Probably there have been millions of articles that describe the rich array of wonders on the isle of Maui. I could add more, but really, how many new ways could I describe paradise? Maui is for me a place of rest and peace and assurance of the awesome power and wonder of God. I never cease to feel renewed and refreshed and filled with awe at the beauty of Maui; actually of all Hawaii. But this vacation in Maui? Incomparably rich. I was with my family. I got to share Hawaii with the people I love most in the world. I got to watch the expressions on the faces of Maui newbie’s, Kevin and Ryan, as they explored the nooks and crannies of this unbelievably beautiful island. I got to share the places that held special meaning for Dick and me. I got to share the special places that belonged to Matt and Kai on their honeymoon. I got to observe the level of enjoyment that my kids experienced with one another. I got to take part in the excitement of swimming with turtles, snorkeling, putting, exploring, sharing wonderful meals, drinks and shopping with Marilyn, and viewing ocean sunsets. I got to attend the wedding of Nick and Jessica that was filled with love and laughter. It was on a grassy wedge of earth under some wonderful canopy trees surrounded by palm trees and back dropped by a beautiful shining ocean. I couldn’t keep up with all the energy of the younger generation, but I didn’t have to. I got to hear about moments they chose to share with me. I watched millions of stars shine in the night sky while my family slept nearby. So there it is. Maui is a magical isle. Love is a connection that endures difficulty and differences and enhances shared joys - and that is amazing magic! Sharing joys and beauty with loved ones is indescribably precious. I cherish this trip deep in my skin and my cells and my brain and my heart and my soul. Magical Maui moments indelibly imprinted in my family’s story - praise be to God! And thank you Mr. Dick for being the world’s best travel agent and loving me enough to make this happen!

Dandy Dick’s advice on what to see and do, and what to avoid in Maui:

1: Luau’s: Reserve early with Old Lahaina Luau’s. It is the most authentic Luau and still reasonably priced. They don’t offer discounts and charge $98/adult and $68 for children. We waited to book once we got to Maui and it was sold out so went to the one at the Royal Lahaina Resort and were quite disappointed. Food was average at best and the entertainment was just ok. We were packed in a small area, sitting at long hotel banquet tables and had to pay extra for decent Hawaiian drinks.

2: Road to Hana: Our road to Hana was quite a bit different than when we did it on our honeymoon almost 29 years ago. The Black Sand Beach that Deb and I shared a bottle of Dom Perignon on and were the only 2 on the beach at the time, is now a state park with camping and hundreds of people enjoying the area. If you are into camping, you won’t find a better place to set up your tent and explore the area at your leisure. Seven Sacred Pools that we drove right to and again enjoyed with only a few people is now a National Park. As luck would have it, they closed the pools just as we got there because of possible flash floods. Start your trip early and leave enough time as it is recommended that you leave Hana for the ride back by 4:30 and don’t miss the turn off to Keanae, a small village by the beach almost half way to Hana; beautiful black volcanic rock beaches and homemade banana bread. We took the back road home and I highly recommend this as it is truly a beautiful drive. However, the road is dangerous and rough in certain places so honk your horn when you are going around blind curves. It is also a much faster return trip. Rental car companies may not cover you on an 8 – 10 mile section of the road that is kind of rough going, but not as bad as we expected. We had a Dodge Caravan and had no problems.

3: Snorkeling: One of the best places to snorkel is Kapalua Bay. Great fish and calm, clear waters, but don’t miss the bay just south of there where you can snorkel with many large sea turtles. The bay is at Honokeana Cove Condominiums. You can park in the condo parking lot just to the north of Honokeana Cove Condominiums and walk down to the bay. The turtles are incredibly large and love to swim with you. It’s a “don’t miss” Maui adventure.

4: Lodging: On our honeymoon we stayed at Napali Kai Beach Resort which is still there and a great spot but after looking over their rate sheet, I was gasping for air. On our last 2 trips to Maui we have stayed at the Kapalua Golf Villa’s and the units are spacious, clean, affordable, have upgraded amenities, and great views overlooking the golf course and the ocean. My favorite time was just sitting on the Lanai with my drink of choice watching the sunset and we were lucky enough to time it where we saw many beautiful setting moons over the ocean as well. Contact Dave Haily with Platinum Vacations. The villas that Dave manages are first class in every way and Dave will go out of his way to make sure you are comfortable. Dave’s email address is info@platinummauivacations.com.

5: Dining: There are so many great restaurants on Maui, many are down on front street in Lahaina. Our favorite is a small, inconspicuous place Called Castaway, not far from the Marriott in Kaanapali. Make sure you get a table out on the patio facing the ocean. Incredible views, great food and reasonable prices. Another favorite for those nights when you want casual and inexpensive is Maui Taco’s. Breakfast at the Gazebo and the Plantation Restaurant (at the Plantation Golf Course north of Kapalua) are both excellent, but plan on waiting for a table as both are very popular. I do not recommend Merriman’s at Kapalua Bay. It is very nice with great views, but expensive and small portions.

If I can be of assistance with booking your next Hawaii vacation or just answer some questions for you, please let me know. I would love to assist you on a Dandy Getaway to Magical Maui or any of the other islands as well. Mahalo!