Where to Eat

Guide to Ka’anapali, Maui: Where to Stay, Where to Eat, & What to Do

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Ka’anapali is a resort area in West Maui that’s anchored by the ultra nice Ka’anapali beach. Originally developed in the 1960s, it remains the most popular place to stay and play on Maui. The old whaling village of Lahaina is nearby so you’ll be right in the middle of the majority of dining and accommodation options on this side of the island. It’s about a 45 minute drive from the airport (in Kahului) to the Ka’anapali resort area.

If you’ve just started researching where to stay on Maui and you’re stuck between whether south Maui (Wailea and Kihei) or west Maui (Ka’anapali/Lahaina/Kapalua) is better, read this post.

Where to Stay

Ka’anapali Beach

Westin Maui Resort & Spa: This is my number one hotel recommendation for families visiting Maui (especially if you want to be on the west side). It’s located right on Ka’anapali Beach (which is great for swimming and snorkeling) next door to the Whaler’s Village, which has a lot of shopping and dining options. There are also snorkel catamarans that pick up right on the beach. The resort has a huge “aquatic complex” with five pools (one for adults only) and a great waterslide. There are parrots and flamingos on the grounds and there’s a kid’s club as well. Pricing starts at $250/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Sheraton Maui: Most Sheraton resorts are pretty family friendly and this one is no different. It’s located on Ka’anapali Beach (just a few doors down from the Westin) right in front of Black Rock (one of Maui’s most popular snorkeling spots). It has a nice pool area and several dining options. You can also walk down the bike path to the Whaler’s Village for shopping and dining. Pricing starts at $240/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort: This recently renovated resort also sits on Ka’anapali Beach (the opposite end of the Sheraton) and has a lovely pool area and kids club. The real selling point of this resort though are the penguins! Seven African black-footed penguins have taken up residence in the hotel’s atrium lobby and they’re a sight to see! They have feedings every day. Stop by and check them out if you’re in the Ka’anapali area. Pricing starts at $250/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Marriott Ocean Club: The Marriott has a great location on Ka’anapali Beach that will keep you in the middle of the action while still staying at a familiar property (if you track points through Starwood or Marriot, that may be of interest to you). Click here to check pricing and availability.

Ka’anapali Beach Hotel: Located right on bustling Ka’anapali Beach, the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel is the perfect place to stay on Maui’s west side. Located on the Ka’anapali beach walk nearby the Sheraton, Westin, and Hyatt, you’ll enjoy being in west Maui’s gorgeous resort area at a fraction of the price. This charming “old Hawaii” hotel starts at $149/night. Click here to check pricing for your dates.

The Whaler on Ka’anapali: This condo resort is right on the beach and has all of the amenities of the big resorts (nice pool area, gardens, beach rentals) at a fraction of the price with the added bonus of getting much more space. Check individual rentals through Airbnb (use this link for $40 off your first stay) or VRBO.

Wailea, Maui: Where to Stay, Where to Eat & What to Do

Of all the amazing resort areas in Hawaii, Wailea – a resort community in south Maui – is by far my favorite.

If you’re never been to Maui before, chances are it’s exactly what you think Maui would be like – manicured and lush, quiet and luxurious with gorgeous beaches and world class resorts. It’s definitely not “local,” but it’s the stuff Hawaii vacation dreams are made of. Plus, unlike some resort communities on other islands, Wailea isn’t super isolated. It’s right next to Kihei, a more local town, albeit very touristy, and not a far drive to town (Kahului) or the north shore.

If you’ve just started researching where to stay on Maui and you’re stuck between whether south Maui (Wailea and Kihei) or west Maui (Ka’anapali and Kapalua) is better, read this post. But spoiler, south Maui (Wailea specifically) is my favorite.

Where to Stay

Photo from Thomas Hawk via Flickr.

