Do Maui Like a Local
When you live on Maui, or any popular tourist destination, you avoid the typically "touristy" spots, and find your own local hang-outs. Of course, living on Maui is expensive, so locals are usually trying to save money. The spots I've chosen are reasonably priced, or free. None of these places is a big secret, but each is a location where you'll find as many locals as tourists. On Maui, the number of visitors doubles the local population on any given day. (For the purpose of this playlist, I use the term "local" in reference to anyone living on Maui, as opposed to how it is generally used in Hawaii: referring only to Hawaiian natives.)
During the years I lived in Lahaina, Hana was the place I'd get away to when life got too hectic. I'd take my family out to Waianapanapa once or twice a year to escape the daily grind. Life really slows down out here. You can rent a cabin at Waianapanapa for about 50 bucks a night. It's probably the cheapest place to stay on Maui... More >
During the years I lived in Lahaina, Hana was the place I'd get away to when life got too hectic. I'd take my family out to Waianapanapa once or twice a year to escape the daily grind. Life really slows down out here. You can rent a cabin at Waianapanapa for about 50 bucks a night. It's probably the cheapest place to stay on Maui, but these cabins are RUSTIC! Don't expect anything fancy. Bring a deck of cards, books, musical instruments, and enjoy the gorgeous scenery, peace and quiet, and some great hiking. Linens are provided, and there's some funky cookware in the kitchen, as well as a barbeque outside each cabin.
Camping is also available, but it tends to rain A LOT in Hana. Reservations a must!
2
I love Lahaina Coolers. I've been coming here for 20 years, through at least four sets of owners. Somehow, it has always remained a local hang-out, although many visitors have discovered it, too. The atmosphere is casual and open air, the food is tasty and eclectic, the prices are reasonable, the music is good, and the people are friendly. Try the crab wontons, and say hello to Roger, who's usually seated at the corner of the bar.
At night there's music, both local bands and surprise guests-- a lot of rock stars have homes on Maui.
I always used to take visitors here right after they got off the plane. It's only about a 20 minute drive from the airport, and it will give you an immediate glimpse of natural Hawaii. You can tour around on the foot paths and stairs to enjoy the scenery and learn some history. If it's hot, you can even go for a swim in the stream. ... More >
I always used to take visitors here right after they got off the plane. It's only about a 20 minute drive from the airport, and it will give you an immediate glimpse of natural Hawaii. You can tour around on the foot paths and stairs to enjoy the scenery and learn some history. If it's hot, you can even go for a swim in the stream. Enjoy!
4
This is a great place to spend the day. Rent a surfboard or boogie board and head out to Launiopoko early, because the parking lot fills up. Bring some beer and "grinds" and enjoy life as the locals do. There are restrooms and outdoor showers, and a number of barbeques and picnic tables. The surf is generally pretty tame, and there's a nice shallow lagoon for young kids.
Commonly known as the "Seven Sacred Pools", Oheo Gulch is a very popular tourist destination. However, most tourists only drive out to Hana for the day, so if you stay at Waianapanapa State Park, you can enjoy the Pools in the early morning or late afternoon when there are few people there. This area is the epitome of Maui. Hike thr... More >
Commonly known as the "Seven Sacred Pools", Oheo Gulch is a very popular tourist destination. However, most tourists only drive out to Hana for the day, so if you stay at Waianapanapa State Park, you can enjoy the Pools in the early morning or late afternoon when there are few people there. This area is the epitome of Maui. Hike through lush jungles, swim in pristine pools, or enjoy a picnic on the grass overlooking the ocean. PLEASE BE CAREFUL: OBSERVE ALL POSTED SIGNS AND VERBAL WARNINGS FROM PARK RANGERS. FLASH FLOODS DO OCCUR!!
| It's only about a 20 minute drive from the airport, and it will give you an immediate glimpse of natural Hawaii. |
6
Charley's is a funky bar and restaurant in laid-back Paia. It's low key, the food is home-style and satisfying, and very reasonable. At night there's music, both local bands and surprise guests-- a lot of rock stars have homes on Maui. This is a frequent hang-out of Willie Nelson. We always stop here on our way to Hana. More
Charley's is a funky bar and restaurant in laid-back Paia. It's low key, the food is home-style and satisfying, and very reasonable. At night there's music, both local bands and surprise guests-- a lot of rock stars have homes on Maui. This is a frequent hang-out of Willie Nelson. We always stop here on our way to Hana.
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