Molokini Snorkel tour is not worth it in my opinion. Expensive and very time-consuming. You won't see anything there that is any better than what you can see snorkeling Black Rock. If you need any more restaurant recommendations our favorites are Lahaina Grill and Pacifico's in Lahaina and Roy's in Kaanapali.

No Haleakala?

I loved Ulalena!! I also really liked the Old Lahaina Luau.

I'm exhausted just thinking about your schedule!

You might be able to get up early for sunrise at Haleakala if you are still on Chicago time.

We did a Molokini tour in the a.m. and enjoyed it ... with one of the smaller boats from Kihei. Lots of turtles. Left us plenty of time in the p.m. for other activities.

I might wait at least one more day for Hana Road until you get into the swing of things in Maui.

Ulalena is a very good show ...

Why not stop for dinner at Mama's on your way back from Road to Hana unless you are driving all the way around.

We enjoyed snorkeling at Molokini. Just make sure you are on a boat that gets there early compared to the other boats.

Also, be sure to realize that the Road to Hana is best enjoyed if you know that the fun of it is the drive. Hana itself isn't much to see. Take snacks with you, or a picnic. We picked up picnic supplies and had a picnic with our kids on a huge rock overlooking the ocean! Make sure you have hiking shoes and bathing suits with you. (We wore our suits under our clothes.)

Have fun!!

I never have much of a problem with jet lag heading west and we fly 'direct' to Hawaii from east coast (no overnight en route).
We find we're up early on day 1 (around dawn) but by day 2 an early start would be 7am for us (normally we'd lie in until at least 8 am).

We enjoyed our day out with Trilogy last Feb. Great info from the crew and we saw so many whales, close up on our Molokini snorkel trip. Enjoyed the turtles too.
The benefit of this boat trip is that you get to snorkel at 2 different spots that would be difficult from the shore, the food and ambience is good, interesting knowledgeable guides and it was fun to hang out on the deck.
Don't forget sunscreen, cover ups and hat though or you will burn on the open deck (only real shade is below deck).

Didn't really enjoy the road to Hana, just too busy and too many bends for us so we gave up half way. Haleakala was amazing though and we're making another trip up the volcano this year but will be more prepared to hike this time (last time it was too cold as we only had sweatshirts).

We'll be at the Hyatt the week after you, enjoy!

My family skipped Road to Hana. Several of us get car-sick, and getting up Haleakala was enough for us (lol)!

Skip Molokini. Add Haleakala, which is amazing. Get there by 9 am

I don't know. I think you're trying to do too much in too short a period of time. Pick one major activity. It sounds like the trip to Lanai is important to you. Do that and don't plan the rest in advance. Enjoy the beach and relax.

While I disagree with the statement that there isn't much to see in Hana, I wouldn't do the drive with the limited time you have, as it really should be done as an overnight or multi-night trip so one can really enjoy this special part of the island. Not many people do this and that is a good thing for those of us that do.

I think Molokini is very over rated, but if you've never been out on a snorkeling trip like this it might be fun for you.

Taking a drive out to Hookipa Beach on the north shore and then upcountry to Makawao is a nice half day trip. You could continue on up to Haleakala if you wanted.

I think the beaches in Wailea and especially further south in Makena are truly one of the natural gifts on Maui. It took me several trips to Maui before I explored this part of the island and looking back, I wish that it hadn't taken me so long.

Have a great trip.

You are only in Maui for five days. Why spend one second of it in a Costco or Walmart? What are you going to buy in volume that will make it economical?
I find it more interesting to visit local markets and see how different they are than mainland stores.
Molokini is a nice boat ride but there is better snorkeling off Maui beaches.

Last time we went to Haleakala to hike, not to see the sunrise. Left Kaanapali mid-morning. It was a beautiful drive, both up and down, and a great hike. Do remember that "what goes down must come up". -- you hike DOWN into the crater(s) and the return is pretty much all uphill and it isn't easy. We hiked in about 2.5 miles, until we could see into one of the craters.

