The Hana-Waianapanapa Trail follows a portion of the ancient “Kings Highway” from Pailoa Bay in Waianapanapa State Park to Kainalimu Bay in a shady heliotrope grove northwest of Hana Bay.

The scenic hike follows the jagged, windswept coastal cliffs, crossing lava flows above caves, underground tunnels and irregular islets. The hiking trail also passes blowholes, sea arches, tidepools and an ancient Hawaiian temple.

The word Wai’anapanapa translates into “glistening waters” in Hawaiian. But these warm waters once ran deep red when King Ka’akea brutally murdered his wife, Popu’alaea, in this cave where she was hiding from him. When he discovered her in the Waianapanapa Caves, he was filled with so much rage that he viciously killed Popualaea.

Every year during the spring, millions and millions of red shrimp reappear in the fresh water of this Maui cave. The legend says that the glistening waters of Wai’anapanapa turn red as testimony to that tragic ancient bloodshed that occured many years ago.

Directions:
The caves can be found off Highway 360E (Hana Highway). Just beyond mile maker #32, you will turn left onto the paved road. You’ll find Wai’anapanapa State Park at the end of this road. The cave is situated next to the black sand beach.

Enjoying a traditional Hawaii luau is one of the best ways to experience the true Hawaiian culture. “The Myths of Maui” is one of the oldest luaus on Maui, and the show is offered nightly at the luxurious Royal Lahaina Resort.

As another amazing sunset materializes over the deep blue Pacific Ocean off of Kaanapali’s tropical coastline, Maui’s best oceanfront location comes alive with music and fine food.

In the ocean-side Luau Gardens at the Royal Lahaina Resort, “The Myths of Maui” is an unforgettable luau spectacle.

You will experience an amazing celebration of traditional Hawaiian festivities, mouth watering island cuisine, tropical beverages and of course …. an entertaining luau show.

“The Myths of Maui” is one of the largest luaus on Maui with a capacity of approximately 500 guests.

As you arrive, guests are greeted with a shell lei by your hosts. Soon after you are seated, an assortment of tropical cocktails such as Mai Tai’s and Blue Hawaiians are served.  The delicious drinks are unlimited throughout the luau show. There is an open bar to find a wide variety of cocktails, beer, wine, soda or fruit punch, anytime during the show.

One of the special moments is the Imu Ceremony or uncovering of the traditional roast “Kalua Puaa” (pig) pork from the underground “Imu” oven. The Imu Ceremony is incredible as the large crowd shows their approval,  prior to enjoying the evening’s main dish.

The luau is an all-you-can-eat buffet dinner so be sure to bring your big appetite. There is a lot of great food and it is all quite delicious.

In addition to the main course of pig, the buffet also offers traditional foods like fresh island fish, Kalua turkey, teriyaki steaks, Hawaiian sweet potatoes, poi, taro, lomi lomi salmon and guava bread, coconut cream cake, and tasty haupia (Hawaiian pudding).

The master of ceremonies is terrific. He brings the perfect blend of humor and in-depth knowledge of Hawaiian culture.

A fun moment is a hula lesson held on the main stage. Dozens of audience volunteers take part in learning the hula, as the crowd laughs and cheers them along.

Once the show begins, it’s your time to enjoy the experience as the talented cast of dancers, singers, musicians, and drummers present a magical journey through the South Pacific islands of Hawaii, Samoa and Tahiti.

Watching the beauty of the hula dance is priceless. The hula is the traditional local dance, telling the many stories of Hawaiian legends.

After a fast-paced journey of entertainment, the evening culminates with the exciting Samoan “fire knife” dance.

For more information about “The Myths of Maui” luau – Click Here

Outrigger Aina Nalu

When people think Hawaii, they think the fantasy Four Seasons screensaver version. But the true Hawaiian experience involves the local food, culture, and not to mention, the convenience and comfort of home. Ok, maybe a little more pampering than home. The luxurious condos of Outrigger Aina Nalu in Lahaina on Maui encompasses the complete Hawaiian experience.

The first thing I noticed arriving at the Aina Nalu was its ideal ocation. It’s conveniently located within 3-block walking distance to the lively and diverse Lahaina, Maui downtown scene, and a 5-minute car drive away from the local supermarket and quaint fruit stands.

