The second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui is famous for its spectacular beaches and lush valleys. Maui visitors enjoy stunning ocean views and unforgettable sunsets. Maui offers relaxation and excitement all year round for locals and tourists alike.
If you are an outdoor lover, there are endless possibilities on Maui. Take advantage of surfing, hiking, whale-watching, horseback riding, and even helicopter tours. For the more adventurous, skydiving, snorkeling, and zip lines are sure to thrill you.
Hawaiian Culture
History of Maui mirrors the history of the New World. Locals had never seen a European until Captain James Cook sailed his ship to the Maui shores in 1778. European whalers and missionaries followed. They set up sugar plantations, turning Maui into the largest sugar producer on the Hawaiian Islands. Sugar plantations helped to shape the island’s cultural and ethnic makeup.
Maui was annexed by the United States in 1898 and became a US territory in 1900. Hawaii became a US state in 1959.
The Expression of Aloha
“Aloha” is a standard greeting in Maui. The “Aloha Spirit” is the coordination of mind and heart within each person. It brings each person to the self. Aloha promotes good feelings to others. Language, music, dance, cuisine, and festivals all express Aloha. It’s in the graceful movements of hula or the distinctive rhythm of a slack- key guitar. You’ll find Aloha at every turn!
Hawaiian Customs and Traditions
Hawaii’s traditions are as diverse as its people. Here’s a quick guide to some local customs and traditions
- The Hawaiian way to greet someone is with a kiss on the cheek
- Always remember to remove your shoes before entering someone’s house
- Never show up empty-handed when visiting someone’s house
- A flower leu is an appropriate way to welcome visitors
- Don’t take rocks or sand from the beach or lava rocks from a volcano with you
- It is NOT common to use your car horn while driving in Hawaii
Are You Ready To Take In The Island Views From Your Car?
When you go to Maui, you have to experience a road to Hana.
Considered to be one of the world’s best road trips, Hana is all about the journey. Over the five hours, 600 + turn trip to the town of Hana, you’ll marvel at everything there is to see. Giant waterfalls, rainbow eucalyptus trees, bamboo forests, and black sand beaches await you. There are so many sights, you may not be able to see them all. Keep your adventure going! Drive around the backside and complete the loop instead of turning around. You will never forget this all-day adventure.
Stop your car at any time to stretch your legs and to take pictures of the luscious nature. If you plan your trip ahead of time, you can stop at designated spots along the way and walk to the best natural wonders Maui has to offer.
If you want to have a snack during your tour, buy local Hawaiian fruits from vendors who set up their carts along your route and enjoy the juiciest, sweetest bounty this island produces.
If you want to experience one of the best restaurants in the US, stop by Mamma’s Fish House before the roundtrip. The restaurant sends out their fishing boats daily to catch fish and serve it fresh to you. It’s worth the trip!
If you suffer from motion sickness, don’t forget to bring medications to relieve the symptoms. You will need to stay alert to fully enjoy your experience.
Molokini Crater And Turtle Town
Maui is famous for the Molokini Crater nature preserve. The crater is a volcanic atoll located off the south coast of Maui.
You’ll enjoy a short boat ride on the way to your destination. Observe giant green sea turtles and schools of colorful tropical fish. For a bird’s eye view, you can always arrange a flyover and take it all in from the air.
Plan to take a boat from Lahaina Harbor, which is the closest departure point to Kapalua. Learn more by following this link.
Haleakala Sunrise
Haleakala stands some 10,000 feet above sea level. Get out there early and watch the sunrise, mountain bike during the day and stargaze at night. All waiting for you at the “House of the Sun” in Haleakala National Park. Can you think of a better vista?
See more information on the website.
Whale Watching
Visit Maui from early December to April to watch thousands of whales migrate back to the islands to mate. Your starting point is a boat ride from Maalaea Harbor or Lahaina Town to the Maui Channel. Your best chance to watch whales play in the waves and show off their tail fins.
You can also catch a sight of migrating whales from the Equity Residences Kapalua Golf Villa lanai. Just make some coffee and enjoy the view.
Old Town Lahaina
Thinking about spending a day in Old Town Lahaina? Enjoy a stroll along downtown Front Street and pop in at a variety of restaurants and shops. You’ll see one of the world’s largest banyan trees at Banyan Court Park. Rest your feet and cool off with a stop at Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice.
The Power Of The Ocean
Experience the power of the ocean the Nakalele blowhole. The hike down the sea cliffs can be dangerous when the waves crash in. Be careful about going to and from. Make sure to get a selfie in front of the heart-shaped rock on the way back up.
