This blog uses affiliate links. If you’d like to purchase a recommended product, please use the link to support this blog. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, it simply allows me to continue creating these posts. Thank you so much for your love and support!
TOP 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MAUI, HAWAII | You can't miss...
You can’t miss these Top 10 things to do in Maui, HI! From zip-lining to the Road to Hana to snorkeling, check out some of our favorite activities in Maui, Hawaii! What to do, where to go, free & budget-friendly ideas. #maui #hawaii #lahaina
THE BEST ACTIVITIES AND THINGS TO DO IN MAUI
Snorkel at Black Rock to see plenty of fish and Hawaiian Green sea turtles!
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii
We have traveled to Maui every year since 2013 and try to find something new to do every time. Although it is a small island, there is a lot to see! The island of Maui, with its lush rainforests, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches, offers an unforgettable vacation experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Hawaiian culture, Maui has something for everyone.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best things to do in Maui, from sightseeing and exploring the Road to Hana to swimming with Hawaiian green sea turtles and indulging in delicious local cuisine. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to discover the sweet escape to Maui!
1. Embarking on the Hana Highway: A Maui Adventure Awaits
The Road to Hana, a winding ribbon of asphalt snaking along Maui's northeastern coast, is more than just a drive – it's an unforgettable journey. Prepare for breathtaking coastal cliffs, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and hidden black sand beaches. This iconic route is a true test of patience, but the rewards are immense.
There are so many sights to see along the island of Maui and Hana Highway is a perfect full-day activity to see its beauty. Some of our favorite stops include and amount of time you should spend there in parenthesis:
1. Black Sand Beach (60 mins)
2. Lava Tubes (30 mins)
3. Red Sand Beach (30 mins)
4. Coconut Glen's ice cream (15 mins)
5. Haleakala National Park (2 hours - if you do the long hike, and swim in the seven sacred pools)
Check out our complete guide to the Road to Hana with mile marker stops, a map, and video - Road to Hana Guide
Let someone else drive since you’re on vacation! Book a Road to Hana Tour so you can sit back and enjoy the ride!
Don’t forget to pack your reef safe sunblock and a cute hat!
2. Go Snorkeling
The best part about the end of the Kaanapali beach is the Black Rock, which is located right in front of the Sheraton Maui Resort. Where it might seem like a hideous black lava rock, under the sea you can find gorgeous coral, tons of fish, and usually see a Hawaiian sea turtle or two!
Another great spot is Kapalua Bay. Even though the clarity isn't as great as around Black Rock, there are still plenty of fish to see. On one of our swims, we saw 6 turtles! We parked in a free beach parking lot next to Merriman's Kapalua, but make sure you get there early for a spot.
Take a day trip to Molokini Crater for some of the best Hawaiian reef snorkeling! Book this snorkel tour!
See the full list of spots in our Best Snorkel Spots and beaches in Maui post (video included)!
Pro-tip: Ship snorkel gear straight to the hotel! I personally use a Cressi snorkel mask is incredible for snorkeling! You can find more in our Amazon Storefront!
Snorkeling with green Hawaiian Sea turtles in Kapalua Bay
3. Nakalele Blowhole
As the tide rolls in, the blowhole shoots water over 20 feet in the air! Located North of Kapalua (approx 8 miles), park near mile marker 38.5.
Sad news, as of January 2020, the Heart Rock has washed away and is only half a heart! :(
However, the blowhole is still there and that’s fun! :)
WARNING: DO NOT GET TOO CLOSE TO THE BLOWHOLE, IT CAN SUCK YOU IN! It’s nice to admire from a few feet away.
4. Catch the Sunrise at the Top of Haleakala Crater
We left our hotel around 3am and went on a crazy drive to the top of Haleakala at 10,000 feet, but it was worth it for this magnificent sunrise above the clouds. Side note - Josh proposed to me here!
YOU MUST HAVE A RESERVATION IF YOU ARE GOING TO THE TOP OF HALEAKALA BEFORE 7AM!
Make Your Sunrise Reservation - Reservations are available online up to 60 days in advance of your sunrise visit on recreation.gov. More info here: Haleakala Sunrise
A visitor may only purchase one sunrise reservation per three-day period.
A small number of last-minute tickets are released online two days beforehand.
There are also great Haleakala Tours that will take you to the top (after all, you’re on vacation). If you’re adventurous, there are tours that will take you to the top to see the sunrise, then coast back down to the bottom on a bicycle!
Don’t like to get up early? I don’t blame you! Sunset is lovely too and after it sets you are in the perfect setting for stargazing! Look up for the Milky Way!
Pro-tip: BRING A SWEATSHIRT! It gets really cold at 10,000 feet!
See more details and our full itinerary: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui
5. Go Scuba Diving
We loved scuba diving with the company, Extended Horizons in Lahaina. Not only do they go to the best spots but also have the best dive guides! The dive site, Cathedral I, was one of my favorite dives - we went in a cave! See our video compilation and reviews here: Best Scuba Dive Sites in Maui
We even achieved our advanced certification with Extended Horizons. We did a night dive which we saw so many crustaceans and fish with the glow of a flashlight while also experiencing the glow from bioluminescence.
Not certified? Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii, is also a great place to go under the sea without getting wet! Located in Maalaea, which you’ll most likely pass to and from the airport, see the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere!
Pro Tip: Whale watching is also fun during the months from November to May! Maui charters will do sunset cruises, or day cruises. Look out for humpback whales!
Please protect the reefs and get reef-safe sunscreen:
6. Get a Massage
Need I say more? We like to do the couples massages at the Spa at Black Rock at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa, which is also our favorite place to stay. There are many locations around the resort to get a massage – the spa, lawn, or even near the beach, anywhere you go, you won’t regret it. You’re on vacation, you deserve it!
Check out our Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa
We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
7. Go shopping and have some great food!
Lahaina – The fire in 2023 was beyond devastating to Maui and unfortunately most of the shops on Front Street are no longer there. There is the Lahaina Cannery Mall with a few stores, food trucks in the parking lot, and they often have cultural Hawaiian events!
Make sure you visit the Banyan tree, a gorgeous tree that covers over half an acre! It survived the fires, thankfully!
Whalers Village - Located on Kaanapali Beach right next to the Westin. Here you will find shops you would normally see in most malls (Oakley, Sephora, Tommy Bahama) but also has restaurants (Hula Grill, Monkeypod, Leilani’s, fast food options) and of course, an ABC Store.
Whalers Village - Kaanapali - Maui, Hawaii
Sand People – I have to mention this shop as it is only found in Hawaii. It’s like an Etsy store full of coastal home goods, locally made jewelry and clothing. My FAVORITE! There are a few - Whaler’s Village and Front Street in Lahaina.
The Shops at Wailea - Located among the hotels along Wailea beach, you’ll find restaurants (Lineage, Tommy Bahama, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Cheeseburger in Paradise), clothing shops, a market, and ABC Store.
