Sure the beaches are amazing, the golf spectacular and the sunsets awe-inspiring but CSL thought we might give you even more reasons to enjoy the South Pacific Hawaiian island of Maui.
Hotel Hana Maui
Located in the quiet town of Hana on Maui’s Eastern coast, and dating from 1946, the Hotel Hana Maui is an elegant and secluded resort. The 22 bungalow style Bay cottages with an outdoor patio and Jacuzzi overlook Hana Bay while 47 Sea Ranch Cottages including seven private one-bedroom ocean front suites command sea and mountain views. Decorated in an old plantation style including lauhala mats and bark cloth the hotel also boats the award-wining Honua Spa. With extensive grounds, a library, shops and umpteen fountains the hotel is fun to explore. Experience truly local dining at Ka’uiki restaurant and partake in cultural activities (many of which are free).
Goofy Foot Surf School
Tim Sherer (also known as the Stoke Broker) and his crew give personalized surf lessons in Lahaina. A rare breed, Sherer has a palpable passion for what he does and an unselfishly need to make others around him better. Beginners in these two hour lessons leave with renewed confidence, a thrilling experience and great fun. Equipment and instruction is provided and Steve Francois of Maui Digital images is routinely on hand to capture all the escapades on film (students receive a CD stocked full of images as a souvenir).
La Perouse Bay
A favourite CSL spot for gazing at the ocean, dolphins are often spotted in these waters. Classic Hawaiian volcanic rock outcroppings are starkly contrasted with cerulean waves. Although this is not a swimming beach, its beauty and serenity are what keep us coming back.
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
In the cool upcountry area of Maui, Ali’i Chang has created a lovely 10.5 acre lavender farm that is an oasis of tranquility. Year round farm tours, workshops, weddings and events offer visitors a deeper understanding of this working farm. Also on offer is an array of lavender products at the farm’s boutique including lotions, soaps, jams, and candles. Best of all Chang cultivates proteas, hydrangeas, Tuscan olives, succulents and many other plants and foliage so there is always something to see. Our suggestion for a great experience? Sip lavender tea and eat scones on the boutique’s terrace 4000 ft. above sea level.
Whale Watching
If whale watching is on your life list – this is the place to come. From mid-October through June humpback whales come to the Hawaiian islands to mate, give birth, and tend to their calves. This is a spectacular experience that is best enjoyed in the whales’ preferred wintering grounds – the channel between Maui and Lanai. Spotting blowholes from shore is typical during this period, but it is the live, close (though respectful) encounters with whales that inspire awe and wonderment.
