Our Hawaii Honeymoon Adventure | 9 Days Exploring Kauai and Maui
🌺 Our 9-Day Honeymoon Adventure in Hawaii
📍 Google Maps List: Hawaii Travel Guide — Kauai & Maui ➔
Those of you who love to travel know that planning may be the most important part of preparing for any unknown destination.
Luckily, I have Leza — the ultimate planner.
Honestly, she runs circles around me when it comes to finding places to go and things to see.
After a year of COVID limitations and hurdles, Leza and I were finally able to take our honeymoon to the beautiful islands of Hawaii — specifically, Kauai and Maui!
Throughout this travel blog, we want to share our experiences, photos, and recommendations from these gorgeous islands.
Maps for Kauai Tours & Maps for Maui Tours
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If you're planning a trip to Hawaii and don't know where to begin, this might be a great place to start for reference.
We’re not the type of couple to lounge around a resort for days on end — we definitely tried to cover as much ground as we could with the time we had.
But we also had a little gem up our sleeve...
Early on, Leza told me about an app called GuideAlong, suggesting I check it out.
Naturally, I replied, "Why?! You're the planner! We don't need an app!"
Fast forward a few months to our departure day, and Leza mentioned it again.
This time, I said, "Sure, let’s give it a go."
Needless to say — Leza was right again.
The app was amazing!
In a nutshell, GuideAlong offers self-guided audio tours and routes based on the locations you purchase.
Instead of relying on your GPS, it downloads maps directly to your smartphone.
Even without cell service, it knows exactly where you are and narrates fascinating stories along your specific route.
We didn’t use GPS once for driving directions — not even once!
The GuideAlong App is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, and honestly, it was a game-changer.
Between Leza’s expert planning and our newfound GuideAlong tour guide in our pockets, we were in excellent shape!
You’ll hear me mention GuideAlong a few more times as we explore where we went and what we experienced — but if you’re heading to Kauai or Maui, I can't recommend their guides enough!
As you can see from the two photos below, we pinned every major spot we visited on the map.
So if you’re interested in traveling along with us, keep reading — you're about to discover some of the most incredible locations we encountered!
For those of you who use Google Maps, feel free to use my saved list to help plan your own adventures:
📍 Hawaii Travel Guide — Kauai & Maui ➔
Map view of our photos on Kauai
Satellite view of our photos on Kauai
We scheduled eleven days total for our Hawaiian adventure:
five days on Kauai, four days on Maui, and two days reserved for travel.
It wasn’t exactly hard to leave the 25ºF chill of Minnesota behind.
We caught an early flight out of Minneapolis, made a quick stop in rainy Seattle, and then continued on to our final destination — the lush island of Kauai.
After about twelve hours of travel (including a layover), we landed around 8 PM in Kauai.
First order of business: grab the rental car — a Mustang convertible.
Sounds glamorous, right?
Let’s just say after driving it for five days, I will never — ever — own one.
With our "fancy" convertible secured, we were ready to find our temporary home, take a much-needed shower, and finally crash into a real bed for some actual sleep.
Welcome to Kauai Sign at the Airport
The drive to our rental was pitch black, but we could already hear the crashing of the waves nearby — a sound that immediately made it feel real.
After finally finding what would be our home for the next few nights, we quickly hauled in our luggage and prepared for bed.
We wanted to be well rested for the next day — when we'd finally get to see the paradise we had traveled so far to reach.
🌴 Official Day 1 on Kauai
After a well-rested night, we woke up feeling ready to explore!
The only thing officially planned for the day was our Star Na Pali Dinner Sunset Sail — a cruise operated by Capt. Andy’s Sailing Adventures.
If you're wondering whether you should book this — the answer is YES.
We would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kauai.
The cost was around $185 per person, and honestly, it was worth every single penny.
Our 55-foot catamaran with Capt. Andy’s wasn’t scheduled to set sail until later in the afternoon, so we had plenty of time to explore the surrounding area.
We spent the morning wandering around the southern tip of Kauai, specifically the town of Poipu — which was conveniently located near our rental at the Sunset Kahili Condominium.
We booked our rental through Vrbo, and our host, Maureen, was absolutely amazing.
She literally had everything ready for us — beach towels, chairs, an umbrella, TV, Wi-Fi, washer, dryer — you name it, she had it covered.
👉 Here’s a link to the exact location we stayed ➔
We would highly recommend it!
Not only were the accommodations fantastic, but the location itself was prime —
Poipu sits at a perfect "middle point" on Kauai.
Since there are no roads that make a full circle around the island, being centrally located made exploring much easier.
Kudos to you, Maureen.
We absolutely loved it!
For breakfast, we visited Anuenue Cafe (highly recommend!),
and afterward, we walked over to nearby Poipu Beach Park — where we were lucky enough to spot a Hawaiian Monk Seal lounging in the sand!
After leaving the beach, we connected GuideAlong to the car and were off on our first self-guided tour.
And let me tell you — we would not have discovered nearly as much as we did without this app.
This app is AMAZING.
It gives you fascinating stories about the land, explains how the island came to be, offers tips about local hotspots, and throws in plenty of entertaining facts along the way.
It made the experience of driving through unknown places purely enjoyable — truly amazing!
If you're heading to Kauai, download the maps here ➔
Anyway — after the beach, GuideAlong led us to the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge, tucked away in the little town of Hanapepe.
If you're looking for a quick, fun stop to stretch your legs,
this charming town is worth it — and crossing the swinging bridge is a fun little adventure.
It won’t take long to walk across, snap a few photos, and cross it off your list of things to see!
After visiting Hanapepe, we continued along the coast to our next stop — Salt Pond Beach Park.
We learned that the local Hawaiians harvest and make salt right from this area, a tradition that's been passed down for generations.
If you're traveling with small children, this would be an excellent beach to visit — the waves are pretty calm here thanks to the natural cove.
Just like nearly every beach we visited in Hawaii, it’s a beautiful, peaceful place to relax and take it all in.
After all that exploring, it was time to head over to Port Allen and check in for the departure of our sunset cruise.
There were about 24 other guests onboard, along with a couple of crew members, a Five-Star Chef, and a Captain who rode the waves so effortlessly, it felt like she could have done it with her eyes closed.
(Not sure if we’ve been watching a little too much of Below Deck lately, but honestly — we felt right at home.)
The cruise lasted about four hours, and as we set sail up the stunning Nā Pali Coast, the views were absolutely breathtaking.
It was like stepping into another world.
The Captain and Crew did an incredible job tending to the guests, serving up delicious food, and sharing stories along the way that gave us a little more background and history about the island.
At one point, the Captain even spotted a pod of dolphins and took a slight detour so we could get a closer look — talk about customer service!
I personally had never seen dolphins so close in their natural habitat — it was unforgettable.
After a couple of hours sailing along the coast, we finally reached our turnaround point.
It was time to settle in, enjoy a feast of shrimp and steak, and watch the sun melt into the waves.
We were amazed at how quickly the sun fell below the horizon.
Within just a few short minutes, it slipped past the waterline and disappeared from sight — almost like it had been swallowed by the ocean.
If you’re ever here, make sure you seize the moment and have your camera ready — the sunset doesn’t wait for anyone.