As we pulled up to the front lobby, I was immediately swept away by its open-air lobby and understated island decor. Without over-the-top gaudiness, the Aina Nalu condominium hotel was a simple, yet elegant presence in the heart of Lahaina.

Home to numerous Hawaiian island plants and animals, the Outrigger Aina Nalu is the realistic paradise that you can see yourself taking permanent residence. Unlike the fantastic image of Hawaii, Aina Nalu provides the beauty, comfort, and relaxation beyond your own home, but still with the welcoming home feel.

A stroll through Aina Nalu’s garden reveals small green geckos warming up on the stalk of Tahitian Gardenias under the mild morning sun, scattered red and pink ginger, Lawa’i Fern, and Bird of Paradise, and the sweet fragrance of Hawaiian’s signature Plumeria blooms. The mellowing effect surpasses any spa treatment.

Outrigger Aina Nalu pavillion

Water is the central theme to Aina Nalu’s island garden. The source of life, water decor, is a crucial part of the property’s design. Stone fountains and mini waterfalls all demonstrate Aina Nalu’s connection to the life of the island. The largest bodies of water on the property is undoubtedly the two swimming pools. Napping on the lounge chairs under the palm trees, or inside one of the exotic wood and bamboo gazebos by the poolside is another way to enjoy the water-themed property.

In addition to offering divine views, the Aina Nalu is also a strong supporter of preserving the beauty of Hawaii through its environmental efforts. The property utilizes the green technology of photovoltaics through generating electrical power by converting solar radiation into direct current electricity. All of its light bulbs are the energy-saving compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), its hot water system is also derived from solar power, and it has a comprehensive recycling system.

Amenities of the Aina Nalu is among the best I have seen. It’s home but with more upgraded luxuries. All of its appliances are manufactured by consumers’ favorite, Whirlpool. Complete with a full freezer/refrigerator, microwave, polished stainless steel electric range stove and oven, as well as a microwave and coffee maker, its fully equipped kitchen gives you the opportunity to cook your favorite meals and enjoy it on your private lanai. Many guests of the Aina Nalu also take advantage of one of its elaborate top-of-the-line outdoor grills to barbecue with friends.

Outrigger Aina Nalu pool

The shower stall adopts an open design lined with stone-like tile surface. It gives you the feeling of showering under a waterfall. Rich, yet mildly scented toiletries further reinforces the sweet, laidback island experience. One of the most convenient features of Aina Nalu was each individual condo’s private washer and dryer.

Every room in the condo has a banana leaf-shaped ceiling fan. Relaxing on the soft, luxurious queen bed with the Plumeria island breeze from the lanai perpetuated by the ceiling fan, was the ultimate island paradise experience.

Returning home after vacationing at the luxurious Aina Nalu condominium hotel on Maui proved to be more difficult than staying at a 5-star hotel, because with a 5-star hotel, you know in the back of your mind that you’ll eventually have to leave. But a place like Outrigger Aina Nalu, an upgraded comfort luxury version of your own home, can really make you believe it’s home.

To plan a trip to Hawaii or make a reservation, please visit: https://www.thelifeofluxury.com/travel/

Courtesy: Pineapple Grill at Kapalua

Located on Maui, Pineapple Grill in Kapalua Resort is a wonderful romantic restaurant.

Pineapple Grill just celebrated its one year anniversary and has been a popular restaurant on Maui for both locals and tourists.

Kapalua’s Pineapple Grill has been popular with food critics as well. The restaurant has recently been awarded two best new restaurant honors in two separate reader polls.

Food lovers will find a tasty menu featuring several excellent seafood entrees. Pineapple Grill calls their food offering Maui-style “Pacific Island Cuisine.”

Chris Kaiwi, who is Pineapple Grill’s managing partner was quoted, “We’re creating a fun atmosphere without sacrificing a sense of elegance.”

The restaurant also offers a wonderful beer and wine list.

Courtesy: Pineapple Grill at Kapalua

Pineapple Grill features a popular happy hour. As you enter the restaurant, you’ll walk past the large bar, featuring a black-marble island with plenty of stools for enjoyable bar-top dining.

Pineapple Grill overlooks the golf course at Kapalua Resort – The Bay Course and there are distant ocean views to be enjoyed.