Related Post - Check out our favorite restaurants here: Best Maui Restaurants
8. Get Some Hawaiian Shave Ice
Shaved ice + flavored syrups + macadamia nut ice cream in the bottom = YUM!
There are so many locations all over Maui, you really can’t go wrong with any of them! My favorite combo is pineapple and coconut syrup with macadamia nut ice cream in the bottom – pretty much an ice cream pina colada (minus the alcohol)!
Pro-tip: The Shaved Ice location in Whalers Village (Ka’anapali Beach) has spoons that change colors with the temperature!
HAWAIIAN SHAVE ICE MAUI HAWAII
Also, check out my favorite ice cream place, Coconut Glen's Ice Cream!
9. Go Zip-lining
There are a lot of places that offer zip-lining, yet we went to the original (they even have zipline.com)! We used Kaanapali Zip Line Adventure, known for their award-winning 8-line, and had a blast. Stunning views from Lahaina to Kaanapali and 8 different lines cascading down the mountain! At the end of your last zip line you can drop into a lake! Our guides were so nice and had so much energy that we laughing the whole time! Check out these other great tours as well: Zipline Adventures
Don’t forget your GoPro! You can even get a mount for your helmet!
10. Enjoy a Lu'au
DRUMS OF THE PACIFIC LU'AU HYATT
The Drums of the Pacific Lu'au encompasses Hawaiian traditions with fun! The Rhythms of the Polynesian ritual will have you dancing along at the Hyatt Regency Maui on Kaanapali Beach. A traditional Hawaiian feast is served buffet style with an open bar and is better than the Lahaina Luau. Despite the fact the drinks are a little watered down, I found it highly entertaining and was captivated by the fast-moving hips to the beat of the drum in the traditional Hawaiian dance. Find a luau near you: Best Maui Luaus
How about a festive outfit for the evening:
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
Need more Hawaii? Here are our latest and greatest:
40 Things You Must Pack for Hawaii (Plus Printable List) Don't forget the...
Going to Maui or Kauai? Here is a list of packing essentials for Hawaii! Digital Download and Printable checklist included for those commonly forgotten items! This list consists of female items with what to wear suggestions and it can all fit in carry-on luggage! Don’t forget the…
A curated collage of Hawaii outfit ideas featuring summer dresses, neutral sandals, and travel-friendly accessories suitable for island days and evenings.
Packing Essentials for Maui or any Island in Hawaii, Plus a Pretty Printable Packing Checklist - 2026 Update
Update: January 9, 2026
We’ve gone to Hawaii so many times I’ve become an expert on packing! We’ve been to almost all of the islands and they are relatively the same when packing. If I don’t have my list, I will forget things, so I always keep it handy since we venture to Hawaii at least once a year!
Related Post: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary
Maui Sunrise looking over Lanai
Download our Hawaii Packing Essentials Checklist
Since I love to organize things, I sorted my list by category so it is foolproof not to leave something behind. Granted Hawaii does have shops and anything can be bought there, but I’d rather save my money to come back!
Great Budget-friendly finds on Amazon for Hawaii Packing!
Want a FREE downloadable pretty Hawaii travel packing essentials printable checklist with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii
See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2026? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
Here we go…
My favorite Hawaii Outfit - dress with pockets!
CLOTHING FOR HAWAII AND HAWAII OUTFIT IDEAS - What to Pack for Hawaii Vacation
Dresses - Short and Maxi (Hawaiian themed is always fun). I usually wear dresses for dinner and wandering around. See more Hawaii Outfit ideas here
Light Sweater - for cooler nights
Workout Clothes - Hikes, Road to Hana, Runs on the beach, Zip-lining, golfing, etc.
Sneakers - great to have if you’re walking around or going on adventures - I LOVE Asics Gel Venture shoes! The gel is so squishy and comfortable. Must HAVE!
Plane Outfit - I love a good oversized top and leggings since it is usually a long-haul
Basics - Socks, Underwear, Bras, Sports Bras, PAJAMAS!
Small Purse - to hold an ID, Credit card, cash, phone, lipstick, gum and maybe a car key
Accessories/Jewelry - Earrings, Necklace, Bracelet, Watch
Looking for a complete Maui resource? Our Ultimate Travel Guide for Maui 2026 brings together hotels, activities, food, and travel tips in one place.
Hawaii outfit ideas with comfortable, breathable clothing and simple accessories designed for warm weather travel.
BEACH ITEMS FOR HAWAII - Hawaii Packing List for 5 Days
Flip-flops - I love Havianas! They are the only flip flop brand I’ve bought for 15 years.
Sandals - To wear to restaurants and shopping, unless you want to wear your flip flops
Swimsuit - I bring a couple so one is always dry
Swimsuit Cover Up - Great to wear around the resort or to get a drink at the pool bar! Hat - Sun hat and baseball hat for hikes/outdoor activities
Sunglasses - Sojo Sunglasses on Amazon are budget-friendly, great quality, and trendy!
Towel - or use the resort towels
Beach or tote bag - to throw towels, sunscreen, magazine, clothes, etc.
Water Bottle - Stay hydrated! Collapsable bottles are great!
Snacks - We like to have granola bars, gummi bears, and M&M’s on hand for the plane or for the room
Crossword Puzzle - This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR
Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii or see our list of things to buy straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
Swimsuit coverup and hat perfect for Hawaii Travel
TOILETRIES FOR HAWAII
Reefsafe Sunblock - Save the reef! Buy reef safe! I noticed the Sheraton Maui had dispensers around the resort - check with your hotel ahead of time or bring your own!
Aloe Vera - I don’t know about you, but I always miss a spot.
Basics - Shampoo, Conditioner, Shower Gel (if you prefer your own, most hotels have these)
Deodorant
First Aid - I pack a few bandaids, Neosporin, aspirin… just in case!
Manicure Set - Manicure scissors (small TSA friendly ones), Nail clipper, tweezers, small nail file
Makeup! - I forgot my makeup bag once. It wasn’t pretty.
Hairbrush and Comb
Hairspray/Gel
Hair ties and Bobby pins - don’t forget, it gets windy on the beach!
Curling Iron or Flat Iron - Beachy waves are cool too!
Feminine Products
Maui Hawaii Beach
ELECTRONICS FOR HAWAII
GoPro - Get those adventure shots while swimming, snorkeling, zip-lining, surfing, waterfall hiking, or parasailing
Camera - We love our DSLR for a higher quality shot
iPad - load it up with shows and movies for the plane before you go and refresh the apps the day before you leave Hawaii as some downloads won’t work after 24 hours.
Mobile Phone - I mean I can’t go 10 minutes without mine. I also bring an old iPhone in a waterproof case for snorkeling and swimming!
Headphones/Airpods - don’t forget the little jack for Apple devices if you don’t use bluetooth
External battery - keep your electronics charged! We like the Mophie brand with built-in cables so you aren’t searching for them.