It’s over in a blink, but it’s a sight you’ll never forget.
🏔️ Day 2 on Kauai
The first day on this island was going to be hard to top — but little did we know, Kauai had only just begun to impress us.
For our second day, we fully planned to take advantage of GuideAlong, which led us straight to Waimea Canyon State Park.
The best way to describe it? Kauai’s very own Grand Canyon — except (in my opinion) maybe even better. Waterfalls cascade down vibrant red rock walls, lush green trees blanket the valleys, and every viewpoint feels like stepping into a postcard. It truly has a little bit of everything.
As the day went on, we continued deeper into Waimea Canyon — stopping at nearly every lookout (because honestly, how could you not?!). We mostly followed the advice from GuideAlong, which led us all the way to the Pihea Trailhead.
This turned out to be an incredible hike! The trail begins right at the Pu’u O Kila Lookout — and if you find yourself there, don’t stop! Hike the trail a little if you're able.
This area is known as one of the wettest spots on Earth, and it’s not hard to see why. As you travel along the path, you’ll have the breathtaking Nā Pali Coast stretching out to your left, and the sweeping, colorful vistas of Waimea Canyon on your right.
We were lucky enough to get an early start. At first, we caught stunning glimpses of the ocean through the valleys — but those views quickly disappeared as thick, cold clouds came rushing up the mountainsides.
It was a surreal moment — literally feeling the clouds move through you as you hiked. Within minutes, the colorful world we had been admiring turned completely white, wrapped in mist.
We made it past the one-mile marker on the trail before deciding to turn back around.
This was definitely more of a moderate hike — it wasn't flat the whole time.
We had to climb over steep rocks, muddy hills, and tangled tree roots,
so a good pair of hiking shoes is a must.
(And just be prepared — they’re going to get a little dirty.)
After wrapping up our hike, we traveled back toward Old Koloa Town to find some lunch.
We’re huge fans of food trucks, and ended up eating at the Big Monster Sushi Food Truck — it was absolutely delicious!
Old Koloa Town itself has a handful of restaurants, food trucks, and small shops.
When we were there, it was definitely a bit hit or miss if places were open —
but overall, it was a pleasant little town to wander through.
After lunch, we continued following GuideAlong,
which led us to a well-known local landmark: Spouting Horn.
I’ll be honest — don’t get your hopes up too much.
It’s a quick stop: you jump out of the car, snap a few photos, and cross it off the list.
However, right at that location, we found something pretty unique — an Autograph Tree.
We noticed that the large, shiny leaves had names and messages carved into them.
When I took a quick photo on my iPhone and used the “Look Up” feature, it confirmed the tree’s name.
Naturally, we had to mark the occasion.
I attempted to etch our names into a leaf… but ended up poking holes right through it every time.
Leza, of course, did a much better job than I did. 😄
Truck foods were so fresh and delicious!
🇺🇸 Shipwreck Beach — A Hidden Favorite
After lunch, we decided to find a beach to relax at — and we landed on Shipwreck Beach. (No pun intended.)
This spot was actually recommended by one of the locals, who told us we’d likely see some surfers and lots of waves. So we packed a bag, grabbed the beach chairs (thanks again, Maureen!), and headed to the sand for a few hours. Honestly, it’s hard to find anything you don’t like about being at the beach.
Shipwreck Beach ended up being one of our favorite beaches on Kauai. It wasn’t crowded, and you could tell most of the people there were locals. Off in the distance, there’s a small cliff you can hike up to — and if you look closely, you’ll often spot people up there. Apparently, it’s a well-known spot for cliff jumping! While we were hanging out, we were lucky enough to catch some brave jumpers in action.
Alongside the beautiful ocean scenery, we also had surfers — and chickens. Yes, more chickens. I’m so used to seeing seagulls at the beach that the chickens were a refreshing (and honestly hilarious) change. And they’re surprisingly colorful too!
Dinner time was approaching, so we headed back home, showered, and got ready for our reservations at The Beach House. It was definitely a step up in atmosphere compared to our food truck adventures — a little more upscale — but the food was absolutely amazing. The drinks, however... were just meh. After dinner, we called it a night and headed to bed, knowing we had a full agenda waiting for us the next day.
🚁 Day 3 on Kauai — Jurassic Falls Helicopter Adventure
We made sure to get a good night’s sleep because today we had two big things planned: a helicopter ride with Island Helicopter Tours to Manawaiopuna Falls (otherwise known as Jurassic Falls), and a traditional Hawaiian luau at the Smith Family Garden Luau. Both experiences, I would highly, highly recommend.
We arrived near the airport early, completed our security briefing, and then boarded our ride. Neither of us had ever experienced a helicopter flight before, and we were beyond excited. Just like our pilot said, “It’s like a rollercoaster in the sky.” He was friendly, knowledgeable, and made a point to ensure that both sides of the helicopter got great views of all the scenic highlights.
We specifically chose this tour company because it actually lands at the location of the waterfalls made famous by the iconic Jurassic Park movie — as seen here ➔. (You’ll paste the Jurassic Falls clip link later!)
The flight lasted roughly an hour and a half, and we got to experience views that simply wouldn’t be possible any other way. If it fits into your budget, I would absolutely recommend it — this could easily be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For those of you wondering about bringing your camera gear: they do have limits on weight and don’t allow large bags. For cameras, they recommend lenses no longer than 4 inches. However, they did let me bring my Canon 5D Mark IV paired with a 24-70mm lens.
For you photographers out there: don’t set your hopes too high for getting flawless shots. There will be window reflections, and depending on seating, you might be sandwiched between other passengers, limiting your angles. Either way, it’s absolutely worth it — because the experience itself is unforgettable.
🏝️ Exploring Hidden Beaches Before the Luau
After our air adventure, we grabbed some Thai food at a spot called Coconut Thai & Chinese near Lae Nani Beach. The drunken noodles definitely did not disappoint!
With a few hours to spare before our big luau, we plugged GuideAlong back into the car and set out in search of more history lessons and hidden beaches.
Two beaches we found — and highly recommend checking out — were Moloa'a Beach and Anahola Beach Park.
Moloa'a Beach especially was a hidden gem we never would have found without the help of GuideAlong. It was tucked away through a random neighborhood, requiring you to park at the end of a dead-end street.
This beach felt secluded, peaceful, and almost like having your very own private slice of paradise.
Fun Fact: 🌴 Moloa'a Beach — with its white sand and swaying palm trees — served as the backdrop for the original filming of Gilligan’s Island, including the pilot episode and the iconic opening scenes!
🏝️ Discovering Anahola Beach Park
We continued south from Moloa'a Beach and made a stop at Anahola Beach Park. There were a few more people here — mostly locals — some out surfing, others simply soaking up the sun.
I’m not entirely certain, but this beach must have once been the site of an old port or something similar, as there were large cement pillars lined up in the water. Either way, it made for a great photo opportunity.
One thing that really stood out to us during the trip was how every beach feels completely different from the next. The scenery, the vibe, even the color of the sand — it constantly changed. If you’re planning a trip to Kauai, I highly recommend visiting multiple beaches to experience the island’s amazing diversity.