I have done "jam-packed" Maui on our first trip with my husband. I agree that it's good to intersperse activity days with relaxing days so you'll feel like you're on vacation. We did the RTH the day after we arrived, and we left for the road at around 6am so we had plenty of time to enjoy the sights and the drive. We drove around past Hana to Oheo gulch and spent time relaxing at the falls there. On the way back, we stopped in Paia for dinner at the Paia Fish Market. It was casual and the food was great.

If you don't mind the drive from West Maui, I really liked this place http://waterfrontrestaurant.net
They have a new restaurant space now, and I hear it's really nice. Back when we went, it was a shabby chic establishment with wonderful food. I still think about the amazing Caesar salad we had. Maybe if you plan to do Haleakala for sunset, you can stop here for dinner on the way back to West Maui.

Hmmm it's funny that a few of you think this itineary seems ambitious. I think I've planned plenty of "down time" for us. After Big Island we are spending 5 days in Kauai where we don't plan on doing much of anything, so that will be the main relaxation portion of the trip. But I do appreciate all of the thoughts and input so far!

If we drop anything, it will be the Road to Hana. While it sounds exciting, I know my DH will get stressed with all the driving and we already decided he will probably be too drained to do a nice dinner out, so that's why we thought we'd either go super casual that night (like Lahaina Pizza) or even just eat in the Regency Club (we are Diamond members w/Hyatt).

I was looking at the Molokini snorkeling tour w/Trilogy, mainly because I've never snorkeled before, and I know they provide some instructions. So I actually initially thought I might like to do this the first full day of the trip so that I could get some snorkeling experience under my belt and then I'd feel comfortable renting equipment with which I could snorkel the rest of the week (Black Rock, etc). But then we thought Road to Hana might be better that first day, since it would be "easier" for us to get up super early.

Yes, the day in Lanai is important (I really want to volunteer at the cat shelter, even for a few hours) but I feel like I already have such little time in Maui, so I do feel bad taking the "diversion" for the day to go to Lanai.

So I'll talk to DH tomorrow (he's already in bed for the night!) and discuss possibly scrapping RtH and see what he says. Also, are there any other snorkeling tours that would be better suited for me than the Molokini Crater tour?

As you can see I still have a lot to mull over, and I appreciate the comments so far. Keep em coming!

Also Costco just because we go through bottled water like crazy and we have gotten into the great habit on every vacation of stopping at a Costco on the way from whatever airport and getting a 35 pack of water for like $3.99. DH packs a soft sided cooler and we fill it with ice from the hotel, and we always have cold water with us when driving around or hiking.

And Walmart as DH and I are both extremely fair and burn easily. He wants to load up on sunscreen ahead of time... I told him instead of packing it, we can just run into to Walmart or Kmart and get it there! But I don't plan on being there long AT ALL.

We always stop for us screen on the way in, too, because we take carrion luggage and can't pack the kind I like and need (spray, 70SPF).

As for snorkeling, you do not need instruction, and the trip to Molokini would just be an expensive way to "learn" (I'm not saying not to go, just that you can easily teach yourself at Black Rock or elsewhere. Put on the mask, put the snorkel in your mouth, and put your face in the water. You might hyperventilate at first, but you'll get used to it. At first, just do it where you are standing, and then as you get more comfortable, swim out abut toward the rock. You don't have to go far to see turtles and fish).

I am here on Maui right now and it is cold and windy (especially after the sun goes down) which I am not used to over here. I am on a combo Molokini-Lanai snorkeling trip tomorrow with Pacific Whale Foundation. I will report back, I am not expecting to like Molokini too much, but we'll see. I love Trilogy and will go with them Whale watching only on Wednesday from Kaanapali Beach.

If possible find some time to drive around the West Maui mountains, it is a beautiful coastline (north side of the island) not like RtH, which I happen to like.

I just came in from going to the luau at the Hyatt. I won it it was just OK. Old Lahaina Luau gets the best reviews and I think about the same price. Really need reservations for Old Lahaina Luau I understand

Ulalena is a great show. I have seen it on three occasions and love it more every time I see it.

Sounds as if you are getting great advice here.

I do not think your schedule sounds too busy, but I'll add my two cents in.

