour:** An engaging and educational tour suitable for all ages, complete with a special lunch prepared from farm produce.
   - **Artisanal Products:**
     - Sourdough Bread: Made to order (requires 48-72 hours notice).
     - Banana Chips: Made from the farm's bananas.
     - Honey: Produced from the farm's beehives.
     - Dairy Products: Inquire about CH"Y goat milk and homemade goat cheeses.
   - **Seasonal Offerings:** A variety of seasonal items from the farm.

2. **Culinary Services:**
   - **Private Chef:** Mendel offers gourmet meals available for daily takeout and, on select days, dine-in (advance booking required for takeout AND/OR Dine in. Check the website for the list of offerings).
   - **In-Home Chef Experience:** Mendel provides exclusive in-home chef services, subject to seasonal availability. Early booking is recommended.

3. **Shochet Services:**
   - Mendel, a skilled Shochet, can accommodate unique kosher meat requests, thanks to the diverse farm animals like quail, chickens, lambs, goats, geese, and ducks.

4. **Accommodations:**
   - **Lodging:** Unique lodging options available on the farm for an immersive experience. Contact Maui Kosher Farm for more details.

5. **Women's Mikvah:**
   - A new Spa Mikvah for women, managed by Mrs. Zirkind. More information available at Maui Kosher Women's Mikvah (https://www.mauikosher.com/womens-mikvah/).

Maui Kosher Farm is not just a destination but an oasis of kosher living and Jewish culture. Whether it's for a family-friendly farm tour, a luxurious private chef experience, or incredible artisanal products, Maui Kosher Farm offers a unique slice of paradise for Jewish travelers in Maui.
« Last edited by Joel on February 05, 2024, 10:50:16 PM »

Author Topic: Maui Master Thread  (Read 1347236 times)

Offline coffeebean

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4780 on: November 05, 2021, 05:18:22 PM »
looks great. where did you stay?
Hyatt Regency, it was my 2nd option since Andaz wasn't available. It was still an amazing experience.

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4781 on: December 07, 2021, 09:58:27 AM »
Hi everyone.

I'm pretty new here (I've had an account for a year or two but never really posted anything.) I just got married about two months ago and my wife and I are scheduled to go on our honeymoon in Maui thanks to the cheap airfare posted a month ago which I booked through CSR.

My trip is from January 5th through January 12th. Originally, we were going to be staying in Maui the entire time but then American changed our flight on us giving us a return from Honolulu instead. I called up CSR and they did have a bunch of options available but in the end my wife and I decided we'd leave it as returning form HNL and just spend 1 day in Oahu. What I did do, however, was get an 11:45 PM return flight which leaves us with pretty much the entire day in Oahu on January 12th. Either way, that leaves us with 6 nights in Maui and 1 night in Oahu. And no, I'm not trying to "do" multiple islands. This still very much remains a Maui trip.

What I would like to seek advice about is where to stay. For our 1 night in Oahu (I did that first since it's only 1 night and we wanted to stay near the airport) I booked at the Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach using a free Marriott night which covered the entire cost and there were no additional fees (which is why we chose this place over other Category 5 or 6 hotel options). Now I'm looking at where to stay in Maui. I'm open to either staying in a condo of some sort (airbnb, vrbo etc.) or a hotel and am not particularly set on either option. I've even considered doing both and splitting up our time at two different places. I'm trying to be as cost efficient as possible with the understanding that it's still going to cost a decent amount.

As it stands I have 135k Marriott points + 1 free night and 170k Chase UR points. Any ideas as to what my best option would be?

Thanks!




Offline cgr

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4782 on: December 07, 2021, 11:37:52 AM »
What I would like to seek advice about is where to stay. For our 1 night in Oahu (I did that first since it's only 1 night and we wanted to stay near the airport) I booked at the Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach using a free Marriott night which covered the entire cost and there were no additional fees (which is why we chose this place over other Category 5 or 6 hotel options). Now I'm looking at where to stay in Maui. I'm open to either staying in a condo of some sort (airbnb, vrbo etc.) or a hotel and am not particularly set on either option. I've even considered doing both and splitting up our time at two different places. I'm trying to be as cost efficient as possible with the understanding that it's still going to cost a decent amount.

As it stands I have 135k Marriott points + 1 free night and 170k Chase UR points. Any ideas as to what my best option would be?

Thanks!
Mazel Tov!

