Maui Oceanview Condos

Maui Upcountry Sunday Drive

2012-03-02T08:13:00.002-10:00

This Sunday (March 4th) is the quarterly Sunday Drive event at the Ulupalakua Ranch on the side of our resident volcano Haleakala. It is a gorgeous drive from Kihei to the ranch, which is technically just up the hill, though there is no direct public road (Oprah does have a private road, but it is sadly off limits). So you drive from Kihei back to the Sugar Cane Mill and then up through Kula to the ranch (it'll take you a bit over an hour to get there but you will be rewarded with gorgeous bi-coastal views of Maui).

The Sunday Drive event goes from 11am-4pm. This weekend they are celebrating the heritage of this historic ranchland. There will be live music (and free wine tastings) on the beautiful grounds of the Tedeschi winery, lunch specials at the Ulupalakua General Store (across the street from the winery) and an opportunity to learn more about the area's history and culture.

Music at Winery Grounds Stage 11 – 4
Grammy winner Richard Ho’opi’i & Ohana
Ukulele virtuoso Derick Sebastian
Joel Katz Hawaiian steel guitar
Seabury Hall Hawaiian Ensemble
Uncle Benny Uyetake
HistoryRemembering legendary Ulupalakua artist Reems Mitchell, creator of Maui’s most photographed statues. View memorabilia of his work and life.

Wailuku First Friday

2012-03-01T11:45:00.000-10:00

Can you believe it's March already? This year has really flown by. Our repeat guests at Kihei Surfside leave tomorrow (they have been here for 7 weeks), another couple staying 2 months at our Maui Kamaole condo leaves Sunday. Time to go home and plan next year's vacation!

Tomorrow is Friday - and not only that, it's the first Friday of the month. In Wailuku they have a family-friendly street party every first Friday of the month. It takes place on Market Street which is closed down to traffic from 6-9pm. You will find sidewalk artisans, crafters, food vendors...

Go check it out! One of the things they're doing tomorrow is Zumba.

How to transport a wind turbine

2012-02-28T14:13:00.001-10:00

A friend took a few pictures of the wind turbines being transported around South Maui this past week. Yes, we have a wind farm on the West Maui mountains just above Maalaea - what a perfect spot for them - it gets really windy there. Currently they are expanding the wind farm, adding 14 more wind turbines (according to Maui News). Yes, the wind farm is highly controversial because of its environmental/ecological impacts. However, by generating more power with wind turbines, Maui is able to reduce its dependency on diesel generated power.

The West Maui wind farm as seen from a boat in Maalaea Harbor

This is a portion of the wind turbine's tower which is 180 feet high in total

Another picture of a piece of the tower.

Hope he doesn't have any sharp turns planned!

This is one of the turbine blades (112 feet in length)

Hawaii's power is the most expensive in the United States - currently hitting 38 cents/kwh. How much does power cost where you live?

Banana Harvest

2012-02-27T16:02:00.002-10:00

Our neighbors set up an ice cream station in their yard yesterday, serving us neighbors home-made banana icecream which they had made from their own bananas. De-li-cious! It was really good.

This reminded me of our apple bananas (miniature bananas that taste a little like apples), which I was told are ready to come down. Of course, another neighbor thought they weren't ready yet - so who knows. We have two bunches of bananas, so I decided to cut down the bunch that looked further along as an experiment. I have been told you cut them down before they turn yellow, then put them in the garage to sit and they yellow there. Surprisingly (because it certainly was not bought for this purpose) we have a tool that worked well for cutting them down (they are pretty high up). Now they are sitting, waiting to yellow. If we did cut them down too early, at least we'll know for our second bunch. I am considering buying an icecream maker. It really was that good!

Here are a few pictures of the banana bunch and its bloom (the purple part). It is really quite fascinating - for me at least!

While I was taking pictures of the bananas, a little gecko was watching me....

25 cent book store

2012-02-25T15:22:00.003-10:00

Today we went to the 25 cent book store (aka 10 cent book store)! Well, that's not the official name - it's called MFOL (Maui Friends of the Library) and it sells donated books for 25 cents. It is a non-profit, all volunteer organization that accepts book donations, keeping books out of the landfill and providing very low-cost books to all. They use these donations and membership dues to help support Maui County public libraries.

Maui Friends of the Library

It is open to the public, and if you enjoy reading and don't have a kindle or e-reader, this is a great way to keep your luggage light when coming on vacation. Pick up some books, once you are done, donate them back to the store and pick up some more! You never know what you are going to find!

Another picture of the outside of the book store

To get there from Kihei: take the Mokulele Hwy from Kihei towards Kahului. Turn right on Hansen Road (at the Sugar Cane Factory) and take your first right. You will drive past/through the factory to the end of the paved road and then turn left onto a dirt road (there may be some gravel, it seemed mainly red dirt to me). You are at this point driving through Sugar Cane fields. You will probably wonder if you missed it - but you're right on, keep going.

Shortly you will pass the Puunene School on your right, then turn right and right again. Now you are behind the Puunene School, drive to the end of this dirt road and you will see it on the left side with plenty of parking to be had.

Here is their website with another set of directions. According to their website, the store is open Tuesday through Saturday between 9-4pm (unconfirmed).

Do you enjoy bird watching?

2012-02-25T08:09:00.001-10:00

If you are a bird watcher, consider checking the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge in Central Maui, very close to North Kihei. It is located just off the Mokulele Hwy (connecting highway between Kihei and Kahului). You can see endangered Hawaiian birds, but also migratory birds from as far away as Alaska and Canada, sometimes even Asia.

La Perousse Bay and the old lava flow

2012-02-20T11:52:00.000-10:00

Today is President's Day in the United States, so the kids have the day off school. I took the kids to the lava fields at La Perousse Bay today - always a favorite with the whole family. I've written about it before on this blog - here's the link. Here are a few pictures. I think I enjoy the drive as much as climbing around on rocks.

View of a few of the rocks and La Perousse Bay

Coming back, piles and piles of lava rocks on both sides of the road, together with a water line to supply the ranch and house on the other end.

Looking out at Molokini on the right, Kaho'olawe on the left

Our garden

2012-02-17T21:05:00.005-10:00

I've mentioned my 'flower bed orchids' in this blog. My mother loves orchids, I myself don't have the patience for them. However, at the Shops at Wailea, a high-end shopping center here in Wailea, they have orchids growing outdoors in flower pots. So I figured, why not plant these orchids I've been collecting outside? If they die there, they die, but if I keep them in the house, they will die for sure. So why not give it a try?

We planted them last spring, since then they've gotten a few new leafs, budded and are now blooming. Here are the buds on one of the orchids...

The buds are starting to open and look like this....

Here is a the other two orchids in bloom...

Our orange tree finally has some fruit, though still tiny and very green!

This is what the orange blooms look like....

We are experimenting with this pineapple top. It has grown some new leaves in the center. If it grows as I have read online, it could grow to become 2 feet in diameter and up to 6 feet tall! I will keep you posted!!

The neighborhood landscaper tells me our apple bananas are nearly ready to be cut down. This is our first apple banana harvest!

Joe also told me the banana trees look very fertile - there are about 6 baby banana trees growing around the two big ones, and judging by the size of the blooms on the banana trees, we may even get a second crop (apparently you normally chop banana trees down after the first harvest). I thought we had planted two banana trees - now we will have a banana tree grove! I am also not sure what we will do with two huge bunches of apple bananas..... set up our own fruit stand?

Where to find a doctor in Kihei

2012-02-15T20:49:00.000-10:00

Imagine this, you come to Maui on vacation, and you get sick! Well, hopefully not! However, I thought it might be useful for you to know where the medical centers are, just in case you do need to see a doctor.

In Kihei there are two medical centers for you to choose from:

- Urgent Care Maui, located on the corner of South Kihei Road and Lipoa, across the street from Times Supermarket. This is where we used to go when we were on holiday (it seemed every time we came, someone in our family would come down with an ear infection). They are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a week. Nothing fancy, but they did the job when we needed them.

- Kihei Wailea Medical Center, located in Safeway Plaza, just off the Piilani Hwy and Piikea Ave. They are open Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat&Sun 8am-5pm, holidays 8am-1pm. This is a newer clinic.

There are, of course, also a number of private doctors, and if you are a member of Kaiser Permanente, they have a clinic in Kihei (in Azeka Plaza) also (but are not open evenings, weekends and holidays).

Should you be in need of a chiropractor, I can recommend ours - Dr Shana Wasserman, with a small office located right next to Urgent Care Maui. She also has massage therapy and acupuncture available in her office.

The nearest hospital is Maui Memorial Hospital in Wailuku. It is about a 40-50 minute drive from Kihei (without speeding), and of course, you can also dial 9-1-1 for emergency assistance.

In Kihei you can find pharmacies at Safeway, Times Supermarket and Longs Drugstore, all in Central Kihei.

Where to get your snorkel and scuba rental gear

2012-02-15T08:13:00.002-10:00

I've never rented snorkel gear (can you believe, I've only once gone snorkeling - and that was on a Molokini cruise where they provided gear). However, our long-time repeat guests at our Kihei Surfside condo are determined to teach me next week! I'm excited to go with experienced snorkelers who can save me if I get in trouble! And no, I don't expect our guests to take me along on their day trips - but Bill and Debbie are our friends.

Bill and Debbie rent/buy their gear at Maui Dreams Dive Co, located at 1993 South Kihei Road, and highly recommend this store. Maui Dreams Dive Co was also in the Maui News today, here is an article. They also have great reviews on yelp.com.

Pupus at Tommy Bahamas

2012-02-13T20:26:00.001-10:00

Pupus? No, it's not a bad word actually, though I'm sure I had you looking! Pupus is Hawaiian for appetizers. And that is definitely a good word!

One of our neighbors' favorite dinner places is Tommy Bahamas - they go there for an early dinner of pupus. In fact, they like it so much, last summer they volunteered to watch our kids so Sig and I could go on a date - to Tommy Bahamas! Yes, you're probably thinking - isn't that a clothing store? Yes, it is. But there are also some Tommy Bahamas restaurants - one of them being right next to the clothing store in Shops at Wailea, a high-end shopping mall in South Maui.

Yes, it was expensive, but yes, the appetizers were very good and the drinks even better. I had a grapefruit basil martini and loved it so much, that Sig now makes it for me (on occasion) at home.

It's very simple - you take some fresh basil (possibly from the farmer's market?) and muddle it with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice (again from the farmer's market?). In case you aren't familiar with the term muddle - put both in a glass and beat them with a fork so the juice takes on the flavor of the basil. Then add vodka to taste. You'll want to chill the drink with some ice. If you are like me, you will leave the basil in the drink to chew on (I mean, as a garnish?). If you like, you can also add a little simple syrup (sugar water), or use sweetened grapefruit juice instead.

Head and neck injuries in the ocean

2012-02-13T19:51:00.001-10:00

Last week a tourist here on Maui was knocked down by a wave. When he surfaced, he had lost feeling in his lower body. He was taken to Maui Memorial Hospital's emergency room (in Wailuku) and from what I have heard is now paralyzed below the waist. I don't know if this is permanent, but what an awful thing to have happen - especially on your holiday. Sadly it happens more often than you would think. A local emergency room doctor told a friend most of the trauma cases they see are ocean related head and neck injuries.

So should you stay out of the ocean? Absolutely not. But:
- Be aware of the ocean.
- Go to beaches that have life guards. Watch for the life guards' signs - if they warn you not to go into the ocean, it's probably best to heed their warning and do something else.
- When you do go in the water, be aware of your abilities.
- Always keep an eye on the waves, don't ever allow a wave to take you by surprise.

Here are a few websites I found regarding neck injuries in the ocean. If you are interested, check them out!
- avoiding head and neck injuries
- how waves are made

But most importantly, as with anything in life - just use common sense.

How about a concert at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center?

2012-02-13T19:33:00.000-10:00

We just had an email come through - Jimmy Buffet is coming to the Maui Arts and Cultural Center! Tickets go on sale February 22nd for the general public. hmmm.... we'll have to look into this! Last year I saw Elton John perform at the MACC's outdoor venue. It was awesome!

Elton John performing live Feb 24 2011 at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center

Have a look at their website, and see if you see something that grabs your attention!