I think the road to Hana is overrated.

I would definitely wake up early for the sunrise at Haleakala!

I hope your shopping includes walking around Lahaina; it's a sweet town.

Have a fantastic trip!

So if we don't plan on hiking or biking at Haleakala, it would still be worth it? What would you recommend we "do" there, just drive up for the sunrise?

YES!!! We didn't want to get up and drive in the dark for sunrise.

Our family just went after an early breakfast, around 10am or so. It's wonderful to see. You don't need to hike or bike either one. Just drive to the top outlook viewpoint (actually there's a few other stops on the way up worth it as well), get out of the car, and see the view. Words can't describe how spectacular it is!! Dress warm, even mid-day it's COLD up there.

You asked for a critique so I will give you one. But please dismiss most of it. In my countless trips to the islands there has never been a wrong decision. So many things that people post as MUST DO'S are my did it once was enough.

Old Lahaina Luau is the go to luau in my opinion of all the islands, unless you can go to a local fundraising luau.

We went to sunrise at Haleakala on our first trip and never felt called back.

Often times people say you must visit I'ao Needle. Did it once and found the busloads of tourists to detract from the reality of the history of the land. Never returned.

Gone to Hana a handful of times and can't wait to go back. However doing a day trip on the first day doesn't seem wise. You will wake up early, but you will also get tired early.

My Lahaina limit is a few hours, while others suggest it being a home base. I would hate being there for days.

We did Molokini on a sailboat with another couple. It was overcrowded with humans outnumbering fish. And that area/harbour is the second windiest in the world, or so I have been told. As far as needing instruction, put your face in the water and look. Lots of great better snorkling from shore. Don't go in if it's choppy and don't go alone. Stay close to shore.

I adore Lanai and think you are selling yourself short. You're already investing the time and money to visit. Enjoy the island. Take time to check out the local artists, explore the Lodge and Manele Bay and take the last ferry out. You're there. Why would you rush to leave? It is a very friendly island. Not sure if there is still a axle deer sanctuary in Lanai City. They nursed deer back to health a couple of blocks from town in their gated yard. I'd really take the first ferry in and the last ferry out. And if the ocean conditions are right, the snorkling at Manele bay from shore can be pretty good.


Everybody on these forums have conflicting opinions. Take mine and others with a grain of salt - hawaiian sea salt!

I've flown from Milwaukee, WI to Maui twice and never done a stop over and never been hugely affected by jet lag. I think the return trip is where I felt the effects but who cares at that point? To me, you're giving up two days in paradise unnecessarily, especially with the 2nd night in Seattle.

I snorkeled Molikini with Trilogy and had a blast swimming with the turtles. I would highly recommend the Old Lahaina Luau. The sunsets are absolutely spectacular and the luau was great.

Seeing the sun rise on Haleakala was awesome! We followed that with the bike ride down the mountain which was a blast. We had a group of 6 and it was quite memorable.

As for dinner on Maui, the Plantation House at Kapalua has stunning views and excellent food and wine list. Pricey, but so worth it, especially on special occasions.

http://www.theplantationhouse.com/

I've done the road to Hana twice, once guided and once on own. Make it a nice, slow-paced day with a picnic, swimming, etc.

Have fun!

More great responses... my husband and I are going to sit down and do a serious re-working of the plans tonight.

I'd *love* to spend more time on Lanai that Thursday we're there. In fact, I think it would be quite romantic to have a late lunch or dinner at one of the Four Seasons for V Day, but my concern is that after being at the cat shelter for a few hours, we'll be covered in cat hair and will be unfit for Four Seasons dining! LMAO!

You are going to be in Maui during the peak of the humpback whale season and you have not planned to go whale watching. Schedule at least one trip with one of the smaller companies: Maui Ocean Adventures, Hawaii Ocean Rafting, or Ultimate Whale Watch.

I would second spending a night on Lanai. Still has the old time Hawaii vibe.

