There’s a local saying (at least on the Valley Isle): “Maui nō ka ʻoi,” essentially meaning “Maui is the best.” Of course, I agree—but I’m biased. I’m fortunate to have been born and raised on the island famous for its beautiful beaches, diverse landscapes and rich heritage. Maui is the second-largest island in the Hawaiian […]
*This story was originally published on Aug. 5, 2021. From her shaded treehouse bakery, Auntie Julia watches the cars roll by. Her establishment is quaint, a small green treehouse perched along Kahekili Highway, located in the hard-to-reach town of Kahakuloa, but her product—succulent loaves of homemade banana bread—is famous. When people ask where the
In the heart of Lahaina, diners could count on savoring bowls of pasta made with quality flour from Italy and seasonal ingredients grown on Maui. For years, Sale Pepe Pizzeria e Cucina was the neighborhood’s go-to spot for celebrating birthdays and anniversaries or just enjoying Italian cuisine. Since the beloved restaurant fell to the Maui
At the foot of Mauna Kahālāwai (the West Maui Mountains) is the town of Wailuku. A little off the beaten path for travelers, downtown Wailuku is a hub for commercial businesses and government entities. But beyond these places, the historic town is home to mom and pop shops that have been around for generations and
Two years after the fire that destroyed Lahaina, recovery is uneven and deeply layered. In some places, residential areas are construction zones; in others, families are back in their homes and returning to normalcy. Local businesses that were once in Lahaina are reopening across the island. Maui County has rolled out housing programs to aid
I’m told we’ll have a table in the kitchen where the chef will prepare us a special meal. What I don’t expect to find is an actual chef’s counter bolted to the end of the pass—the table on which cooks slide finished dishes to an “expediter,” who then sends them out into the dining room.
Family-friendly and foodie approved, these immersive farm tours highlight commodities being grown and produced on Maui. From juicy pineapple and decadent chocolate to fragrant lavender and tangy goat cheese, you’ll ignite your senses as you peek behind the scenes of the island’s agricultural industry. These farm tours invite visitors to slow down and engage with
No trip to Hawaiʻi—especially for first-time visitors—is complete without attending an authentic lūʻau. These immersive gatherings share Hawaiian and often Polynesian history, culture, cuisine and dance to offer a glimpse into local traditions and storytelling. From beachfront settings and mesmerizing performances to flavorful dishes like kālua pork and lau lau, bottomless mai tais, and warm
One of my favorite beaches on Maui is on the island’s West Side—and no, it’s not Kāʻanapali Beach. It’s Kahekili Beach, right around the corner. The lesser-known shoreline is just north of its famous next-door neighbor, on the other side of Puʻu Kekaʻa, aka Black Rock. Like many of the beaches on this side of
Maui has long held a reputation for being home to some of the world’s best beaches. From expansive, sun-soaked shorelines to sheltered coves with abundant marine life, Maui offers something for every type of beachgoer. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, sunbathe or simply soak in the views, the Valley Isle delivers—and our readers seem
Whether it’s your honeymoon or 50th anniversary, or any occasion in between, these reader-approved resorts on Maui offer unforgettable experiences for you and your sweetheart. Beyond stunning rooms, these world-class properties provide a variety of romantic amenities, including private cabanas, serene spas, sunset dinners and curated activities for two. No matter the chapter of your
After the fire that devastated Lahaina on Aug. 8, 2023, the West Maui community is still in the process of healing and rebuilding. The unprecedented disaster left deep scars, not only in the landscape but also in the hearts of its residents. In the immediate aftermath, conflicting messages emerged regarding tourism. Some locals urged travelers
