Ron Stern | Global Gumshoe
Whether you are planning a perfect destination wedding, celebrating a milestone anniversary or just searching for a romantic tropical island escape, Maui has more than enough ways to say “I love you.”
“Aloha wau ia `oe” is but one.
Your own love story may start here with plenty of room to grow on the second largest Hawaiian island. Maui has broad appeal with a year-round temperate climate, ocean view resorts just steps from the beach, tantalizing local cuisine, and a host of activities.
Most of the hotels and resorts have wedding coordinators to create your own idyllic wedding, each with its own charm and personality. Located in L’haina, Napili Kai Beach Resort is situated on Napili Bay, and upon arrival, their friendly staff greets you with a cool drink in their open-air lobby. Also awaiting you is a gorgeous crescent san beach set on 10 lush acres, which is bordered by low-rise plantation rooms and suites in the tradition of old Hawaii.
If you are looking for a quiet and serene laidback Maui experience, then Napili Kai Beach Resort is for you. Enjoy a couple’s massage and then have a romantic dinner at the resort’s award-winning Sea House restaurant, celebrating its own 50th anniversary. Complimentary parking and WiFi, along with the absence of resort fees, are just a few of the added benefits that make your stay even more relaxing and worry free.
Romantics looking for an upscale and vibrant vibe will find it at the Westin Maui Resort & Spa, which overlooks the Pacific on Kaanapali Beach. Woven among 12 acres of exotic trees, flowers, waterfalls and exotic wildlife, including a friendly black swan, are a bevy of secret nooks and crannies — perfect spots to say “I do.”
At the center of the Westin is an 87,000-square-foot aquatic playground, including five swimming pools, two water slides — one of which is a jaw-dropping 128 feet — rock waterfalls, hidden grottos, private cabanas and beachfront activities that include stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, parasailing and intimate sunset cruises.
Most of the suites have views of the ocean or the West Maui Mountains and all feature the Westin’s trademarked Heavenly Beds, ensuring a restful and relaxing night’s sleep. A daily resort charge of $30 covers high-speed Internet, shuttle service to nearby hotels, attractions and self-parking.
There are several on-site restaurants like the poolside Relish Burger Bistro, which serves classic American fare like local huli-huli grilled chicken with pineapple salsa and their signature Kobe beef burger. You can wash all that down with any number of beer selections or tropical drinks.
The Westin also has a dedicated wedding office and all the amenities needed to make your dreams come true. They can arrange private side-by-side couple’s massages and photo ops in their Roman-style gazebo, create a perfect beachside ceremony and even provide guests with favors and personalized bottles of sparkling wine.
Maui has many ways to say “hoomaum maua kealoha” (may our love last forever). From adventure sports to intimate excursions to culinary pleasures, Maui has it all, and while it’s easy to get here, it’s even harder to leave — the reason why so many return year after year.
Most Romantic Things to Do and See on Maui
Alii Nui Snorkel & Sailing Adventure
Free hotel pick up and return. Two snorkel locations, including Molokini, aboard a 65-foot catamaran. $165-per-person price includes full onboard breakfast, lunch and alcohol.
aliinuinuimaui.com
Slack Key Concert
Held twice weekly at the Napili Kai Resort in Lahaina. $39.99 per person.
slackkeyshow.com
Old Lahaina Luau
Providing an authentic taste of old Hawaii, this is a not-to-be-missed experience in Lahaina featuring traditional dancing, music and mouth-watering cuisine. $95 adults and $65 children, plus tax.
lahainaluau.com
Lahaina Town
Once the historic capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and whaling ship harbor, Lahaina Town is now lined with historic sites, restaurants, retail shops and art galleries along Front Street. Don’t miss the 114 year-old banyan tree and Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, voted #1 on TripAdvisor.
visitlahaina.com
O’o Farm & Luncheon Tour
A little-known but very popular farm-to-table culinary experience. $58 per person. Call 808-667-4341 for reservations and ask about the new coffee add-on.
oofarm.com
Ali`i Kula Lavender Farm
Located on the slopes of Haleakala Crater with more than 45 varieties of lavender. Tours from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. $12 per person or $10 per person with an advance reservation.
aliikulalavenderfarm.com
Organic Ocean Vodka Distillery Farm
Tours of the grounds and facilities where organic vodka is made with sugar cane and deep sea minerals. Tours from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. $10 per person.
oceanvodka.com
Haleakala
A dormant volcano and the place to go for a romantic sunrise or sunset experience. haleakalamaui.com
Mama’s Fish House
Continues to receive awards from readers and writers alike as the place for an authentic Polynesian dining experience, from fresh fish to traditional Hawaiian cuisine.
mamasfishhouse.com
More information:
Maui Visitors & Convention Bureau
mauivb.com
Xcom Global
Stay connected wherever you are traveling in Maui using their wireless hotspot device.
xcomglobal.com
