Oh, and thanks for all of the wonderful replies. We will certainly rent a car.

<i>She really just wants to lay around and read and also go to Chez Paul, and I just want her to be happy.</i>

She's a lucky woman! And you don't have to justify yourself either :) Have a great trip.

I did not find Maui that different price-wise than my home city of Seattle for groceries, cafes, bars, and restaurants of a similar class.

We are going to Maui the end of this month, staying in Ka'anapali. Got a hotel/car/flight trip and saved $1500 from expedia. Only going because it is our 25th anniversary. I definitely plan on traveling budgetwise. We'll buy groceries and eat at the hotel (breakfast and lunch), and I'm thinking that a picnic dinner on the beach at sunset can be mighty romantic (and cheap!)

We bought the book Maui Revealed by Wizardpub.com -- found it in our local bookstore. I would say it is the Maui version of Rick Steves, if you have been to Europe and familiar with him. He gives ideas for day trips (sunrise atop Haleakala, Road to Hana, tiny islands, snorkeling, etc) as well as places to eat, local sights, roads, etc. I'm very impressed with it thus far and plan on toting it around for a week in my bag.

FYI, if you plan on seeing the sunrise at the volcano, you might want to pack some WARM clothing! We are doing the Old Lahaina Luau and that is our big splurge for the week.

Enjoy your trip!!!

Thanks again. I appreciate the insight and your time.