Cables - don’t forget your charging cables for your phone, headphones, tablet, watch…
See more plane tips here: Flying in 2019: Tips and Trick for the Airport and Airplane
Dive the Cathedral
Snorkel with Turtles
SCUBA DIVERS OR SNORKELERS PACKING LIST
We bring our own fins and masks so we can not only scuba dive but also snorkel whenever! Pro tip - buy a set and carry them on in a mesh bag!
Masks - I’ve tried so many masks and the Cressi Pano 3 is my personal favorite. At a budget-friendly price, it has one big window, fits well, and does not leak!
Fins
Baby Shampoo - use as defogging for the mask!
Rash Guards! Great for protecting your skin in the water! We forgot ours one year, so we bought new ones at our favorite store in Hawaii, Honolua Surf Shop
Dive Book and PADI/Dive Certification - for divers
Diver Essentials - Dive Watch, BCD, Wetsuit, etc. We usually make sure the dive shop has the basic package.
Scuba Mesh Bag to carry all of the above! We carry this mesh bag on the plane with our gear.
Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii
CARRY-ON LUGGAGE RECOMMENDATION
Would you believe me if I said I fit everything on my list for a 4-5 day trip in a carry-on and personal bag? We have the best carry-on that is spacious and seriously compacts all of our clothes - Travel Pro. Most pilots and plane attendants carry this Travel Pro model as well. Although I love the ease of steering my suitcase with 4 wheels, having 2 wheels you get an extra couple of inches!
What NOT to Pack for Hawaii
Skip these items to pack lighter and enjoy Hawaii’s relaxed island lifestyle:
Heavy jackets or bulky layers – Hawaii is warm year-round; a light sweater is enough for evenings. ONLY pack these if you are going to a higher elevation early in the morning or late at night.
High heels or dressy shoes – Most places are casual; sandals and sneakers are best.
Too many outfits – You’ll live in swimsuits, shorts, and casual dresses.
Full-size toiletries – Easily available at Target, Walmart, and local stores.
Non-reef-safe sunscreen – Hawaii restricts certain chemicals to protect coral reefs.
Expensive jewelry – Swimming and beach days increase the risk of loss.
Hair styling tools – Humidity and beach days make them unnecessary.
Large beach gear – Chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear are often provided or rentable.
Pro tip: If you won’t use it more than once, leave it at home.
Doing my dance in my Hawaiian Lilly Pulitzer dress with a mai tai at the Grand Wailea.
FREEBIES AND DISCOUNTS! Free Hawaii Packing Essentials Printable Checklist Download
Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii or see our list of things to buy straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials
Find the best rate to visit paradise by booking your room through Booking.com Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks!
Hawaii Packing Checklist FAQs
What should you definitely pack for Hawaii?
Pack lightweight clothing, swimsuits, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a light jacket for evenings or higher elevations.
What should you NOT pack for Hawaii?
Avoid heavy jackets, high heels, too many outfits, non-reef-safe sunscreen, bulky beach gear, and full-size toiletries. Hawaii’s climate and casual style make most of these unnecessary.
Do you need a jacket in Hawaii?
Usually no. A light sweater or windbreaker is enough for cooler evenings or breezy areas. The only exception is visiting higher elevations like Haleakalā or Mauna Kea.
Can you buy essentials in Hawaii instead of packing them?
Yes. Stores like Target, Walmart, CVS, and local markets are widely available, making it easy to buy sunscreen, toiletries, and beach items after you arrive.
Is reef-safe sunscreen required in Hawaii?
Yes. Hawaii restricts sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate to help protect coral reefs. Always bring or buy reef-safe sunscreen.
What shoes are best to pack for Hawaii?
Sandals, flip-flops, and comfortable walking shoes are ideal. Most travelers don’t need dress shoes or heels due to Hawaii’s relaxed dress code.
How many outfits should I pack for Hawaii?
Fewer than you think. Plan to rewear casual outfits and focus on swimsuits, cover-ups, and breathable clothing rather than packing a new outfit for each day.
Do hotels in Hawaii provide beach gear?
Many hotels and resorts provide beach towels, chairs, umbrellas, and sometimes snorkel gear. Check your hotel amenities before packing large items.
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
More MAUI posts:
Ice Cream Review: Rori’s Artisanal Creamery - Great Ice Cream in Los Angeles, CA
Amazing organic ice cream flavors can be found at Rori’s Artisanal Creamery in Los Angeles such as Wild berry Chocolate Crisp. YUM! Best ice cream in LA | Ice Cream in Los Angeles | things to do in LA #icecream #LA #losangeles
Rori’s Artisanal Creamery - Century City
Rori’s Artisanal Creamery - Fantastic Los Angeles Local Ice Cream
Locations: Santa Monica, Century City, Long Beach (and up the coast)
Website: rorisartisanalcreamery.com
Pricing: Get a split scoop in a bowl for your best value. The cones are really good too.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegan ice cream options available
Take-out: Pints are available and you can find them in select grocery stores. See their website for more!
Rori’s Artisanal Creamery Ice Cream Cone
LA Ice Cream Natives
Rori’s originates here in California, freshly scooped from Carpinteria! Owner, Rori Trovato, makes all the ice cream, cookies, cones, and candy recipes, and try some of her great flavors like Biscoff, Black Pepper Pistachio, Fresh Mint Patty, Malted Milk English Toffee, Nutella, Peanut Butter Candy Swirl - mix a unique flavor with a classic flavor for the best combo!
Rori’s Ice Cream Menu
Rori’s Ice Cream Menu
Get shakes, floats, homemade cookies, brownies, What the Fudge bars and pints to go here too! They even cater parties, but you have to invite me if you hire them! ;-)
Rori Trovato makes all the ice cream, cookies, cones, and candy recipes! She finely crafted each flavor to organic perfection. Rori used to supply the lavender and lemon from her garden but has since sourced it from local organic farms.
Straus Family Creamery Organic cream, milk and eggs create a delightfully creamy texture to their unique flavors including Honey Almond Crunch, Fresh Mint Patty, Malted Milk English Toffee, you can't go wrong with any of these choices.
"The best cream for your coffee is ice cream!!" I'm adopting this as my new motto. Need a pick me up? Try an affogoto (coffee/espresso with ice cream)! Also, love that they have candy and cookies - SO MANY SWEETS!
Rori has even made ice cream for your dog to enjoy! Organic yogurt, bananas, and peanut butter will leave your four-legged friend happy too!
Not near a scoop shop? That’s okay! Local supermarkets like Erewhon are selling Rori’s ice cream by the pint!
You MUST try the Wildberry Chocolate Crisp and Malted Milk ball
GET FREE ICE CREAM ON YOUR BIRTHDAY
Join their birthday club! CLICK HERE - see the bottom of the page for email signup. They also make ice cream cakes to make your special occasion even more special! AND they have Taco Tuesday... ICE CREAM TACOS! WHAT! Anyone wanna try these with me?! Also, they sell ice cream by the pint if a scoop isn't enough! ;-)
Rori’s Ice Cream Locations
Rori's has more locations along the California coastline, including Montecito, Santa Barbara, and Santa Monica. Visit the factory near Santa Barbara next time you’re in town!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
Need another scoop? Try these:
Ice Cream Review: Halo Top Scoop Shop in Los Angeles, CA - Best soft serve!