Four Seasons Maui: The Four Seasons is the granddaddy of them all and definitely my #1 pick for a Maui honeymoon. The resort is super luxurious and it’s located in Wailea which is much quieter (and more upscale) than the west side. The spa, the pools, the restaurants, and the beach…they’re all phenomenal. The only problem with staying here is you probably won’t ever want to leave the resort. Pricing starts at $450/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Grand Wailea: This is my other number one hotel recommendation for families visiting Maui ; ) This is your best south side option. While this is a world class resort for anyone (gorgeous open air lobby, plenty of shops, dynamite spa, amazing dining, and one of the island’s best beaches), it’s especially great for families. The Grand Wailea has one of the best pool complexes on Maui (probably anywhere really). The nine different pools include tons of water slides (they actually just opened a new “lava slide”, a rope swing area, a rapid river, water elevator, hot tubs, a swim up bar, and an adults only pool. The Grand Wailea also has a kids club, a teen club, a gaming lounge, and a ton of cultural activities to participate in. Pricing starts at $350/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Fairmont Kea Lani: The Fairmont Kea Lani is the only resort on Maui that is exclusively suites so you’ll get quite a bit of space for a pretty penny. It’s located on beautiful Polo Beach, which is connected to Wailea beach and Ulua beach via a walkway. Click here to check pricing and availability and read my full review from my latest stay here.

Mama’s Fish House: Is It Worth It?

When asked for my list of must dos on Maui, I can provide you with endless things to do, see, and places to eat. Maui is my favorite Hawaiian Island and easily the island I know best (I used to live there). But the list you really want is my “short” list. Not necessarily the list I throw out to every reader or traveler who asks for tips. This is my “if I only get one day on Maui, how would I spend it list.”

And at the top of that list has always been dinner at Mama’s Fish House. It’s easily the most recommendable special occasion restaurant on the island. Ask 100 people who’ve been to Maui where’s the one place you should go for dinner and 95 of them will say Mama’s. It’s not a “hidden gem” or an out of the way place that nobody knows about. But it’s the best.

From time to time, in my private Facebook group, the question gets asked “if it’s worth it.” Is it really worth the hype? Everybody is telling me to go, but is it actually a tourist trap? Or is there somewhere else that’s better for the money?

The majority of people always assure the question asker that yes, it is indeed worth it. It was the highlight of their trip, etc. But to my surprise, there’s always a handful of responders who say “yeah it was really nice, but not worth the money.” Or “We didn’t get the hype at all.”

So I figured since it’s easily the most popular special occasion spot on Maui, and it generates so much debate, it deserves its own blog post.

So on my last trip to Maui, I headed to Mama’s (oh the life of a travel blogger!) for the express purpose of doing a full review for you peeps. Full disclosure-although I’m reviewing my latest experience at Mama’s, I’ve been there over a half dozen times so I’ll be pulling form past experiences as well.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Maui? Read up on the lay of the is(land) and where to stay plus my favorite beach resorts, budget hotels, Airbnbs, honeymoon resorts, family friendly resorts, luxury resorts, and boutique hotels plus my area specific guides (including where to stay, eat, and things to do) for Wailea and Ka’anapali.

Mama’s Fish House is located on Maui’s north shore just past Paia so if you’re staying in the resort areas on Maui’s west or south sides, it’s going to be a bit of a drive.

Since it’s such a hot spot, you NEED a reservation. During busy times of the year (i.e. Christmas), it’s not uncommon for them to be completely booked up. So reserve early! To be on the safe side, I grabbed a reservation about three months in advance so I could get the exact time I wanted.

You’ll want to check the time of sunset during your trip, I recommend making your reservation about thirty minutes before so it’s still light when you arrive.

The restaurant has complimentary valet right out front which really sets the tone. You check in at the podium out front and then make your way down to the property. It’s right on the beach so you’ll get to witness those impressive north shore waves up close.

You’ve also got to get your picture taken. There’s a famous curved palm tree right out by the water. That’s the good spot.

We made our way to the restaurant to check in again (they know people get sidetracked taking pictures on the beach and don’t rush you) and were seated pretty quickly. If you thought the outside of the restaurant was spectacular, wait until you see the inside.

The only way to describe it is as a luxurious beach shack. I call this place “Gilligan’s Island meets fine dining.” The inside of the restaurant is layered and welcoming while still being impressive. Like maybe you’re eating in someone’s home or family restaurant. It feels very Hawaiian too. But not snobby. It’s not modern, trendy, or uppity at all.

