Maui Makes Cover of National Geographic Traveler Magazine

The author of the cover article featured in National Geographic's Traveler Magazine has owned a home on the island for ten years. His name is Andrew McCarthy, and he was in a unique position to write an article based on his own experiences in a place he knows well. If you don't vacation on Maui regularly and you don't know your way around all that well, it's a good idea to listen carefully for good tips from those who do.

McCarthy first lists his favorite three beaches in the article. He names Slaughterhouse Beach which faces Honolua Bay just beyond Kapalua on Maui's west side, citing his experiences with giant turtles there. Then there is Hamoa beach just a mile outside of Hana with its soft gray sand, great sea cliffs and impressive surf. Lastly, he recommends Keawakapu, a lovely white sand beach at the very edge of Kihei where Wailea begins. This one boasts excellent views of the West Maui Mountains, Kohoolawe, Molokini and Lanai.

After the beaches, he goes on to recommend great places for local eating, including the Makena Grill for the best lunch on the island which is made by Marisa Samuels and served from a roadside cart. He also lists Saigon Café in Wailuku for incredible Vietnamese food in a deceptively humble setting.

Other places to visit included Alii Kula Lavender Farm which will amaze you with its breathtaking views along with the gift shop that will show you just how many things you can do with lavender. Try their lavender lemonade. It's a new experience! Tour the farm or take advantage of the "Royal Tea" service they offer.

McCarthy also sings well-deserved praises for Grandma's Coffee house. It's a local favorite not far from the lavender farm and it's got a nice and laid back atmosphere. Enjoy coffee and a selection of excellent food either inside or out on their patio overlooking Kahului.

Near both these places is Poli Poli Spring State Recreation Area which is often passed up for the popular Haleakala Crater visit. The forest consists mostly of large conifer trees so it'll feel like the Pacific Northwest until, as McCarthy points out, you discover huge views of the Pacific and vistas of the West Maui Mountains to remind you of where you are. Also, there are usually very few people there. The campgrounds are very nice and offer grills so you can do your own barbecuing.

He also suggests that you rent a cabin in the crater. It will feel like you are camping out on Mars with some of the best and clearest views of the night sky that you will find anywhere in the world. The cabins don't have lights or running water, but as McCarthy aptly points out, it is, "as close to heaven as many of us will get." You will need to make reservations months in advance for this.

Lastly, he recommends that you rent a kayak and get out on the water off the shores of South Maui. If you bring your snorkel gear and you spot a dolphin, turtle or interesting reef, you can slip into the water and see things from a marine perspective. Just don't lose your kayak!

Well, we hope you have enjoyed these little gems of information. We certainly did, and can't say McCarthy's advice is anything but spot on! Enjoy your trip to Maui and if you need a place to stay...

Consider our Maui vacation rental studios or if you are coming with a larger group, we have one, two and three bedroom Maui condos. You can email us at Rentals@KaanapaliBeachRentals.com for information on our vacation rental condos or Ken@KaanapaliProperties.com for real estate related questions. Thanks for reading this week! Aloha!