Love ice cream? Hate dieting? Halo Top’s got you covered - a lower calorie treat yet creamy and full of surprises. They’ve permanently closed most Halo Top Scoop Shop locations but one is still open in the Grove, where you must try their fabulous soft serve ice cream! Read all about it in my review! #icecream #whatdiet #losangeles
Halo Top Scoop Shop
LA Location: The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036 - all other locations have been permanently closed! :(
Website: https://www.halotopscoopshop.com/
Pricing: Generous soft-serve portion for a great price - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 for their soft-serve but 3/5 for their ice cream)
Take-out: Take-out only - enjoy on the grass near the fountain!
Dietary Restrictions: Dairy Free Options Available and Guilt-Free Options!
Hot pink ice cream cone with Halo Top’s Peaches and Cream Soft Serve!
I love ice cream but I hate dieting! I was thrilled when I discovered Halo Top at my local Ralphs, finally, a low-calorie ice cream that is delicious! I love everything about this brand, their marketing, flavors, and was so excited to hear the news that an ice cream scoop shop was opening near me!
2020 UPDATE: A lot of the scoop shop locations have closed but The Grove is open with the same options as my visit to Century City! The Grove location is right in front of Nordstroms where Haagen Dazs used to be. It’s best to grab a soft serve cone and enjoy it near the fountain!
Don’t forget to check out our complete list of Best Ice Cream Scoop Shops in Los Angeles
Halo Top Scoop Shop - Century City - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Halo Top Scoop Shop Menu Flavors
If I buy the pint, I’ll want to eat the whole thing! Here you can get not only your favorite pint flavors but also incredible soft serve options! Since I can get a pint anytime at my local Ralphs, I wanted to try something different so I went for the soft serve. I tried all three soft serve options - Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, and Peaches & Cream. All were tasty, but the peaches and cream flavor was perfect for the warm summer day!
There were so many different options from 4 different kinds of cones to ice cream sandwiches and ICE CREAM TACOS! Also, the cones came in the best colors - pink and a bluish turquoise!
Halo Top Scoop Shop Menu
Halo Top Ice Cream Scoop Shop
Halo Top Scoop Shop Menu
It was also chock full of topping options to add to your delectable treats.
Toppings bar at Halo Top
I was debating on what my base should be, and when I heard they had pink ice cream cones, I knew it was a must (and it matched my nails!).
YUM! If you get the chance, grab a cone or a taco and always add sprinkles on top!
Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
MORE LOS ANGELES POSTS:
Guide to Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii: Where to stay, things to do, and best restaurants
A complete guide to Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii including where to stay, things to do, and best restaurants! Debating on Wailea vs Kaanapali? See why we love Kaanapali Beach and how it is perfect for any occasion whether you are with family, friends, or going as a couple. See the best hotels that will fit your budget and activities to add to your itinerary.
Sheraton Maui Kaanapali Beach Resort
Everything you need to know about Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii: best hotels, what to do, and great restaurants
If you’ve booked your trip to Maui, I’m jealous already! We got engaged, married, and have celebrated our anniversary there every year since 2014! Maui is our favorite place and we ALWAYS stay on Ka’anapali Beach. If it’s your first time or sixth time, this guide will help you navigate the beach to make sure you have the best trip possible!
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
Not sure which area is right for you? Our Maui Travel Guide compares Kaanapali, Wailea, and other regions.
How to get to Kaanapali Beach - Map, Airport Transfers, and Parking Information
The best way to get to Kaanapali Beach from the airport is to rent a car. You’ll probably want to drive around the island at some point, it’s best to have your own vehicle. If you are planning on spending all of your time at the beach, check with your hotel to set up airport transfers. Uber and Lyft are available as well, it’s about $50-ish each way.
We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!
You can always park at a hotel but if you’re just coming for the day, there are a few lots but they are pretty pricy. There are 2 free parking lots but you have to get to them early - one is just before the Sheraton on Kaanapali Pkwy and the other is on Nohea Kai Drive before the Hyatt. See our Google Map for more info!
Where to Stay on Kaanapali Beach
Here are some of the best resorts on Kaanapali beach! All resorts are literally located right on the beach and walking distance from each other. We often use our travel credit card rewards for FREE nights! Check out this helpful article from Money Magazine to see which card would be best for your needs.
Sheraton Maui Room Views
Budget-Friendly:
Royal Lahaina Resort - great for your wallet and NO RESORT FEES! Rooms are spacious and a quick trot to the beach. This hotel is located north of Black Rock, so it is typically less crowded, but a bit of a walk to the other hotels.
Kaanapali Beach Club - might need an update, but the rooms are clean and the pool is huge! Located closer to Black Rock.
Mid-Range:
Flamingos and swans at the Hyatt Regency Maui on Kaanapali Beach
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa - our favorite resort on Maui Kaanapali Beach! Located right in front of Black Rock, which is the best place on the island for snorkeling. See our full review: Sheraton Maui Hotel Review
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa - recently renovated rooms and an adult pool to have some quiet time! One of the best Kaanapali accommodations! There are multiple pools that families can enjoy as well, there’s even a waterslide! Their spa is the ultimate relaxation destination.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa - lovely resort with penguins and flamingos (yes, I mean it). The Hyatt also has the best Lu’au on Kaanapali Beach. Their pool is pretty great too.
Condos and club hotels are also available in the area if you are looking to house more people! See booking.com for more options in Kaanapali, HI!
Need help packing? See our Hawaii Packing List for everything you’ll need! Check the weather before you go!
Top 10 things to do on Maui Kaanapali Beach
Black ROck Jumping
Snorkeling at Black Rock Beach
Black Rock is our FAVORITE place to snorkel! We’ve seen turtles, octopus, rays, and tons of tropical fish! See more snorkel info and our video here: Best Snorkel Spots in Maui
Jump off Black Rock!
Jump from the top of Black Rock to the plunge into the depths below! Do this at your own risk as it is hard to climb up Black Rock and it is, well, rocky.
Go Shopping at Whalers Village
My favorite shop in Whaler’s Village is Sand People that is like Etsy in person, loaded with coastal decor, souvenirs, clothes, and jewelry. Other shops include Sephora, Honolua, Quiksilver, Kate Spade, and other designers.
Need a snack, beer or wine, souvenirs, macadamia nuts? The ABC Store is the best for all of those things!
Penguins at the Hyatt Regency Maui
4. Visit the Penguins and Flamingos
Yup, you heard that right! At the Hyatt Regency Maui, they have a menagerie of birds all over the resort. In the morning they have a penguin feeding and it’s just the cutest thing! You can hang out with the one-legged pink friends on the other side of the resort.