Ko’olina Oahu: Where to Stay, Where to Eat, & What to Do

Ko’olina is an oceanfront resort area on the leeward (west) side of Oahu. It’s a preplanned community (as in, much of the infrastructure was laid out before many of the resorts and restaurants moved in) so it has a bit of a curated and idyllic vibe that although is definitely not “local” Hawaii, is nevertheless heavenly for vacationers. It’s location on the leeward side means that the weather is almost always dry and sunny, and it’s home to some of the island’s loveliest beaches. There are four lagoons in the Ko’olina resort area that are ideal, protected places to swim.

Where to Stay

The Ko’olina resort isn’t that big so narrowing down a place to stay won’t be too difficult.

Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa: Aulani is the big star around these parts. While being “Disney,” it’s surprisingly the most “Hawaiian” resort I’ve come across in Hawaii. The resort has taken amazing steps to preserve and honor Hawaiian culture and heritage as well as share it with guests. It’s definitely THE place to stay if you have kids. It practically has its own waterpark, and the place has a very comfortable but upscale feel. There’s so much to do at this resort that you’ll constantly be torn between taking advantage of all of the activities and wanting to just lounge around the amazing beach and pools. Read this post for a more in depth review of Aulani.

Four Seasons Oahu: If you’re looking for luxury, you’ll find it at the Four Seasons. Recently renovated and converted from a JW Marriott, this property is everything you’d expect from the Four Seasons. With an amazing spa, tennis facility, multiple pools, and yummy restaurants, you’ll be able to pass your vacation here in style. This Four Seasons is considered an entry level Four Seasons property (not quite as lavish and expansive as the resorts on Maui and the Big Island), so if you’d like to experience luxury at a lower price point, this is a great option. It’s usually on par price wise with Aulani. Check rates and read reviews here.

Marriott Ko’olina Beach Club: If you’re a points tracker or loyal to Marriott/Starwood, you’ll definitely want to check out this spot. This gorgeous resort has more pools than you can imagine and wonderful amenities if you’re looking for good bang for your buck. The resort has 1-3 bedroom villas with kitchens so you’ll have more room to spread out. The Marriott is also the only resort on lagoon #3 in Ko’olina (Aulani and the Four Seasons share lagoon #1), so it may seem a little quieter. Check rates and read reviews here.

Ko’olina Beach Villas Resort: If you’re looking for a spacious condo with resort like amenities, you’ll love this place. It’s located on Lagoon #2 and it’s a great option to save some money while still feeling like you’re living it up. You can book your unit through the resort or independently through owner via sites like Airbnb (use this link for $40 off your first stay) or VRBO.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Oahu? Read up on the lay of the (is)land and where to stay plus my favorite beach resorts, budget hotels, Airbnbs, honeymoon resorts, family friendly resorts, luxury resorts, and boutique hotels.

Vacation Rentals: There’s also a little neighborhood behind the shopping center that’s surrounded by the golf course where you can rent individual houses/villas through Airbnb and VRBO.

Kapolei: If you’re looking for something even cheaper, expand your search to the nearby town of Kapolei. It’s inland a few miles but still close enough to pop over to the beach and you might find more economical accommodations if you’re just looking for someplace to set up a basecamp to explore the island from.

Where to Eat on the Big Island: 20 Big Island Restaurants

If you’re a self-proclaimed foodie like me, a lot of your vacation probably centers around where you’re going to eat. And there’s nothing wrong with that! So to help you out, I’ve rounded up 20 of the best Big Island restaurants so you’ll know exactly where to eat on the Big Island.

Kona & Kohala

1.Brown’s Beach House: This romantic open-air beachfront restaurant is located at the Fairmont Orchid near Waikoloa on the Kohala Coast (north of Kona). It’s one of the best fine dining experiences on the Big Island.

2.Roy’s in Waikoloa: Roy’s is an institution in Hawaii and the Waikoloa location is set among some of the most luxurious resorts in Hawaii where you’ll have lovely lake views to match your fresh dinner.

3.‘Ulu Ocean Grill: The Four Seasons Hualalai is the epitome of luxury, so it’s worth having dinner here just to check out the resort. The restaurant itself has been named one of the 100 Most Romantic Restaurants and one of the 100 Best Al Fresco Dining Restaurants in America. Also, 75% of the ingredients served at the restaurant are sourced from the Big Island.