🌺 A Night to Remember at the Smith Family Garden Luau
As much as we would have loved to sit and relax along the shore, we needed to get back, shower, and get ready for our luau. We were pretty excited about this — neither of us had ever been to a luau before, and honestly, we had no idea what to expect. All we knew was that there would be dinner and a show, and that sounded pretty good to us.
The Smith Family Garden Luau is a family-owned establishment, four generations strong and going on 60 years. It’s reservation-based, so I would highly suggest visiting their website to check the schedule ahead of time. They also offer two options: you can choose either dinner and a show or just the show. In my opinion? Do both. There’s nothing quite like the home-cooked flavor of a traditional Hawaiian family meal.
When we arrived, we entered an overwhelming 30-acre garden park filled with different trees, plants, animals, and flowers. It felt like a hidden oasis you could easily wander through for hours. They gave us a quick 10-minute trolley ride around the gardens, followed closely by a flock of chickens — and a peacock who must have been trained to spread his feathers on command, because he posed like a true model for about 20 minutes while everyone snapped photos.
After the trolley ride, we had about 15 minutes until the imu ceremony, where the family dug up the pig that had been cooking underground all day. We learned that the traditional method involves wrapping the pig in fruit leaves, stuffing it with hot rocks, and burying it in a sand-covered pit to slow-cook to perfection.
Pro tip: Don’t worry — the pig that comes out of the ground looks nothing like what ends up beautifully plated on your dish later!
After the ceremony, it was time to grab a beverage, listen to live performers, and wait for our table to be called for the buffet. There was an enormous spread of food, and it was an experience I definitely wouldn't pass up. One highlight was trying their traditional dish called poi, made from the taro plant. It’s purple, doesn’t have much flavor on its own, but it’s meant to complement other dishes. Definitely worth trying at least once!
Speaking of taro plants and poi, you’ll also learn a lot more about them from Dave Pettitt, the narrator of GuideAlong. These guides are so good if you’re into learning the cultural background of the places you're visiting.
Our dinner plates were overflowing, and although we had full intentions of going up for round two, we just couldn’t do it — we were completely stuffed. But luckily, the night wasn’t over yet. After dinner, we took a short walk through the garden to the open-air theatre.
There, we sat in awe as we were entertained by a talented group of performers who danced, drummed, and twirled fire in ways we never thought possible. It was mesmerizing from start to finish — a true celebration of Hawaiian culture and spirit.
The Smith Family Garden Luau absolutely exceeded every expectation we had.
We highly, highly recommend it!
🌴 Day 4 on Kauai — North Shore Exploration
Today, we had no real plans — and honestly, it’s hard to top a helicopter ride followed by a traditional Hawaiian luau. Our goal for Day 4 was simple: put our full faith in GuideAlong and let it lead us wherever it would take us. And it definitely did not let us down.
We wanted to get an early start to finish the tours on the north end of the island near Princeville, so we packed up and departed from our humble abode in Poipu on the south side of Kauai, heading up the eastern coast.
Along the way, we stopped for breakfast at Island Craves Kauai. They had some seriously delicious donuts — but their coffee? Let’s just say it was next-level hot. It was still boiling as they poured it into the cup. No exaggeration — Leza literally had to wait a few hours before she could even take a sip, and even then, it was still warm!
Island Craves Kauai
🐦 A Quick Stop at Kilauea Lighthouse
Our first stop on the list was the Kilauea Lighthouse at the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge.
Apparently, they’re closed on Tuesdays — so we didn’t actually get to visit the lighthouse itself — but we were still able to get an excellent view from a distance right at the entrance.
I’ll say this: it’s definitely still worth stopping, even if the site happens to be closed.
There’s an abundance of wildlife and birds constantly flying around, and the views along the coast are incredible.
If you’re a bird lover or a lighthouse enthusiast, it’s absolutely worth making time for this stop.
🏝️ Secret Beaches and Chicken Encounters
Next stop on the list was Kauapea Beach, also known as Secret Beach, along with Anini Beach located near Kalihikai Park.
Kudos again to GuideAlong — because without it, we would have never found the Kauapea (Secret) Beach Trailhead. There are no signs, no obvious directions — nothing. You literally turn off the highway, take a random side road, drive down a dirt road, and then park in a tiny alleyway. From there, you hike down a fairly steep trail that eventually opens up to a stunning, hidden beach.
If you’re wondering... yes, it’s absolutely worth it.
I captured some beautiful pictures of Leza walking along the beach, and once again, it felt like we had our own little private slice of paradise. Although we thought we were completely alone, we quickly realized we had company — a chicken decided to follow us down the beach and even posed perfectly on a log for a photo op.
🏝️ Anini Beach — A Calm Coastal Escape
After soaking in the beauty of Secret Beach, we made our way over to Anini Beach, located near Kalihikai Park.
Compared to the dramatic hidden vibe of Kauapea, Anini Beach had a much more laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere. The water was calmer, the waves were softer, and the overall vibe was relaxed — making it an ideal spot for paddleboarding, snorkeling, or simply lounging in the sun. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a peaceful beach day with a more traditional island feel.
🌊 Adventure to Queen’s Bath
Next stop was probably one of my favorites. Just north of Hanalei lies Queen’s Bath — and the hike was absolutely worth it for the views!
Parking can be a little challenging, as it’s a very small lot tucked into a residential neighborhood. So be patient — you’ll either need to wait for a spot or find street parking and walk a bit.
The scenery here was incredible. It was impressive to see the powerful waves crashing along the shoreline as we made our way toward the main spot. The hike itself is fairly short — about 20 to 25 minutes — depending on how often you stop to soak in the views. You start by hiking through what feels like a jungle straight out of a childhood storybook, then wander through a small forest complete with its own little waterfall!
When we arrived, quite a few people were already there — swimming, sunbathing, and even picnicking on the rocks. Queen’s Bath is definitely a place where you could easily spend a few hours. Just be mindful: the rocks can be very slippery, and the waves are no joke — they can come crashing in unexpectedly. Overall, though, the hike across the lava rocks wasn’t too difficult.
If you’re visiting with little ones, please be careful and respect the land. There are no rails or fences protecting you from the edges, and if you get too close to the ocean, you’ll get soaked. Trust me — I learned that the hard way! Also, if you keep your eyes open as you walk across the rocks, you might spot some little crabs scurrying around and hiding between the coves.
Queen’s Bath truly felt like a picture-perfect slice of Hawaii.
🍧 Tacos, Shave Ice, and Small Town Vibes
After our Queen’s Bath adventure, we were definitely ready to eat. We found a spot nearby called Tropical Taco in the town of Hanalei. This area is filled with shops, cafes, and food trucks — it's absolutely worth a stop if you’re exploring the North Shore.
At Tropical Taco, we ordered fish tacos and a beef taco salad — and both were fantastic. Fresh, flavorful, and just what we needed after a morning of hiking and beach hopping.
We also had our very first shave ice experience at JoJo's Shave Ice — and let me tell you, this deserves its own special highlight.
Now, I feel the need to expand on this — because if you’re thinking of traditional Midwest “snow cones,” think again. Shave ice in Hawaii is an entirely different (and far superior) experience. It’s not crunchy or hard. Instead, the ice is shaved so thin that it feels like fluffy snow — like a spoonful of frozen silk.