5. Go to a Lu’au
Drums of the Pacific Lu’au at the Hyatt Regency puts on a great show on Kaanapali Beach! With traditional Polynesian dances and a feast, you’ll be sure to have a great night! The Royal Lahaina Luau, Myths of Maui, will also have you dancing in your seat - it could be the music or the free drinks! Get a great deal on luau tickets with Activity Authority.
6. Have a drink at the pool bar (and maybe even whale watch)
We love to sit at the bar, have a drink, and enjoy the view! If you come between December and March, you are likely to see whales! If you look hard enough, you can usually see the whales come up and spout water. Keep a close eye because after they spout, they usually breach out of the water or you can catch a glimpse of their tales. There are tours you can take to get closer to them, and if you scuba dive or snorkel, you can often hear them!
7. Spa Day at Black Rock Spa
The massages at Black Rock Spa are my favorite. Get hot stones, and enjoy some relaxation! We usually get a basic full body massage for 50 mins (about $130 each), but this last time we went for the 80 mins (about $180) and it was worth every penny. The spa rooms are patio like with natural sunlight peaking from the top, complete with soothing Hawaiian tunes.
Water Activities on Kaanapali BEach
8. Water Activities - Go parasailing, take a surf lesson, rent a jet ski, or go paddle boarding!
You can arrange with your hotel or go to a stand on the beach to get your adventure on! Fly high in the sky and enjoy looking over Kaanapali Beach while parasailing, or skim the water with a surf board! Learn how to surf like a pro with Maui Surfer Girls. You can even learn how to scuba dive right on Kaanapali beach! See related post for scuba: Best Scuba Spots Maui
9. Golf at Kaanapali Golf Courses
You’ll pass this golf course as you arrive and want to take a swing with your club. I don’t know which one but Josh does. You can see the ocean from most holes!
10. Zipline with Skyline Hawaii - Kaanapali Zipline Tours
Just up the hill from the golf course is Kaanapali Zipline Tours! Check-in at the shop, then they will drive you up to the zipline course with breathtaking views - high in the sky! See related post, Best Maui Ziplines, for more!
Best Restaurants on Kaanapali Beach
Here are a few of our favorites right on the beach that are fan favorites! See our full list here: Best Restaurants near Kaanapali and Lahaina
Monkeypod Kitchen - Kaanapali Beach
Monkeypod Kitchen ($$$)
Kaanapali Location: Whalers Village - 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761
See our full review: Best Restaurant in Maui: Monkeypod Kitchen
We first discovered Monkeypod in Wailea and were overjoyed when they opened a second location in Whalers Village, Kaanapali! We’ve found that it is the perfect spot for drinks and dinner. Get a Monkeypod Mai Tai with their fabulous honey foam! We love the Wood Roasted Chicken Wings (kiawe-roasted free range chicken, garlic, kula farm rosemary, tzatziki sauce) and the Bulgogi Pork Tacos (handcrafted kimchee, jalapeño, asian pear, sriracha aioli, locally-made corn tortilla). Jalapeño mashed potatoes ARE A MUST. They are green, but don’t let that scare you!
Dessert is a must! We loved the rich Chocolate Cream Pie, but they have other cream pies, such as Banana, available as well. Make a reservation in advance; we used Opentable.
Ice Cream Sandwich at Barefoot Bar
2. Hula Grill/Barefoot Bar ($$$/$$)
Location: Whalers Village - 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Located in Whalers Village with outstanding ocean views, these two restaurants are not only owned by the same company, they are connected to each other. Hula Grill is a little more pricey with delicious traditional Hawaiian entrees including many fish dishes (crab, snapper, shrimp) and land dishes (chicken, steak, short rib, emu).
The barefoot bar is more casual ($$) serving burgers, fish and chips, pizza. The fun part about the bar, your feet are in the sand. Usually, they have live music and entertainment. Regardless of which restaurant you try, I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella!
Also, you MUST have dessert! Try the Hula pie - vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top (served at both restaurants)! OR get the ice cream sandwich (pictured). No words on that one other than YUM!
3. Cliff Dive Bar and Grill
Location: Sheraton Maui Resort
Located by the pool, great for lunch or an afternoon snack. Can’t go wrong with their burger or chicken sandwich. At sunset, the cliff diver lights all the torches around the pool and along the top of black rock, then jumps into the water.
3. Ono Gelato Company ($)
Location: Whalers Village
Try some handmade artisan gelato by the beach! When in Rome… err, or Maui!
More restaurants can be found in our post: Best Restaurants in Maui
We hope you enjoy Kaanapali Beach as much as we do! It’s the perfect vacation destination for families, couples, or a group of friends. Kaanapali vacations are the best vacations! Hope you didn’t miss our Maui Hotel Map Kaanapali Beach
RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2021? - Itinerary, budget, and more!
Black Rock Snorkeling with a Turtle
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
More Maui posts to help plan your trip:
Guide to Aruba: Where to Stay, Where to Eat, Things to Do
A complete guide and everything you need to know about Aruba including things to do, restaurants to try, and the best hotels on this one happy island!
How to spend your days on One Happy Island and everything you need to know! This blog uses affiliate links. If you’d like to purchase a recommended product, please use the link to support this blog. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, it simply allows me to continue creating these posts. Thank you so much for your love and support!
Best Hotels in Aruba
There are some great places to stay in Aruba, with the options of hotels in the Downtown area, hotel row along the beach or Airbnb. We decided to stay in hotels but a few friends we met while diving, were loving their Airbnb’s, but they weren’t right on the beach like we were! Hotel row had every hotel you could think of at all price points (Hyatt, Hilton, Ritz Carlton, Marriott, Holiday Inn) located right on the beach.
All of them had casinos and you could walk from one to another. I’m used to Vegas casinos which you cannot compare to Aruba casinos. The casinos played the American dollar with the options of slots in different denominations as well as tables including 3 card poker, black jack, roulette, etc. There wasn’t a fee to enter or anything, and all the casinos seemed to have a players card option. If you play long enough you can get free drinks! On the slots there was an option to order drinks once you hit the threshold.
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort
We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino! Located mid beach of hotel row, it is the perfect place to spend your days at the beach and is walking distance to almost everything! The rooms were so nice, hard wood floors and super spacious! The pool was huge, complete with a water slide, volleyball net and swim up bar to get your drink on!
Read our full HOTEL REVIEW here: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino
Renaissance Island - Flamingo Beach
We also stayed at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino so we could visit the flamingos on Renaissance Island’s Flamingo Beach! Read our full review on the Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino and Everything you need to know about Flamingo Beach.
Getting To and From the Aruba Airport
TAXI DRIVE VIEWS OF DOWNTOWN FROM THE ARUBA AIRPORT
It’s a $25 flat rate to get a taxi from the Aruba airport to the high rise hotels or $18 to get to the Downtown hotels. Here is a link to a handy chart for taxi rates for getting around Aruba: Taxi Fares in Aruba
Things to do in Aruba
UTV Tour - Around Aruba Tours
Website: https://www.aroundarubatours.com/tours-in-aruba/
Or book through Viator tours: Aruba UTV Tour
Booking: We took a 4 hour UTV Tour around the island with Around Aruba Tours. It was $180 for the 2 of us. The Hyatt Regency concierge was able to book the afternoon tour for us. They also offer ATV tours and Jeep tours too! Note: An ATV is for one person, the UTVs hold 2-4 people. The driver should be at least 18 years old with a valid driving license while the minimum age for the passengers is set at 6 years.
