I am in the very early stages of planning a wedding for next April or May most likely and would like to go to Maui for the honeymoon.

The forums here have been very helpful so far. But my main question is: When is the best time to seriously start planning the trip to get the best deal/rates on room and airfare or package? It seems too early, but I may be mistaken.

Also, do April and May fall into the low season, if such a season exists in Hawaii? While I do not want to skimp on the trip, I would like to take advantage of any possible savings.

We will be traveling from the New York City area.

Thanks for your help!

if i knew of some special places that i was considering for accommodations, i'd book now (although they may not have rates yet). then you can always cancel closer to the date if you find something better/cheaper.

Duane,
We book all our trips ourselves. We watch for months for airline specials and grab the first special we see. We are booked into the Kea Lani in Wailea and the Royal Hawaiian on Oahu for three weeks in September. We joined the President's
Club, which is by Fairmont. They have some good perks and even an upgrade upon arrival. We joined through their website Fairmont.com. We are also Starwood members, which is your Sheratons, Westins and others. They also have a website Starwood.com. Both of these sites run specials just for members. That might be something to consider. We prefer Fairmont but it depends on your budget. Kaanapali is very busy in April and May due to spring break. We were there at that time last year and went crazy with children everywhere. Wailea is much more suited towards a honeymooning couple only because it is quieter and more upscale. If you really want lovely, peace and quiet, you can go to the Ritz or to Kapalua Bay Hotel up in Kapalua. It is so serene up there but not to far from Kaanapali where all the action is. The Kapalua Bay Hotel is a Starwood property and we found it to be lovely. We have no children and are in our late 30's. If there is a low season in Hawaii it is when the kids are in school so that is also something to think about. We have been there at all times of the year and have decided to only go back when the kids are in fact in school. It's insane otherwise. I hope this helps. We spent over two months on Maui last year at different times so we know the down times. If you need any further help just let me know.

Duane if you are going to rent a condo I would think that the sooner the better for securing the best property. Hotel rooms you have some time. Might be fun to plan this now and save the other wedding headaches for more stressful days.

I will be going to Maui in mid/late July for my honeymoon and I was wondering if the Fairmont Kea Lani was comparable to the Four Seasons and the Grand Wailea? I know about the Ritz, but I want to be in Wailea. If anyone can suggest "must do's" or helpful tips for a 28 yr. old and a 31 yr. old who want to hit the must see destinations, but need a little down time to spend in the boudoir

I need some down time in a "boudoir". You are about 45 minutes to hour away from nightlife there Michael all depends on how much peace and quiet you are looking for. I myself liked being closer to Lahaina at your age anyway. Now of course I want all of my time in the "boudoir" . Of course only when there is no boudoir for me!

Enjoy you just have to think about the number of hikes and sights,snorkle trips, dinners out, you do want to take in and factor in those drives back to hotel. A lot of people love that locastion others complain.

April/May is low season in Hawaii so you should wait for the right air fare. High season will be June/July/Aug due summer vacation, Dec 25-Jan 3 due New Year and Mar/Apr depending on when spring break/Easter happens.
It's not too early to shop around. Book when the price is right but do it at least 2 months before the trip.

You should start planning at least the airfare portion ASAP. Fares usually open us 330 days in advance and go fast. Get on it!