They fill the bottom of the bowl with a scoop of ice cream, then layer the finely shaved ice on top, and drench it in sweet tropical syrups. It puts every snow cone I’ve ever had to shame. Honestly, after this, a Minnesota snow cone feels like nothing more than sucking on a sad, flavorless ice cube.
Someone needs to bring real shave ice to the Midwest — because we’re seriously doing it wrong.
🏖️ Hanalei Pier and Valley Lookout
After our tacos and sweet treat, our hunger was satisfied and we were ready for the next stop: Hanalei Pier — just a few minutes away.
This was a very family-friendly beach with lots of space, soft sand, and a breathtaking view of a long pier stretching out into the ocean, framed by picture-perfect mountains in the background. It felt like something straight out of a postcard.
If you have the opportunity, Hanalei Beach is absolutely worth a visit — whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family. It’s relaxing, beautiful, and easy to spend an entire afternoon here.
On the way to the pier, we also stopped at the Hanalei Valley Lookout, a gorgeous overlook that captures the lush, vibrant landscape of the valley below. Definitely a quick stop worth making if you're in the area!
🌄 Scenic Stop at Hanalei Valley Lookout
On our way to Hanalei Pier, we made a quick but unforgettable stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout.
This viewpoint offers an incredible panoramic view over the lush valley — a patchwork of vibrant green taro fields, winding rivers, and distant mountains covered in mist. It's truly one of those spots where you have to stop and just soak it all in.
Even though it’s a quick stop (you can pull off right from the main road), the view is absolutely breathtaking and 100% worth it. It really captures the heart of Kauai — rich, peaceful, and untouched.
If you love photography or just want a moment to admire pure natural beauty, don’t miss the Hanalei Valley Lookout.
🏝️ Exploring Kauai’s North Shore Beaches
Our next stop was Wainiha Bay Park, followed by the famous Tunnels Beach.
Just like the rest of the beaches in Kauai, both were absolutely gorgeous. Tunnels Beach was a little trickier to access, though — located in a quiet residential neighborhood, with just a small side street available for parking near the entrance.
After enjoying these quick stops, we were determined to continue as far north as possible along Kuhio Highway 560, aiming to reach Haena State Park.
This park marks the farthest point you can drive on the island — because, fun fact, there is no road that loops completely around Kauai. (Another great reason why planning ahead is key!)
Unfortunately, we were running low on time for a full hike and didn’t have a park pass, so this was our turnaround point. Instead, we decided to catch a few more highlights we missed on the drive back toward Poipu.
One unexpected gem we stumbled upon was the Maniniholo Dry Cave, located right near Ha'ena Beach. It’s a very quick stop — you can walk inside this giant open cave — and while it doesn’t go too deep, it’s still a unique, fun attraction to check off your list.
After a full day of beaches, scenic drives, and spontaneous discoveries, we slowly made our way home to a hot shower and a cozy bed — tired, salty, and very, very happy.
🏖️ Quick Stop: Wainiha Bay Park
Wainiha Bay Park was another peaceful, beautiful beach that we explored briefly.
It’s a quiet spot — great for a quick walk, some fresh air, and soaking in even more of Kauai’s stunning coastline.
🏝️ Tunnels Beach — A Hidden Paradise
After visiting Wainiha Bay Park, we made our way over to Tunnels Beach — one of Kauai’s most famous and beloved beaches.
Finding it was a bit of an adventure itself. The beach is tucked away inside a quiet residential neighborhood, and parking can be a little tricky. There’s just a small side street near the entrance, and spots fill up fast, so be prepared to either wait or walk a little.
But once you reach the beach — it’s absolutely worth it.
Tunnels Beach is famous for its dramatic mountain backdrop, golden sand, and vibrant snorkeling opportunities (especially in the summer months when the water is calmer). Even if you’re not planning to swim, the views alone are breathtaking.
It’s the kind of place that looks almost too beautiful to be real — postcard-perfect in every direction.
If you have time to linger, this would also be an incredible spot to catch a sunset.
🕳️ Exploring the Maniniholo Dry Cave
Not far from Tunnels Beach, we made a quick stop at the Maniniholo Dry Cave, located right across from Ha'ena Beach.
This was a really unique and unexpected experience. The cave entrance is massive — wide, open, and surprisingly easy to walk into. Even though the cave doesn’t stretch too deep into the mountain, it’s still fascinating to explore.
Standing inside, you can really appreciate how natural forces have shaped the landscape here over thousands of years. The cool, shaded interior was also a welcome break after spending the morning in the sun.
If you're nearby, it’s definitely worth a quick stop. You don’t need much time — 10 to 15 minutes tops — but it’s another one of those little gems that makes Kauai feel so magical and full of surprises.
🏖️ Day 5 on Kauai — Soaking Up Our Last Day on Kauai
Day five was our final full day on Kauai, as the next morning we would hop on a short flight over to Maui.
Our agenda today was simple: find a beach and relax.
Since we had already covered so much ground and visited countless beaches over the past few days, we decided to head back to one of our favorites — Shipwreck Beach.
There was just something about this spot — the energy, the scenery, the surfers riding the waves — that made it feel like the perfect way to close out our time on the island.
Before hitting the beach, though, we grabbed breakfast at Little Fish Coffee — a very popular (and very delicious) spot.
Pro tip: order online for pickup if you can, because the line is almost always long.
The bagel sandwiches and the açaí fruit bowls were absolutely worth it. (The shakes? Meh — you can skip those.)
After filling up on breakfast, we decided we needed to walk off some of the food first — so we put our beach plans on hold and found another little adventure to kick off the morning.
🌊 Chasing Waterfalls — Wailua Falls
Since we still had some free time, we revisited our trusty GuideAlong app and found a few more waypoints we hadn’t yet explored.
We were determined to see and experience everything we possibly could before leaving Kauai.
Our next stop led us to Wailua Falls — a stunning double waterfall tucked at the end of a short drive.
There’s a dead-end parking lot right next to the falls, making this a quick and easy stop.
You can’t really hike down to the base here, but it’s absolutely worth visiting just to admire the powerful, cascading water from above.
Another classic Kauai moment that feels effortlessly magical.
On the way back from Wailua Falls, we spotted a beautiful horse grazing near the side of the road.
Of course, we couldn’t resist pulling over.
Leza hopped out and gently walked over to say hello, giving the horse a few friendly pets while I grabbed my camera.
It was such a simple, spontaneous moment — but it’s those little memories that often end up meaning the most.
🌳 The Magical Tree Tunnel
Continuing on, we made a quick stop to take some photos at the famous Tree Tunnel — a stunning stretch of road framed by towering eucalyptus trees that create a natural, leafy canopy overhead.
Pictures don’t really do it justice — you have to experience it in person.
Every time we drove through it, I felt like a kid in a candy store.
There’s just something about the way the light filters through the branches and the road stretches endlessly ahead that makes it feel like you’re entering a secret world.
It’s one of those simple, earthly wonders that instantly puts a smile on your face — and definitely one of my favorite unexpected highlights of the trip.
