throwmeaway27

That is definitely interesting....especially because I have noticed the opposite on other boards. TA experts have always seemed to be very judgmental of posters who don't seem interested in checking things that ARENT touristy or off the beaten path.

fishee

This is the main reason why Maui Revealed is called "Maui Reviled" by the Tripadvisor forum -- it encourages tens of thousands of tourists to seek out all these areas that were "off the beaten path," and often on private property (or you had to cross private property at some point to access, etc). There was even a hiking death that many (including off the TA forum) attributed partially to the Maui Revealed guide.

fishee

When I sought advice for my family with toddlers on the Big Island, I was told that I would be breaking the law and I'd have a horrible vacation if I stayed in Captain Cook & I was strongly urged to cancel my reservation and stay in a resort hotel in Waikoloa. We had an incredible time in Captain Cook (which is relatively remote compared to Kona or Waikoloa) and I was very happy with our decision. Our rental was legal (the new owner hadn't posted their license yet but did so by the time we arrived). But I understand where they're coming from too -- wanting to keep oblivious and often inconsiderate tourists out of areas that aren't equipped to handle all of us (because of course, it's always someone else who is the tourist, not us!)

throwmeaway27

After some deliberation (and help from this forum) I believe we have decided not stay a few nights in Hana but to do The Road to Hana as an excursion. We aren’t particularly early morning people. If we stay in the Wailea area, how much time should we plan to spend doing The Road to Hana? It’s a 3 hour drive each way?

Songdoc

It might be a 3-hour drive each way WITHOUT stops, but the point is to enjoy the day. For me, that meant stopping at many overlooks, beaches and waterfalls, and taking in the scenery. I went for some short walks and visited the beautiful black sand beach and the caves at Wai'ānapanapa State Park (quite close to Hana). Also stopped for coffee at a stand with lovely views. It took me about 6 hours one way.

I stayed one night in Hana. The next day we continued a short distance past Hana to Haleakala National Park (not to be confused with the beautiful dormant volcano which was SPECTACULAR at sunset). In the park we hiked the Pipiwai (bamboo) Trail and visited Ohe'o Gulch (aka the Seven Sacred Pools).

Haleakala NP and Wai'ānapanapa State Park were my favorite things on the road to Hana. If I had not spent time at these places it would not have been worth the drive. Everyone has their own opinion and preferences. For me, one night in Hana was just right. Enjoy!

BuffaloGirl

On the north shore is a condo resort called Hanalei Bay Resort. It is next to the St. Regis. You are perched high up, but there is a trail down to the beach an they have golf carts with drivers who will pick you up if you don't want to hike up. The views are astounding. This was the view from my room:

http://www.parrishkauai.com/wp-conte...12-949x450.jpg

We split our 2 week vacation between the north and south shore, staying in the Hyatt on the south shore. It was spectacular. Enjoy!

beanweb24

For a honeymoon on Maui, I highly recommend the Hyatt Andaz in Wailea, especially if you are looking for something that is not as geared towards families. I was married on Maui in Oct 2014 and all of us stayed at Honua Kai which I loved BUT it is absolutely more of a family destination (esp with their fabulous pools). I am unlike many others here - I love Ka'anapali area and the traffic does not bother me (last time I was there was a few weeks ago), but I'm from Seattle and DC so I'm a bit immune to traffic.

After my husband and I were married, we went to the Andaz for a 3 night mini honeymoon and loved it. Very modern/gorgeous hotel and definitely geared more towards adults although there were some families also staying there.

Happy planning!

sf7307

Agree with everything beanweb said (including the part about liking Kaanapali). The Andaz is a really nice hotel with beautiful pools, and definitely not family oriented - not that there won't be some kids, but it's not geared to that demographic.