bunkysue

We are Kona lovers and wanted to explore another island. Though we aren't fond of big crowded resorts, we want to try something new. We love the laid back slow pace of Kona and the markets and small town feel etc. and are seeking the rare gems of Maui. Is that even possible?? Any suggestions on small, updated resorts or rental homes? What is the best area to stay that has good swimming and scuba/snorkel beaches but is not the most crowded? Also any good fish markets and produce/artsy markets?

We are taking our 6yr old and parents with us too.

Thanks!!!!

Tomsd

I/we like going north of Lahaina - to Kapalua or Napili - and my favorite little motel like place - right on the beach with a grassy area in front - is the Napili Sunset. http://www.napilisunset.com/

Good snorkeling in that area, and by Fleming's beach and the next cove up - whose name I forget. There is also good snorkeling by the Old Sheraton in Kaanapali.

And there is a small shopping center - and a food store with fresh fish - as you turn from the main road - into the Napili sunset, but ask around to find other places with fresh fish.

In Lahaina - are plenty of things to do (but it is more congested) - and you can also take the ferry to the smaller island of Lanai - and I think also to Molokai. http://www.lahaina.com/

You could also spend a day or two "upcountry" - which is on the way to the scenic Volcano cauldron - Haleakula, which is spectacular at sunrise. Upcountry also has good views of the island, and a winery or two. http://www.gohawaii.com/maui/regions...upcountry-maui

And the Road to Hana is great - although it has some 600 curves - so just relax and enjoy the greenery. You might also stay out there for a night or two. http://www.hanamaui.com/

Dukey1

For what you are really looking for, there are definitely areas of Maui you might want to AVOID. Kauai might be a better choice for you.

Placename

I like the Makena Resort in south Maui. Quiet and very laid-back on a beautiful beach for sunning, swimming, and snorkeling.

wbpiii

I too am a big island lover. I find the coast of Maui to be crowd. I do like upcounty but many don't get the hawaii feel unless they are on the coast. Hana is an option but it is sooooo remote and nothing commerical is there.

I agree with Dukey, look a Kauai. Very comparable to the BI.

bunkysue

Maui is already a done deal due to needing to use old tickets. Times and direct flights lead us to Maui. I do want to explore upcounty and am leaning on staying a couple nights in Hana for our uncrowded on the beach experience, but will need a central location to see as much of the rest of the island for the other 4 nights. I keep finding stuff to do on all corners of the island! Any suggestions?

edjim

You will like Paia and the upcountry areas of Kula and Makawao. Kihei might be a good central location.

edjim

Check out the lavender farm in the Kula area.

LaurieB

Makena is quite and low key - the best snorkling is at that end of the island. Paia Inn is also right on the beach - other side of the island - and Paia is a cute little town that you would like - The traffice is not good through Kihei - very conjested - i would avoid that.
Also we like Kapalua or Napili area too - although it does get windy up that way. We go to all the islands and love each on as they all offer something different - i am sure you will find a spot that you will like - good luck.

daisee

I like the Napili Kai Resort up in Napili. If you want something nicer-the Fairmont in Wailea just has a nice quiet feel to it

cat111719

Another vote for Napili. There are many different condos your could rent. Napili Shores is a nice one.

montysc

Thought I would bump up your post...

We are in the exact same situation - We always travel to Kona and love the Big Island, but have family staying in Maui - so we decided to stay with them for a few days. We are doing 3 days in Maui, and then will head over to South Kohala on the Big Island.

My wife has never been to Maui. I stopped going with my family around 20 years ago after it just got to busy for us. We used to stay in the Napili area and I remember some fun beaches and snorkeling in that area, plus Lahina was nice.

This trip my wife's family selected Kehei. I would have preferred to be closer to Wailea, but we decided since it is only for a few nights to book in the same condo complex for simplicity. I plan on checking out the Wailea resort area as I have never been there. Makena looked like the nicest area to me - but family comes first...

We are looking for advice on a couple of places to visit that aren't too far of a drive from Kehei - waterfalls, good quiet beach? Plus any tips on dining - happy hours. We are traveling with out pre-school boy who loves adventure and likes lots of foods.

sunbum1944

Just back from Maui and we stayed in the Kahana area- did not feel that busy and crowded to me- we could walk to the farmers market and just a short drive to Napilii area as well as Lahaina and Kaanapali.
We snorkeled a couple of days from the beach at Napilii Kai resort- and they have a nice outside restaurant for a quick meal. For something a little fancier try Merrimans at Napilii Kai resort- beautiful outdoor setting, nice happy hour- we saw lots of whales from where we were sitting.

We had a great snorkel trip with the Pacific Whale Foundation- were supposed to go to Molokini but too windy so they took us to Lanai- Shark Fin Cove- we were the only boat there and one of the nicest snorkel spots I have ever experienced.

Have only been home a week and am dreaming of when I can go back