🏔️ Sleeping Giant and Scenic Refuges
Next on our list was the Sleeping Giant — a mountain ridge located near Wailua.
We made a quick stop near the local post office to snap a few photos.
Although there are hiking trails available here, we didn’t venture up — we were on more of a sightseeing mission today!
With a little imagination, though, it’s easy to see how this landmark earned its name.
The ridge looks exactly like a giant lying flat on his back, with the head on the far left and the feet stretching off to the right across the mountaintop.
It’s one of those fun, whimsical sights that makes you smile once you spot it.
After admiring the Sleeping Giant, we made a quick stop by the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge.
This was another gorgeous viewpoint tucked just off the roadside — a peaceful, green sanctuary that added another little slice of beauty to our drive.
Sleeping Giant near the city of Wailua on Kauai
🦅 Huleia National Wildlife Refuge
After leaving the Sleeping Giant, we made a quick stop at the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge.
Although the refuge itself isn’t open for public hiking (it’s a protected area), there are still spots nearby where you can admire the stunning scenery.
From the lookout points, you’re treated to wide open views of lush wetlands, winding rivers, and rolling green hills — a peaceful, untouched piece of Kauai that feels almost frozen in time.
I was able to capture some incredible shots here using my drone, which gave us an even better perspective of just how vast and beautiful the landscape really is.
The aerial view made the refuge feel even more serene — endless shades of green blending into the winding blue rivers below.
Even though it was a short stop, it was incredibly calming — like pressing "pause" for a moment in the middle of our adventure.
If you're passing through the area, it’s definitely worth pulling over for a few photos (or a quick drone flight if you have one!) and soaking in the peaceful beauty of this hidden gem.
🌭 A Must-Stop at Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs
By this point, it was time for lunch — and we wanted to make sure to check off another recommendation from the locals: Puka Dog Hawaiian Style Hot Dogs.
If you like hot dogs, you’ll love these. And honestly, even if you don’t like hot dogs... you’ll probably still love these. They were that good.
Each hot dog came with a variety of sauce options based on your preferred heat level, ranging from mild to "fire in your mouth."
(We, of course, had to test out a few.)
But what really set Puka Dog apart was the bun — pure genius.
Instead of slicing the bread open, they poke a hole straight down the center and slide the bun over a grill post, which toasts it from the inside out.
After toasting, they fill it with your choice of sauces and mustard, then tuck the hot dog neatly inside.
Mmmmm. So good.
Midwest people, I hate to break it to you — we’re doing it wrong!
🏖️ Lunch Stroll at Poipu Beach
Since Poipu Beach was just across the street, we decided to stroll along the sand while we ate our Puka Dogs. This beach was always a great place to visit — wide open, lively, and full of energy.
There were always plenty of people here — families playing in the waves, couples sunbathing, kids building sandcastles. It had that perfect, laid-back beach vibe.
One of the coolest moments was spotting a local fisherman casting his net along the shoreline. It was one of those timeless scenes you dream of capturing — and in my opinion, he was just begging for a picture.
🏖️ Final Afternoon at Shipwreck Beach
After we finished our Puka Dogs, we finally decided it was time to head back to Shipwreck Beach for the rest of the afternoon.
We knew we’d be there for a while, so we picked up some delicious takeout from Nutcharee’s Authentic Thai Food, located near Nalu’s South Shore Grill, so we could enjoy dinner right on the sand.
There were a lot more surfers out this time, riding the big waves — and we even stumbled upon not one, but two weddings happening at the beach!
Clearly, this was the place to be.
After a few relaxing hours soaking in the sun, we dined right there on the beach, toes in the sand, watching the world go by.
Eventually, we made our way back to our condo just in time to catch the sunset fading over the hills — the perfect way to end our last evening on Kauai.
✈️ Day 6 — From Kauai to Maui
The day had finally come to leave.
Kauai, in our eyes, was going to be extremely hard to compete with.
The lush and vibrant scenery, the kind locals, the incredible food — it all left an impression we wouldn’t soon forget.
Of course, there’s always more you could hike, more you could explore — but you can only fit so much into the time you have.
Honestly, looking back, we wouldn’t have done anything differently.
Our flight to Maui was scheduled around noon, so after waking up and checking out of our cozy condo, we headed toward the airport — but not without squeezing in one final Kauai breakfast.
We found an amazing food truck called Aloha Liege Waffles & Espresso, tucked near Nāwiliwili Harbor, just south of the airport.
Highly, highly recommend!
The waffles were pure heaven — light, crispy, and topped with vibrant fresh fruit that somehow captured the spirit of Kauai perfectly.
Pro tip: Order the BOB (Best of Both) so you can sample multiple flavors.
Trust us — you won’t regret it.
It was the perfect final bite before saying goodbye to this magical island... and getting ready for our next chapter: Maui.
🌺 First Impressions of Maui
We flew Hawaiian Airlines, and it was probably the quickest flight we’ve ever been on.
It was also pretty cool because, as we flew, we stayed low enough to see several of the islands spread out below us like jewels in the ocean.
When we finally landed in Maui, we were instantly hit by the wind — and the heat.
Compared to Kauai’s steady mid-80s temps (which somehow never felt too hot or humid — and had almost no bugs, maybe thanks to all the chickens!),
Maui felt noticeably hotter and more tropical.
The humidity wrapped around you, and yep — the bugs were real.
(For reference, we traveled in May.)
After grabbing our rental car, we wasted no time — it was still early afternoon, and our Maui adventure was officially underway.
🌴 Hitting the Road — The Adventure Begins on Maui
We were staying at the Wailea Grand Champions: Destination Residences Hawaii, located in the city of Wailea on the southwest side of the island.
Since Kahului Airport is more centered on the northern side of Maui, and we didn’t want to waste any time checking in,
we decided to kickstart our adventure immediately — by heading east along the northern coast on the infamous Road to Hana.
No time to settle. No time to unpack.
It was time to explore.
And just for reference, the pictures below will give you a better idea of where we traveled across the island of Maui.
Satellite view of our photos on Maui
Map view of our photos on Maui
🐟 Lunch Stop in Paia — Fresh Fish and Small-Town Charm
Thanks to the travel advice and expertise of GuideAlong, we made a stop in the charming little town of Paia for lunch at a place called Paia Fish Market.
The fish was incredibly fresh — you could taste the difference immediately — and there was a line stretching out the door, which is always a good sign.
Highly recommend!
This area is also packed with shops, cafes, and a handful of other great food options if you feel like wandering.
There’s a main public parking lot (and it's free!) located on the right-hand side just before you officially enter town.
If you can’t snag a spot there, you’ll likely need to find some street parking.
(Pro tip: If you’re using GuideAlong, they’ll show you exactly where to go and where to park — another reason that app is worth every penny.)
🚗 Conquering the Road to Hana — Buckle Up!
After lunch, we set out on our Road to Hana drive — and honestly, we had no idea what to expect.
Even though it’s only about 45 miles from Paia to the town of Hana, it will take a lot longer than you think.
Much longer.
If you’re planning this drive, here’s the advice I wish someone had screamed at me beforehand:
Start early.
Stock up on snacks.
Have a full tank of gas.