There is good snorkeling around Lanai too - and some tour operators if you feel the need. Since you would be on the south side of Lanai - it's more protected and might have the best conditions/visibility. http://www.gohawaii.com/lanai/guidebook/topics/snorkeling-and-scuba

As for getting used to snorkeling - rent some equipment for the week (check the Snorkel Bob's type places) and get well fitted for your mask and fins. I believe you can also take the equipment to other islands and turn it in later - at least with Snorkel Bob's. http://www.snorkelbob.com/

Make sure you don't have any loose hair hanging down into the mask - as it will let water drip in.

Most of all - first practice in the pool at the hotel. If you can't get comfortable there - you might have a problem.

You will be there in late "winter" - so every day might have different conditions on the ocean. I would not go on any snorkeling tour if the wind/waves are up, no matter how optimistic they might be.

And I would also go for it - driving to Hana the first day you arrive - or at least starting the journey and see how it goes.

Would also recommend getting up to see the sunrise at Haleakula - and maybe stopping at a winery (Tedschi) in Up Country - or a cheese farm - surfing goat - or a lavender field http://gohawaii.about.com/od/mauiactivities/tp/top_upcountry_maui_activities.htm

Moi - I would bag the Seattle stopover - unless you have other reasons - and spend the time in Paradise.

Best restaurant Makawao Steak House
3612 Baldwin Avenue Makawao, HI 96768‎..best meal ever....

Aloha, I just returned from my snorkel day with the Pacific Whale Foundation. I was very pleasantly surprised by Molokini. It was easy snorkeling and the fish were plentiful. They do offer snorkeling 101 for those who need it. This crew were great, I really enjoyed them. It was not as crowded with boats as I had imagined it was going to be. Then on to Lanai, about 2 hours. The snorkeling there was not as enjoyable this time (as I have been to Lanai several other times). This was a much deeper area so harder to get up close. We had some extras today, there was a pod of resident spinner dolphins that put on a show (crew said it was the best they had seen). I missed it all as I was sitting on the other side of the boat. There are most definitely whales! We had lots of sightings, no major breaching. At one point one popped up too close to the boat and he had to cut the engine, by law. I was on a motorized vessel this time and not a catamaran. All in all a really nice outing for the day.

<we are spending 5 days in Kauai where we don't plan on doing much of anything, so that will be the main relaxation portion of the trip.>

IMHO, there are at least two "must-do's" in Kauai:

Waimea Canyon & Koke'e Park for views of the Kalalau Lookout (and if you're hikers, I love the Canyon Trail)

and a drive to Ke'e Beach with stops at Hanalei Bay and the Hanalei Lookout (across from the Princeville Foodland)

Each of these are full-day excursions. There's much to see and do on Kauai ... so don't sell it short .

PS. Walmart & Costco have the best priced souvenirs. I've only seen the Hershey's Kisses w/macadamia nuts (& a paper pull that says "aloha") at Costco. My friends would never forgive me if I didn't bring that back!

Actually - if you have never snorkeled - suggest you find a mask/snorkel and fins (borrow a set or purchase an inexpensive one from Costco or Walmart - wherever) - and practice in a pool where you live - before you leave.

Start in the shallow end (with somebody helping/watching you) - and just bend over and put your face and mask in the water and learn how to breath through the snorkel.

Once you get the hang of it - put on the fins and then try a few strokes/kicks in the shallow end - again - where you can stand up if you get nervous - and once you have mastered that - then gradually start to swim around in the deeper end.

Always remember that if you ever get an unexpected gulp of water - you can just lift your face/head out of the water and spit out the snorkel and breath naturally.

As you become more comfortable - you will probably learn how to clear any water that might have gotten into the snorkel (just breath out hard) - but uno mas - always remember - all you have to do is raise your head to find air.

And when you get to Hawaii - be sure to ask/check on local conditions before you go out anywhere.

Other than that - have a blast.

aloha from Kauai... Mark Ellman's "Mala Ocean Tavern" restaurant right outside Lahaina is epic too!

My interjection is the drive to Hana...when guests ask me directly, i suggest taking a cooler of drinks/water/ snacks fruit, safely pull over often to see the choice waterfalls and ponds and to unravel, and make zero plans that evening! From experience, its really taxing to drive all the way out and have a time frame to rush back, even if continuing on the backside of the drive back. Ya gotta go slow and will anyways with the line of cars ...flow with the day no agenda. little stops and fruit stands along the way too.