4.Beach Tree Bar and Lounge: A more laid back dining option at the Four Seasons Hualalai, the Beach Tree Bar and Lounge has amazing drinks and small bites and is just steps from the sand.

5.Kona Brewing Co: This local brewpub is a great place to sample beer, take a tour, and chow down.

RELATED: Not very familiar with the Big Island? Read up on the lay of the (is)land and my favorite beach resorts, budget hotels, Airbnbs, honeymoon resorts, family friendly resorts, luxury resorts, and boutique hotels.

6.Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill: This casual joint is a go to spot with locals and tourists for seafood specials, pupus, and happy hour deals. There’s also a location in Hilo.

7.Huggo’s on the Rocks: This popular Kona oceanfront spot is a favorite for sunset views, cocktails, and live entertainment. This is the casual, laid back cousin to Huggo’s next door (fine dining).

8.Island Lava Java: You could potentially eat all of your meals at this beachside eatery. From coffee and breakfast in the morning to a seafood meal at dinner, you may not ever want to leave! There’s also a location in Waikoloa.

Hawaii Like a Local: Oahu with Kait Hanson

Hawaii Like a Local is an interview series to help visitors to Hawaii start exploring less like a tourist and more like a local. This week’s guest is Kait Hanson, blogger at Communikait.com.

What island do you call home?

Sunny (and slightly overcrowded ;)) Oahu!

What’s your “Hawaii life” like?

My husband and I moved to Oahu over 5 years ago courtesy of the military, but when we left active duty – we weren’t quite ready to leave the island life behind. We’ve called Oahu home ever since. I’m a freelance writer who works from home and I love traveling, eating and playing with my dogs at the beach. I’ve never met a cocktail I wasn’t interested in trying and I will ALWAYS make time in my schedule for meeting up with a friend.

What’s your favorite thing to do on your island?

We love exploring, so anything that involves checking out a new spot. Of course, we love the beach, too, and any opportunity to just be outside – running, walking our dogs, climbing a mountain.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Oahu? Read up on the lay of the (is)land and where to stay plus my favorite beach resorts, budget hotels, and Airbnbs.

What are your favorite local “gems” on the island?

I would be lying if I didn’t say that eating at Opal Thai wasn’t my favorite thing on this island. Since we started eating there 5 years ago, Opal and his family have become our family and we eat there at least once a week. It’s the best Thai food I’ve ever put in my mouth (and yes, I’ve been to Thailand!). I also love views from Kokohead Crater. It’s not exactly hidden or secret, since a lot of people hike it, but most are intimidated by the 1,000+ railroad ties to get up it. I always encourage our visitors by telling them the views are worth it. They never disagree!

What are some places you always take friends and family when they visit?

Well, Opal Thai, LOL! But also Doris Duke’s Shangri-la, Duke’s for Hula Pie, happy hour at Monkeypod Kitchen out in Ko’Olina, Pearl Harbor, Diamondhead, Kokohead Crater, Waikiki Beach, Waimea Bay and so many often say “can we go to where they filmed Forgetting Sarah Marshall?” So we usually make a trip up to Turtle Bay Resort.

Where would you go for a staycation on the island?

Without a doubt The Royal Hawaiian. It’s the iconic pink hotel on the Waikiki Beach skyline and it’s not to be missed if you visit – even if it’s just to walk through and gaze at her glory. Most people don’t know the history behind the pink walls, but The Royal Hawaiian was actually used as a military res-camp in World War II. The Navy rented it out! There’s a full museum in the basement, which is a must if you’re a little bit of a history nerd like myself. More on our staycation at The Royal Hawaiian here.

Where to Eat on Oahu

Oahu is a foodie’s paradise, so if you’re like me and you plan your trips around eating (oh wait, that’s just me?), you’re going to be busy on Oahu! Oahu is home to a lot of “Hawaii famous” places as well as both iconic and trendy restaurants. So I’ve done a LOT of research, tried a lot of places, and asked plenty of others their favorites, and here are my picks for the best restaurants on Oahu:

For a classic dinner on Waikiki…

Duke’s: This Waikiki institution is THE place for a nice sunset dinner.