For those who aren’t familiar, the Road to Hana is actually part of the Hana Highway, following the northeastern coast of Maui.
It’s a 25 mph journey the entire way, packed with over 600 tight hairpin turns, 50+ one-lane bridges, and a generous helping of blind corners.
If you’re the driver, you will need 100% of your focus on the road — trust me.
Hand your camera over to whoever’s riding shotgun so they can capture the hidden waterfalls, jungle tunnels, and rivers tucked inside the curves.
(And yes — if you’re the driver, you absolutely deserve an adult beverage — or five — when you finally make it home.)
Along the route, there are occasional pull-off spots where you can park and snag a scenic overlook photo, but honestly, there aren’t many.
It’s also completely acceptable — and recommended — to let locals pass you whenever possible.
They know these twists and turns far better than any wide-eyed visitor trying to navigate it for the first time.
🏝️ Waialohe Park — A Perfect Road to Hana Pit Stop
One highly recommended stop along the Road to Hana was Waialohe Park.
This was a beautiful spot to get out, stretch your legs, and (bonus!) use the restroom if needed — a luxury not every stop along this highway offers.
On one side, you’ll find calm waters dotted with swaying palm trees, offering a peaceful place to relax for a few minutes.
On the other side, powerful waves crash dramatically against the giant rocks lining the shore at the Keanae Lookout — an absolutely stunning contrast.
Tucked just behind it all is the historic Lanakila Ihiihi O Iehowa Ona Kava Church, standing quietly amid the lush landscape.
With beautiful views, plenty of parking, and lots of open space, it’s also a perfect spot to have a quick picnic before hitting the road again.
🛣️ Halfway to Hana — and Beyond
Eventually, you’ll come to a small but famous sign: “Halfway to Hana.”
Located here are a handful of little shops — and a place to use the restroom — but unfortunately, it was closed when we stopped.
(Another reason to plan those bathroom breaks carefully on this trip!)
If you’re using the Maui GuideAlong Road to Hana Tour — which I highly recommend — the app will fill your drive with fascinating stories, local history, and important heads-ups about where the best stops are located along the way.
Pro Tip:
GuideAlong recommends two must-see hotspots before and after the town of Hana — but you’ll need reservations ahead of time:
Seven Sacred Pools located at ʻOheʻo Gulch
Sadly, we didn’t have reservations and missed both — which just means we now have a pretty solid reason to come back someday.
Moving on, we had roughly 17 miles left to reach the actual city of Hana.
And just to manage your expectations: if you’re imagining a bustling tourist town or some kind of major landmark...
you might be a little disappointed.
Hana itself is extremely quiet and low-key — but that’s kind of the charm.
We rolled through town and made a quick stop at Hāna Bay Beach Park, where we found a mostly local crowd enjoying a peaceful beach afternoon.
It definitely looked like a great spot for families to relax and swim.
Road to Hana halfway point
🍕 Wrapping Up an Epic Day — Road to Hana Return
By this time, we only had a few hours of daylight left — and personally, I wasn’t exactly thrilled about the idea of driving three hours back along the crazy winding road in the dark.
So, we decided it was time to turn around and head back toward home while we still had some sun left.
After a long (but thankfully uneventful) ride back, we found a nearby spot for dinner: Manoli’s Pizza Company — and let me tell you, it hit the spot perfectly after a day of white-knuckle driving and sightseeing.
After dinner, we headed back to the condo, took long, well-deserved showers, and relaxed for the rest of the evening.
We needed all the energy we could get — because tomorrow, another big adventure awaited!
🐠 Day 7 on Maui — Our First Snorkeling Adventure
Today was filled with both excitement and fear.
It was going to be the first time ever that Leza and I would experience snorkeling — and honestly, we had no idea what to expect.
We were excited, but let’s just say we both had a few personal concerns:
Leza was a little fearful of the water being cold.
I, on the other hand, was mostly concerned about becoming an accidental shark snack.
So... that should give you a little perspective on where our heads were at as we geared up for the day!
🌋 Snorkeling Molokini Crater — Into the Deep
Leza found our snorkeling tour through Maui Snorkel Charters — and honestly, it was spectacular.
Highly recommend!
We departed from the Kīhei Boat Landing around 7:00 AM, and our first stop was the legendary Molokini Crater.
Molokini Crater is the partially submerged remains of a volcanic eruption that occurred roughly 230,000 years ago.
Fun fact: it also served as inspiration for the visual artist who helped design the underwater world of Disney’s Finding Nemo.
During our tour, we explored two different snorkel spots inside the crescent-shaped crater, where the water was crystal clear and full of vibrant marine life.
After that, we moved to the back side of Molokini — where the sea floor drops off into the deep, dark abyss of the unknown.
It was a surreal feeling, floating above that endless blue void — something neither of us will ever forget.
🐢 Snorkeling at Turtle Town — A Peaceful Encounter
After leaving Molokini Crater, we made our way to another incredible stop: Turtle Town.
Our captain confidently assured us — even guaranteed — that we would encounter Hawaiian sea turtles here.
He delivered on that promise.
Turtle Town is located just south of Chang’s Beach, and according to our guide, it’s a popular hotspot where turtles come to relax and get cleaned by fish.
(Who knew turtles had their own built-in spa day?)
As we floated above the reef, we watched the turtles peacefully resting on the ocean floor, occasionally rising slowly to the surface for air.
It was a beautifully calming experience — almost like floating through an underwater cathedral.
There were quite a few other snorkelers in the area, but to everyone’s credit, people were very respectful of the turtles, the coral, and the overall environment.
It felt good to see travelers appreciating and protecting this amazing slice of nature.
Pro Tip:
If the tour offers a flotation belt to go around your waist — take it!
It completely changes the experience: you won’t have to focus on swimming, and you can simply drift effortlessly, soaking in the views around you.
(Trust me — totally worth it.)
🍴 Post-Snorkel Recovery — Dinner at Nalu’s South Shore Grill
After an unforgettable morning of snorkeling, it was time to head back.
We returned to the dock, thanked the awesome crew, and then immediately made our way back to the hotel to shower off our salt-soaked bodies.
By this point, we were starving, so we set out to find some food — and we struck gold.
We ended up at Nalu’s South Shore Grill, located just north of Kihei.
The food and service were so good, we actually came back again a couple of days later!
Definitely a must-visit spot if you’re looking for fresh, flavorful meals and laid-back island vibes.
🌳 Exploring Lahaina — A Town Full of Charm
With our stomachs full, GuideAlong led us up the northwestern coast to the historic city of Lahaina.
Lahaina is a wonderful place to stop and slow down a bit — a small town filled with charming shops, cozy local restaurants, and a laid-back atmosphere that naturally encourages you to just be in the moment.
As you wander through town, you’ll find a historic school and museum nearby, along with Lāhainā Banyan Court Park, home to an enormous and truly mesmerizing Banyan tree.
This single tree is so massive that it looks like an entire forest — with dozens of trunks and roots twisting and weaving together into one living, breathing natural wonder.
It’s definitely a must-see stop — and a perfect place to grab a bench, people-watch, and appreciate the magic of Maui for a while.
🏖️ Stopping at Kāʻanapali Beach — Sun, Shops, and Plenty of Sand
Our next stop was the famous Kāʻanapali Beach.
