Hpeabody: the only reason that I don't want a car is that I don't drive. And neither does my husband.

OSB, no apologies, I've never tried to hide that I was registered as FainaAgain before.

Paula: we talked it over with R., and decided we'll feel much better in the town, in a hotel.

Sorry, I forgot that, Faina. Whatever you do, I hope you enjoy Maui. Maui is like my second home.

Dayenu-I understand your reasoning and obviouly whatever you feel most comfortable with is what will work for you. I am sure you read that the Aina Nalu isn't really a hotel but condos without maid service etc. Seems like the only service amenity is an activities desk and they have that at other places. So really not any different than the Maui Kai or any other condo building. The location is good for walking so I understand that. Looks like most of the rooms have a full kitchen? I'm assuming you will get one of those. Sounds like the garden view studio is very, very small.

Can I suggest an activity? We thoroughly enjoyed http://www.warrenandannabelles.com/

It is in Lahaina - tho I'm not sure if it's within walking distance to your condo.

<the only reason that I don't want a car is that I don't drive. And neither does my husband>

Well that's a good reason (hahahaha)!

Like I've mentioned I was only on Maui once, I find Oahu a lot easier and better for me all around. But if I were returning to Maui, solo, and not wanting/having a rental car, I would absolutely stay within walking distance of Lahaina.

OSB, thank you for Hawaii Revealed link!

The show I really enjoyed is called Ulalena. It was a wonderful 'cirque' style show half luau, half performance art, incredible live musicians and performers. At Myth & Magic Theater in Lahaina.

You are most welcome, Dayenu. I love their informative books. The free internet info/links are also VERY helpful!

I need to find a place to stay first. Sigh. Now I am leaning toward Kaanapali... not sure we want to spend that much :(

Call & ask if they have any special pricing that you aren't aware of. If it has a reward program, of course, join before booking.
Also, after talking to them or before, check with farecompare or bookingbuddy.com or expedia.com to get an idea of the prices listed there for the same hotel.

What place in Kaanapali? I'd make sure to ask about the shuttle but depending on where you stay, might not be so important.

Well... Kaanapali Beach Hotel!!! :D (I wanted to add, if we won't like it, we'll blame Matnikstym for the wrong advice, but how can you not like this place?)

Now on to important things - what do I wear ;) Seriously, how formal are dinner restaurants - long pants and a short-sleeve shirt for Mr Again, cotton skirt, sandals, short-sleeve or sleeveless top for me - is this formal enough?

Formal is clean shorts and shirt!! (Seriously, for a really fancy restaurant like Lahaina Grill -- which was fabulous by the way -- men might wear khakis and a Hawaiian shirt, women capris or skirt and a top. Anything less fancy, anything goes. It's a VERY casual place.)

You will enjoy the Kaanapali Beach Hotel as long as you're not looking for "glitzy". It's in a great location, with very nice grounds.

Thank you, SF7307! Now tell me, there is a shuttle or bus with a good connection to Lahaina - and my mind will be at ease.

And I hope the tour buses will pick us up? We have to do at least the Road to Hana! And I haven't checked the train yet.

If they pick up anywhere, Dayenu - it would be here.

One thing I loved doing in Maui was attending a service at Waiola Church- it is in Lahaina- it is one of the oldest churches in the islands - the service is partly in Hawaiian and many of the hymns as well. When I attended, the music was a piano, ukelele and a guitar and was lovely. We were presented with leis as we entered the church- after the service there was a meal served in the community center- lots of local foods served.
The church was started by a Hawaiian priestess - she is buried in a cemetery next to the church as well as many of the missionaries from early Maui.

It was a lovely experience!

Thank you, OSB1

Sunbum - I think I read about the cemetery at that church, the Royals are buried there?

Dayenu: Here is the link from their website - pop them an email with your questions:
http://www.kbhmaui.com/cms/View.aspx...%20and%20Tours

<<<If they pick up anywhere, Dayenu - it would be here.>>>

I totally agree with that. Ex. http://www.tourmaui.com/maui-island-...ckup-schedule/ It doesn't mention the Kaanapali Beach Hotel specifically, but I think they just go from hotel to hotel picking up whoever has a reservation for the tour.

OSB, I sent them an e-mail yesterday morning with my questions, not about tours, but about our stay with them - still hope to get a reply :)