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Hawaii....help me (1 Viewer)

STEADYMOBBIN 22 said:
@Terminalxylem

I’m sorry we ever banged heads in the past. I understand you better now having visited here.

I am extremely interested in retiring here (over West Virginia!), but have much to learn, both about the islands and being careful and respectful to the culture here.

Selfishly (another trait I need to correct,). It felt good to hear from a bus driver that said “there is hope for you”, when I told him what I learned from my visit to the Palace and Washington Place and how the Kingdom was stolen from them.

ETA - I talked with a 25 year resident who was our bartender, he said that the only bad part was that the health care was really bad. Just his take.
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It really is a special place. Forget about the perfect weather, beautiful beaches and volcanic landscapes. It’s the people.

I grew up in the South, lived several places on the East coast + Midwest, and visited over 40 other states. Nothing compares to island culture.

Anyway, I’m glad you enjoyed it, and hope you can figure out a way to spend more time out here. LMK if you visit again/need insider info on moving to HI. It’s worth sacrificing a lot for, imo.

ETA Apology accepted. Also, healthcare certainly isn’t perfect here, but HI consistently ranks at/near the top of healthiest states to live.
 
Finishing up a 4 day trip to Maui. Stayed in Kihei, which was fine, and did a bunch of non-touristy stuff.

Just wanted to put a plug in for two good places to eat:

Lineage - Asian fusion with share plates. Island fish was really good, and cauliflower dish was spectacular.

La Provence in Kula is a French bistro with outstanding pastries and brunch.
 
Brunell4MVP said:
STEADYMOBBIN 22 said:
@Terminalxylem

I’m sorry we ever banged heads in the past. I understand you better now having visited here.

I am extremely interested in retiring here (over West Virginia!), but have much to learn, both about the islands and being careful and respectful to the culture here.

Selfishly (another trait I need to correct,). It felt good to hear from a bus driver that said “there is hope for you”, when I told him what I learned from my visit to the Palace and Washington Place and how the Kingdom was stolen from them.

ETA - I talked with a 25 year resident who was our bartender, he said that the only bad part was that the health care was really bad. Just his take.
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I get it. The vibe Hawaii is awesome. And each island is a bit different. The Big Isle is like being on the moon ... at least the west part of it. Maui is a jungle. Etc.

I've got a different take on retirement I guess. I see it as a great time of life to be transient. Retire to Hawaii for a few years and make some friends and do some new activities. But once island fever sets in, move to XYZ for a few years and meet new people and do new activities. Then move to another XYZ after a few years. And at the end of it all be near the best medical care. No reason to be locked down to one retirement location. Just sell the house and move to the next one.
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Moving is such a pain though
 
Getting excited for Maui (leave Thurs). PNW summer is turning to fall (no more 70+ degree days in the forecast).

Lived on the Big Island for a while and visit my brother there once a year or so, but I've only been to Maui once, and that was a trip with my law firm. Staying at an Air B&B condo in Kahana. Plan on doing very little and have no plans. Maybe some easy hikes, but mostly just relaxing and doing whatever we feel like doing at the moment.
 
-fish- said:
Getting excited for Maui (leave Thurs). PNW summer is turning to fall (no more 70+ degree days in the forecast).

Lived on the Big Island for a while and visit my brother there once a year or so, but I've only been to Maui once, and that was a trip with my law firm. Staying at an Air B&B condo in Kahana. Plan on doing very little and have no plans. Maybe some easy hikes, but mostly just relaxing and doing whatever we feel like doing at the moment.
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If you want some pointers or some herb, let me know. I’ll get you connected with my brother in law. They live pretty close to where your staying. Go to the new star noodle.
 
-fish- said:
Getting excited for Maui (leave Thurs). PNW summer is turning to fall (no more 70+ degree days in the forecast).

Lived on the Big Island for a while and visit my brother there once a year or so, but I've only been to Maui once, and that was a trip with my law firm. Staying at an Air B&B condo in Kahana. Plan on doing very little and have no plans. Maybe some easy hikes, but mostly just relaxing and doing whatever we feel like doing at the moment.
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I’m going to Maui for a day trip today!
 