Here, we found plenty of shopping, great restaurants, and even options for boat tours departing right from the beach.
Of course, the beach itself was absolutely gorgeous — wide open, soft sand, and very family-friendly with lots of space to spread out.
That said — a little heads-up about parking:
Parking was definitely a bit chaotic.
We eventually found a nearby paid parking ramp, but just know that the whole area is pretty packed, surrounded by hotels, resorts, and shopping centers.
If you’re planning a visit, leave yourself extra time to find a spot and maybe bring a little patience along with your beach towel.
🌈 A Rainbow to Top It All Off
As we left Kāʻanapali Beach, we spotted a rainbow off in the distance — one of those "pull over now!" moments.
We turned down a random side street to get a better view, hopped out of the car, and just soaked it all in.
Another picture-perfect moment — the kind you can’t plan for, but end up remembering forever.
🏝️ Discovering D.T. Fleming Park
One thing about these islands — there are so many beaches and parks that it’s almost impossible to visit just one!
As we continued our journey along the coast, we stumbled across D.T. Fleming Park.
It was a quiet, peaceful spot when we visited — hardly anyone around, just the sound of the waves and the breeze through the trees.
The water here was calm and inviting, and it definitely felt like the kind of beach where families could easily spend a full day relaxing, swimming, and letting the kids run free.
🌊 Nakalele Blowhole — Nature’s Power on Display
By this point, we had made it to the northwestern tip of West Maui, with our final destination of the day being the legendary Nakalele Blowhole.
This was another fantastic recommendation we picked up from GuideAlong — and it did not disappoint.
It’s a beautiful, rugged location that somehow doesn’t feel overly packed with tourists, which made the experience even better.
There’s a short hike down to the blowhole itself, where you can watch powerful bursts of ocean water shoot high into the air through the rocky shore.
It’s absolutely worth the trip — just be prepared with some good hiking shoes.
Although the hike isn’t super long, there are multiple paths to explore along the rocky coastline, and footing can be tricky in places.
Fun Fact:
There’s a famous heart-shaped rock somewhere near the blowhole — but unfortunately, we didn’t know about it during our visit, so we missed it.
(Maybe you’ll have better luck!)
Safety Tip:
If you have little ones with you, definitely keep a watchful eye.
The rocks can be slippery, and some areas are steep.
As the local sign wisely says:
"This is not a waterpark."
Take it seriously and stay a safe distance from the blowhole itself — rogue waves can be dangerous.
Overall, this spot is 100% worth adding to your Maui travel list — it’s a powerful, awe-inspiring display of nature's energy that you won't soon forget.
🌅 Sunset at Hanakaoʻo Park — A Perfect End to the Day
The afternoon was fading fast, so we decided to head back and get some rest — especially because our next adventurewas starting at 1:30 AM!
(More on that soon...)
Of course, we couldn’t resist pulling over for the sunset.
We didn’t have any particular spot in mind — we just drove until we found a place that felt right.
That place turned out to be Hanakaoʻo Park, just north of the town of Lahaina.
There were plenty of locals out fishing, enjoying picnics, and soaking in the last light of the day.
While we didn’t see too many people swimming, the sunset didn’t disappoint.
It was the perfect peaceful ending to an incredible day — and a beautiful reminder of why Maui steals so many hearts.
🌄 An Early Night — Preparing for the Haleakalā Sunrise
With the sunset behind us, it was time to head back for an early night.
We needed all the rest we could get — because our next big adventure was the legendary Haleakalā Sunrise.
(And yes, that meant a very early wake-up call... but totally worth it!)
🛻🌄 Day 8 on Maui — Chasing the Sunrise at Haleakalā
1:30 AM came a lot quicker than we would have liked.
We had almost an hour-and-a-half drive ahead of us to reach the top of Haleakalā Peak — the crown jewel of Haleakalā National Park, and the highest point on Maui, rising 10,023 feet above sea level.
In Hawaiian, Haleakalā means "House of the Sun," and once you see the sunrise from here, you’ll understand why.
Important Tip:
If you plan on visiting, you'll need advance reservations to view the sunrise.
Be sure to visit the Haleakalā National Park Summit Sunrise Reservations website to snag your spot early — they fill up fast!
🚙 The Climb to the Stars
The drive itself was an adventure.
It was a dark, steep climb up the winding mountainside — and at one point, we even encountered a random cow in the road.
He looked a little confused (honestly, same), but we crept by slowly and continued on our way toward the summit.
When we finally arrived at the Haleakalā Visitor Center, it was still pitch black, and we had a couple of hours before the sun would make its appearance.
So we set an alarm for 5:00 AM and grabbed a little more sleep in the car.
🌅 Waiting for Magic
At around 5:00 AM, the parking lot started to stir with more people arriving.
We bundled up and made our way toward the viewpoint.
Pro Tip:
It’s cold at the summit — like, really cold.
Temperatures dropped to just under 40°F while we were there.
Bring layers: sweatshirts, jackets, pants, blankets — whatever you can cram into your car, bring it.
You’ll thank yourself when you're not freezing while waiting for the first rays of sun to break over the horizon.
🌄🍳 Sunrise Reflections and a Well-Earned Breakfast
The sunrise at Haleakalā is slow and steady — and honestly, it’s worth staying for about an hour or so after the initial rise.
Watching the sun creep down into the crater valley and paint the landscape in gold and pink is absolutely breathtaking.
If you're planning this adventure, don't rush off right away — let the changing light reveal the full beauty of the scenery around you.
Gorgeous views — highly, highly recommend!
🍴 Breakfast at Kula Lodge — A Hidden Gem
After such a magical morning, we were definitely hungry.
As we made our way back down Haleakalā Highway, we stopped at a cozy spot called Kula Lodge.
(If you take the same route, you’ll probably pass it too!)
The food was excellent, the views were spectacular, and the gardens behind the restaurant were filled with vibrant flowers and lush greenery — almost like a bonus mini botanical garden experience.
If you're anywhere near this area after your Haleakalā trip, I highly recommend stopping here to refuel, relax, and soak in a little more Maui magic.
🌋 Exploring Maui’s Rugged Southern Tip — The Lava Fields
With brunch behind us, we were ready to knock out a few more tours from our GuideAlong app.
Next up: the southern tip of Maui.
We made our way down to the Lava Fields, just past the ‘Āhihi-Kīna‘u Natural Area Reserve — about as far south as you can drive before the island becomes untamed wilderness.
This was such a neat and unexpected area.
At first, we didn’t even realize what we were seeing — but on both sides of the road were giant black volcanic rocks, remnants of an ancient eruption from long, long ago.
The landscape felt like another planet.
Much of the area is preserved and blocked off to protect the lava rocks — and honestly, they looked extremely sharp.
I would not recommend trying to hike across them unless you enjoy turning your ankles into hamburger.
There are hiking trails nearby for those looking to explore more safely, and there’s also a scenic beach tucked into the coastline.
It’s not exactly the kind of beach where you spread out your towel and relax, but it’s definitely a picture-perfect spot— dramatic, raw, and unforgettable.