One of the favorite dishes is a dessert – the restaurant’s famous pineapple, upside down cake!

For a fantastic fine dining experience, without the high price, Pineapple Grill should be your choice.

The restaurant is open daily for both lunch and dinner.

Pineapple Grill
200 Kapalua Dr
Lahaina, HI 96761
(808) 669-9600

Courtesy of: Royal Kaanapali Course

The beautiful Ka’anapali Resort on tropical Maui is home to two championship golf courses. The golf resort is situated on about 1,200 acres of land that’s home to ancient Hawaiian royalty. Golfers will enjoy endless panoramic views of both the Pacific Ocean and West Maui Mountains.

The Royal Kaanapali Course opened its lush fairways in 1962. The golf course offers 6,700 yards and a par 71 course. The Royal Kaanapali Course was rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by Golf Digest in 2008. The scenic golf course is the perfect choice for an avid golfer.

In addition to its breathtaking scenery, the Royal Kaanapali Course is well recognized as a world-class golf facility. Even the easiest holes here are a challenge.

In addition, the Royal Kaanapali Course is one of only two courses anywhere in Hawaii, designed by Robert Trent Jones.

The Royal Kaanapali Course layout takes full advantage of the lush rolling landscape. The course offers gentle, sloping fairways along with large, contoured greens. This combination makes the Royal Kaanapali Course both distinctive as well as demanding.

The greens here are expansive, yet contoured. It’s difficult to decipher the varying slope and pitch of greens. The high sun angle along with the Bermuda grass make putting quite a challenge.

Courtesy of: Royal Kaanapali Course

The Royal Kaanapali Course was previously named the Tournament North Course. The challenging Course begins at sea level, then works its way through the resort out to the Pacific Ocean’s edge at the 5th hole.

The world championship course has been host to many major golf tournaments including the Champions TOUR Ka’anapali Classic, LPGA Kemper Cup, Senior Tour’s Ka’anapali Classic and Wendy’s Champions SKINS GAME.

For more information please visit Royal Kaanapali Course

The luxury Shops at Wailea has become some of the most popular attractions in all of Maui.

This upscale shopping and dining complex is quickly becoming a flourishing tourism site. The Shops at Wailea opened for business in 2001 and has become a popular destination for Maui vacationers and locals.

The impressive, tropical complex boasts sixteen acres and more than fifty shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy. There is a generous mix of local retailers as well as larger conglomerates that are well-known worldwide.

The Shops at Wailea (sometimes called the Wailea Shopping Village) is located near Maui’s famous and luxurious Wailea Resort, adjacent to the Wailea Beach Villas resort fronting Wailea Beach.

The shopping center offers the Maui tradition of a relaxed atmosphere in a beautiful setting. You’ll find treasures from internationally renowned designers like Tiffany & Co. and Louis Vuitton to local artisans by leading artists from Maui.

A few of the many luxury shops are Betsy Johnson, Vendi, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Guess, Cache, Coach, Cos Bar, St. John Boutique and Tori Richard.

While searching for fine fashion and casual clothing, some of the favorites are Banana Republic, Billabong, Chico’s, Crazy Shirts, Enchantress Boutiques, Gap, Honolua Wahine, Maui Water Wear, Quicksilver, Sgt. Leisure, Sisters & Co. Boutique Salon, The Walking Company and White House/ Black Market.

For the perfect gift or jewelry, check out Elephant Walk- A Gallery of Life, Martin & MacArthur, Sand People, Black Pearl Gallery, Dolphin Gallery, Folli Follie, Na Hoku, Tiffany & Co and Wailea Jewelry.

If you seek fine dining options, enjoy a variety of choice ranging from typical American foods to Pacific Rim cuisine. Some options include Longhi’s, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Tommy Bahama’s Tropical Cafe and Cheeseburger Island.

For entertainment options, sip a cocktail while you listen to Hawaiian music and dance at WOW! Wailea on Wednesdays. Other events include gallery receptions, artist appearances, retail and restaurant specials and free live entertainment every Wednesday.

The Shops at Wailea
3750 Wailea Alanui Drive
Wailea, HI 96753
phone:(808) 891-6770
fax:(808) 891-6772

The Alaloa Lounge at the luxury The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is a favorite locale for lounging at sunset and watching picture perfect Hawaiian sunsets.