Scuba Diving with Aqua Windies
Address: Dr. Horacio E. Oduber blvd 4, Eagle Beach, Aruba
Website: aquawindies.com
There is so much to see underwater in Aruba! Not only are there shipwrecks to see, but there are also airplanes below! We went with Aqua Windies Dive Shop, which had very experienced divers giving us a chance to see some fish in the most vibrant coral reefs!
You can always rent a boat from our friends at GetMyBoat.com, it’s like Airbnb for boats!
See our Scuba in Aruba Airplane Wreck dive here:
Restaurants and Where to Eat in Aruba
BREAKFAST IN ARUBA
Dushi Bagels & Burgers
Address: J. E. Irausquin Blvd #87 Noord, Aruba
Website: http://www.dushibagelsandburgers.com
Cuisine type: Bagels, Breakfast, Burgers, Sandwiches | Price Range: $7-$12
Looking for the perfect breakfast spot in Aruba? Dushi bagels is your spot! The price was right for our meals and the service was quick. There was a bit of a wait so we just ate at the bar. They also offer to go options if you’re in a hurry! There was an extensive menu of great American breakfast food options, we enjoyed a breakfast burrito with ham, french toast, and delicious hash browns.
Breakfast at a Dutch Pancake House - Diana’s Pancake Place
Address: J.E. Irausquin Blvd 370, Noord, Aruba
Website: Facebook Page
Cuisine type: Dutch | Price Range: under $15
Diana’s Pancake House is located by hotel row and across from the Hyatt, above the I Love Aruba store. Dutch pancakes are served as one pancake on a large plate with whatever ingredients you desire from the menu. The pancakes were bigger than my face! I went with the Hawaiian (ham, cheese, and pineapple) and Josh had the Apple Cinnamon. They were good, but we weren’t planning on going back every morning.
LUNCH/DINNER IN ARUBA
The Pelican Nest Seafood & Grill Bar
Address: On Pelican Pier, J.E. Irausquin Blvd 237, Noord, Aruba
Website: pelican-aruba.com
Cuisine type: Caribbean, Seafood, Sandwiches | Price Range: $20 - $30
The Pelican Nest was built over the water with gorgeous aqua water views one all sides! Most specialty dishes are fish centered. We had a late lunch and had a delicious chicken sandwich and happy hour drinks in the bar!
Smokey Joe’s Island Grill
Address: J.E. Irausquin Blvd 87, Noord, Aruba
Website: http://www.smokeyjoesaruba.com/
Cuisine type: American, International | Price Range: $20 - $30
On Tuesday and Thursday you can get all you can eat ribs! They claim they are “the best ribs in the Caribbean.” The ribs were actually really good, and we got some chicken wings as well. The service was really slow, but we weren’t in a rush, just hungry! Most of the food was American cuisine and very filling!
I saw the Pink Iguana drink on the menu and it was everything I wanted. It was like a Miami vice or lava flow, filled with coconut cream, rum and strawberries! For dessert, we tried the OREO SURPRISE with fried oreos and vanilla ice cream. Nothing was left behind.
Salt and Pepper
Address: J.E. Irausquin Blvd 370-A, Noord, Aruba
Website: http://www.saltandpepperaruba.com/
Cuisine type: Spanish, Tapas | Price Range: $10 - $20
Salt and Pepper shakers were everywhere! They had different salt and pepper shakers at every table and the walls inside had shelves and shelves of shakers. They even offer free sangria for those who bring a set for them to keep! Spanish tapas were the specialty here, perfect for any amount in your party! We ordered 7 items and ate it all! Our faves: meatballs, chicken wings, fried brie
We also enjoyed a delicious breakfast here with many American breakfast options (coffee was great too).
Sunset Grille at the Hilton Aruba
Address: J.E. Irausquin Blvd 81, Noord, Aruba
Website: Hilton Aruba Resort | Dinner Menu
We made a reservation about a month in advance at Sunset Grille, located in the Hilton Aruba Resort among the various hotels along the beach. We sat outside to enjoy the sunset while at the Sunset Grille! I had a mouth watering Filet Mignon and Josh ordered the Cowboy Bone-in Rib Eye. For sides, we tried the Garlic mashed potatoes and Gouda Cheese Croquettes. The croquettes were little balls of cheese and potato heaven. SO GOOD.
Driftwood Restaurant - Downtown Aruba
Address: Driftwood Building, Klipstraat 12, Oranjestad, Aruba
Website: driftwoodaruba.com
Cuisine type: Aruban, Caribbean, Seafood | Price Range: $25 - $35
This place was so charming! The walls were plastered with driftwood and it felt like a being on a ship with steering wheels as lamps (minus the sea sickness)! I ordered the chicken with tropical citrus sauce and wish I had the recipe for that sauce! Josh tried the Aruban meal - fresh catch of the day with potato and veggies. Although the presentation of the meal was underwhelming, the food quality was spectacular. For dessert, we ordered the Brownie a la mode and it was perfection!
Ice Cream in Aruba - Gelatissimo Palm Beach
Address: J.E. Irausquin Blvd 345, Noord, Aruba
Website: Gianni’s Gelatissimo
Pricing: $3-$8
We went exploring inland where we saw shops and restaurants on our drive in. Of course we had to find some ice cream and we came across some delicious gelato at Gelatissimo! They had any flavor of gelato you could imagine. There was something for everyone to enjoy. I went with a waffle cone trying the Stracciatella (chocolate chip) and Nutella (chocolate hazelnut).
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
MORE ARUBA POSTS:
11 Hella Cool Things to do in San Francisco, California
Here is a list of our 11 favorite things to do in San Francisco including riding a cable car and visiting Alcatraz. | What to do and where to go in San Francisco, California.
San Francisco Skyline
11 Best Things to do in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is such a great city! We've been so many times, yet there is something new to do every time. With all the hills and located on the coast, there are spectacular views! We love being a tourist and they have some pretty great food there too! Here is a list of our FAVORITE things to do in San Francisco:
1. Ride a Cable Car
I always think of Full House when I see the cable cars. Your trip would not be complete without a ride on these guys! There are three cable car lines: the Powell-Hyde Line, the Powell-Mason Line and the California Line. There's even a cable car museum! It's about $7 to take a ride. Check out San Francisco’s official guide: How to ride a Cable Car
Ride a Cable Car
2. See the Painted Ladies
Address: Steiner St, San Francisco, CA 94117
Check out these iconic brightly colored Victorian beauties. Alamo Square Park, located directly across from the ladies, is the perfect spot to sit and enjoy them! If you're not singing the theme song to Full House in front of these houses, there is something wrong with you. Speaking of, the actual Full House house is located: 1709 Broderick Street, about a mile away. We walked to the Mrs. Doubtfire house instead see #10.