Yesterday, I talked to a coworker who was leaving for Hawaii today... and he didn't know what island he was going to. He said his wife did all the planning, but I just can't see being that much of a passenger on such a big expense and cool trip.
 
We leave for Maui Saturday morning and will be in Lahaina area for 8 days. Can't wait!

We are going to do the Road to Hana for the first time ever. We are just doing a 1-day event. I've found lots of guides online, but would be curious some feedback from this group. I want to make a reservation at Waianapanapa State Park. The reservation times are 7-10, 10-12:30, 12:30-3, and 3-6. The website for reservations says you need to arrive within 30 minutes of your time, so if 7, we need to arrive by 7:30. We will be leaving from Lahaina, so maybe 2 1/2 hours directly to the state park. We can leave early, and are planning to, but I have no clue how much time to give ourselves to stop at other places prior. For example, the banana bread place. For those that have done this before, is it better to choose the earliest slots, or hit this park on the way back? My gut is telling me to choose the 10am slot as the 7am seems way too early. Thoughts?
 
In general, we like to do our activities early, allowing down time/improvisation afterwards, especially earlier in the trip with the time zone facilitating that.

I also think they would want you there 30 minutes early, not after your starting time.
 
Drunken knight said:
In general, we like to do our activities early, allowing down time/improvisation afterwards, especially earlier in the trip with the time zone facilitating that.

I also think they would want you there 30 minutes early, not after your starting time.
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Thanks. The website says "For Parking, vehicles must arrive within the first 30 minutes of your reservation period" so seems to indicate you have an hour (30 before and after). Seems like 10am might be the best and if we wait a bit, we wait. I would rather wait than miss it and trying to hit it on the way back seems challenging to time appropriately.
 
Wildcat said:
We leave for Maui Saturday morning and will be in Lahaina area for 8 days. Can't wait!

We are going to do the Road to Hana for the first time ever. We are just doing a 1-day event. I've found lots of guides online, but would be curious some feedback from this group. I want to make a reservation at Waianapanapa State Park. The reservation times are 7-10, 10-12:30, 12:30-3, and 3-6. The website for reservations says you need to arrive within 30 minutes of your time, so if 7, we need to arrive by 7:30. We will be leaving from Lahaina, so maybe 2 1/2 hours directly to the state park. We can leave early, and are planning to, but I have no clue how much time to give ourselves to stop at other places prior. For example, the banana bread place. For those that have done this before, is it better to choose the earliest slots, or hit this park on the way back? My gut is telling me to choose the 10am slot as the 7am seems way too early. Thoughts?
Click to expand...
I would do 10 at the earliest. The drive itself is part of the experience. And it’s not a road you can rush on. Plus the park is at least half way. I’d do 12:30 personally. It’s 1.5 hours to the start point from Lahaina . I’d guess that Pa’ia to Waianapanapa State Park will be around 2 hours. Maybe a little less. To ensure a 10am arrival you’d have to leave by 7 and make nearly zero stops. And you’re going to want to stop. Hope that helps.
 
DA RAIDERS said:
Wildcat said:
We leave for Maui Saturday morning and will be in Lahaina area for 8 days. Can't wait!

We are going to do the Road to Hana for the first time ever. We are just doing a 1-day event. I've found lots of guides online, but would be curious some feedback from this group. I want to make a reservation at Waianapanapa State Park. The reservation times are 7-10, 10-12:30, 12:30-3, and 3-6. The website for reservations says you need to arrive within 30 minutes of your time, so if 7, we need to arrive by 7:30. We will be leaving from Lahaina, so maybe 2 1/2 hours directly to the state park. We can leave early, and are planning to, but I have no clue how much time to give ourselves to stop at other places prior. For example, the banana bread place. For those that have done this before, is it better to choose the earliest slots, or hit this park on the way back? My gut is telling me to choose the 10am slot as the 7am seems way too early. Thoughts?
Click to expand...
I would do 10 at the earliest. The drive itself is part of the experience. And it’s not a road you can rush on. Plus the park is at least half way. I’d do 12:30 personally. It’s 1.5 hours to the start point from Lahaina . I’d guess that Pa’ia to Waianapanapa State Park will be around 2 hours. Maybe a little less. To ensure a 10am arrival you’d have to leave by 7 and make nearly zero stops. And you’re going to want to stop. Hope that helps.
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Having lived on Maui for a decade I will say enjoy the drive and expect traffic. Lots of traffic. I'd take the 10 and leave early. Lots of traffic. Road to Hana is a long day that people do once for the T-shirt. Due to traffic. Slow traffic. Tourist traffic that act like they haven't ever seen trees. Ha ha
 