The readers of Maui No Ka Oi Magazine have named The Alaloa Lounge as the “Best Lobby Lounge” on Maui.

This upscale resort lounge is the ideal place to watch the sunset, have an informal lunch, begin a magical romantic evening on Maui, or just get gather with friends and enjoy your Hawaii experience.

The Alaloa Lounge can be found just inside the main entrance of the incredible Ritz Carlton Kapalua on the west shore of Maui.

This beautiful lounge provides indoor and outdoor seating, in addition to sweeping Pacific ocean views, including both Molokai and Lanai islands.

The Alaloa Lounge offers a wide variety of thirst quenching specialty cocktails, both imported and domestic beers, plus premium spirits and incredible appetizers and desserts.

You can enjoy light fare throughout the day, as The Alaloa Lounge now offers a casual lunch menu.

The Alaloa Lounge was formerly named The Lobby Lounge.

Sit in the newly-expanded spacious lanai for an whale watching experience. You can enjoy the amazing views between the months of December and April.

Hours of operation:
– Light Fare Appetizers: 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
– Appetizers: 5:30 to 10 p.m.
– Cocktails: 4 p.m. to Close

Alaloa Lounge
One Ritz-Carlton Drive
Kapalua, HI
96761
(808) 629 6200

If you’re looking for a way to enjoy and get up close to the fabulous undersea life in Maui’s blue waters, but don’t want to get wet – the Reefdancer is your answer.

Uncover Maui’s amazing underwater world from the Reefdancer’s comfortable, air-conditioned cabin.

The Reefdancer is a 57 foot semi-submersible boat that remains on the surface of the ocean waters. Half of the boat is on top of the water, with the other half  below.

This flexibility allows the Reefdancer to easily maneuver around  the shallow reefs where the majority of the marine life is.

You descend down an easy stair case down to the boats below-water cabin. The Reefdancer holds up to 34 people so everyone has a front row seat, with direct viewing out your over-sized window.

What makes the Reefdancer tour unique is they offer Maui’s only underwater dive show. Professional divers search the reefs and bring various sea-life (octopus, sea urchins, sponges, mollusks, etc…)  to your window for close viewing.

Your tour includes an experienced reef diver in the cabin, who narrates about the fascinating undersea world outside your window.

All passengers receive a free, color postcard and fish chart to make it easy to match and identify the fish you view.

As you cruise around the ocean floor you discover an amazing world with abundant reefs and marine life.

What amazed me was how blue the water was. There is no artificial lighting, so what you see is the sun’s natural rays illuminating the ocean depths.

As you return to the Lahaina Harbor, make your way to the spacious upper deck for wonderful views of Old Lahaina Town and West Maui mountains.

Reefdancer
Lahaina Harbor Slip 6
Lahaina, HI
96761
808-667-2133

The Spa at Black Rock is the island of Maui’s newest and most luxurious day spa. The spa can be found at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa, just off the white sand beach near famous Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach.

The Spa at Black Rock is without a doubt, Kaanapali Beach’s premier spa and salon experience. The spa offers a wide selection of full service spa treatments, skin treatments, and massage therapy.

Due to the tropical setting of its environmental surroundings, the Spa at Black Rock offers individuals, couples and families an intimate and renewing boutique spa experience.

The spa features a combination of indoor and outdoor treatment rooms. There are 10 total treatments rooms including 3 specialty indoor/outdoor lanai suites, where you can relax listening to the soothing sounds of the nearby Pacific Ocean.

From the moment you step into the lobby / reception, it’s obvious that the mission of The Spa at Black Rock is to relax, rejuvenate and allow patrons to experience the magical and natural healing powers of Hawaii. A comfortable Waiting Room begins your transition with a welcome and relaxing environment.

Massage Treatment:
There’s a Lehua Wet-Room for Lomi Lomi massage, wraps and a specialty Maui Mambo body scrub. The Hibiscus Lanai Suite offers his/hers Jacuzzi soak tubs, and the gardenia Lanai for a romantic couples massage.

Be sure to try their popular Aromatic Reprieve massage treatment an select from a variety of private-labe blend, aroma oils such as: Cocunut Lemongrass, and Mango Pomegranate. The Pu’u Keka’a Stone Massage is another must. Receive a nurturing experience with the energy of warm, smooth stones to relieve your body’s tension areas.