World Whale Day

2012-02-13T09:17:00.000-10:00

Have you seen any of our humpback whales jumping yet? We are enjoying whale season - which runs annually from about November through May (best time to see them is January through March when there are more here)! About 2/3s of the Pacific Northwest's humpback whales migrate to the warm waters between Maui, Lanai and Kaho'olawe to give birth, nurse and mate. This area is part of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary (quite the name, isn't it?). They spend up to two months here, during which time they do not eat! Can you imagine not eating for two months?

This weekend on February 18th is the annual Parade of Whales which is a part of the Maui Whale Festival. It will take place along South Kihei Road, starting at 9am. There will also be a free Children's Festival, Made on Maui crafts, food, a silent auction and whale displays. If you are here - come check it out!

humpback whale's fluke (photo courtesy of the Pacific Whale Foundation)

Go check out some of Maui's art today!

2012-02-12T11:19:00.000-10:00

Are you on Maui and looking for something to do today? Maui Open Studio is going on this weekend - check out this website, write down a couple addresses, and visit West, Central and South Maui's local artists in their studios, watch them work and buy some art! Today only between 11-6pm (though I would go sooner than later).

Where to go for a nice lunch?

2012-02-09T17:25:00.001-10:00

I'm always on the lookout for a great restaurant, and recently I asked a few friends for some recommendations for a fancy lunch date with my hubby.

Here are their recommendations.... you might just want to check these out too!

- Ferraro's at the Four Seasons in Wailea

- Monkeypod Kitchen in Wailea

- 5Palms on Keawakapu Beach in Wailea

- Cafe o Lei in Kihei (I can't find a website, but here is the Yelp review - we love this place and eat here very regularly)

- Buzz' Wharf in Maalaea Harbor

This is, of course, not a complete list of wonderful places to eat here in South Maui. I am looking forward to my lunch date!

Maui artists

2012-02-05T14:16:00.000-10:00

There is one small store in South Kihei's Kamaole Shopping Center (between Kamaole I and II beaches) that I love to browse in.... it's called Maui Ocean Arts. It used to be an artists' cooperative. The ownership changed a year ago or so and it now belongs to a middleman (I think).

Regardless, they have some beautiful locally made things there (pottery, jewellery, handmade dresses, seashells, pictures etc). Here is a picture of one of the gorgeous orchid necklaces they sell. The pendant is a real orchid that is treated in a resin of sort to preserve the shape and natural color. You can get them either with a beaded chain of sorts (I believe this one is fresh-water pearls colored to match), or just as an ornament (to hang on your Christmas tree, or from a window). They're just gorgeous!

On the orchid note.... I planted three orchids left by guests in our condos last spring in a flower bed. I have more or less ignored them, and they've even been transplanted a few times because of soccer ball mishaps etc. I am most pleased to report that two of them are in full bloom and the third is budded and ready to bloom!

one of my flowerbed orchids!

Maui Canoe Club

2012-02-03T10:15:00.001-10:00

The guests staying at our Sugar Beach condo just called to say goodbye. This is their second (maybe third) time staying in our condo and I had the privilege of meeting them this time. I asked him what the highlight of this Maui trip had been. Turns out, he went for a paddle with the Maui Canoe Club the other day and ended up within 10 feet of a baby humpback whale and its mama! Wow. For the record, it is illegal to get within 100 yards of whales. However, humpback whales obviously may approach you.

Here is the website for the Maui Canoe Club - check them out, and if you want to go for a paddle too, you show up at 7am, sign a waiver, and if they have room, pay $10 and go (they have two trips, 7:30 and 8:30am and non-members go on a first-come first-serve basis). They have about 6 people per canoe and you will be paired with experienced paddlers.

This is something I definitely want to try!!

Ho'okipa Lookout and Pai'a

2012-02-03T09:57:00.001-10:00

Yesterday we took company out to Ho'okipa Lookout to watch the surfers. Ho'okipa Lookout is just past Pai'a and Mama's Fish House on Hana Hwy. You will drive past the surfing beach (it's a steep narrow parking lot). Once past the beach turn into the lookout parking lot for a much better view. The weather was gorgeous, the water so many shades of blue!

There weren't a lot of surfers out, but instead we had a real treat - we saw a large green sea turtle! It was probably about 3 feet across. Would you believe it - in 1 1/2 years of living on Maui, this is the first turtle I've seen! I don't spend much time in the water, it would appear!!

After watching for a while we drove back to Pai'a for lunch at Milagros Food Co (South Western food). It is located just next to the one and only traffic light in Pai'a. The food was amazing - as always.

Milagros Food Co. in Pai'a

My blackened ahi burrito - so delicious!

Be sure to take some time to walk around Pai'a. It is a small hippie surfing town with many little shops and boutiques to check out! Parking can be tricky - there is a free parking lot on the Kahului side of Pai'a (but it's usually packed) and free parking along the road. There are also a number of pay parking lots (including an inexpensive one behind Milagros).

New search feature!

2012-02-02T09:00:00.000-10:00

Aloha my readers! I just added a new search feature on the right hand side of my blog. This may come in handy if you are looking for something particular.

Have a wonderful day! The sun is shining - it's going to be another great Maui day!

Monthly tsunami warning tests

2012-02-01T13:04:00.001-10:00

As we were driving along South Kihei Road today, the tsunami sirens went off. I glanced at the car clock, remembered that it is February 1st and realized it was the monthly scheduled Emergency Alert System test.

the tsunami sirens near Kamaole I beach park

As you may recall, Maui's most recent tsunami scare was in March 2011 after the deadly earthquake that hit Japan. We were for the most part fortunate, though there was damage to the Maalaea boat harbor and water ran inland several blocks in Kahului (down Puunene). The guests who stayed in our Sugar Beach condo were evacuated - apparently they enjoyed the adventure, they are coming again this spring!

So, if you hear the sirens go off on the first day of the month at 11:45am, don't worry about it. However, it would be a good idea to familiarize yourself with the evacuation procedures and to know where the safe zone is (just look in the phone book at your condo or check out this Maui County link).

Maui's visitor numbers are up!

2012-01-31T15:41:00.001-10:00

The news is in, and Maui's visitor numbers are up compared to last year! That is great news, a big thank you to all of you who contributed to those numbers by coming last year! In case you too enjoy statistics - here is today's article from the Maui News with all the details. We had 2.16 million visitors in 2011 (compared to Oahu's 4.4 million). Not bad for an island with 144,000 residents (Oahu has 953,000 residents).

With regards to our condos, no I haven't done a headcount on the number of guests who actually stayed in our condos. But how about some nationality statistics: about half our guests are American, half Canadian. Last year we also had one couple from Japan (they chose our Maui Kamaole condo), New Zealand (Kihei Surfside), Switzerland (Sugar Beach), one from Slovakia (Kihei Surfside) and another from Great Britain (Maui Kamaole).

A big MAHALO (thank you) to all of you who stayed with us this past year! We appreciate your business!

A sunset whale show at Kihei Surfside

2012-01-29T20:44:00.001-10:00

Tonight we enjoyed sunset from our Kihei Surfside condo's front lawn. The humpback whales heard we were coming and did they ever put on a show! Of course, it's hard to get good shots of whales (especially when you are trying to keep an eye on a toddler).... we sure enjoyed our evening though!

Humpback whale acrobatics (a second one had just gone back into the water)

A humpback whale showing off for his adoring fans!

Another gorgeous sunset at Kihei Surfside

Guests at Kihei Surfside blowing their conch shells, wishing the sun goodnight

Our favorite playgrounds

2012-01-28T10:52:00.001-10:00

Are you looking for a playground for the kids? Apart from the beach, that is?

In Kihei there is a brand new playground/park just off the Piilani Hwy, called South Maui Community Park. To get there you turn right onto Lipoa (by Kihei Elementary and the Aquatic Center). Turn left at the first light (after Kihei Elementary) on Liloa Drive and follow the road past the Middle School. There is a nice playground, a number of fields, picnic area and public washrooms. It can get quite windy (kiting!!) but there is little shade to be had.

South Maui Community Park playground

one of the climbing structures complete with tongue slide

If you don't mind a little drive, go upcountry to Haiku and check out Kalakupua Playground at Fourth Marine Division Memorial Park! It is at Mile 2, Kokomo Road in Haiku. This playground is cool - it's a fortress with separate little and big kid areas.

Kalakupua Playground in Haiku... lots of fun for all the kids!

Mama's Fish House

2012-01-25T16:07:00.001-10:00

I have a confession to make.... I have never been to Mama's Fish House. Everyone keeps telling me, 'but Cara - you have to go! it is so good!' Yes, I know. And we will, one of these days....

Mama's Fish House is located on the North Shore just past Pai'a and just before Ho'okipa beach (an awesome wind-surfing beach). As everyone keeps telling me - you have to go! Yes, it is pricey and yes, you definitely need reservations, but as all my foodie friends tell me, the food and the view are both worth it!

the view from Mama's Fish House

Here is a picture of the dessert our guests at our Sugar Beach condo enjoyed the other night.... It is chocolate mousse with lilikoi cream in a pastry seashell.

Mama's Polynesian Black Pearl dessert

Great, now I am having a chocolate craving.... again!

Grandma's Coffee House

2012-01-24T21:04:00.000-10:00

Today was an Upcountry day for us - we have company and took them part way up Haleakala (our resident volcano) to Kula. First we stopped at the Surfing Goat Dairy for some cheese and truffles, and to pet some goats, of course. Then on to the Ulupalakua Ranch for a picnic with their awesome burgers and a wine tasting. Then the real hi-light for me - we stopped at Grandma's Coffee House. A number of people have been telling me about this place, and finally it was my turn to check it out!

Grandma's Coffee House.... ready for some coffee and desert!

When you're driving through Kula towards the ranch, it is almost at the very end of town. There's a tiny Chevron gas station, a small grocery/convenience store, an art gallery and the coffee shop.

When we drove by before lunch, it was packed! On the way back it was less full, plenty of room for us. It's a 4th generation coffee farm and yes, they still grow and roast their own beans.

next to the front door we found this - a coffee bloom! Gorgeous!

We were all still full from lunch, so we shared one piece of a pineapple/coconut square (delicious) and enjoyed some coffees. The tiramisu cake looked very tempting too. We'll be back!

Catch the wave at Big Wave Maui

2012-01-23T15:54:00.000-10:00

When you think of waves and Maui, you probably think of the ocean. However, there is an alternative to the ocean too.... It's called the Big Wave Maui, which is a FlowRider on the mountain side of South Kihei Road, across from Kalama Park and right next to Lulus.

My brother-in-law is a hard-core FlowRider fan and has gotten our kids all excited about it too. According to Wikipedia (the source of all knowledge?) the FlowRider 'features a slightly sloped wave surface that generates a smooth "barrel-less" wave'. You can either 'boogie-board' on it, or if you're more daring, you can try standing on one of their flowboards!

Big Wave Maui is under new ownership (since December 2011, it used to be called Da Rush). We went down yesterday and the kids enjoyed some action (the two instructors were very helpful). Go check it out!

Tutti Frutti - a frozen yogurt experience

2012-01-20T11:16:00.003-10:00

While in Kihei, check out our frozen yogurt self-serve bar - Tutti Frutti. Located at 1819 S Kihei Road (same strip mall as Local Motion, Starbucks and the movie theater). The owner Gail makes all the yogurt from scratch and the flavors vary from day to day! You help yourself to various local flavors (one or many), scoop on your toppings of choice, weigh and pay!

My kids think they are in heaven - with a brain freeze!

Click here for reviews on Tripadvisor!

Local Art - Maui Open Studios

2012-01-17T15:59:00.000-10:00

Last year February was the first Maui Open Studios event. Local artists opened their studios (or joined together in various locations) to show their work, do live demonstrations, offer refreshments etc. I went to a couple studios here in Kihei - and ended up buying some original water color paintings for our Palms at Wailea condo.

This year's Maui Open Studios begins Saturday February 4th with an Opening Celebration & Preview (6-9pm at the Maui Tropical Plantation). It is free and open to the public. February 11/12 is West/Central and South Maui, February 18/19 is North and Upcountry Maui, February 25/26 Road to Hana, Hana and East Maui. Go on the website, they have a little blurb about each artist, print off a map and go exploring!

A Hawaiian staple - spam

2012-01-16T20:28:00.000-10:00

When is the last time you ate spam? Spam? You know, the canned meat (I'm not talking about spam emails here).