For a Waikiki beachfront watering hole…

Mai Tai Bar: The original mai tai was created by the bar tender here more than 50 years ago. If you time your dinner and drinks right, you’ll have a great view of the luau at the Royal Hawaiian.

For the best breakfast in Waikiki…

Eggs ‘n Things: Be prepared to wait in line, but it’s worth it for their amazing pancakes.

For the best local food in town…

Helena’s Hawaiian Food: This is a true local joint but they’re so welcoming to tourists who find their way out there (very close to the Bishop Museum). The Rainbow Drive-In is also a don’t miss.

For the best shrimp truck…

Giovanni’s: Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck on the north shore is easily the most popular food truck in the area (and there are a lot of them!). Try the shrimp scampi.

For the best pie…

Ted’s Bakery: This efficient bakery on the north shore has a whole bunch of goodies, but they’re most famous for their chocolate haupia (coconut) pie.

For the best breakfast in Kailua…

Moke’s Bread and Breakfast: The best lilikoi pancakes period. Boots and Kimo’s is also a favorite of mine. They’re famous for their macadamia nut sauce on their pancakes. Get there early or you’ll have a wait!

For the best shaved ice…

Island Snow: In Kailua, Island Snow is a favorite of the Obamas. Also, try Matsumoto’s in Haleiwa and Waiola Shave Ice in Honolulu.

RELATED: Need a packing list for Oahu? Find my best packing advice here.

For the best restaurant in Chinatown…

The Pig and the Lady: This trendy Vietnamese fusion restaurant is a super popular spot. Drop by for lunch, but you’ll want reservations for dinner.

25 Best Restaurants on Maui

If you’re anything like me, your vacations may occasionally (alright, often) revolve around food. There’s nothing wrong with planning your days around your breakfast, lunch, and dinner spots right? Right?? Anyways, if you’re going to be on Maui, here’s everything you need to know about the best restaurants on Maui. I’ll break it down by area as well as throw out some accolades for best this or that. So here are 25 restaurants to try on Maui:

WAILEA & KIHEI

Duo: This steak and seafood restaurant at the Four Seasons is upscale dining at its finest. You’ll get the top notch service that the Four Seasons is known for as well as really good food served up right on the pool deck with epic views of swaying palms and gentle crashing waves. This place wins for the best pool/beachside dining in Wailea.

Bistro Molokini: Located at the Grand Wailea, Bistro Molokini is a good spot to go if you want the experience of dining at one of Wailea’s super luxe beach resorts without shelling out the big bucks. You’ll still want to make a reservation but this place is much more laid back than others. Try the fish and chips. You won’t be disappointed! This place wins for best “budget” resort restaurant.

Monkeypod: This was one of my go to spots when I lived in Maui. They’ve got good happy hour specials and killer mai tais. This spot serves up a “bar menu” of chef Peter Merriman’s creations (you’ll recognize him from his fine dining, establishment, Merriman’s, right on Kapalua Bay. Get dressed up or go casual, anything goes at the Monkeypod. They have great pizzas but I love the kalua pulled pork sandwich and previously mentioned mai tais. If you sit on the side patio, you’ll have a distant ocean view. This place wins for best food in Wailea.

Coconut’s: Coconut’s usually wins all of the “best fish tacos in Maui” award. They’re super yummy and very unique. The restaurant is very low key. You order at the counter and seating is community style. My favorite part about Coconut’s is that Wow Wow Lemonade is right next-door. Grab a handmade lemonade (made with local ingredients) before you head into Coconut’s. This place wins for best fish tacos in Kihei.

Kihei Café: This is my favorite spot for breakfast on the beach. It’s a total dive but the food is GREAT and you can’t beat the location. Go early or be prepared to wait in line. The pancakes are amazing and you can get them with a variety of toppings. This place wins for best breakfast on the beach.

Café O’Lei: Conveniently located in Kihei, Café O’Lei is a casual place with great seafood. It has a nice vibe inside, it’s right across from the beach, and they have a raw bar on weekend nights. This spot is popular with locals and tourists alike. This place wins for best seafood in Kihei.

Sansei Seafood: Sansei seafood is the go to place for sushi in Kihei (there’s also a location in Kapalua). It has a laid back vibe and it’s right across from Kalama beach park. This place wins for best sushi in Kihei.