I  don't have specific recommendations, but I've recently been to Maui and I would recommend staying towards the East side of the island one or two nights so that you don't have to kill yourself to get up early for Haleakala, and have more time doing Road to Hana.

Offline ushdadude

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4783 on: December 07, 2021, 11:38:49 AM »
Mazel Tov!

I  don't have specific recommendations, but I've recently been to Maui and I would recommend staying towards the East side of the island one or two nights so that you don't have to kill yourself to get up early for Haleakala, and have more time doing Road to Hana.


ands stay in hana 1 night

Offline cyginsberg

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4784 on: December 07, 2021, 10:04:15 PM »
Mazel Tov!

I  don't have specific recommendations, but I've recently been to Maui and I would recommend staying towards the East side of the island one or two nights so that you don't have to kill yourself to get up early for Haleakala, and have more time doing Road to Hana.

Amen and thank you!

So now I'm thinking maybe stay in West Maui Wednesday-Shabbos. Then drive to Hana Sunday and stay there Sunday night. Do Haleakala sunrise Monday morning (if I can get tickets) and drive back to West Maui and stay there Monday night. Then fly to Honolulu some time on Tuesday and stay there until my flight back Wednesday night. As an aside, does anyone know if there's some where I can store my stuff in Oahu during the day since I have to check out of the hotel in the morning but don't leave until Wednesday night?

Also, I still didn't book anything for my Maui stay, just wanted to run this tentative schedule by and see if anyone had any comments or suggestions on it. And I'd still love to hear if anyone has specific recommendations for hotels to stay based on my points or specific airbnb etc places that others have stayed and had good experiences at.

Offline JudahMcB

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4785 on: December 07, 2021, 10:38:12 PM »
As it stands I have 135k Marriott points + 1 free night and 170k Chase UR points. Any ideas as to what my best option would be?
Mazal Tov!

I'm also planning a Maui visit for late January and I'm finding hotel points availability is close to zero and cash rates for hotels and Airbnb/VRBO are sky high. I suspect there's a lot of Hawaii revenge travel going on right now. Maybe you'll have better luck with your dates.

With UR points I always look at my Hyatt options first. The Andaz Maui is fantastic (stayed there in 2016) and would probably be my first choice. At 30K UR transferred to Hyatt it's a great deal. But they are notorious for playing games with points availability. Try looking for a seven night consecutive stay with points and then work your way down. The Hyatt Regency Maui is also a very good option but not nearly in the same class as the Andaz. 

The Ritz Maui is excellent but you'll probably burn all 135K Marriott points on one night. The Westin or Sheraton in Lahaina are good options and much more reasonable. I haven't stayed at either one but I think there was a recent discussion upthread comparing the two.

I agree with @cgr that you should stay overnight in Hana instead of doing the whole drive in one day. I wasn't able to find a single place that would do a 1 night stay. They all seem to require a 2 night minimum except the Hana-Maui Resort (another good 30K Hyatt redemption if you can find one).

Offline JudahMcB

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4786 on: December 07, 2021, 11:05:03 PM »
does anyone know if there's some where I can store my stuff in Oahu during the day since I have to check out of the hotel in the morning but don't leave until Wednesday night?
Ask the hotel in advance if you can leave your bags with them when you check out. They'll usually hold it for you for the day. I've done this many times and I've never had a hotel turn me down.

Offline JudahMcB

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4787 on: December 07, 2021, 11:24:30 PM »
.....drive to Hana Sunday and stay there Sunday night. Do Haleakala sunrise Monday morning (if I can get tickets) and drive back to West Maui and stay there Monday night.
Don't forget to also book tickets for Waianapanapa State Park 10 days before your trip. You don't want to miss this black sand beach at the end of the road to Hana. They just started requiring reservations earlier this year. https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/announcements/waianapanapa-state-park-online-reservations-system-beginning-reservations-required-beginning-march-1-2021/

Offline cgr

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4788 on: December 07, 2021, 11:34:47 PM »
So now I'm thinking maybe stay in West Maui Wednesday-Shabbos. Then drive to Hana Sunday and stay there Sunday night. Do Haleakala sunrise Monday morning (if I can get tickets) and drive back to West Maui and stay there Monday night.
Haleakala for sunrise from Hana doesn't really save you much in terms of driving since the park entrance you need for the summit is on the other side (Haleakala NP has 2 parts, and they're not connected- the side where the Gulch pools are is on the Hana side, but the summit is about a 3 hr drive from Hana and is more "inland"). That's why I originally recommended 2 nights so that you have one in Hana, and one closer to the park entrance.
If you look it up on Google maps you'll see what I mean- the address you want for the summit is 30000 Haleakala Hwy (and that's just the entrance- you have another 30 minutes or so to the summit).