Spam is pretty popular here in Hawaii. At many restaurants you will find at least one breakfast dish that involves spam. On that note, you will also see people eating loco moco for breakfast - I'm more of a toast and yoghurt kind of girl, but to each her own....

Five or six years ago I remember walking down the spam aisle at Safeway - seriously, spam and variations of it took up 1/3 to 1/2 the long aisle. I am not joking! That has changed in recent years - you definitely don't see those long canned meat aisles anymore. But you can still buy it in bulk at Costco! Just in case you are looking for a case-load!

I found this cookbook at Long's Drug Store last year - no, I didn't buy it. I couldn't quite get over the spam sushi picture...

Do you have any favorite spam recipes? I'd be curious!

Oahu and a hotel experience

2012-01-14T21:08:00.006-10:00

I've been unusually quiet this past week. It's been a busy one with company leaving and preparing for our Oahu trip. Our family had an appointment in Honolulu, so we figured, why not make a weekend out of it?

There really is only one way to travel from Maui to Oahu, and that is by airplane, though I have heard a rumor (and it is really just a rumor) that perhaps they will consider reopening ferry-service in the future (the Superferries were shut down after just a few months of operation a number of years ago). There are a few options, Hawaiian Air and Go Mokulele/Mesa Air being the two choices I'm familiar with. This weekend I saw another airline, Island Air but I don't know anything about them. We had points and flew Hawaiian which was a pleasant experience. It's really just a short flight - I think 35 minutes in total, just enough time to get juice handed out and back down again.

We didn't have much time on Oahu, so we didn't do much exploring. One of the huge differences I noticed between the two islands is the sheer volume of people! Maui has a full-time resident population of 120,000 plus tourists. Oahu's population is nearly a million. Maui's busiest road has three lanes going in each direction, with a maximum speed of 55 mph (that would be the Haleakala Hwy up to Kula, the Mokulele Hwy from Kahului to Kihei is 45 mph only). There were at one point 7 lanes of traffic in each direction on the I-HI1 freeway headed west from Honolulu. This is supposedly one of the busiest highways in the United States!

There is a new Disney resort on Oahu - the Aulani in Ko'Olina - and we decided to splurge and have a bit of fun with our boys! It really is a gorgeous resort, and I was pleasantly surprised that apart from one Mickey Mouse lamp in the bedroom, there really weren't any obvious Disney things around. We even avoided the 'meet the character' sessions - honestly just couldn't be bothered. Instead, the hotel is very much geared towards educating its guests about Hawaiian culture etc. Very interesting. Our boys absolutely loved Aulani's pools, water slide etc.

I have made a few observations - first of all, I hate having to go to bed with the kids! That first night as I lay in bed, shushing the kids, I considered how wonderful it would be to be in a condo, the kids in the living room, us in the bedroom, or the other way around. Or - better yet, a second bedroom so we could split the kids up, making bedtime easier! Secondly, as much as I love the resort - we are too cheap to actually eat here! $27/kid for breakfast (with Mickie) is crazy talk when all they really want is a bowl of cereal. I found myself wishing we at least had some dishes and cutlery to make our own breakfast - or a whole kitchen for that matter! On the other hand, I have really not missed cooking and cleaning up! I guess both hotels and condos really have their pros and cons!

Oceanview at Maui Kamaole

2012-01-06T15:32:00.001-10:00

Our guests staying at our Maui Kamaole condo over Christmas sent me a sunset photo they took from the lanai (Hawaiian for patio). Gorgeous! Mahalo (thank you) for sharing!

Sunset photo at our Maui Kamaole condo

Have you ever had huli huli chicken?

2012-01-06T13:26:00.001-10:00

On my way to our Maui Kamaole condo my nose told me the huli huli chicken people were barbecuing chicken nearby. They regularly set up their industrial-size barbecue on South Kihei Road across from Kamaole Point (this is between Kamaole II and III beach parks). I think they are there most weekends. Huli huli chicken is a specially marinated chicken roasted over a keawe wood fire (it tastes similar to rotisserie chicken but with an open fire twist). It smells so good.

The huli huli chicken people (okay, so that's not their real name)

I thankfully had some cash on me, so I picked up lunch (half a chicken costs $8). You can also buy it as a meal with sides and a drink - it would make a great picnic if you take it across the road to the beach park.

Lunch cooking on the barbecue! Yum!

If you see the huli huli chicken people - stop in and have some lunch!

Exploring the tide pools!

2012-01-04T20:29:00.005-10:00

This afternoon we took the kids exploring to Polo Beach in Wailea. Our target beach was Ulua Beach which has great kid-friendly snorkeling and tide pools, but unfortunately there is major construction going on at the old Renaissance hotel next door and parking was severely limited.

No matter, Polo Beach is also beautiful and has tide pools on the left end of it. To get to Polo Beach, you take Wailea Alanui Drive towards Makena and turn right on the road immediately after the Fairmont Kea Lani. There is public beach parking on the right just after the hotel and just before Polo Beach Club (another high end condo complex).

The tide pools were fun! We saw sea urchins, hermit crabs, little fish, and something large and black that looked a little like a cross of a starfish and an octopus.

I found this picture of black brittle stars online - this is what it looked like - but a little larger.

A girl held the body while the legs draped over her hand (similarly to this picture). It looked a little scary, actually, and according to the information I found in a snorkel book, they may be venemous (at least to their prey).

Photovoltaic energy at Kihei Surfside!

2011-12-30T22:25:00.001-10:00

I am really excited to tell you the photovoltaic (PV) project at Kihei Surfside is complete! For the past few months, there have been workers installing a new photovoltaic system on the roof, which should supply at least half of the building's current electrical needs. Why not more? Well, it would appear the roof isn't big enough at this time. Still, every bit helps and we're excited for two reasons - one, we're reducing the building's carbon footprint by reducing diesel-generated power used, and two, we're saving money on our power bills!

view of Kihei Surfside from its expansive lawn

How about celebrating the New Year on Maui?

2011-12-29T14:53:00.000-10:00

What are your New Year's plans? How about a last minute trip to Maui?

I have unfortunately had a last-minute cancellation at our Sugar Beach Resort condo. This is a ground floor 1 bedroom 1 bathroom condo (sleeps 4) with a peekaboo ocean view located in ocean-front Sugar Beach Resort. You are 30 steps from the ocean-front salt-water pool and jacuzzi, and 40 steps from the ocean-front BBQs (imagine cooking dinner at sunset!) and 50 steps from Maui's longest walking beach, 5 miles of beautiful sand waiting for your bare toes! The condo is fully air-conditioned and completely renovated. Click here for more details and to book!

enjoy a gorgeous sunset from Sugar Beach's ocean-front BBQs

your super-comfy cal-king bed awaits!

view of the living room from your fully stocked kitchen (free wi-fi and North-America long-distance calling plan included)

808 Bistro

2011-12-29T09:33:00.004-10:00

We had the best dinner at 808 Bistro in Kihei. I had the Sunset Special: a salad with apple-curry dressing, pork chops (with amazing mashed potatoes and stuffing) and their famous bread pudding with whiskey sauce for desert. There are several options to choose from for the $25 Sunset Special which is served between 5-6pm. The others enjoyed the Chicken Cordon Bleu and Short Rib Pot Pie. My sister and I opted to walk home to help all that food digest better. I definitely over-ate. But it was very good. We will be back!

My delicious pork chops - I'm getting hungry again, just looking at the picture!

808 Bistro serves breakfast from 7-12 and dinner from 5-9pm. It is BYOB (bring your own beer/wine - seriously). You will find it behind Fred's and Moose McGillicudy's across from Kamaole II beach. Now in our high season, reservations for dinner are definitely recommended!

For you techies (myself not included), Foursquare currently has a $10 off coupon if you pay with Amex.

By the way, in case you were wondering, 808 is the area code for Hawaii!

Minigolfing on Maui

2011-12-27T13:38:00.001-10:00

There are two mini-golfing places on Maui (that I know of at least). Our kids love both of them.

There is the Glow-Putt Mini Golf in Lahaina (I can't find a website, so here is the Tripadvisor review link). Our kids love this place, it's indoors, it's glow in the dark, it's air-conditioned.... Is it the best thing to do when you're on Maui? well..... but if it's overcast or rainy, or too hot, or you need to spend some time indoors because of that wicked sunburn you got, hey, it's fun! It is located in a somewhat deserted stripmall at the Western end of Front Street. It's a pay parking lot, but bring your parking stub in and they will validate it (2 hours of free parking)!

The second place is called Maui Golf and Sports Park in Maalaea. It's in a complex next to the Maui Ocean Center at Maalaea Harbor. It's a small space, but they have packed a lot of activities into it. The whole place is outdoors and yes it can be super windy (Maalaea usually is windy). There are two mini-golf courses, extreme trampoline, rock climbing and our kids' favorite, the bumper boats. I would do the bumper boats last, a great way to cool off after mini-golfing. Bring a set of dry clothes and a towel along, you will need them if you go bumper boating! You can either buy a pass for everything (unlimited mini-golf & 3 tickets for whichever activity you want) or just pay per activity.

Once you're done, hop in the car and drive across the parking lot to the Shops at Maalaea - great ice cream and cookies to be had at Hula Cookies!

Car rentals update on 'spouse drives free'

2011-12-27T09:09:00.002-10:00

I don't know about you - but when I rent a car, it's very handy if both my husband and I can drive the rental. Typically my husband drives and I navigate. However, I love having the option of driving to a gym, picking up groceries or whatever without the whole family in tow.

My parents recently rented a car from Budget at Vancouver Airport, Canada, and apparently they don't allow the spouse to drive free anymore! oh no! This prompted me to do some checking with agencies I've been recommending to our guests (and family).

Budget allows the spouse to drive free according to the rental policies section on their website. However, Budget at Vancouver Airport refused to offer my parents that saying they had recently changed their policy. So double check with your location before you commit.

Hertz used to have a free Emerald club that allowed spouses to drive free. Not so anymore. Now you have to join their #1 Gold Club for the spouse to drive free. They currently have a special on - you can join their club for free by March 31st (usually a $60 yearly fee).

Enterprise and Avis both allow the spouse to drive free.

Here is a list of car rental companies that are located at Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui. I just checked some of them, the others may also offer the 'spouse drives free' option (please check). There are several other rental companies located in Kahului also - but I haven't had any personal experience with them.

Another option for your car rental is Kihei Rent a Car if you don't mind renting a used vehicle. They offer a shuttle (if you rent for 5 days or more) from Kahului Airport as long as you arrive before 10:30pm.

As I always say, check reviews online (www.yelp.com and www.tripadvisor.com are a great place to start). Have fun planning your vacation in paradise!

A Pony Ride in the Crater!

2011-12-23T20:57:00.004-10:00

We have family visiting for Christmas! This is always a great excuse to take a break from our everyday routine and go check out some of the sites!

This morning I joined my sister and her husband for a pony ride in the crater valley of Mount Haleakala! It was awesome! We went with Pony Express Tours. The tour started at 9:15 at the crater parking lot where we got suited up in rain/wind gear, mittens (it was cold and windy up there this morning) and paired up with a horse. The last time I rode was 22 years ago (what was I thinking!), so I claimed novice status and got a very gentle paint named Cowboy.

Yes this is me, looking a little goofy in my wind and rain gear - on Maui! no slippahs for me on this morning!

It was a small group - just 8 riders plus our knowledgeable guide. We rode downhill to the crater valley floor for 2 hours (just under 4 miles). There we had a picnic lunch (provided by Pony Express), shook out our legs (my knees got pretty stiff being on a horse that long) and enjoyed the view before climbing back on the horses and riding uphill for another 2 hours.

starting off on our trail into the crater valley

The cloud cover blew out and we had beautiful weather. The scenery along Sliding Sands trail was amazing. Here is one of the cinder cones we saw...

one of the cinder cones we rode by - imagine hot lava shooting high into the sky!

There are a number of hiking trails inside the crater valley. You can either hike (and even camp) or take a pony tour. Please be careful to stay on the paths to protect the sparse vegetation!

Where to eat breakfast in Kihei

2011-12-20T08:49:00.004-10:00

I've been working on a list of our favorite restaurants in Kihei/Wailea to leave in our condos for our guests.

