chuck

We just keep going back to those two fantastic islands. I feel like I've seen and done a lot over the past six trips so I would be more than happy to share some advice on places to stay...eat...do.

GREG & JOYCE PALER

WE WILL BE GOING TO MAUI IN FEB. 1999 FOR OUR 5TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR .WE HAVE A TIME SHARE IN KIHEI AND WANT TO SPEND A 3RD WEEK {02-19 THRU 02-26}in a bed and breakfast "in isolation". ANY GOOD IDEAS ?

Melody

Hello. Thanks for offering the help. We will be in Kauai for 5 nights and Maui for 7 nights next April. How is the Kiahuna Plantation on Kauai? Also any knowledge of the Mana Kai-Maui condo's on Maui?
Which island should we do a helicopter tour on? And, which company? Also, which company should we use on Maui for the bike trek down from the volcano at sunrise? Do you think we can just take a day trip to the Pearl Harbor exhibit and leave our home base on Maui? Sorry for all the questions, but hey, you offered!! Thanks for your help, please e-mail me directly.

ray seva

Hey Chuck!
I'm planning a 4-night stay in Hawaii around Thanksgiving (Wed-Sat. return Sunday evening). I've been to Kauai/Honolulu 3-times already...she's never been to the islands at all.
Should we go to Kauai or Maui? She has visions of finding some sort of South Pacific paradise (which is why I'm ruling out Kauai).
Also, in your opinion...is it better to book an all-inclusive pkg (airfare, lodging, rental car i.e. United Vacations/Pleasant Hawaiian Holidays)...or is it better to buy each separately?
And...what's your thought(s) on staying at a rental condo vs. hotel.

Hope I didn't load too much on your plate.
Thanks for any info.

Jenny

What a nice offer to help. Two questions:

What is the best way to get a good deal on a car rental?

They just reopened the Sheraton on Maui after 1 1/2 years of renovation. Did you get a chance to see it?

Thanks is advance - Jenny

k & l warner

Canadians need to know the answer to this question:

Can you buy Clamato juice on Maui???????

Regrads,
k & l

brenda

We were at the Sheraton in Poipu last Feb and it had recently re-opened. It looked nice and we ate there but did not stay as we had booked a place nearby. The grounds are coming along but the renovations seemed to be very nice. We had stayed there before the hurricane and wanted to see what it was like now. Looks about the same with some improvements. Stll a great location right on the beach. The beach there is a really nice one, not alot of people and sandy bottom for swimming, waves not too big.

Jon

Regarding the question of whether to stay in a condo or a hotel:
There are about 15 major hotels, and about 100 condos, for you to pick from on Maui. The advantages of a hotel are: consistent quality of rooms, more elaborate grounds and pools, shops and restaurants in the building, more service (such as room service and bellman service). The advantages of a condo are: more space, larger rooms, kitchen for you to do some of your own cooking, and usually lower prices. Bear in mind that the quality of condo rooms varies widely, both from one condo building to another, and from one unit to another within the same condo building.

LOTS more info about Maui restaurants, sights, activities, hotels, etc, at this web page:
http://members.aol.com/Derm1/index.html

chuck

Here are some answers...I apologize for not getting back to you sooner.. If I'm ignoring your question I apologize it means I don't know and I didn't want to make up an answer.

To Melody - I would do Pear just for the day. In my opinion the Waikiki area is like NYC with Palm trees. If you want to do some Island Hopping look into Hawaiin Air's unlimited Island Pass. When you get to Maui, look in the activity books for all of the bike trek companbies. I'm not sure how different one is from another other than what time you leave and how you get to the top of Haleakala (bus,van etc..)

To Ray I know you say you've done Kauai before, but I think it is still more "true" Hawaii than Maui. Hey, each island has its charms so if its romantic out of the way you want, Kauai is definitely more secluded than Maui.. Have you been to the Hyattt at Poipu... One of the most romantic resorts on Earth. I like Hotel for the services but condo's are generally cheaper and you have kitchen and laundry facilities...again decide what is more important to you. I've never been a fan of all inclusive packages..We usually do it ourselves and get just as good rates.. Also if using FF miles cant usually use a package.

To Jenny. For cars I suggest you call all the Companies big discrepancies in June from Hertz to Dollar (Dollar was $100 cheaper for a jeep for the week on Maui. Saw the Sheraton at the end of Kaanapali Beach...It looks beautiful.

To K+L Yes!! I believe the safeway grocery store in Lahaina carry's Clamato..