For honeymooners or couple in love, try the Couples Massage and experience the feeling of togetherness with a personalized massage in comfort and privacy of the spa’s indoor/outdoor couples room.

Skin Care
The Spa at Black Rock offers an array of natural skin enhancement treatments including an Enzymatic Age Definer, Aromatic Healing Facial, Refreshing Facial, Balancing Facial, Skin Enhancements and Hair Removal Services.

There are 6 full-service manicure / pedicure stations available. Select from a Seaside Manicure, Sole Smoothie, Black Rock Pedicure or Tropical Delight Manicure, which includes a warm mango scrub.

Body Selections
If you are looking for a full body treatment, then try either the Hydrating Maui Mambo, Island Surf and Sun Relief, or Ocean Pure which includes seaweed and deep ocean mud that heals the body from the inside out.

Bath Selections
Soak in the Jacuzzi soak tubs and choose from one of the following treatments: Couples Aromatherapy, Oligo Seawater Therapy, or Pampered Indulgence where you enjoy a “Me Bath Ice Cream” soak. Pick from your choice of Hawaiian Lei, Ripe Mango, Coconut Cove, Papaya or Lavender Lullaby bath treats.

To further unwind after your fabulous treatment, sit in one of the indoor and outdoor treatment gardens and enjoy the sounds of running water and lush tropical vegetation.

If you fall in love with one of wonderful treatment products, then browse the retail store and purchase them for your own use once you return home from Maui. Choose from an exclusive line of unique, all-natural Spa at Black Rock skin and body products.

Spa at Black Rock
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
2605 Kaanapalli Parkway
Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761
(808) 667-9577

Fairmont Kea Lani Resort

White sand and calming blue waves against a picturesque cloudless sky backdrop, Maui is nothing short of paradise.  Now, it can add one more reason to visit: the new Fairmont Kea Lani.  In the past three years, the Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui – Hawaii has invested $28 million in the property to continue elevating the luxurious Maui experience.

The Fairmont Kea Lani renovation spanned across every suite, villa, pool deck, ballroom, corridor, and even the elevator of the entire resort.  Every detail that is guest-facing has been considerably examined and further upgraded.

My most anticipated event for the Fairmont is the April reopening of their signature restaurant, Kō, after a $5 million transformation.  Kō (“sugarcane” in Hawaiian) is the only restaurant I have seen that has mastered the art of true Asian fusion cuisine.  Unlike the Hollywood version of a “homemade” meal, Kō’s Executive Chef, Tylun Pang, designed a menu that features traditional family recipes by taking advantage of Hawaii’s naturally fresh ingredients.

The Fairmont Kea Lani property in Maui has over 400 one-bedroom suites and each has been carefully furnished with new furniture, décor, woodworking on doors, and HD flat screen televisions.  The remaining 37 exclusive two-story villas house two- and three-bedroom villas have also gone through an extensive transformation: new tile floors, furniture, and décor to infuse modernism into a Hawaiian motif.

Leaving no stones unturned, the Fairmont has also improved its Keiki Lani kids club with a new 140-foot water slide and toddler pool.  Adults can now enjoy Maui in a true paradise fashion with two whirlpools, a swim up bar, and spa.

For the readers looking for the perfect Hawaiian place to getaway this summer, the Fairmont Kea Lani in Maui, Hawaii is currently offering a 40% discount on their room rate. To book a reservation, Click Here to contact us.

The Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary on Maui, was once a royal fish pond. Known in Hawaiian history as the twin ponds of Kapuoho in honor of King Kapiiohookalani.

King Kapiiohookalani started building these ponds over 200 years ago for storing and fattening fish.  The twin ponds were named after his children, Kanaha and Mauoni.

The Kanaha Pond is also an important breeding location for three endangered Hawaiian birds: the Hawaiian duck, the stilt, and the coot, as well as the endangered sphinx moth.

Located on 143-acres, this preserve is a stopping point for Canadian geese as they migrate south for the winter. About 200 stilts make the two-foot-deep pond their permanent residence.

In 1951 the Hawaiian government formally designated the pond as a bird refuge. This pond was designated a registered natural landmark in late 1971.