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4789 on: December 07, 2021, 11:36:50 PM »
Don't forget to also book tickets for Waianapanapa State Park 10 days before your trip. You don't want to miss this black sand beach at the end of the road to Hana. They just started requiring reservations earlier this year. https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/announcements/waianapanapa-state-park-online-reservations-system-beginning-reservations-required-beginning-march-1-2021/
Yes! And also remember that you'll need tickets to visit the summit at sunrise.
https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/253731

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4790 on: December 08, 2021, 09:01:52 AM »
That's why I originally recommended 2 nights so that you have one in Hana, and one closer to the park entrance.
If you look it up on Google maps you'll see what I mean- the address you want for the summit is 30000 Haleakala Hwy (and that's just the entrance- you have another 30 minutes or so to the summit).
The 2 night idea really depends on where you're based out of for the rest of your stay. If uoure in Lahaina, going more towards the center for one night will be helpful the night before doing Haleakala summit (it'sabout 2 hrs from Lahaina). If you're already staying more towards that area, you don't need to move around for 2 nights- one night in Hana would be enough.

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4791 on: December 11, 2021, 10:05:26 PM »
Does anyone have any recommendations/tips on a Road to Hana tour? I’m a little wary of doing the drive myself and having someone else do the drive who knows where to stop, park etc. seems tempting.

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4792 on: December 11, 2021, 10:38:08 PM »
Does anyone have any recommendations/tips on a Road to Hana tour? I’m a little wary of doing the drive myself and having someone else do the drive who knows where to stop, park etc. seems tempting.
What are you wary of? 2 best tips: 1. buy the GyPSy guide app RtH tour which is almost as good as having a personal tour guide. He will also give you suggestions where to stop if you have time. 2. Take your time and stay overnight in Hana

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4793 on: December 11, 2021, 11:03:50 PM »
Does anyone have any recommendations/tips on a Road to Hana tour? I’m a little wary of doing the drive myself and having someone else do the drive who knows where to stop, park etc. seems tempting.
I used ShakaGuide- we did the loop. It's great, but if you go with it stop at each falls even he recommends that you skip (the narrator has you skip over every waterfall because there are better ones up ahead til you get to the end...)

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4794 on: December 11, 2021, 11:45:49 PM »
What are you wary of? 2 best tips: 1. buy the GyPSy guide app RtH tour which is almost as good as having a personal tour guide. He will also give you suggestions where to stop if you have time. 2. Take your time and stay overnight in Hana

Just what I hear about narrow roads, tight turns, apportioning time to get back before dark…

Would love to stay in Hana but nothing available for when I’m going.

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4795 on: December 12, 2021, 12:27:01 AM »
Just what I hear about narrow roads, tight turns, apportioning time to get back before dark…

Would love to stay in Hana but nothing available for when I’m going.
I didn't find the driving nerve-wracking. I did the West Maui Highway before Hana, and that was the real deal.

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4796 on: December 12, 2021, 12:35:18 AM »
I didn't find the driving nerve-wracking. I did the West Maui Highway before Hana, and that was the real deal.
+1. RtH was a piece of cake. West Maui Highway from Nakalele Blowhole until Waihee - I really thought we were going to die. Not doing that again. 

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4797 on: December 12, 2021, 11:10:59 AM »
Does anyone have recommendations where to stay for 1 night in Hana? I'd love to stay there for a night but looks like many of the places are booked up months in advance.

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4798 on: December 12, 2021, 11:24:01 AM »
I didn't find the driving nerve-wracking. I did the West Maui Highway before Hana, and that was the real deal.

Okay, you and Judah convinced me. I’m also a little nervous about traffic and apportioning my time so that we’re able to make it out before it gets dark. Does it make sense to go straight to the black sand beach and make all the stops we want to do on the way back?

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Re: Maui Master Thread
« Reply #4799 on: December 12, 2021, 11:35:54 AM »
Okay, you and Judah convinced me. I’m also a little nervous about traffic and apportioning my time so that we’re able to make it out before it gets dark. Does it make sense to go straight to the black sand beach and make all the stops we want to do on the way back?
You're not going to go the same way back if you're doing it right.
Save your time, I don't answer PM. Post it in the forum and a dedicated DDF'er will get back to you as soon as possible.