Maui was a lot of fun. Went Thursday through Sunday, which I guess seems short but our work schedules give us a lot of 4-day weekends so I'm used to this kind of trip. Stayed at an Air B&B at Royal Kahana.

Went to Mala Ocean Tavern Friday and Coco Deck Saturday. Both great (across the street from each other). Coco Deck is an interesting Mexican/Asian fusion sports bar. Super fun place. Had a ramen-crusted Mahi special that was really good.

Very relaxing trip with a couple short hikes (blowhole and Twin Falls waterfall). Mostly just enjoyed laying on the beach and by the pool. Next up 10 days in the Maldives in December and then fishing in the Cook Islands in March.
 
Drunken knight said:
In general, we like to do our activities early, allowing down time/improvisation afterwards, especially earlier in the trip with the time zone facilitating that.

I also think they would want you there 30 minutes early, not after your starting time.
Click to expand...
We try to keep our own time zone hours as much as possible - get up and go for a long walk, catch the sunrise, get back with a full day ahead of us.

We don't go to bars or nightlife spots, though - that would shift things.
 
Tick said:
Drunken knight said:
In general, we like to do our activities early, allowing down time/improvisation afterwards, especially earlier in the trip with the time zone facilitating that.

I also think they would want you there 30 minutes early, not after your starting time.
Click to expand...
We try to keep our own time zone hours as much as possible - get up and go for a long walk, catch the sunrise, get back with a full day ahead of us.

We don't go to bars or nightlife spots, though - that would shift things.
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we really do not do bars at night either.

we to like hitting tiki bars or whatnot after dives or snorkeling for lunch
 
So we’re going to Star Moodle again, went to Mama’s Fish House, Lahaina Grill and Fleetwoods on Front (rip) last time.


Any new recommendations from you guys?
 
The Gator said:
So we’re going to Star Moodle again, went to Mama’s Fish House, Lahaina Grill and Fleetwoods on Front (rip) last time.


Any new recommendations from you guys?
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Cool thread. Wife and I got married on Maui in August of 2022 on the south end of Palauea Beach. We have not been back since the fires and are wanting to go and support the local economy soon.

Our last night there we dined at Merriman's in Kapalua. Absolutely worth every penny (and it's a lot of pennies just heads up). The food, drinks, view, and service were all top notch.

For less expensive and very casual to go, The Fish Market Maui. Everything was fire and we ate there like 3 times over the course of our 2 week stay. Also, Java Jazz was suprisngly good. Good service and definitely a unique place to pop into for a night out. Both those spots are in Kaanapali.
 
Anyone here know if a Roy Yamaguchi restaurant (Roy’s Ka’anapali) is worth it? He has one on a golf course I’m playing and I’m looking into booking it for dinner after the round.
 
The Gator said:
Anyone here know if a Roy Yamaguchi restaurant (Roy’s Ka’anapali) is worth it? He has one on a golf course I’m playing and I’m looking into booking it for dinner after the round.
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Roy’s is usually good. We’ve been to the three locations on Oahu, plus Eating House, and never been diasappointed.
 
Just spent the three day weekend on Maui, stayed at Maalaea. Had a great time in the West Maui Mountains.

Drove through Lahaina at night, which remains pretty devastated. Star Noodle is one of the few open restaurants, which we tried for the first time. Not impressed, especially in comparison to places like Lineage.
 
The Gator said:
Anyone here know if a Roy Yamaguchi restaurant (Roy’s Ka’anapali) is worth it? He has one on a golf course I’m playing and I’m looking into booking it for dinner after the round.
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Terminalxylem said:
The Gator said:
Anyone here know if a Roy Yamaguchi restaurant (Roy’s Ka’anapali) is worth it? He has one on a golf course I’m playing and I’m looking into booking it for dinner after the round.
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Roy’s is usually good. We’ve been to the three locations on Oahu, plus Eating House, and never been diasappointed.
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I have been to many of his restaurants and still really enjoy them... yes, high price tag.
 