Mary

Chuck,

Where have you stayed at when you have been in Maui. We are specifically looking into condos. If you have stayed in condos, who have you booked them through? We are looking for a 3-bedroom for 6 adults, and would also consider a 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom. Our main priority is VIEW! Judging by other posts it looks like we will have to specify OCEANFRONT as opposed to oceanVIEW. Any info you have would be GREATLY appreciated. You get on this internet and become overwhelmed with choices, it is nice to get first hand knowledge. We have been to Maui before and stayed in Wailea, this time due to the circumstances, I think Kaanapali area will more suit our needs (or Kahana, etc.) Thank you again.

Dave & Caprice

Thanks for the offer! Going to Kauai two times over the next 9 months, each time with parents (mine, then his)!

Kauai luau's--been to one? Any thoughts? Tossing around Princeville Resort or Coconut Beach.

Whale watching season--when? where best to view?

Winter/early spring in Kauai--any thoughts?

Finally...anything we should make sure we plan to do with parents while there?

Thanks so much!

Chuck

To Dave and Caprice I have been to the Luau at the Princeville - its really nice. Also for whale watching, I understand that Maui is the best between December and April I'm not sure about Kauai.
Don't miss the Waimea canyon on Kauia - A nice half day trip to see a beautiful site - you can also hit the sprouting horn onn the way back.. Also spend some time in Hanele a little quant hawaiin town on the North shore - Near the Princeville. Hope this helps

To Mary: The only condo I've stayed at (we usually stay at the Hyatt) is the Aston Kaanapali shores which is on the beach. You are correct about OCEANFRONT versus view. One time the ocean was barely visible over the trees and buildings and we were chared for ocean view. As I recall, the Aston had some larger 2 bedroom units on the ocean. Also pretty nice grounds, restaurants convienence store etc.. Good luck

Bob

I would appreciate a review on the Kea Lani hotel in Maui. Also, does it have a nice beach in front of it?
Is it important to have a car while in Maui? Thanks.

Sarah

Aloha! Try AA Paradise Network for your car rentals. They are wholesalers for the major companies (808) 579-8277. They have really great prices.

Sarah

I live on Maui and can suggest quite a few places... Papakea, Aston Kaanapali Shores, Sands of Kahana, and Kaanapali Villas to name a few. if you come across any, I'll let you know my opinion of them.

annemarie

Thought I would add some info and answers. Do not stay at the Coconut Beach as the beach is the pits and it is an average resort. The Princeville is to die for and if you get a Sheraton Gold club member card you are entitled to 35% off the rate plus other extras. Hyatt on Kauai is also to die for. Try the Embassy Vacation Resort right next to the Hyatt. Very nice condos and good packages. Do not do the Kiahuna Planatation, not as nice although large condos. Write if you have any more specific messages. Oh yes, look into the Wailea Elua for great condos on the beach. Annemarie

brenda

Dave and Caprice: We attended the luau at the Hyatt in poipu last year, $55.00/person I believe, but we got a discount through the activity desk at the place we were staying. The Hyatt luau was in a great location outside on a grassy area not far from the beach. Don't know where they hold it when it rains. But, it was a great night when we went and the stars were out. Fantastic. The food was good and the entertainment was very ggod also. I have been to 2 other luaus on Kauai, Smith's Tropical Paradise, and Gaylord's ( can't remember the name of plantation).
I'd vote for the Hyatt because they cater more to the guests. For one thing they offered a variety of tropical drinks free, not just mai-tais. They had blue hawaiians, pina coladas, you name it and they served you at your table. Some luaus, you have to get up and get your own. I would say it was more of a class act than the others but really all 3 luaus were fine and I would not disparage any of them.

JoAnn

I am planning my honeymoon for January `99 in Mauii and kauaii. 1)What is the weather like at that time? 2)Is the Hyatt the most luxurious hotel on both islands?

shelby

I am taking three 14 and 15 year old girls to Maui in January 1999. They will be performing in the Hula Bowl and practices will take most of their time. We will only be there 5 days and will be staying at the Maui Marriott. What should I be sure they see and do in their spare time?

Tracy

Going to Maui this fall. What resort is your favorite? SHould we go with the Ritz-Corlton in Kapalua or the Four Seasons or Grand Wailea in Wailea. I've heard that Wailea is more crowded and the weather tends to be hotter than in Kapalua. Also have heard that for the money, Grand Waliea is not the best buy in the luxury category. What are your thoughts? Looking for something beautiful, luxurious and peaceful.