One of the beautiful things about renting a condo is having a full kitchen at your disposal. Pick up some toast or cereal from the grocery store, some fresh fruit from the farmer's market and voila - have a healthy breakfast!

For those mornings you don't feel like making your own breakfast, here are a few breakfast place ideas for you. If you have any favorites, please email them to me and I'll add them to our list!

Top on my list -

Cinnamon Roll Fair - amazing cinnamon buns (not healthy, but wonderful!). They also have other baked goods and make sandwiches. I will bet the aroma will pull you into the store!
2463 S Kihei Road

I am getting hungry just looking at these delicious cinnamon buns at Cinnamon Roll Fair. The smell is amazing!

808 Bistro - this is tucked in behind Fred's Mexican, the Bistro is tucked in behind the 808 Deli (follow the signs), across from Kamaole II beach
2511 S Kihei Road

Home Maid Cafe - this is a very local eating place, nothing fancy, they do make-to-order Hawaiian donuts (malasadas) if you come BEFORE 10am, in Central Kihei
1280 S Kihei Road

Kihei Kaffe - I have never been, but I hear their French toast (made with cinnamon buns) is absolutely amazing
1945 S Kihei Road (across from Kalama Park)

Stella Blue's - in Azeka Plaza (Central Kihei)
1279 S Kihei Road

Gannon's at Wailea Golf Course - this place has the best view
100 Wailea Golf Club Drive

Denny's
2463 S Kihei Road

There are, of course, many more.... send me an email with your favorite, and I'll add it to my list!

Working out in Paradise - UPDATE

2011-12-20T08:29:00.000-10:00

I have an update to my Working out in Paradise post from a few weeks ago. PowerHouse Gym in Kihei has re-opened under new ownership. We now have two gyms in Kihei again, Valley Isle and Power House.

The tourists are here again!

2011-12-19T09:07:00.001-10:00

The first two weeks of December are known for being slow in the vacation rental market. I imagine it's because many people are busy with Christmas parties and Christmas recitals and concerts to plan a quick getaway! With it being 'slow', it may be worth considering - it is cold at home, you stay at off-season rates and can sometimes get last-minute deals on condos, whereas rates jump mid-December to high-season (which last til mid-April).

Anyway, yesterday I went to Safeway (one of the grocery stores here in Kihei) and I am happy to report - the tourists are here!! The parking lot was a dead give-away. It was packed! And I had picked a typically 'slow' time, 3pm in the afternoon. I had to wait for a shopping cart and then steered my way around pasty-pale tourists, trying to find their way around the store while meal planning as they go.

Welcome tourists! We are so glad you are here!

And yes, you are pasty-pale, but that's okay! PLEASE use lots of sun screen and don't get a sunburn (then you'll be a bright-red tourist instead).

Christmas on Maui!

2011-12-15T11:56:00.001-10:00

Are you considering spending Christmas or New Years on Maui next year? These dates are in high demand and go quickly. I have already had two inquiries for Christmas 2012! Imagine planning next year's Christmas before celebrating this year's. Crazy.

Christmas Eve 2010 at picture taken at Sugar Beach Resort

Nonetheless, consider making your plans earlier than later to avoid disappointment. This past year I had Christmas/New Years all booked up by April 2011. One of our guests unfortunately had to cancel - her dates were snapped up within a week.

Regarding cancellations, we have a 60 day cancellation policy. You can cancel your booking up to 60 days prior to your arrival and receive a full refund on your deposit less any credit card fees. If you have to cancel after that, there are no refunds. If I can rebook the dates, I will give a pro-rated refund only. Please consider buying trip cancellation insurance for those unforeseen things life throws at us.

Arriving by plane on Maui

2011-12-14T15:29:00.001-10:00

When you come to Maui on vacation, you will most certainly be arriving by airplane. There was a brief time when you could take the superferry to the neighboring islands, but that was shut down after a few months.

There are two public airports on Maui - the main one (the one you would fly into) is in Kahului. The airport code is OGG. The other airport is in Kapalua in West Maui.

Kahului is a relatively small open air airport. Yes that's right - very little of it is air-conditioned, so dress accordingly in layers so you don't wilt away in your mainland clothes (particularly in winter).

There are car rental stands - all the usual - at the airport in case you haven't yet booked a car. If you have a booking, simply get on one of the shuttle busses to be ferried to the car rental offices. There are many late night flights arriving particularly from Vancouver BC but also other places. Yes, the car rental offices should be open - they are expecting you and a plane-load of people, after all. If you are coming in high season, I very much recommend having a rental car booked - they do run out of cars at peak demand times (such as Christmas, New Year's, the Hyundai Golf Tournament in January etc).

When you stay at one of our condos, I will send you detailed directions of how to get to our condos, so remember to pack those in your hand luggage. It has been my experience that GPS devices will be very confused when you get off the plane - it takes them a while to figure out where you are (it once took 15 minutes for ours to locate us).

If you are flying back to the Continental US, you will have to have your suitcases scanned at the agricultural inspection before you check in. These scanners are located curbside - you can't miss them. The check-in counter people will send you back for scanning if you don't have the sticker. If you are traveling back to Canada, you won't need to do this. Be careful not to pack any fresh fruits or vegetables, plants etc. They will be confiscated. You can buy 'airport ready' pineapples in the gift shop at the airport. I am not sure if you can take those into Canada or other non-US countries. Look into it before you buy....

What to do on a rainy day in paradise?

2011-12-14T08:03:00.002-10:00

Let me preface this blog entry by saying, it is a truly rare thing to have a rainy day in Kihei. On average Kihei gets about 12 inches of rain a year, this past year we've had 5 inches (yes, it's a bit dry here). When it does rain, it's still warm out, so it's not like miserable West-Coast rain (I can say that - I lived in it for 10 years!)

Anyway, what to do on a rainy day in paradise?

- read that book you brought along or check the book collection in your condo.
- if you don't have a book or magazine, check out Kihei's public library near Kalama Park and Foodland, just off South Kihei Road.
- if libraries aren't your thing, check out one of the two bookstores remaining on Maui. Kihei Christian book store is located at the corner of the Piilani Highway and Welakahao Street (at Hope Chapel, across from the recycling center). There is also a Barnes & Noble in Lahaina (stay on the main road towards Kaanapali, you will see it on the right side on the far end of Lahaina if coming from Kihei).
- recover from that sunburn you got!
- go for a drive. We have many different micro-climates on Maui, chances are good the sun is shining elsewhere.
- go shopping! Your closest mall is the Shops at Wailea, a high-end shopping mall, it is outdoors but with covered walk ways. There is Queen Kaahumanu Mall and Maui Mall in Kahului. And many strip malls in Kihei.
- drive to Lahaina and window shop on Front Street (you may get a little wet). Plenty of good restaurants there too..
- check out the Maui Ocean Center, don't forget the little shops next to it!
- watch a movie - we have DVDs in all our condos. The TVs are also internet enabled. If you know how, you could also watch your netflix (bring your login information).
- go see a movie in a movie theater. We have one movie theater in Kihei at Kukui Mall (near Foodland/Kalama Park), one in Queen Kaahumanu Mall and another at Maui Mall.

What do you like to do on a rainy day? Send me an email and I'll add it to the list!

What not to do on a rainy day? Please do not go in the ocean - see my blog post about sharks!

How about an oceanfront condo on Maui in January?

2011-12-11T15:07:00.002-10:00

We have a cancellation for our Kihei Surfside condo for this January! Please call me if you are interested in booking - the dates available at January 2-21, 2012. Of all our condos, this one is my favorite, it has the most stunning view! It is a 1 bedroom 1 1/2 bathroom condo and sleeps 2 guests.

this is a view of the living room with the ocean just outside!

Here is a video of the view from your lanai at Kihei Surfside 405

Be shark safe!

2011-12-09T14:30:00.002-10:00

Yes, we have sharks in the waters off Maui. But that isn't anything new - sharks do, after all, live in the ocean. There are a few basic rules to minimize the risk - these apply to swimming in the ocean anywhere.

1. Do not go into the ocean if the water is murky - sharks generally avoid humans, however if the water is murky, they may mistake you for prey.

2. Do not go into the ocean when it's raining or right after (again the murkiness factor). But also, the water could be murky because of run-off from land, so it is a sanitary concern. Plan a different activity until the water is clear again.

3. Avoid swimming/surfing at dusk and dawn (they may mistake you for prey).

4. Do not go into the water if you have an open wound or are bleeding - apart from sharks being attracted to blood, you could also get an infection. Be careful if there is sharp coral or lava rock in the water - best to wear water shoes.

5. Check with the life guards. They will post signs if there is a shark sighting.

Having said all this, use common sense and have fun!

Accidents on Vacation

2011-12-09T09:33:00.000-10:00

I've been thinking about a young woman who recently died while on holiday here on Maui. I don't know the details, but what a tragic thing to happen, especially while on vacation.

Accidents happen everywhere, at home and on vacation. However, when at home, those left behind do usually have friends or family around to help them.

Before you travel, consider informing a close friend or family member of your travel plans and give them a contact number for emergencies. And consider leaving an emergency number with the owner of the condo you're renting or the front desk of the hotel you're staying at. Just in case. In 1 1/2 years of renting out our condos, we've never needed to use that information. But I know I'm thankful when guests give me a 'just in case' number.

Have a great vacation, and above all - stay safe!

Working out in Paradise

2011-12-07T08:07:00.000-10:00

So you're coming on vacation and you want to work out.... what are your options?

Well, there are the obvious, swimming in the ocean and walking/jogging are year-round activities, and FREE.

All our condos have pools on site, but if you enjoy swimming laps, check out the Kihei Aquatic Center (see previous blog entry). It's free and it's a great pool.

In Kihei we have one gym - Valley Isle Fitness - located on Lipoa, just up from South Kihei Road. It's an older gym, but the morning girl is really friendly and they do offer classes. Their drop-in rate is $20/day or $50/week for visitors, and there are monthly options also. We used to have Power House Gym just around the corner, but they currently closed for bankruptcy. There is a smaller personal training gym that also offers classes in Wailea, REPS Fitness. Most of the hotels have their own gyms, but to my knowledge they don't have drop-in rates for non-guests.

You can also rent a bike for your holiday, there are many great bike trails to explore. I have never done this myself, but go on www.yelp.com and check the reviews.

Kihei also has its own roller rink - yes, that's right - outdoor ocean-front roller skating at Kalama Park. It is open to the public Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings 6-8pm I believe (the downside is that you don't have a view in the dark). Rentals are available for $5.

Kihei Aquatic Center

2011-12-07T07:42:00.000-10:00

Kihei has a great aquatic center - located just off the Piilani Hwy and Lipoa Street (one intersection past Safeway). It is a full-size competition complex that was built in 1998. It has hosted several international competitions.

There is an Olympic-sized 8-lane competition pool, 8-lane lane 25x30 yd warm-up pool & a 10x30ft Keiki (kids) pool w/fountain, 1-meter and 3-meter springboards, change rooms etc.

Admission is - wait for it - FREE. That's right, as long as it's open, you just walk on in. They have a sign-in sheet by which they track usage of the pool (so please do sign in). One thing worth mentioning, kids are NOT allowed to use life jackets or other flotation devices in this pool. They do have great life guards, though.

Hours of operation are
M, T, Th, F, Sat. 9:00-4:30,
(MWF 6:30-8:00 am early laps)
W 10:00-4:30, Sun. 12:00-4:30
They are closed on holidays.

So, if you feel like swimming laps or taking the kids to a kids pool where they can splash and make noise, check it out!

Maui Coffee Roasters

2011-12-05T16:01:00.000-10:00

Our guests staying at our Maui Kamaole condo told me about their favorite coffee house - Maui Coffee Roasters in Kahului. I've often driven by it, but never gone in. I have heard from others also that they have great coffee. So, today was the day - I was in the neighborhood, so I checked it out! It's an eclectic coffee shop located at the corner of Dairy Road and the Hana Hwy (same complex as Marco's Restaurant and next to a furniture store).

My coffee was great, 100% Kona Coffee (I went for the hazelnut flavored medium roast). They, of course, have specialty drinks, treats and sandwiches, whole bean coffee and merchandise. And in case you're wondering - we now have coffee grinders in all 4 of our condos. So buy some Maui Coffee Roasters coffee when you come and enjoy!