Terminalxylem said:
Just spent the three day weekend on Maui, stayed at Maalaea. Had a great time in the West Maui Mountains.

Drove through Lahaina at night, which remains pretty devastated. Star Noodle is one of the few open restaurants, which we tried for the first time. Not impressed, especially in comparison to places like Lineage.
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Love seeing this thread bumped!

Lineage was our favorite meal we had on last trip. Better than Mama's!
 
Family of 5 (kids aged 16, 10, and 10). Looking to book a 7 day trip there this upcoming summer. Asked ChatGBT for help and it came up with this
Here’s a family-friendly 7-day itinerary for Hawaii in July 2025 that includes a blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, taking into account your family’s dynamic. We'll assume you'll fly into Honolulu (on Oahu) and can explore Oahu and Maui for a mix of city, nature, and beach experiences.

Day 1: Arrival in Honolulu (Oahu)​

  • Morning:
    • Depart for Hawaii (assuming a long-haul flight).
  • Afternoon:
    • Arrive in Honolulu, Oahu. Pick up rental car.
    • Check into your hotel or Airbnb in Waikiki.
  • Evening:
    • Waikiki Beach: Relax on the beach, dip your toes in the water, and enjoy the Hawaiian sunset.
    • Dinner: Enjoy a beachfront dinner at a family-friendly spot like Duke’s Waikiki.

Day 2: Explore Honolulu and Oahu​

  • Morning:
    • Diamond Head: Hike to the summit of this iconic volcanic crater for panoramic views of Honolulu. The trail is relatively easy and suitable for all ages.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at a local restaurant or a picnic at Kapiolani Park, located near Diamond Head.
  • Afternoon:
    • Honolulu Zoo or Waikiki Aquarium: Both are great for kids, and you can spend a couple of hours exploring wildlife.
    • Alternatively, consider a visit to Pearl Harbor National Memorial to learn about the history of World War II.
  • Evening:
    • Waikiki Beach: Spend some time swimming or try a family surfing lesson.
    • Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory or a local family-friendly restaurant.

Day 3: Oahu North Shore Adventure​

  • Morning:
    • Drive to the North Shore (about 1 hour from Waikiki).
    • Visit Waimea Bay for beautiful views and, if you’re feeling adventurous, try snorkeling.
  • Lunch: Stop at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck or another famous food truck in the area for lunch.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore Haleiwa Town for local shops, galleries, and treats (like shave ice).
    • Visit Shark’s Cove or Turtle Bay for another chance to snorkel or relax on the beach.
  • Evening:
    • Drive back to Waikiki and enjoy dinner at a local Hawaiian BBQ spot.

Day 4: Travel to Maui​

  • Morning:
    • Flight to Maui: Early flight from Honolulu to Kahului, Maui (around 40 minutes).
    • Pick up a rental car and check into your Maui accommodation (consider staying in Lahaina or Kaanapali).
  • Afternoon:
    • Beach Time: Head to Ka’anapali Beach or Napili Bay for a relaxing afternoon of swimming or snorkeling.
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy a Luau dinner like the Old Lahaina Luau (great for families) or Feast at Lele for a cultural experience.

Day 5: Road to Hana Adventure​

  • Morning:
    • Road to Hana: Depart early for this scenic drive (plan for 8-10 hours with stops). You'll see waterfalls, lush landscapes, and incredible views.
    • Stop at Twin Falls, Wai'anapanapa State Park (black sand beach), and the Seven Sacred Pools (Oheo Gulch) for swimming.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic or stop at a roadside stand for local treats.
  • Afternoon:
    • Continue your journey to Hana, stopping to explore as you go.
    • Optionally, if the full drive is too long, just visit a portion of it, such as the area around Hana, and then return.
  • Evening:
    • Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening and dinner.