Enjoy The Kapalua Golf Corse
The Bay Course is famous for its breathtaking 17th hole, the only hole to play over the ocean on Maui. Kapalua is a “must play” when visiting Maui. The Bay Course challenges the best players in golf and withstood the test of time and technology.
The Bay Course opened in 1975. It has since hosted over 20 major professional tournaments. Time your visit to watch some of the best players in the world challenge The Bay Course. Or bring your clubs and get out there and have a go yourself!
Our Kapalua Golf Villa is located within a walking distance to the Kapalua golf course.
Beaches And Restaurants Located On The Kapalua Resort
Walk or ride a free resort shuttle from the Equity Residences Kapalua Golf Villa to the award-winning beaches and pristine bays that form the graceful Kapalua coastline. Maui gives you four stunning beaches to enjoy. Make a plan to dig your toes into the sand. Soak up the sun, take part in water sports or marvel at the shallows teeming with marine life.
Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay gained worldwide attention and is now ranked “America’s Best Beach.” Experience gentle breaking waves above and vibrant marine life below. Kapalua Bay offers a sheltered sanctuary for exploring the wonders of the ocean. The beach activities desk offers a variety of watersports equipment and activities.
D.T. Fleming Beach
D.T. Fleming Beach is a long white sand beach located in front of The Ritz- Carlton, Kapalua. It’s perfect for running and sunning. Winter swells make this a popular location for boogie boarding and surfing. A variety of beach activities and equipment are available.
Oneloa Bay
Oneloa Bay is a favorite for locals seeking fast-breaking winter surf. The secluded bay rests between the Bay Villas and Ironwoods. For those not desiring to get wet, the Kapalua Coastal Trail runs along the beach’s dunes.
Honolua And Mokule’ia bays
Honolua Bay and the adjoining Mokule`ia Bay are north of Kapalua Resort. The area is protected by the Marine Conservation Districts. The resort’s founder ensured that these unique ocean resources remained protected.
Experience restaurants located just a short walk from the Equity Residences Kapalua Golf Villa
Experiencing Maui non- stop is sure to make anyone work up an appetite. How about lunch, dinner or a snack?
Merriman’s Kapalua
Merriman’s Kapalua is on one of the most popular restaurants on the resort. Chef Merriman serves the freshest Hawaiian Regional Cuisine. Enjoy year-round sunsets from the dining room or while enjoying a glass of wine on the outdoor lanai.
Merriman’s boasts a farm to table menu. Explore the extensive wine list and specialty cocktail menu. Enjoy the finest food while viewing a breathtaking Maui sunset. Entertainment nightly.
The Pour House
This is the place for delicious, authentic Italian food. Chefs prepare their meals with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Choose from vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menu options. Enjoy hand-crafted cocktails, local beers, and intriguing wines from all over the world.
Out for a fun date night or celebrating a special occasion? The Pour House is the place to share a great meal with friends and family. This spot will fast become one of your favorite Maui restaurants. Live music nightly.
Taverna Italian Eatery
Enjoy a meal outside on the spacious patio with views extending up into Mauna Kahalawai. Taverna is the perfect place to meet a friend or watch the game.
Taverna offers fresh house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and other favorite Italian dishes. Stop in for lunch or dinner in their lovely and rustic open-air restaurant. Full Brunch Buffet on Sunday!
The Banyan Tree At The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua
The hand-crafted wooden bar wraps around the center of the restaurant. The decor pays homage to the history of banyan trees in Hawaii as a gathering place to meet and share a meal.
Enjoy classic Hawaiian recipes served with a local twist. Mediterranean cooking techniques enhance the dining experience. The Banyan Tree is sure to enliven your senses and treat you to the ways of the islands.
Sansei
Sansei is one of the most popular restaurants in Kapalua. Make sure to reserve your table in advance, or risk waiting in a long line for a table.
Come to Sansei for a great wine list, fresh seafood, and Asian fusion dishes.
It’s Time To Book Your Maui Vacation
There is so much to see and do on Maui. Make this the place for that special anniversary or a once in a lifetime adventure. Maui is a world-class destination perfect for a getaway with the family.
Equity Residences Kapalua Golf Villa overlooks the Kapalua Bay Golf Course. The villa is in the walking distance to all the beaches, restaurants and golf courses on the Kapalua Resort. Guests can also take a free shuttle to reach desired destinations.
Aloha!