Wake up to some blooms!

2011-12-01T12:39:00.000-10:00

One of the great things about Maui is the amazing weather. You can go for morning walks or even runs every day of the year, never facing sleet or rain or ice or snow. I went for an early morning walk today - the sun didn't rise til shortly after 7am. Hard not to wake up with these blooms in my face....

Farmer's Market in Kihei

2011-12-01T12:35:00.000-10:00

I love going to farmer's markets - they motivate me to eat more fruits and veggies, always a good thing. Of course, going with little kids in tow can be stressful, so I often use it as an excuse not to go. We have a new one here in Kihei - it is at Aloha Market on the corner of South Kihei Road and Waimahaihai Street (near the public library by Kalama Park). They are open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8-5. Here's a picture of today's selections...

Kihei's new farmer's market

We do have several other farmer's markets in Kihei, one in Lipoa Street (just down the hill from the public swimming pool) which is there Saturday mornings. Another one in North Kihei by the ABC store (a short walk from our beautiful Sugar Beach Resort condo).
The champion of farmer's markets on Maui is the weekly Maui Swap Meet in Kahului. It runs every Saturday from 7am-1pm. I haven't gone in years, so instead of me writing about it, here's a good write-up on the Maui Swap Meet.

Getting ready for Christmas in Hawaii

2011-11-25T14:59:00.003-10:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all our American readers - I hope you had a wonderful day! I roasted a turkey for our dinner with friends - yes, the house was HOT with the turkey roasting for 4 hours (but it was so worth it). I tried hard not to turn on the A/C to counter the heat being put out by my oven.... but by the end of the day cooking, we did put it on ...

This afternoon I am setting up our Christmas tree. The kids are working on their homework, so I am quietly humming Christmas tunes in my head.... one of my favorites is 'It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...' (Bing Crosby's version) - of course, it definitely is NOT looking like Christmas here on Maui. We are routinely at 82F (28C) during the day, no snow in sight. 'I'm dreaming of a white Christmas' is another of my favorites.... not likely to happen around here.

'Mele Kalikimaka' is more like it - another Bing Crosby tune.... love it!

Here's an ornament we bought last year - Santa golfing in a hula skirt. Cute as an ornament - but I sure hope I don't come across a real life version of this!

Here is Bing Crosby's version of Mele Kalikimaka for you.... The lyrics go like this: 'Mele Kalikimaka is the thing to say on a bright Hawaiian Christmas day! That's the Island greeting that we send to you from the land where palm trees sway.... Here we know that Christmas will be green and bright, the sun to shine by day and all the stars at night. Mele Kalikimaka is Hawaii's way to say a Merry Christmas to you!'

808 Bistro in Kihei

2011-11-20T17:45:00.001-10:00

Today we walked to a "new to us" place for our Sunday lunch - 808 Bistro. In case you didn't know, 808 is the area code for Hawaii (no it's not a telemarketer trying to call!!) The restaurant is across from Kamaole II beach, tucked in behind Fred's and Moose McGillicuddy's (both great restaurants as well). You enter on the left side of the building by way of the parking lot next to 808 Deli (check this out for picnic lunches and gelato!) - just follow the signs (it looks like you are going to the rear service entry), you will find 808 Bistro at the back of the building. Surprisingly it has a nice ocean view.

This being our first time, we didn't realize they don't serve lunch - only breakfast (7:00-noon) and dinner (5-9pm). So we had brunch. As mentioned in all the online reviews, our breakfast/brunch was fabulous -the kids had waffles, Sig an omlette and I an egg sandwich with avocado, tomato etc!

808 Bistro is about a 10 minute walk from our Maui Kamaole condo, 15 minutes from our Kihei Surfside condo, and definitely worth the walk!

Welcome little baby apple-bananas

2011-11-18T10:44:00.001-10:00

Just over a year ago we planted a few fruit trees in our yard - an orange tree, a dwarf mango and two apple-banana trees (apple bananas are smaller than 'regular' bananas and taste a little different). The orange tree came with two oranges on it which eventually ripened last December and tasted amazing (doesn't your own fruit always taste the best??). Since then we have had nothing. Oh, the trees are all growing great, the mango has more than doubled in size and we have two baby banana trees growing tucked in behind the big banana trees.

baby banana trees, one hiding behind its 'mama'

Then a few days ago I saw it! Our banana trees have fruit, one bunch of bananas each! I am very excited!

welcome little baby apple-bananas

Christmas car rentals

2011-11-16T20:59:00.000-10:00

My sister called a while ago - they were trying to line up a rental car for their Maui trip at Christmas and were looking at steep prices. Booking a rental car in Kihei was half the price of booking one at the airport! Yikes! Being that she's my sister, of course we'll pick them up and then take them back to the airport again at the end of their stay (I'm sorry, I just can't offer a shuttle service for our condo guests!).

A few days ago another Christmas guest emailed, horrified at the Christmas car rental prices. I looked up her dates - economy cars were being quoted as $1900+ for the 2 week period. Crazy! We checked the same dates booking through one of the Kihei/Wailea rental agencies and struck gold - found the same car being advertised at Enterprise for $530 for the same 2 weeks! I am so excited for our guests!

In my search I noticed several car rental companies are showing sold out for Christmas. That's right - it's a small island and car rental companies really do run out of cars.

So, if you are coming for Christmas, get your rental car lined up!! And consider, it may be worth being a little flexible (such as taking a cab).

Award-winning Maui rum

2011-11-15T17:18:00.008-10:00

Do you enjoy rum? We have a small-craft distillery here on Maui - called Haleakala Distillers. It is a family owned business that started in 1888, and uses 100% Maui-grown natural ingredients (that means it's healthy, right?). It is located on the Haleakala Ranch and is not open to the public, nor do they sell their rum direct. They do have a list of retailers that sell their rum on their website - have a look!

I picked up a bottle at Long's Drugstore in Kihei today. I have not ever seen their rum at Safeway (but it could be I'm just not seeing it). If you like rum, check it out! It's quite delicious.

This is a picture of their award winning Maui Dark Rum.

For more information, check out their website!

Beach wear and body issues

2011-11-13T13:32:00.001-10:00

Are you shy about being seen in your swim suit? Most of us are.... But the truth is, when you come here on vacation, you are far away from most people you know, so who really cares? No, I am not absolving you from that diet or your exercise regime! Absolutely not! Keep it up! Bring your runners and take advantage of your condo's kitchen to make some healthy meals and snacks. But don't let your shyness stop you from enjoying your well-deserved vacation! In fact, you may even feel better after being to the beach - you'll probably find someone even more out of shape!

So what to wear? Well, the best thing about the beach is there are very few regulations on what to wear (well, please DO wear something!!). Most men wear board shorts, women wear either bikinis, one piece suits or even tankinis. Some even just shorts and a t-shirt. Others leave their beach cover up on. Don't have a beach cover up? You will find many strip malls right on South Kihei Road with relatively cheap cover ups, though they are often limited with their size selection. We also have Walmart and Kmart in Kahului. As for men - just throw on a T-shirt and your shorts and you're all set!

Whatever you do, don't forget your sunscreen!! Our UV index is always high or extremely high, please apply it liberally and re-apply it every few hours.

And most importantly, enjoy your vacation and have fun!

Maui's Green Sea Turtles

2011-11-11T21:00:00.000-10:00

The guests staying at our Sugar Beach condo had a memorable snorkeling adventure just the other day. She was snorkeling just past Lahaina when all of a sudden a large (perhaps about 250 pound) sea turtle took her by surprise - it was about 4 inches away from her face! Can you imagine?? I wonder who was more surprised?

I found this picture of a green sea turtle (in Hawaiian they say 'honu') on the internet - I am trying to visualize coming nose to nose with him....

Green energy at Kihei Surfside!

2011-11-09T19:07:00.000-10:00

I am really excited to tell you about the new solar (photo-voltaic) system installation on the roof of our ocean-front Kihei Surfside condo! Kihei's weather is predominantly sunny, and with Maui's high cost of electricity, it makes a lot of sense to tap into the sun's power! Hawaii has the highest electricity cost in the United States with the current rate at approximately 37 cents/kwh. This is because most of our electricity is currently diesel-generated.

The workmen have already cleared the building's roof. On November 14th they will start installing the braces for the photovoltaic panels, with the panel installation to follow. Will the new solar system cover all of Kihei Surfside's energy requirements? No, sadly not. The roof isn't big enough. However, it will make a significant dent in the association's monthly power bill. And we're helping to make this an even better place to live and vacation!

You can help too! Please remember to shut off lights, fans etc. when you leave our condo. A big mahalo from Maui to you!

Pony ride in Haleakala's crater area

2011-11-07T09:35:00.000-10:00

My sister is planning their upcoming Maui trip and came across this pony ride tour. Would I go with her? It looks awesome! I've checked the website, I've read the reviews. I will report back on this end of December! I was already looking forward to their visit, now there's another thing to look forward to!

Daylight Savings Time

2011-11-05T22:46:00.002-10:00

Just a reminder, Hawaii does not observe Daylight Savings Time. While you may get to sleep an extra hour Sunday morning, we will not! Hawaii is now 2 hours behind Pacific Standard (West Coast) Time. Aloha!

Shopping on Maui

2011-11-04T20:25:00.000-10:00

Did you know that plastic bags are banned on Maui? January 11, 2011 was our big day - your typical plastic grocery shopping bags haven't been allowed since. Stores do have paper bags for you in case you forget to bring your reusables, and you can also buy reusables at the check-out if you choose. And it has the great bonus - no more plastic grocery bags taking up space in my drawers!

It's raining in Kihei - say what??

2011-11-02T19:00:00.001-10:00

In case you don't know, Kihei and South Maui don't get much rain. In fact, we get the least amount of rain anywhere on Maui, averaging only about 12 inches of rain a year. If it rains, it is usually in the winter months (December through March). However, that does not mean it will rain the entire time you are here. It will rain torrentially and then be over. We had two hours of rain on Halloween, crazy rainfall, getting 8/10th of an inch (1.8 cms)! Of course, it was still in the mid-70s and quite wonderfully refreshing, really, as long as you didn't mind getting soaked, or sat under an overhang.

The Hawaiian weather forecast often predicts rain - it also predicts wild temperature fluctuations. Well, you'd think they are wild fluctuations the way the weather guy talks about them, until you actually pause and look at the TV during the forecast, only to discover that the dramatic dip in temperatures is actually only a 1 or 2 degree change, dipping from 82 to 81!. Consider also that the weather described on the forecast is for Oahu, which is a little cooler and definitely rainier than Kihei. I don't pay attention to the forecast anymore, in fact I can predict Kihei's weather for you - it will be warm/hot and sunny! Imagine my surprise when it rained Halloween. And then we had a brief shower November 1st. And then this afternoon we had more rain! The brown ditches and hillsides should green up a little after all this rain. I hope!

The Sugar Cane Train

2011-10-30T17:23:00.003-10:00

One of our favorite kid activities is the Sugar Cane Train in Lahaina. We used to come here every Maui trip with the kids, sometimes to take the train ride on the historic steam train, sometimes just to let the kids climb around on the real steam engine play area. They also have a store packed with train toys! Both the play area and the train ride are hits with the kids - honestly, the play area may be more of a hit than the train ride (it can be a little long for little ones).

steam engine play area - there are also picnic tables and washrooms

Lahaina is a small former whaling town in West Maui, a scenic 45 minutes from South Kihei (30 minutes from our Sugar Beach condo). The road takes you along the beach, you can often see whales jump and admire awesome sunsets (but not if you're the driver, okay??). It is the only road to Lahaina and Kaanapali and continues all around West Maui ending up back in Wailuku/Kahului (this will take you about 4-5 hours plus breaks, a breath-takingly gorgeous drive on an at times dangerously narrow road with steep cliffs and the ocean on one side). This is a two-lane road (one lane in each direction), traffic gets quite backed up in case of an accident (maybe don't do this trip just before leaving for the airport, just in case)!

But back to the Sugar Cane Train - you can take a ride on this train from West Lahaina up to Kaanapali, either one way or return. If you choose the one-way option, you will want someone to meet you at the other end with a car (there is no manned train station at the Kaanapali end, an employee will show up shortly before the train arrives to sell tickets, I'm not sure if they take credit cards on the Kaanapali end). The train ride is narrated (though sometimes hard to hear, depending on how full the train car is).