Painted Ladies in San Francisco
3. Check Out Alcatraz
This famous prison is in the middle of the bay, once home to Al Capone. Make sure you buy your tickets a couple weeks in advance, the earlier you go, the less crowds there are. Day tickets to The Rock are only $45, including the ferry to get there and the self guided audio tour. I dare you to try the night tour! Buy tickets here: Alcatraz Tours or Viator offers great bundles and you can get into Alcatraz and the Aquarium for $63!
4. Visit Lombard Street
Address: Lombard St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Check out the 8 crazy zigzag turns down the hill on Lombard Street. It’s fun to drive down!
5. Visit the Sea Lions at Fisherman's Wharf - Pier 39
Address: Beach Street & The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94133
Grab a bite to eat, do some shopping and then come see these guys! There are hundreds of sea lions at times, swimming, barking, and splashing. I could sit and watch them for hours!
6. Visit the Golden Gate Bridge
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Presidio of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94129
You can drive, bike, and even walk across this massive bridge, or enjoy from a beach nearby. Any way you choose, you can appreciate the beauty of this iconic art deco bridge. If you get to the other side, there is a park/lookout area to snap a few photos. This was taken from the Crissy Fields East Beach:
GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE FROM CRISSY FIELDS EAST BEACH
7. Walk through the Palace of Fine Arts
Address: 3601 Lyon St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Take a walk through the Palace of Fine Arts walking distance from the Crissy Fields beach in #7! Appreciate the Greco-Roman architecture and lookout for turtles and ducks!
See if there are any events while you are there: Palace of Fine Arts Events
8. Get Ice Cream and Sit in the Park
Bi-Rite: 3692 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Bi-Rite is one of the best ice cream establishments in San Francisco. There is always a wait, but it is well worth it. Dolores Park is right across the street, which is a great place to enjoy city views and have some ice cream. The park isn’t always so crowded, it had rained all week and it was a warm beautiful day!
See our full BiRite Ice Cream Review here
9. Go Shopping in Union Square
Address: 333 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Shopping is one of my favorite activities and Union Square has some of the best stores: Macy's, Saks 5th Ave, Tiffany & Co, Nike, Apple, Williams-Sonoma, to name a few. Stop at the Burger Bar in Macy’s for Union Square views and a milkshake! If you go down Powell there are even more shops and a mall off of Market Street.
TONY BENNETT'S "I LEFT MY HEART IN SAN FRANCISCO"
Milkshake at the Burger Bar
10. Find the Mrs. Doubtfire House
Mrs. Doubtfire House Address: 2640 Steiner St, San Francisco, CA 94115
"Steiner Street. Oooh how lovely!" Quote from Mrs. Doubtfire, one of my favorite movies of all-time. There's even a Robin Williams tribute with people that have signed rocks in the planter. Here's what it looks like: inside the house.
11. Catch a Giant's Game at AT&T Park
Address: 24 Willie Mays Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94107
Check out their schedule and buy tickets: Click Here
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
Other things to do in Northern California:
Holiday Gift Guide for the Traveler Under $50
Looking for the perfect gift? Try our gift guide for the traveler or anyone in your life for under $50! Shopping for everyone on your list! Last minute Christmas gifts under $50 #giftguide #greatgifts #shopping
The holidays are coming and so is my birthday! Here are gifts for pretty much anyone on your list because who doesn’t like to travel?! Some of these items are even great for everyday use.
This blog uses affiliate links. If you’d like to purchase a recommended product, please use the link to support this blog. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, it simply allows me to continue creating these posts. Thank you so much for your love and support!
Luggage Under $50
Pretty Personalized Duffels
Perfect for a weekend getaway, galavanting across Europe or great for basketball practice!
AmazonBasics Hardside Spinner Luggage - 20-Inch, Carry-On
Carry-ons are important, this model has maximum capacity, is light weight, has four wheels to maneuver around easily AND comes in a variety of colors (blue, green, black, red, orange, etc)!
Jewelry and Watch Gifts Under $50
I love all kinds of jewelry! Here are some great options for any lady or man in your life!
Airplane Ring
Stackable Name Rings
Airplane Bracelet
Travel Jewelry Box
Perfect for organizing all jewelry without getting necklaces and bracelets tangled.
Personalized Men’s Wrist Watch
Check out that fancy leather and classic face. Sure to look great on any man in your life!
Electronics and Accessories Under $50
Here are some great options for the techy type.
Portable External Battery Charger
Anker PowerCore 10000 is one of the smallest and lightest external batteries. Ultra-compact, high-speed charging technology power bank works for iPhones, the Samsung Galaxy and more.
Perfect for charging any device on the go!
Sony MDRZX110NC Noise Cancelling Headphones
Perfect to drown out the screaming baby or chatty neighbor on the plane!
World Map Mac Computer Decal
Comes in all colors and the decal can be used almost anywhere such as computers, walls, phones, car windows, etc.
Flamingo Phone Case
There are so many phone case options and designs at such a great price.
Leather Apple Watch Bands
These bands come in all sizes and colors!
Floral Shop on Casetify
See beautiful designs for all devices on Casetify: Click Here
Macbook Sleeves on Casetify
Holiday designs and more on Casetify.com
Must Have Travel Items Under $50
Here are some items anyone could use!
Trendy Luggage Tags
Check out all of the different colors and designs (and free shipping)!
Collapsible Water Bottle
Great travel accessory - Lightweight Silicone Travel Mug. Even has a filter for coffee or tea! Could be good for the office, too!
Travel Umbrella
EEZ-Y Compact Travel Umbrella w/Windproof Double Canopy Construction - Auto Open/Close Button
Travel Pillow
Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow for Neck, Chin, Lumbar and Leg Support - For Traveling on Airplane, Bus, Train or at Home - Best for Side, Stomach and Back Sleepers - Adjustable, Bendable Roll Pillow by Dot & Dot
Please share this with your family and friends! Pin this for later on your Pinterest board:
Check-out our Latest Blog Posts:
HOTEL REVIEW: Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa - Best hotel in Maui, Hawaii
The Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa is the best-kept secret of hotels in Maui! Not only do they have newly renovated rooms, you’ll be blown away by the best ocean front view rooms on the island! See our travel guide to the best hotel and Ka'anapali beach resort in Maui, Hawaii! #Maui #hotel #hawaii
Our Best Kept Secret, Stay at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa in Hawaii!
The Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa is located on the Ka’anapali Beach stretch of hotels and is the last hotel buried into Black Rock. This place has EVERYTHING: gorgeous ocean front views, the best snorkeling on the island, a great pool, a relaxing spa, delicious restaurants, what more could you need?! It’s about 45 mins to an hour from the airport with a gorgeous coastal drive and just 5 minutes away from Lahaina.
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii
I might be a little biased on the review because two of the biggest events of my life have happened at the Sheraton Maui, first I was proposed to then we came back with our family and friends and were married on the property making this place unforgettable.