🏖️ Afternoon at Big Beach (Mākena State Park)
With the early afternoon upon us, we decided to grab some snacks and head to the beach.
Our choice: Big Beach, nestled within Mākena State Park, situated between Makena Beach and Little Beach.
🏝️ Traveler Tip:
If you’re looking for a beach where clothing is a little more "optional," you might want to head over to Little Beach.
(We stuck to Big Beach — but according to the locals... you may see a little more than you bargained for!)
Big Beach itself was gorgeous — plenty of room, soft sand, and a lively yet relaxed vibe.
One downside: parking.
We had to pay $20 to park for the day.
Coming from Kauai — where we never once paid for parking — it felt like a bit of a bummer.
It seemed that many of Maui’s popular public beaches required parking or entry fees.
At Mākena State Park, the official rates for non-residents are:
$10 per vehicle
$5 per person entry fee
While the fees contribute to park maintenance and amenities, they can definitely add up, especially if you're traveling with family.
That said, there are still beaches and parks around Maui that don’t charge — you just have to seek them out.
Despite the extra cost, we were eager to relax, soak in a few more lazy hours on the sand, and savor every moment of Maui’s beauty.
🍽️ Last Evening Deliberations
After basking in the sun and enjoying our final beach day, it was time to head back, shower off the salt and sand, and contemplate dinner options.
Being our last evening on Maui, we faced the delightful but difficult dilemma:
Where should we eat?
With so many enticing restaurants, it was almost impossible to choose — and honestly, we just weren’t ready for this adventure to end.
🎶🍤 Last Night in Kihei — A Perfect Send-Off
As good fortune would have it, we picked the perfect place for our final dinner in Maui.
We ended up at Ohana Seafood Bar and Grill, located right next door to the popular Kihei Caffe.
(Pro Tip: If you're near Kihei Caffe — you're already in a great food zone!)
The atmosphere at Ohana was fantastic —
amazing food, delicious drinks, and even a live band playing into the night.
Located right in the heart of Kihei, it felt like the entire town was alive.
The restaurant sits on a semi-busy corner, with people strolling by, shops buzzing, and a skate park across the street adding to the fun, laid-back vibe.
It felt like the perfect blend of local energy and Hawaiian hospitality —
the kind of place where you want to stay and savor every last moment.
If you're in this area, definitely carve out time to explore the local shops and other restaurants too.
I would highly recommend stopping here — you won’t be disappointed!
🎶🌙 A Night to Remember
Our flight the next day wasn’t until 8 PM, which meant we had nothing officially scheduled — a rare treat — and could sleep in a little later if we wanted.
As for the band we listened to at Ohana Seafood Bar and Grill, we’re still not sure what they were called — but we do remember it was the drummer’s first night playing with them. (And honestly, he crushed it!)
The band had the crowd dancing, singing, and smiling — even random passersby on the sidewalk would stop to listen and sway to the music.
This is the way life should be lived.
After a night filled with local laughter, great food, and excellent live music,
we headed home with full hearts, tired feet, and the biggest smiles.
🌋🍽️ Day 9 on Maui — One Last Taste of Paradise
This was officially our last day on the island.
We slept in a little — but not too much.
We wanted to make the most of every remaining moment, so after checking out of our hotel early, we set off for one final day of exploring.
First stop: food.
We had almost no energy left to hunt down someplace new, so we decided to visit Nalu's South Shore Grill one more time.
We usually don’t eat at the same place twice when traveling, but it was just that good — and we knew we wouldn’t be disappointed.
And again... the food was amazing.
One fun little detail we noticed this time:
they even put edible glitter in some of their drinks —
giving them a swirling, volcano-like shimmer inside the glass. 🌋✨
(Next time, I'll definitely have to try one!)
🛍️✨ Exploring Paia — A Touch of Peace
After lunch, we decided to head back to the streets of Paia to check out the local shops.
When we first arrived on Maui, we had driven through here on our way to the Road to Hana,
but we didn’t take the time to stop and explore — and now we were glad we did.
There are lots of shops, great places to eat, and beautiful beaches nearby.
Paia has this vibrant yet relaxed energy that just invites you to wander.
While exploring, we came across the Maui Dharma Center and The Great Lha Bab Peace Stupa.
(The Stupa Grounds are sacred and meant as a place for prayer, peace, and reflection.)
Needless to say, we spun the prayer wheels, walked the sacred grounds, and made a few wishes of our own.
Both Leza and I are always mesmerized by different cultures and traditions —
and whenever we’re able, we love participating, even in the smallest ways.
It’s these quiet, unexpected moments that often leave the biggest imprint on a trip.
⛰️🌈 Final Adventures — ʻĪao Valley & a Rainbow Goodbye
We were still full from lunch, so what better way to walk it off than to find another beach?
After leaving Paia, we made a quick stop at Baldwin Beach Park, which was very close by.
It’s a great family-friendly beach with plenty of space, lots of shade from the trees, and tons of parking — although it was pretty packed when we visited!
A great spot to stretch your legs and soak in the final rays of Maui sunshine.
After our final beach stop, we decided to check out one last location:
ʻĪao Valley State Monument — another spot recommended by our trusty GuideAlong app.
(And once again, GuideAlong did not let us down.)
ʻĪao Valley is home to the ʻĪao Needle State Monument —
a towering spire of rock nestled deep in a lush, rainy valley.
It’s a site of great cultural significance, as well as breathtaking natural beauty.
There is a parking fee for the main lot, but honestly, you can easily find free street parking nearby.
It’s only about a five-minute walk to reach the park entrance.
We hiked a short trail along the water, soaking in the vivid greens, rushing streams, and towering peaks around us.
We didn’t have a lot of time left before our flight, so we kept our hike to around 30 minutes.
Even if you don't want to hike much, it’s absolutely worth visiting.
There are well-maintained steps leading to different lookout points,
and the whole valley feels like it's alive with color.
Rain is pretty common here, so be prepared —
it started sprinkling lightly while we explored, but the rain quickly passed and gave way to a beautiful rainbow.
(See if you can spot it in the photos below! 🌈)
🍧 One Last Sweet Stop — Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
After our quick visit to ʻĪao Needle State Monument,
we made one final stop for the ultimate Maui treat:
Shave Ice at Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice in Wailuku.
And honestly?
Just take our word for it — if you’re ever in Maui, you have to try it.
Soft, flavorful, and absolutely perfect —
it was the sweetest way to wrap up our unforgettable adventure.
🌺 Mahalo for Traveling With Us
Our tastebuds were satisfied —
and it was officially time for our honeymoon adventure to come to an end and head back to reality.
If you’re ever thinking about going to Hawaii — just do it.
You won’t regret it.
Kauai and Maui are absolutely beautiful places to visit —
each with their own unique charm, adventure, and breathtaking landscapes.
And if you’ve made it this far through our travel journal — thank you!
I applaud you for sticking with us on this epic journey.
(I know it was a long one, but hopefully it was worthwhile — filled with photos, tips, and inspiration for your own travels!)
Thanks again for reading —
and we can’t wait to share our next adventure with you soon!
🌴🌺🌈 Until next time... Aloha!
📸 Want more island inspiration?
Explore our full Hawaii Travel Photo Guide ➔