Unfortunately for us, we didn't see the 'open Monday-Friday' part on the website. We didn't get a train ride today - we'll have to come back on a weekday! Thankfully the steam engine play area saved the day!

I Miss You, My Hawai'i

2011-10-28T20:54:00.000-10:00

I thought perhaps you'd enjoy this Hawaiian song - one of our favorites. It's sung by the Hawaiian vocal trio Na Leo Pilimehana (the group's name means 'voices blending together in warmth').

I Miss You, My Hawai'i

XTERRA World Championship on Maui

2011-10-26T20:56:00.001-10:00

Are you athletic? I'm the first to admit that I'm not - though my neighbor has enlisted me to exercise with her. We take it to extreme lengths, trying weights I've never lifted before... But that's about as extreme as I'll get!

My exercise buddy went up to Kapalua in West Maui this Sunday to cheer on some friends who were running the XTERRA triathlon there. This is an extreme triathlon, competitors started off with a 1-mile (1.5 km) rough water swim, a 18.3-mile (29.5 km) mountain bike and a 6.1-mile (9.8-kilometer) trail run 'best described as a tropical roller-coaster ride through pineapple fields and forests'. The official website describes the course 'as both beautiful and brutal'! (doesn't that sound like fun?)

So what do you think? How about a race vacation? Better start training now :) Or alternately, you could make it a relaxing holiday instead.

Kamaole III beach park (near our Maui Kamaole and our Kihei Surfside condos)

Big Beach in Makena

2011-10-21T09:44:00.000-10:00

Big Beach, also known as Oneloa Beach and Makena Beach, is a favorite with locals and tourists alike. It is about 3000 feet long and 100 feet wide, gorgeous sand and awesome waves. Yes, there are life guards and portable toilets but no showers (this we discovered when we took our new truck there.... imagine all the sand five bodies brought into a brand new truck!! The kids helped Sig detail it after).

Life guards will warn you that this beach is NOT for beginners. The shore drop-off is steep and the waves can be deceivingly big. There is public parking, but the lot fills up fast, especially on weekends.

Big Beach in Makena

To the right of the beach is Pu'u Ola'i, a steep cinder cone created by volcanic activity (possibly the same activity that created the old lava flow further down this road). If you climb past it, you will find Little Beach, Maui's clothing optional beach (technically illegal, use your judgment).

Mardi Gras of the Pacific - Halloween 2011

2011-10-20T13:31:00.000-10:00

The Mardi Gras of the Pacific in Lahaina is back - or at least a scaled back version of it. It was last held in 2007 after which the County pulled its permits (it must have been quite the party!). I've never been, and given my dislike of large crowds (they expect upwards of 20,000 visitors), I will pass and enjoy the small-scale Halloween parade in our own neighborhood instead.

However, Halloween Lovers may enjoy this - held October 31st from 3:30pm til midnight on Front Street in Lahaina.... Police close the road to cars, making it a large pedestrian zone. If you're on Maui this Halloween - check it out (don't forget to pack your costume)! Here is a link with more details!

One of our favorite lunch places - Cafe O'Lei

2011-10-19T08:55:00.002-10:00

You're on holiday and you don't feel like cooking! Hey - we've all been there (even when we're NOT on holiday!!). However, eating out on Maui can be - well - expensive. Especially dinner.

You will find that often lunch is significantly cheaper here (depending on where you go, it can be a third the price).

One of our favorite lunch places is Cafe O'Lei at 2439 South Kihei Road (between Kamaole I and II beaches, near Denny's). I've never gone for dinner but have been told its a $30+ menu (unconfirmed!). Their daily lunch plate special by contrast is $7.95 for fish, rice and salad. The restaurant is nice, air-conditioned and easy with kids. It is upstairs at Rainbow Plaza - there is an elevator if you need it.

Cafe O'Lei on South Kihei Road

Some of our favorites are
- Curry Chicken Salad $8.95
- Quinoa Salad $7.95
- Macnut Crusted Breast of Chicken (foccacia sandwich) $8.95
- Sliced Roast Turkey breast sandwich $7.95
- Crab Club on foccacia $10.95

Cafe O'Lei's Crab Club (snowcrab salad, bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, bacon and avocado on foccacio)

I'm getting hungry just thinking about this.... yum.

There are a few other locations, I've been to the Cafe O'Lei at the Dunes also. Gorgeous West Maui Mountains view.

Oh my.....

2011-10-17T17:09:00.001-10:00

Sig and I were at Lowe's today - shopping for toilet parts (oh the joy of being a landlord). Look what we found..... (besides the toilet parts) I thought you'd enjoy this picture. Yes, this was taken at Lowe's in Kahului (yes, on MAUI) - they are selling electric fireplaces!! No, we won't be buying any of these for our condos! You'll sooner be using the A/C than needing to flick the switch one of these lovelies. And just in case you're cold at night - we do have blankets. I'm sure you will be fine!

do you need an electric fireplace at the condo?

So why is Lowe's carrying electric fireplaces? I am going to guess they are for upcountry residents. Some of the houses at higher elevations do have furnaces. I do promise it doesn't get cold enough in Kihei to need one!

Baby Equipment Rental

2011-10-15T22:07:00.001-10:00

Do you travel with little kids? I remember arriving on Maui with two kids (at the time they were 3 and 2), playpen, stroller, two car seats, suitcases, hand luggage etc. in tow for our holiday. It was like moving! Except there was no moving truck at Kahului airport - but a Nissan Sentra. We somehow got everything in the car - I distinctly remember balancing the playpen between my legs in the passenger seat for the drive from the airport to Kihei (30 minutes) and one of the suitcases shoved between the kids' car seats in the rear. Talk about stressful. That was one of the reasons we came for 3 weeks - the trip here and back was so stressful we had to recuperate in between!! Just kidding. Well, kind of. Our Maui trips were always well worth it, but I always wished there were an easier way to get here and back (private jet anyone??).

I've recently found something that would definitely make vacationing with little kids easier.... Akamai Mothers. This is a baby gear rental company here on Maui. I met Dave, the owner, at one of our condos this afternoon as he delivered a playpen, highchair and a number of toys for our guests' one year old to use while they are here (they arrive tonight - and the playpen is already set up and waiting for their sleeping son). I will definitely be following up with them after their stay as to what they thought of this company, their equipment and service. Check out their website for details, and again, look for reviews!

Planning your trip - what resources are there?

2011-10-14T14:36:00.000-10:00

I definitely recommend doing some research while you prepare for your Maui trip. There are so many cool things to do here, doing a little research will help your trip go even better. You are reading my blog, that's a good start - but I am by no means a Maui expert!

There is an excellent guide book, it is called Maui Revealed - The Ultimate Guidebook by Andrew Doughty. It's published by Wizard Publications. You can find it at Costco and at all corner stores here on Maui, or order it online if you want to read before you arrive. I also just saw there is an IPhone app for it, if that's your thing.

Online review websites, such as Tripadvisor and Yelp, are also great. Take the reviews with a grain of salt - remember we are more likely to post negative than positive reviews (when's the last time you did?). However, they can be a good indicator.

The internet is a huge resource - search 'maui to do' or some variation of it, and you will come up with lots of ideas.

Ask your friends and family who have been what their favorite memories were.

And definitely don't be shy to ask whoever you're renting your condo from for tips and suggestions.

Whatever you do, remember you're here on holiday! If you can't fit it all in this trip, you'll see the rest next time! Most importantly - relax and enjoy a break from your everyday!

Sunset in Wailea

Snorkeling at Molokini

2011-10-14T14:19:00.001-10:00

Molokini is very popular on the Maui-to-do list! It is a small crescent-shaped island between South Maui and the island of Kaho'olawe, formed by volcanic activity (as are all of the Hawaiian islands). It is one of the most popular snorkel and diving spots in Hawaii. Molokini is a marine and bird sanctuary, you are not allowed to walk on the island and unauthorized landing is prohibited. Underwater visibility is anywhere between 80-180 feet.

You get there by boat from either Maalaea (10 miles) or Kihei Boat Ramp (6 miles). There are several different outfits - research them online, read reviews on Tripadvisor. I definitely recommend taking a morning cruise - it gets pretty choppy, and the choppiness just increases by afternoon.

I took our sons on a Molokini cruise last March, and they have not stopped talking about it since (and asking to go again!!). We brought our own snorkel gear (the boat did provide gear included in the price). I also brought wetsuit shirts and life jackets for them. I unfortunately got quite sea sick for the duration of the trip (your typical snorkel cruise will take about 3 1/2 hours), getting off the boat in the crater was such a relief! Consider taking something (dramamine, gravol etc.) before getting on the boat to make sure your trip is better than mine!!

view of Molokini crater with South Maui in the background

My favorite lunch view - Gannon's Restaurant at the Wailea Gold Golf Course

2011-10-12T10:27:00.002-10:00

A number of years ago friends introduced us to Gannon's Restaurant. It was called the Seawatch back then. The food is okay (I like the turkey club, ahi tempura rolls, caesar salad), but the best part about this place is.... the view! Come for brunch or lunch (dinner is pricey), or for happy hour at the Red Bar (I've heard the crab cakes are amazing).

The view from Gannon's veranda.

Gannon's is located at 100 Wailea Golf Club Drive at the Wailea Gold Golf Course.

Directions from South Kihei Road

Head south on S Kihei Rd towards Wailea
Take a slight left onto Okolani Drive
Turn right onto Wailea Alanui Drive (the Palms at Wailea will be on your left)
Follow this road past the resorts on your right until you reach the Wailea Gold Golf Course
Turn left and follow the driveway until you reach the club house. There is a large parking lot to the left.

Enjoy!

The Lahaina Arts Society and Lahaina's Banyan Tree

2011-10-12T10:05:00.001-10:00

Have you ever been to Lahaina? Lahaina is about a 40 minute drive from Kihei (30 minutes if you're staying at our Sugar Beach condo) on West Maui. It is an old whaling village turned quaint tourist town. It has a population of only 10,000 (Maui's full-time resident population is 125,000).

We enjoy walking up and down Front Street, window shopping, eating at one of many restaurants, the kids playing under the Banyan Tree, enjoying art galleries. Be sure to check out the Lahaina Arts Society which runs a gallery in the Old Court House by the Banyan Tree. This gallery is run by volunteers (artists who have their work on display). A portion of the proceeds from the sales goes towards arts education in the local schools. We've bought a number of paintings and prints at this gallery over the years. In fact, we bought the two giclees hanging above the TV at our Kihei Surfside condo at this gallery - they are works of Scott Mead.

Two of Scott Mead's giclees (photography art) hang above the TV at our ocean front Kihei Surfside condo.

The Banyan Tree is a huge tree along front street near the wharf. You can't miss it! The tree was planted on April 24, 1873 by sheriff William Owen Smith to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the first Christian missionaries. It was brought from India, and at the time of planting, was only 8-feet high. It now has a dozen main trunks, and its canopy spreads over two-thirds of an acre between the Old Courthouse and Front Street. As it grows, it drops new roots from its branches, which if left to grow, turn into new trunks, supporting the branches. This would be a great climbing tree for kids, but.... unfortunately climbing is not allowed. I guess it would only be a matter of time before branches would break. The tree celebrated its 134th birthday (well, birthday of its planting) this year!

A portion of Lahaina's Banyan Tree.

Upcountry foods

2011-10-11T15:41:00.001-10:00

We took a drive to Kula this morning and ended up buying groceries.
Well, if by groceries you mean..... truffles? I'm pretty convinced chocolate is one of the food groups....

We stopped in at the Surfing Goat Dairy and picked up some of their goat cheese and truffles.

The truffles didn't make it off the yard. They were delicious!

Kula Country Farms is one of my favorite stops to pick up fresh fruit and veggies!

They currently have a pumpkin patch and also a corn maze (admission is $3/per person).

Just one of their displays.... I picked up Kula strawberries, corn on the cob, red cabbage, avocados, star fruit and fresh basil!

Along the way to the Surfing Goat Dairy we saw this mail box set-up. It makes me smile :) From left to right: Dead Letters, Pony Express, Carrier Pigeon, Partial Post, Junk Mail Here, Air Mail, Catalogs, Special Delivery, 2nd Class, 1st class. At the very right is a grave labeled 'Here lies a stranger shot while stealing mail'.