Day 6: Snorkeling and Whale Watching (Seasonal)​

  • Morning:
    • Snorkel at Molokini Crater: Take a boat tour to this crescent-shaped volcanic caldera (best for snorkeling). It's one of the clearest places to see tropical fish and marine life.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic or have lunch at the marina after your tour.
  • Afternoon:
    • If traveling in July, there’s still a chance for whale watching tours (though it's off-season, you might catch sight of a few).
    • Alternatively, spend the afternoon at Lahaina Harbor or go for a swim at another beach.
  • Evening:
    • Have dinner in Lahaina—there are plenty of waterfront dining options with stunning views.

Day 7: Departure​

  • Morning:
    • Relaxed morning at the beach or pool.
    • Take a final stroll through Lahaina and do some souvenir shopping.
  • Afternoon:
    • Return rental car and head to Kahului Airport for your return flight to Honolulu.
  • Evening:
    • Take a flight back home, concluding your Hawaiian adventure!
 
That itinerary isn’t terrible, except all the Lahaina references (still rebuilding) and eating at the Cheesecake factory. I’d also skip the Zoo/Aquarium in favor of Pearl Harbor.
 
Terminalxylem said:
That itinerary isn’t terrible, except all the Lahaina references (still rebuilding) and eating at the Cheesecake factory. I’d also skip the Zoo/Aquarium in favor of Pearl Harbor.
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Yep. Pearl Harbor waaaaaaay over zoo. My favorite recommendation is beach time. Seen too many tourists in my years living there trying to fill every minute of everyday with activities. Sometimes, beach chairs, coffee and head phones are all ya need.
 
Could be wrong about this, but pretty sure there's no real chance of seeing any whales in July.

Boat trip to Molokini crater was great. My wife isn't a good swimmer at all and often finds snorkeling stressful and unenjoyable but had a great time there. The boat had lots of flotation devices and the water is deep enough that you're not navigating around coral. Incredible variety of topical fish that you can see while you're just floating on the surface with your face in the water. And for some reason the hamburgers they grilled on the boat seemed extra tasty.
 
Last edited:
FarFromHome said:
Terminalxylem said:
That itinerary isn’t terrible, except all the Lahaina references (still rebuilding) and eating at the Cheesecake factory. I’d also skip the Zoo/Aquarium in favor of Pearl Harbor.
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Yep. Pearl Harbor waaaaaaay over zoo. My favorite recommendation is beach time. Seen too many tourists in my years living there trying to fill every minute of everyday with activities. Sometimes, beach chairs, coffee and head phones are all ya need.
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I dislike the beach, but agree people try to do too much. Looking back at that itinerary, some of the days are probably overly ambitious.
 
zoobird said:
Could be wrong about this, but pretty sure there's no real chance of seeing any whales in July.

Boat trip to Molokini crater was great. My wife isn't a good swimmer at all and often finds snorkeling stressful and unenjoyable but had a great time there. The boat had lots of flotation devices and the water is deep enough that you're not navigating around coral. Incredible variety of topical fish that you can see while you're just floating on the surface with you face in the water. And for some reason the hamburgers they grilled on the boat seemed extra tasty.
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You’re correct - winter is whale season.
 
zoobird said:
Could be wrong about this, but pretty sure there's no real chance of seeing any whales in July.

Boat trip to Molokini crater was great. My wife isn't a good swimmer at all and often finds snorkeling stressful and unenjoyable but had a great time there. The boat had lots of flotation devices and the water is deep enough that you're not navigating around coral. Incredible variety of topical fish that you can see while you're just floating on the surface with your face in the water. And for some reason the hamburgers they grilled on the boat seemed extra tasty.
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which company/boat did you use?
 
Orange&Blue said:
zoobird said:
Could be wrong about this, but pretty sure there's no real chance of seeing any whales in July.

Boat trip to Molokini crater was great. My wife isn't a good swimmer at all and often finds snorkeling stressful and unenjoyable but had a great time there. The boat had lots of flotation devices and the water is deep enough that you're not navigating around coral. Incredible variety of topical fish that you can see while you're just floating on the surface with your face in the water. And for some reason the hamburgers they grilled on the boat seemed extra tasty.
Click to expand...
which company/boat did you use?
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Pretty sure it was 'Four Winds II'. Keep in mind, this was over 20 years ago...so no guarantees that everything is the same.
 
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