Shut your eyes. Now think about your self sipping a piña colada on the seashore because the waves crash and fall again. Crash, and fall proper again. It’s the proper day with the solar shining, and as you rush into the water, you’ll be able to’t assist however notice it’s a surreal shade of vivid blue—one thing the Atlantic Ocean may by no means ship. You, my buddy, are in Hawaii. Whereas every of its islands has one thing to supply, in the event you’re searching for a steadiness of pure serenity combined with actions, in addition to a spot that additionally counts Oprah as a resident, we’ve obtained to speak Maui. In any case, the second largest of the islands is most well-known for its immaculate seashores, caves, and coves that supply alternatives to discover at each flip. Whether or not you’re searching for a romantic getaway or are hoping to have a kid-friendly trip, Maui is the reply. Under, right here’s the whole lot to see and do on the most-treasured island.
What to See
Bike Haleakala
Calling all daredevils! Allow us to paint an image: It’s 6 A.M., and also you’ve been dropped off on the 10,000-plus-foot-high Haleakalā summit to look at the sundown from the crater’s edge. From there, you’ll bike down one other 20ish miles to base, the place you’re once more greeted by a sea breeze. Not for the faint of coronary heart, that is the last word expedition to see Maui’s pure magnificence and wonders, with a little bit of a problem. You’ll be able to lease bikes from Bike Maui and go for a self-guided or group tour (shout-out to Cruiser Phil!). Carry layers of garments, closed-toe sneakers, water, snacks, alertness, and a way of journey.
Highway to Hana
If biking isn’t your factor, however you continue to need to see the actual Maui, could we recommend the highway to Hana? It’s greatest to depart earlier than the solar is up (sorry about that, once more!) and drive down some very curvy and windy roads with views you’ll be able to’t fathom are actual. You’ll get breathtaking shoreline vistas, rainforests, lagoons, and bushes so tall the climate will change. The largest draw is the black sand seashore known as Pa’iloa, which provides one of the crucial gorgeous pure wonders that you’re welcome to swim in. Additionally, those that are aware of the Highway to Hana know that it results in the seven sacred swimming pools, that includes lush greenery, waterfalls, and wonders the metaverse can solely dream of. And though the title mentions seven, there are literally many extra swimming pools for climbing and swimming round in throughout your go to. This may take up a complete day, however it’s effectively price it.
Ali’i Kula Lavender
Bored of numerous hours on the pool or seashore and craving a change of surroundings? Head to Maui’s countryside. It’s a cottagecore dream: over 50,000 lavender crops you could stroll aimlessly by means of (or take selfies in!), in addition to small retailers, rooster coops, and ocean views galore. Lavender isn’t native to Maui, however due to the island’s local weather, the lavender on the farm blooms year-round within the cool, dry temperatures.
The place to Eat
Kō Restaurant
It was named Restaurant of the Yr on the ʻAipono Awards (dedicated to noteworthy Maui eating places) for a purpose. Positioned on the Fairmont Kea Lani, this upscale eatery has a produce-driven menu with a recent tackle basic Hawaiian fare. Look out for the poolside lighting of the tiki torch.
Huihui
A Hawaii-based restaurant serving probably the most scrumptious and mouth-watering recent meals. Every bowl is crafted with native flavors and substances that simply style so rattling good. You’ll additionally expertise native recipes from conventional Hawaiian tradition with a little bit of fusion from meals worldwide.
Star Noodle
Chef Sheldon Simeon received High Chef and determined to open up a restaurant in Hawaii. (Dream life?) Although the kitchen is now helmed by Cesar Perez, the Asian fusion restaurant nonetheless serves up the proper garlic noodles, ahi avo, and, sadly, lengthy strains. It’s greatest to make a reservation prematurely, however utterly well worth the wait in the event you don’t.
The place to Drink
South Shore Tiki Lounge
Keep in mind the bar in Forgetting Sarah Marshall? Properly, it was fictional, however this one is as shut as you’re going to get. The tiki vibe contains bamboo partitions and surfboard ceilings; you’ll get a great mixture of vacationers and locals. Bonus: the drinks are low cost and the music is loud, so you recognize you’re in for a great time.
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
Although technically not a bar, this shaved ice spot is simply as refreshing and mouth-watering. The OG cease of shaved ice in Hawaii, the shop now has seven areas throughout the island. Ulalani’s is legendary for its over 55 flavors of syrups that allow you to combine and match to your tastebuds’ wishes. BYO booze, we don’t choose.
Maui Brewing Firm
Seize a beer at Hawaii’s largest native craft brewery to get a style of actual Hawaiian nightlife. The placement boasts an array of beers you’ll be able to solely discover on the grounds of the brewery and in addition a full gastropub in the event you’ve labored up an urge for food. (Our advice is to order a beer and fries with house-made ketchup and mustard, infused with beer.)
The place to Keep
Fairmont Kea Lani
If you happen to’re searching for the total bundle, head to the Fairmont Kea Lani. This luxurious resort comprised of newly renovated suites and villas encompasses a full-service spa, award-winning restaurant, and a White Lotus-esque canoe expertise. Whether or not touring with others or solo, it’s the proper place to recharge and reset with the most effective lodging and companies at your fingertips. Ebook your keep right here.
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
If you happen to’re searching for the actual Maui expertise, submit up at this basic property, which not too long ago underwent a $100 million renovation, full with lanais, hammocks, solar decks, and hearth pits (no huge deal). Guests are greeted by the beautiful Kapalua bay, plus views of the character and mountains of the island’s western tip. The largest draw is the Plantation golf course, dwelling to the PGA Tour’s opening occasion of the 12 months. It additionally has mountain climbing and arguably the most effective breakfast buffet we’ve ever seen. Breakfast ramen, anybody?
Wailea Seaside Resort
The Wailea Seaside Resort captures all your favourite elements of island dwelling in a single accessible, family-friendly paradise. Located inside strolling distance of two seashores—Ulua to 1 facet and Wailea to the opposite—this oceanfront property has all of it, and most of the facilities and actions come included. Select from the kiddie pool full with water slides, the energetic adults-only pool, and the newly-opened personal luxurious pool at Olakino. Drop the keikis off for a day of enjoyable cultural actions, and head to Olakino for some relaxation and rejuvenation. Don’t miss the sound therapeutic, snorkel excursions, or Humble Market Kitchin, celeb chef Roy Yamaguchi’s on-site eatery. And in case you have been curious, the water slides are open to adults. Take into account them totally ELLE-approved.
Magnificence Picks
Magnificence Director
Chloe Corridor oversees all magnificence protection at ELLE.com. She knew she wished to get into magnificence the second Donna Summer time got here on her display and she or he’s been chasing the proper disco shadows ever since. Her candy spot is the intersections of magnificence with present tradition, whether or not it is music, films, or social media. You’ll find her in Brooklyn together with her pug or in Rihanna’s remark part.
Deputy Editor
Claire Stern is the Deputy Editor of ELLE.com. Beforehand, she served as Editor at Bergdorf Goodman. Her pursuits embody trend, meals, journey, music, Peloton, and The Hills—not essentially in that order. She used to have a Harriet the Spy pocket book and isn’t ashamed to confess it.
Affiliate Trend Commerce Editor
Meg is the Affiliate Trend Commerce Editor at ELLE.com the place she researches developments, exams merchandise, and appears for solutions to all of your burning questions. She additionally co-writes a month-to-month column, Identical Identical However Totally different. Meg has beforehand written for Cosmopolitan and City & Nation. Her passions embody journey, buffalo sauce, and sustainability. She is going to by no means cease hoping for a One Course reunion tour.
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