Picnics, deserts etc...

2011-10-08T14:24:00.000-10:00

You may have noticed there have been no food related postings for a while! I've been trying to post about OTHER things!

Today we drove past Stillwell's Bakery on our way to the Iao Valley with our Canadian guests. Friends of ours (the owners of Cakes by Janna in Edmonton) took me a few years ago. It's a great place to stop to pick up a picnic (quiche, sandwiches, salads, soup etc), fabulous deserts and the best buns! Don't plan on actually eating there - it's always packed.

A sampling of Stillwell Bakery's display case..... mmmmm!

Here are the directions - just in case you too have a craving :)

Directions from Kihei/Wailea 17 miles– about 30 mins
Take Mokulele Hwy/State Hwy 311-7.6 mi
Continue to follow State Hwy 311
Turn left at Ka’ahumanu Avenue-1.8 mi (drive past Queen Ka'ahumanu mall on the left, the bakery is several blocks further up the hill into Wailuku on the right side)

Another post about those humpback whales....

2011-10-06T22:42:00.000-10:00

The news is in.... we've had our first humpback whale sighting for Maui this morning!! Read all about it on the Pacific Whale Foundation's website - here's the link to the article and pictures!

Welcome back humpbacks!!

Sunrise, Sunset and Daylight Savings Time

2011-10-03T07:05:00.004-10:00

Come to Maui, and you will most certainly not miss sunrise - at least not on the first day or two of your visit. Hawaii has it's own time zone, Hawaii Standard Time, which is 2 hours behind the Pacific Time zone, and 4 hours behind US Central Time. In addition to that, Hawaii doesn't observe that lovely thing we know as Daylight Savings Time, so add an hour to the time difference in the summer months. Now in October we are 3 hours behind the North American West Coast, come winter, it will just be 2.

Kihei is located at 20.7 degrees latitude. As a result, we don't have the fluctuations in sunrise and sunset many our guests experience where they live. The earliest sunrise happens is 5:44am in June. By contrast, in December/January it will be as late as 7:05am. Yes, that's right! Especially with the time difference, it should be no problem for you to see sunrise at least on the first morning or two of your arrival (especially if you've brought your young kids along)! The sun sets by 7:11pm in June, in December/January it will be as early as 5:45pm.

If you want to make sure you don't miss a single one of our beautiful sunrises or sunsets, here is a great resource for you... http://www.sunrisesunset.com/USA/Hawaii.asp. Select Kihei as your city, and then choose the month of your stay, and it gives you a great calendar to print!

What to do at sunrise? Well..... here is one of the top things tourists do on Maui:

Watch sunrise at the top of our resident volcano, Haleakala!

There are a few tips for catching sunrise on Haleakala. First, allow plenty of time to get there. During the day you can count on a good 2 hours to drive up the volcano from Kihei. Allow extra time driving in the dark, especially as the drive is unfamiliar to you. Allow extra time for dealing with all those 'tourists!!' who don't know where they're going either. And also, get there early! There is a large parking lot, but it sure fills up fast at sunrise, and you are not allowed to park elsewhere up there. It would sure be a shame to miss taking those sunrise pictures over the crater.

Remember, there are no gas stations and there is no food/drink available in the national park (there is an entrance fee - $10/car). Bring your own supplies and dress for the cool weather! Here is a handy website from Haleakala National Park

If you prefer not to drive, ask about bus tours at one of the many activity centers around the island (beware of timeshare related 'deals').

Then after your day is over - enjoy a sunset before, during or after dinner!

Enjoy sunset at one of South Maui's beaches - I took this picture from the lanai (balcony) of our Kihei Surfside condo.

The Humpbacks are coming!

2011-09-29T21:04:00.002-10:00

According to NOAA, the first humpback whale was spotted off the Big Island (Island of Hawaii) this Monday! It's very early, and who knows when he or she will make its way to Maui. The shallow water between Maui and Lanai is the whales' preferred birthing area. Every year the humpbacks return from their Alaskan feeding frenzy to spend December through March (sometimes April) off the Maui coast in our warm ocean waters. At the 2011 whale count last February, volunteers counted 1607 sightings (I'm not sure how scientific the count is, how would you avoid double counting?). Nonetheless, it's an impressive number. The females give birth and nurse their young, the males sing, usually with their heads pointed down, and generally show off! Great opportunity to see tail flukes and breaches!

If you are here during whale season, I highly recommend a whale watch. I prefer the Pacific Whale Foundation's whale watches. They have several scientists on board who answer all your questions. Book online for a discount. Their whale watches leave from Maalaea Harbor (just north of Kihei).

You can, of course, also watch the whales from shore. Last February our guests at Kihei Surfside watched a momma whale give birth to her calf directly from their lanai (balcony)! They said it took about an hour, they sat with their eyes glued to their binoculars while some kayakers watched from upclose. How cool is that??

Want to know more about humpback whales? Here is a link from the Pacific Whale foundation.

By law boats have to shut down their engines when they get within 100 yards of whales. In 2009 our family had the coolest-ever whale watch! The boat shut down its engines because there were two whales close by. We then ended up drifting around for an hour or more because these two humpback whales decided to come right up to the boat, jumping next to it, diving under it etc.... it was the coolest show ever!! Here are a few pictures of that experience.

he's coming!

you can see his back center-right, and some spray center-left where his head just went under after blowing

there's his back, hopefully going UNDER the boat, instead of ramming it!

tail and fin?

His back, diving under again! Such amazing powerful animals!

Hawaiian blooms

2011-09-27T09:10:00.000-10:00

I called a friend in BC this morning who was telling me about the pouring rain they've had the past day or two. As I was picturing the drab gray weather, I thought she might enjoy some color. I hope you enjoy them also - these are just a few of the flowers we see in Kihei.

crepe paper flowers, also grown in a hedge

red hibiscus bloom - these are often grown in hedges - imagine the color!

ti plant

gorgeous plumeria blooms - plumerias are flowering trees that bloom year round and smell amazingly

apple banana trees

??? I'm not sure what this is called, but I love the mix of color! Please let me know if you know their name!

yellow hibiscus

pink plumeria blooms

A breakthrough for me!

2011-09-25T12:44:00.002-10:00

My husband loves the heat. He seriously thrives in it. Me, not so much. I actually like cool weather. My ideal temperature range would be between 15-20 Celsius (60-70 Fahrenheit). Kihei's average temperature ranges from 17-31 Celsius (63-90 Fahrenheit). The low temperatures are night-time temperatures. Our weather is virtually the same year-round (well, compared to other parts of the world who experience seasons). Here is a link for Kihei's weather averages. My husband and I have an arrangement - I agree to live here on Maui with him, he agrees to tolerate my heat-related complaints and put on the A/C when I need it. It works for us.

I continue to be surprised by parents picking their kids up from school, wearing long pants, sweaters, Uggs (okay, I ALSO continue to be surprised that people actually buy those ugly boots).... the other day I saw a Samoan guy going for a walk in the heat of the day (about 90 Fahrenheit), wearing shorts and a thick sweatshirt with the hoodie up over his head. In the comfort of my air-conditioned car, I broke into a sweat just watching him. My neighbor keeps telling me, 'just wait Cara! you'll acclimatize!' Trust me, I am anxiously waiting for that acclimatization!

This morning I woke up cold. I haven't woken up cold since we moved to Maui 14 months ago. I actually pulled my robe out of the closet to warm up as I put on the morning coffee. I also had the biggest smile on my face. I was cold! Maybe acclimatization is closer than I realize! Of course, I did break into a sweat later in the morning.

One small step at a time....

See the fishies at Maui Ocean Center

2011-09-24T17:51:00.001-10:00

We took our boys to Maui Ocean Center this afternoon. We had an annual membership this year and it definitely paid off.

Maui Ocean Center shows you Hawaii's Marine Life, without getting wet! Our boys love getting the 'fish map' and finding the names of all the fish they find. You should have seen the octopus today - he was ACTIVE putting on quite a show!

My favorite fish there are the frog fish....

frog fish

When they are sitting still (do fish sit?), they are beautifully camouflaged, looking like pieces of coral.

Maui Ocean Center is a relatively small aquarium. The Living Reef showcases the fish you see snorkeling around Maui. There is also a cool shark tank with a glass tunnel where you can sit and enjoy the sharks, rays and other fish all around you.

Consider pre-purchasing your tickets on the Maui Ocean Center website for a 10% discount. Also, when we used to come here on holiday with little kids, we would buy a week's pass. Little kids don't have much of an attention span, this way you can come several times in the week and see more than you would chasing your kids through it once!

Once you finish at the Ocean Center, walk over to Maalaea Harbor to Hula Cookies for some Roselani icecream or Hawaiian Hula cookies.... or better yet, get a homemade ice cream sandwich - your choice of cookies and ice cream! Today we bought the coconut chocolate cookies and hula cookies.

Our friends own Hawaiian Unique Jewelery right next door, so go in and have a look! They have beautiful Hawaiian jewellery for every budget. Say hi to Jason and Shirley for us!

beautiful Maalaea Harbor - this is where you will catch many of your snorkel and whale watching cruises

Thank you to my Readers

2011-09-22T14:24:00.000-10:00

I just wanted to send a big ALOHA out to all my readers! I've been surprised seeing the statistics - we have readers from North America, South East Asia, Europe and Russia! Welcome to you all! I hope you have been enjoying my blog. I enjoy writing it. Please send me an email or leave a comment if there is something you are interested in me writing about, and I will do my best!

Have a wonderful day!

Sunset at Kamaole I beach park in Kihei

A little about our Palms at Wailea condo #503

2011-09-21T19:59:00.009-10:00

We bought our Palms at Wailea condo in February 2011. I've long admired this complex. When driving from Kihei to Wailea (say the Shops at Wailea, or that favorite restaurant of mine - Gannon's), it's on the left hand side as South Kihei Road curves up the hill. Gorgeous lawns, strikingly white two story buildings with red tile roofs and turquoise accents. I think it looks Mediterranean. The lanais (Hawaiian term for balconies) are huge.

Looking at our condo from the big lawn out front (ours is the ground floor condo, the patio doors centre-left are the bedroom doors, behind the hedging is our eating area and private BBQ grill)

We did a big reno at this condo this spring. In fact, I have yet to spend any non-work-related time at our Palms condo. I need to have another sleepover with the kids!

Here are a few pictures of this 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo.

This is the view when you first walk in the living room. The kitchen with new stainless appliances is to the left with a gorgeous view of the large grassy area in front of the lanai with the ocean view in the distance. To the right (off picture) a hallway to the bedrooms, the new pull-out sectional couch in front.

The master bedroom with a new BeautyRest Cal-King bed and a full ensuite. This room also has A/C and direct access to the large wrap-around lanai. There is also a personal safe (it fits up to a 17 inch laptop) and full-sized washer/dryer.

This is the second bedroom - it has two twin-size Murphy beds that fold out of the wall as needed. These also have new BeautyRest mattresses, one a little firmer than the other. It also has A/C and a ceiling fan to keep you cool at night. The main bathroom is directly next to this bedroom.

Welcome to the Palms at Wailea! Anyone need a vacation?

Hawaiian Music

2011-09-20T20:32:00.000-10:00

I found a Youtube video of the Hawaiian State Song, Hawai'i Pono'i (it used to be the Hawaiian National Anthem). I thought you might enjoy hearing it.

Hawai`i Pono`i Written by King David Kalakaua
Music by Prof. Henry Berger, the Royal Bandmaster

Hawaiian lyrics English lyrics

Hawaiʻi ponoʻī,	Hawaiʻi's own true sons,
Nānā i kou moʻī,	Be loyal to your king,
Kalani aliʻi,	Your country's liege and lord
Ke aliʻi.	The chief.

Hawaiʻi ponoʻī,	Hawaiʻi's own true sons,
Nānā i nā aliʻi,	Look to your chiefs,
Nā pua muli kou,	The children after you,
Nā pōkiʻi.	The young.

Hawaiʻi ponoʻī,	Hawaiʻi's own true sons,
E ka lahui ē,	People of loyal heart,
ʻO kāu hana nui	The only duty lies
E ui ē.	List and abide.

Hui:	Chorus:
Makua lani ē,	Father above us all,
Kamehameha ē,	Kamehameha e,
Na kaua e pale,	Who guarded in the war,
Me ka ihe.	With his spear.