Merrimans is fine straight forward food, daily fresh fish... and Mama's a little more refined. great views and cuisine on both sides of the island. "Flatbreads" in Paia has awesome oven baked pizzas and salad...my families first stop when visiting Maui friends and family, and then another night at "Hali'imaile Geneal store" on way up to Makawao. AND for sure Makawao steak house as another post said...local paniolo style with history /style galore

The ferry to Lanai is great! I took that every third day for years as a fire fighter stationed there...you never know what to expect...whales(winter), dolphins for sure, manta rays,sharks...a huge whale shark paralleled the double decker boat one evening! Lanai is cool and a whole different pace all its own...both hotels are pretty amazing yet grab a jeep and go on an island off road safari, to shipwreck beach, up Lanai Hale, etc..

Molokini is fun yet unpredictable as stated above...February can be dicey weather/swell/condition wise even if inside the crater isle. Research the companies. Does get crowded yet you are out in the middle of the channel between Kahoolawe and Maui= epic alive ocean.

I know the luau's on Kauai. Haven't been to any on other islands in decades. Three are authentic guests favorites, one is average. Tahiti Nui's in Hanalei, tuesday luau at Mediterranean Gourmet in Hanalei colony (Haena) and Smiths at the Wailua river marina. Smiths is large scale, the other two more intimate.

Someone above stated about opinion posting....so true! Individual experiences and perceptions guide the outcomes. I,for one, don't suggest places that are overrun by tour buses ex; Koke'e/Waimea canyon is beautiful area to see IF get up there before 9am..if not, giant herd of people. Kauai north shore one lane bridges prevent these large buses.
A hui ho...have fun with it all...plenty to explore spontaneously

Haliimaile General Store for lunch or dinner is wonderful. Last year, dinner was so good that we went again for lunch the next day. Can't get enough! It's in the middle of nowhere, but worth the drive. bevgannonrestaurants.com/haliimaile

You already mentioned Merriman's. That's my choice for my birthday dinner. Ask to sit near a window if you dine before sunset (around 6:30pm in Feb). The view is spectacular!

Mama's is great, worth the trip, but very overpriced.
Sansei for sushi/seafood http://www.sanseihawaii.com. They have a sushi happy hour at different times.

Trilogy has the best snorkel trips, plus a nice morning sail (where you might also see whales). Snorkeling at Black Rock is also great if it's not windy. When it's windy, there are too many waves and swimming is difficult.

Also, Pacific Whale foundation has a whale watch in a large power raft. Very cool!! I thought we'd get drenched, but not at all.

Hi jenblase...DH and I arrive on Maui at 1:45P on Feb. 10. May see you at the airport! We have rented a condo for 5 nights. We will be there to celebrate our anniversary (we were married on Valentine's Day) then fly to the Big Island for a week with friends at a rental house.

I've been to Maui before and love the drive to upcountry Maui. We will spend one day visiting Surfing Goat Dairy, flower farms and Tedeschi Winery. We have already done the road to Hana. I'm prone to motion sickness...no need to say more.

Best snorkeling is in the early morning before the winds come up. Per my brother who lived in Maui, best snorkeling is actually in the South Maui area.

Remember Hawaii is for savoring. Slow down, hang loose. Enjoy Hawaii.

Well, only four days left and SO much to do still! I was going to post a revised itinerary but think I will just post my reviews when I get back. Thanks again to everyone for your help and suggestions!

BarbAnn, when you do the drive to upcountry Maui, is there a particular route you take? I'm not sure where your condo is located, but if you were driving from Lahaina/Kaanapali, in which order would you do the things you mentioned? I'm really interested in visiting the lavender farm and the goat dairy, so would like to figure out the best way to drive to hit all of the spots. I'm thinking we may have a free day where we can fit that upcountry trip in. Thanks!

Bookmarking for some great ideas I see here. We'll be on Maui in May.