The excitement is building for our “Maui Christmas” Trip (see what I did there?) 😉 so today I’m sharing my idea of the Perfect Day on Maui. And technically, because Maui is so diverse I’ve decided to include two posts for this topic: part 1 (all about West Maui) and part 2 (South and Central Maui). For the record, it’s Hawaii, and guys I’m pretty sure that ALL days spent in Hawaii are perfect… so let’s just get to the list, shall we?
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Breakfast at the Gazebo
They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so indulge in a stack of fluffy, flavor-packed, Banana-Macadamia-Nut-Pancakes or a delicious, cheesy, omelette AND enjoy the beautiful view. I don’t know if there is a better way to start your day. The Gazebo opens at 7:30a.m., but you will need to arrive EARLY in order to avoid a long wait.
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Napili Beach
Since we are in the neighborhood I’m spending a few hours at my favorite west side beach, Napili Beach. One of the best beaches in Maui with its soft sand, protected bay, and palm tree-lined backdrop–not to mention, the views of the offshore island, Molokai, are incredible. Rent a paddleboard at 808 boards or Water Works Sports Maui and get out there and have some fun.
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Lunch at Lahaina Pizza Company
I know what you’re thinking… in the land of plate lunches, fresh fish, famous kalua pork, and mouth-watering pineapple, why in the hell am I choosing a Pizza place for lunch? Good question. Besides the fresh Chicago-style pizza and amazing ocean views, you simply can’t beat an $8 lunch special which includes a personal pizza, side salad, and a drink. The best part is that my husband and I usually share because there is SO much food; I could be wrong, but I don’t know if you’ll find a cheaper lunch in Lahaina.
Oh and while we’re here, let’s hop across the street and get dessert at Ululani’s Shave Ice, because it’s HAWAII, and one does not NOT get shave ice in Hawaii.
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An Afternoon of Whale Watching
Not only do tourists flock to Maui during the winter months, but Maui is also a hot-spot for whales, and during the months of December through April you’ve got to get out on the water and go whale watching. I once read that mornings are the best time to go as the wind and waves pick up in the afternoon, and although I haven’t tested this theory for myself it seems to make sense. So for the purpose of today’s post we are going in the afternoon, but just know that I typically book a morning tour. 🙂 I wasn’t impressed with my Pacific Whale Foundation tour on our last visit, so this time we’ve booked with Trilogy Excursions (full review to come in January).
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Dinner at Leilani’s on the Beach
Is it a bad thing when the waiters/waitresses recognize your party half way into your vacation? My husband and I miiiiiiight go to Leilani’s every night a few times during our trips to Maui. I’m a huge fan of the fresh fish tacos and the happy hour specials, and my sweet husband always saves room for dessert, specifically the Hula Pie–a slice of macadamia nut ice cream, piled high on a cookie crust, and topped with fudge, macadamia nuts, and whipped cream. He even loves me enough to share this dessert with me. That is true love my friends! (PS…if you save your receipt you can get a free Hula Pie on your next visit). All the more reason to go back again, right? 🙂
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Sunset at Ka’anapali Beach
Right after your delicious dinner at Leilani’s, take a stroll along the beach adjacent to Whaler’s Village. Ka’anapali Beach was voted America’s best beach in 2013 (according to Tripadvisor.com), so on your next visit don’t miss an opportunity to relax on the sand and snuggle up next to your sweetie as you watch the sun dip below the horizon.
Up next: Part 2 (My Perfect Day in South Maui and Central Maui).
What would your perfect day in West Maui consist of?
Pictures and Plane Tickets 
I lived in Hawaii for 4 years, so this post made my heart happy. Next time you’re in Maui, make sure to check out the Aloha Mixed Plate, it’s a little dive bar, with an amazing happy hour!
Will do! 🙂 I’ve heard of the Aloha Mixed Plate but haven’t been… we are leaving in three weeks so I’ll be sure to add it to our itinerary. Thank you!!
Mele Kalikimaka!!
This song is on SiriusXM right now…and I thought of you and your “Maui Christmas”! xoxo
One of my favorite Christmas songs! 🙂
When we FINALLY get to go to Hawaii for our 10-Year anniversary (it’s TOTALLY going to happen) we definitely need to bring you and Cody along! *lol* You know all the good secrets of Hawaii and all the best places to see and to eat at….are you in?!
Sweetheart, you don’t have to ask us twice! 🙂 Of COURSE we will go! We would LOOOOOVE that. We always talk about wanting to show our friends our favorite part of the world, and I don’t think there’s another couple we’d rather travel with!! 😀 When’s your ten year anniversary??
It will be March 22 2017. 🙂 So we’ve got a little bit – but that just gives us longer to start saving and planning!!!
AWESOME! Yes, let’s plan it. That will be two years away in March! Woohoo! My extended family and I have been planning a trip to Hawaii in Jan/Feb 2016. The planning process will be a total of about two years when it’s all said and done and I think it was the perfect amount of time to have everyone save. 🙂 Do you know what island(s) you want to visit?
I have no idea. That’s where you come in. HAHA! 😉
We can start planning this summer when we are there in person to go through ideas and search websites!! 🙂 Can’t wait!!!
Sounds perfect! 🙂 I’ll make us some Mai Tai’s and we can grill some pineapple… it will be a great day!
sounds wonderful! 🙂 enjoy your holiday season in the Aloha land 🙂
Mahalo Kristina. 🙂 Miss seeing you around here. Hope all is well.
Thanks for sharing I’m headed there for NYE! Looking forward to reading all of your tips!
Aloha!
Check out my Maui page (https://picturesandplanetickets.wordpress.com/adventures/hawaiian-paradise/maui/) for additional tips. 🙂 While it’s our “Christmas Trip” we aren’t actually leaving until the first part of January. It’s better for school, work, and the pocketbook 😉 NYE on Maui would be amazing!!! Have so much fun! Can’t wait to see pictures.
E komo mai.
Mahalo Maxwell! 🙂
Yep, that’s just like home. Enjoy your visit. I visited Hawaii 40 years ago and decided to stay. Happy visiting and Aloha – pjs/
Aloha Paul!
I’m hoping one of these “visits” will become permanent… soon enough 😉
Now Krystle, don’t forget the Coconut Syrup on those fluffy pancakes!
I’m so excited for you and your husband, enjoy your trip and take loads of pictures for me.
ALOHA!
Auntie Doni
Auntie,
You are SO right… that coconut syrup is delicious!!! Meet us there???? 😉
Aloha!
-Krystle