Hawaiian birthday parties

2011-09-17T15:50:00.003-10:00

Have you ever felt stressed about planning your kids' birthday parties? I know I have.... Here in Hawaii birthdays get celebrated big-time.... Kamaole III beach park (near our Maui Kamaole condo) is popular with locals for birthday parties. They invite lots of friends and family, cater it (usually self-catered or potluck), often have bounce castles for the kids and the parties usually last the better part of the day.

Just look at this party....

I would guess there were 80-100 guests at this party with the huge bounce castle

How about this? I think these are two parties that happen to have similar slip and slide castles

Our 6 year old got invited to a classmate's birthday where they had a roasted pig on the menu! Can you imagine??

Needless to say, I get stressed when thinking about our kids' parties.... they are far less elaborate.... I would much rather just pack up my own kids and hit the beach :)

beautiful Kamaole III beach park - the beach is just past the hedge

'Iao Valley

2011-09-17T14:37:00.004-10:00

Today we took the kids to the 'Iao Valley. The 'Iao Valley is located in the West Maui Mountains. You drive through Wailuku (the county capital), past city hall, up the hill and eventually end up in a lush rain forest, inside the remnants of an extinct volcano.

'Iao Needle

The 'Iao Needle is a 1200 ft high (2250 ft from sea level) natural rock pinnacle in the valley (at the end of the road) which was once used as an altar. It is surrounded by the cliffs of the West Maui Mountains (the extinct volcano making up the western half of Maui). There are a series of short paths that you can walk along and enjoy the lush vegetation of the valley. In the 15th century the valley was designated an ali'i burial ground. It was also the site of a major battle in the 1700s.

Lush vegetation in the State Park

The valley is a designated State Park. There is a $5 fee to park in the State Park by the needle - parking is limited, you may have to circle a few times. The park is open between 7am and 7pm. There is also a Nature Center and Kepaniwai Park's Heritage Gardens for you to enjoy.

Taro planting in the park - a traditional Polynesian food

On our way home we drove by a recently harvested sugar cane field. Sugar cane is the major crop on Maui. You will drive by the Sugar Cane Factory on your way from the airport to Kihei. There are two methods of harvesting the cane - they either burn the field (and then harvest the charred stalk) or chop the whole plant (similarly to chopping feed corn).

this sugar cane field is being harvested by chopping the entire plant

I love my cleaning lady!

2011-09-14T14:48:00.001-10:00

I love my cleaning lady! Really, I do. My cleaning lady Cindy is on a well-deserved vacation this week. Her son is getting married, so I hope she is getting vacation time in addition to all the wedding festivities. She is the neatest neat-freak I have ever met. And I mean this in the best way.

The first time I met her, I had asked her to help me do a deep clean at our Sugar Beach condo. She came highly recommended by another owner. We had just bought our Sugar Beach condo and finished a bathroom/floor renovation (it's all tiled, such a wonderful thing). I've been cleaning my home all my adult life (okay, and some of my teen-aged life when absolutely necessary), so I figured - should be no problem for me. Cindy has taught me differently. The most important thing she has taught me is, 'Cleaning condos is different from cleaning your house. If you are a guest and find a hair, you will be disgusted. Even one hair is not acceptable. This is professional cleaning.' The great thing is, I've become better at cleaning my own house. As fun as cleaning that condo was, I've let Cindy do most the cleaning, helping her from time to time when she needed help.

The newly renovated bathroom at Sugar Beach #104

Today I cleaned our Sugar Beach condo again. I kept all her little tricks in mind, being systematic about cleaning, so I didn't forget anything. It usually takes Cindy 2 1/2 hours to clean this condo. It took me 3 1/2 hours. Not bad, for an amateur. The second most important thing Cindy taught me is, 'check your work - after you're done, always walk through the condo, spot checking that you've done it all. Often times you will forget obvious things.' I will be spot-checking later this afternoon. The comforter is in the dryer and needs to be laid out on the bed, I've washed and dried the two throw rugs at home, and I have a box of chocolate macadamia nuts for our guests arriving tonight.

The living area at Sugar Beach #104

I am so thrilled Cindy is back next week to take over the job again. And I am so thankful to have such a wonderful cleaning lady!

The oceanfront grassy area - after cleaning I just wanted to collapse on one of these chairs and listen to the waves. However, I had 'mom-duties' to attend to! Another day!

Guest Review for our Palms at Wailea 503 condo

2011-09-13T12:23:00.003-10:00

The most recent guests at our Palms at Wailea condo (#503) left us the nicest review on our VRBO listing. Have a read (scroll to the bottom of the listing, past the pictures to see the reviews).

Mahalo (thank you) Dan!

The beautiful Palms at Wailea complex - ours is a ground-level ocean-view 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo.

Hawaiian Shirts and such

2011-09-10T20:51:00.001-10:00

My husband asked me to iron two of his Hawaiian shirts tonight. Isn't it ironic that casual Hawaiian shirts need ironing? Irons and ironing boards are standard in all four of our condos - just in case you want to iron too!

Maui is very casual. Bring T-shirts, shorts, summery skirts and sundresses, swim wear and cover-ups. That's about it! If you plan to go for a nice dinner, men - wear a casual shirt (Hawaiian shirt?) and khakis, ladies the same or a pretty sundress. Don't forget your slippahs (if you do, have no fear - you can buy them at every corner store) for the beach, they can also double for dining out. Definitely a pair of good walking shoes, and perhaps some water shoes. But don't sweat it - we have plenty of shopping here, just in case you forget something.

Regarding sundresses - I love these, so comfy - check out Jams World.

The Road to Hana

2011-09-10T20:08:00.002-10:00

This is one of the most talked about 'things to do' when on Maui. It is a 50 mile trip from Kahului to Hana, though you will find it will take you about 3 hours to drive it (if you don't stop along the way). It has 600 sharp turns and 59 bridges (46 of them are one-lane). In all these years, we have never driven to Hana, though I'm told it's beautiful and that we don't know what we're missing. You see, our whole family is prone to car-sickness - we'll pass on this trip.

My friend Claudia did this drive just this past week. She booked a Hana tour from one of the local concierge services. It picked her up in Kihei at 7am and brought her home by 6pm. Lunch was included I believe. Rather than just driving to Hana and back, it did the whole loop, including passing through that infamous area the car rental companies warn you will void your rental contract. She said the tour was great - the guide very knowledgeable and entertaining. HINT: try to sit on the left side of the bus (behind the driver), that is the best side for taking pictures.

Here's a website with more information about the Road to Hana and what you can expect to see.

Enjoy a Luau

2011-09-09T20:41:00.002-10:00

A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast, though I think these days most of them are quite commercialized. Nonetheless, it's fun to sit at the beach (usually on a resort property), watch the pig being unearthed from its traditional imu pit (it tastes sooooo good!), learning about Hawaiian culture in the traditional hula show....

You can either call the resorts directly to book, or book through one of many 'activity centers' on Maui. They will typically cost about $80-$100 per person (kids tickets are cheaper). If you see them advertised for significantly cheaper, it will usually have strings attached (time shares, anyone?).

On Maui there are 9 luaus to choose from. If you want to stay in Kihei/Wailea, you have three options...
- Polynesian Village Luau (this one is family operated, NOT on a beach)
- The Grand Luau at Honua'ula (Grand Wailea Resort)
- Te Au Moana (Wailea Beach Marriott Resort)

There are also a number of luaus in Lahaina/Kaanapali (which is a 45-60 minute drive, depending on where you stay in Kihei/Wailea).

We've been to the Grand Luau numerous times - the food is great, the setting is beautiful. Our Austrian friend went to the Polynesian Village Luau last night - she really enjoyed it, it was less commercialized and seemed more authentic, she thought. The guests currently staying at our Sugar Beach condo went to Feast of Lele two nights ago and said it was fabulous also.

The Maui News just came out with their annual ratings of the luaus (I am not sure how they come up with these results).

They voted the best luau on Maui to be the Old Lahaina Luau. The Grand Luau (Grand Wailea) received Honorable Mentions, as did the Feast of Lele.

Another drive up Haleakala

2011-09-08T18:04:00.000-10:00

We are enjoying the visit of a friend from Austria this week. The fun thing about having guests is doing touristy things with them. Really we could do touristy things without guests too, but you know how it is.... life gets busy and you don't always enjoy the beauty around you!

The crater area at 10,023 ft elevation was beautiful as always. I'm always surprised at the variety of colors in the crater valley. The drop of temperature was interesting - we left Kihei at 25 Celsius (77F) at 8:30am this morning. By the time we reached the summit around 10:30 it had dropped to 10C (50F). Back in Kahului around 1:30 it was 29C (84F). I personally enjoyed cooling off even just for an hour or so.

You may enjoy this link about Mount Haleakala.

Newsflash - it rained today in Kihei!

2011-09-05T15:41:00.001-10:00

It rained in Kihei today - it poured for about 5 minutes! This is big news! Kihei/Wailea is in Mount Haleakala's rainshadow and get only about 12 inches of rain a year (other parts of the island get much much more). As a tourist - this means you are pretty much guaranteed great sunny weather for your vacation!

Coming from BC's West Coast I honestly get excited when it rains - not that I miss ALL the rain that the West Coast gets. By far not, but it takes some adjusting to go from 'always green' to 'green only where irrigated' on our corner of the island. Sig teases me when I moan about the lack of rain and says, 'just go upcountry, you'll find the rain'. Of course he's right. We live in Paradise - not much to complain about - but the grass always seems a little greener on the other side.

Outback Steakhouse

2011-09-04T20:01:00.000-10:00

We tried a new-to-us restaurant tonight. We wanted to take the kids out but not break the bank (going for dinner is expensive on Maui - try lunch instead, it is 1/3 the price). Sig was craving steak. So we tried the Outback Steakhouse at 281 Pi ' ikea Ave (Safeway shopping plaza in Kihei). The service was good, the steaks and mashed potatoes were delicious. Great dinner.

I had to include a picture of the Bloomin Onion - we didn't have it, but I am most intrigued....

Outback Steakhouse's Bloomin' Onion

Guests at our Kihei Surfside condo #405!

2011-09-03T20:27:00.001-10:00

Last night I took two of our boys for a sleepover at our Kihei Surfside condo #405. We bought this condo almost a year ago. It is truthfully my favorite of our four condos. It is direct oceanfront with a wonderful oceanview. The guests who stay leave wonderful guestbook entries, so I figured - it's my turn to enjoy it (it's currently empty until our next check-in on Monday)!

We walked Keawakapu Beach at sunset, sat on the lounge chairs overlooking the lava rocks enjoying the breeze (until the kids got cold - I think they've officially acclimatized to Maui weather, it was in the low 20s/mid 70s - definitely not cold!), watched one of the condo's DVDs til bedtime and then fell asleep to the sound of the waves hitting the lava rocks. I woke up around 5:30am and sat on the lanai, watching the sky turn color as the sun rose to the East of us. I had intended to go back to bed, but then the kids woke up and wanted breakfast. Since we didn't bring groceries, it was the perfect excuse to go to that cinnamon bun place in Kamaole Shopping Center for a decadent breakfast treat!

Sunrise at Kihei Surfside 405

Not only was this a fun little getaway, I also got to check out the condo from a guest's perspective. I can report that the bed is amazingly comfortable. The towels are soft and fluffy. The sheets were so-so, my husband Sig picked up new 540 threadcount sheets at Costco this morning. He also bought four new king-sized pillows. I replaced all the batteries in remote controls and smoke detectors (it's been a year, good time to do it!) and checked the cordless phones (they are working fine). Tomorrow I will go back, clean and get it all ready for our next check-in (yes, I will leave them a box of macadamia nut chocolates as I always do). Monday morning the window washer comes (they wash the windows every other month, to make sure you can fully appreciate the view), Monday afternoon our next guests arrive.

A great advantage of renting one of our condos is that we as owners live closeby and keep a close eye on things. Most condo owners stay in their condo once a year, leaving busy rental agencies to monitor things when they are away. I check all our condos before every guest arrives, seeing that everything is clean and checking for things that need fixing and replacing. I also read all the guest book entries - so please, write us a note before you leave. Many guests write about their favorite adventures - it's fun to hear about their experiences, but also for our guests (and us) to get ideas for our own adventures.