Don’t forget to wave to Oprah on your way (her pad is up on the mountain on your drive in).
Relative Post: See How to Spend 4 Days in Maui
Where to stay in Maui: The Sheraton Resort
The resort first opened in 1963, and is massive! Depending on where your room is, you’ll definitely be hitting your daily step goal. There are some pictures of what it looked like when it first opened in the hallways.
Everything you could possibly need is on the property: restaurants, spa, bars, gift shop, snorkel, and other water activity rentals. Nearby, there is access to zip-lining, snorkeling, golfing, shopping, hiking, star gazing spots, anything you can think of!
Check out what to do: The 10 Best Things to do in Maui
Parking is always available and conveniently located next to Whaler's Village, a shopping center with clothing stores, an ABC Store (good for snacks and booze for the room), and restaurants.
Resort fee and Parking
A resort fee of $26.04 is charged per night, per room that is in addition to our rates and that will be automatically added to your bill by the hotel. The Resort Fee provides the following:
Complimentary valet parking on the day of arrival
Shuttle service to the area Westin hotels and town of Lahaina
Adult pool floats
A resort photo session and digital keepsake
A signature tote bag
Access to PressReader
Local telephone calls on Maui
Wi-Fi access in guest rooms and public areas
Access to the fitness center and coin-operated laundry room
Access to the Maui Ocean Center educational Hawaiian marine life hale near the pool
Trolley service in Kaanapali
25% off greens fees at the Kaanapali golf courses
Cultural activities like lei-making and hula demos
In-room coffee and tea
Parking fees:
Electric car charging stations: 4, For a fee
On-site parking, fee: $24 USD daily
Valet parking, fee: $32 USD daily
How to get to the Sheraton Maui
Airport shuttle service, fee: $60 USD (one way)
Alternate transportation: Hawaiian Executive Private Car Service; on request
Estimated taxi fare: $100 USD (one way)
Uber and Lyft are available but prices can range from $50-100 depending on availability.
Guest Rooms
All the rooms were newly renovated this year giving the rooms a fresh new modern look. We like to stay in Building 6, where all rooms are deluxe ocean view rooms. Although it is located on the opposite side of the hotel, the building is on a bluff above a drop-off, leaving the area quiet and private.
The bed is a perfect balance of firm and soft, allowing for a good nights sleep.
These rooms are fairly large for 2 people, and also have an empty mini fridge and a microwave, perfect for things like wine and popcorn (my faves). There are not mini bars in these rooms, so stop at an ABC Store and stock up on your way in!
The bathroom has a shower tub combo, with a shower head that you can use as a hose, which is great for washing sandy feet! Their amenities are pretty standard with shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and shower cap. The best part of the renovation of the bathrooms is they added a bidet!
Honestly, it’s the view here that keeps us coming back. I mean, can you blame us?
Sheraton Maui Views
POOL VIEWS AT THE SHERATON MAUI
Swim time!
The lagoon-like pool consists of two big pools that funnel like a river to connect and even has a small slide. There are usually bean bag floaties available in the pool which are perfect for towing your Mai Tai around. They just added some lounges around in the pool cabanas!
You’re also a few steps away from swimming in ocean! Although it is the Pacific and thought to be cooler waters, sometimes the ocean is warmer than the pool! The Sheraton is located against black rock, which is the perfect place to snorkel! You can typically see turtles in Maui almost anywhere, but I always have the best luck when snorkeling around Black Rock. If you go in the little shallow cove, they are usually eating in there!
Although the black rock is dark and jagged above water, a beautiful reef lies below the surface where you will often see huge green sea turtles swimming around along with tons of aquatic life including butterfly fish, beautiful colored wrasse, rays and you might even find an octopus (if you look very closely). Watch where you swim, many vacationers like to jump off Black Rock into the water! If you’re adventurous, plunge away, but be careful climbing up the rocks!
Please protect the reef and get some reef-safe sunscreen:
Restaurants at the Sheraton Maui Resort
There are 5 restaurants on the property and beach access to more hotels and Whalers Village. You won’t go hungry, that’s for sure.
Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii
Breakfast views from ROCKsalt
Coral Reef Breakfast (fka ROCKsalt)
I’m not typically a buffet person but everything here is amazing! There is something for everyone bacon, eggs, frittatas, pancakes, waffles, fruit, French toast, and there is also an omelet station where the chef makes it right in front of you! Definitely try the guava juice!
Drinks at the Cliff Dive Grill
WATCH THE CLIFF DIVERS FROM THE CLIFF DIVE GRILL
Cliff Dive Grill
Located by the pool, great for lunch or an afternoon snack. Can’t go wrong with their burger or chicken sandwich. At sunset, the cliff diver lights all the torches around the pool and along the top of black rock, then jumps into the water.
Mai Tai Bar
Similar to the Cliff Dive Bar, located next to the pool and a short walk from the beach, Mai tai’s are a must here! Food is also served here, sandwiches, burgers, fries, but this bar is only open from 10a-3p. Head over to the Cliff Dive bar for Happy Hour!
Shave Ice!
A Shave Ice spot replaced the hot-dog joint and I couldn’t be happier! It’s open earlier in the day and great for taking down to enjoy on the beach, by the pool, or even on your room balcony!
See more of our favorite restaurants in our post, 10 Best Restaurants in Maui.
Maui Nui Lu’au
Discover the remarkable stories, history, and culture of the Valley Isle and Kaanapali through the songs and dances of Maui and the Pacific at the Maui Nui Luau! Pro Tip: You can get discount tickets for the Maui Nui Lu’au HERE!
ENTRANCE TO THE SPA AT BLACK ROCK
The Spa at Black Rock
We love getting our annual couples massage at the resort, especially after a few scuba dives or doing a trip to Hana (see our favorite things to do in Maui and Road to Hana posts for more on that).
We usually get a basic full body massage for 50 mins ($130), but this last time we went for the 80 mins ($180) and it was worth every penny. The spa rooms are patio like with natural sunlight peaking from the top, complete with soothing Hawaiian tunes. The spa offers a variety of massages and invites travelers to relax on the massage tables around the resort! There are a couple closer to the ocean for that soothing sound of waves crashing.
Ahhh.. it’s relaxing just thinking about it.
Perfect for a Destination Wedding
Josh proposed to me up on Haleakala at sunrise while we stayed at the Sheraton in 2013. As we started wedding planning on our balcony, we decided we wanted to get married on the lawn directly below us. A year later, we were married on that exact lawn (Moana Lounge) and hosted our reception on the ocean lawn with 70 of our closest friends and family. It was literally the best day of our lives in our favorite place.
If we weren’t already sold on the location, the ice cream bar option sealed the deal! ;-) We had a lovely coordinator for the day from the hotel and they worked with the best vendors!
Would you stay here?! Have you stayed somewhere you loved? Let us know in the comments below!
We always find the best rates on Booking.com - always check there prior to booking anywhere else!
If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:
More Maui Posts: