Aloha! So excited that travel restrictions are lifting and off we go to Maui! To get travel ready, be sure you check your airline’s website as they will have the requirements to enter the country you are flying to. For the US, we were required to get a negative rapid antigen test. There are many places you can get this done. The most economical I found was either Costco or Walmart. They don’t release their appointment schedule that far in advance so best to keep monitoring. Upon check in, we were asked if we completed the attestation form, found on the airline travel ready site, and to see the negative CoVid test so be sure you have handy.
We flew Air Canada to Maui nonstop which was great. I thought the flight would be full but surprisingly it had less than 40 passengers on board. Masks are required the moment we entered the airport as well as during the flight except for when you consumed beverages and food. The flight crew reminded us frequently on the flight.
As we cleared customs in Calgary, upon arrival, it was very straightforward after disembarkation to scoop our luggage which was delivered within 20 minutes. Recently, Hawaii lifted its mask mandate and really the only time we had to wear one was at the airport.
Having a car is a must if you want to freely explore Maui. It’s easy to drive and navigate around. Book early to make sure you get one. New to me from the last time I visited Maui, 2019, was the car shuttle tram from the arrivals level to the various car rental desks. Very efficient and runs frequently. With the car, getting to the hote, was very easy. The roads are well maintained and signage easy.
We stayed in the Wailea area at the Residence Inn by Marriott. It’s a condo-like experience. Our accommodation for the week was in a one bedroom suite with a fully equipped kitchen, complimentary Wi-Fi and furnished balconies. Even with a car rental, we enjoyed their on-site shuttle service to anywhere in the Wailea area. This came in handy when you wanted to enjoy a leisurely dinner and not worry about driving after a few drinks or go to a nearby beach(es). You can take advantage of their convenient grocery shopping service. Grocery stores are nearby. Just a short walk or take the hotel shuttle service to pick up some grocery items at the Island Gourmet Markets, Whalers General Store, or the ABC Store in the Shops at Wailea complex. There’s a state-of-the-art fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights. Daily the hotel offered a free, hot and fresh breakfast buffet, and you unwind in the evenings with refreshments from their on-site bar. This area is great for those who like to golf, take in some retail shopping, walk, run, or relax at. They are many hotels and rental properties to choose from. We’re at the tail end of spring break and it’s not overcrowded. Whether you are a first time or repeat visitor to Maui, there are lots of activities to entertain you.
If you are a foodie, there are lots of restaurants with different kinds of cuisine. Mama’s Fish House is one of most popular here. They book up to six months in advance so if you want to go, start planning. One we like is Monkeypods in Wailea and if you like pizza, try Manoli’s. In Kihei, there’s a great Mexican restaurant called Fred’s Cantina. If you want to try some traditional Hawaiian food, definitely go to a luau. It’s a must do as a visitor to Hawaii. A good one is at the Grand Wailea.
Some of our activities during the week included going whale watching in Lahaina. There are loads of whale watching companies to choose from. We went with Makai Adventures, only 20 guests per departure, and had epic sightings. We came across a momma and baby humpback whale pair, then we came upon these four males that were in ‘competition’ for the interest of a female to be able to be the one to mate with her. They were kind of brawling with each other trying to wear the other down so one by one they would get tired and leave. Very fortunate to see a bottlenose dolphin as well as a school of spinner dolphins. As we were in Maui at the tail end of the whale migration through the islands, all this was bonus.
After the excursion, we roamed around Lahaina which offers great stores on Front Street, oceanfront restaurants, and stunning mountain scenery. Depending how long you spend in Lahaina, you could make your way to Kaanapali. A very popular place for families to stay. Known for its great beach.
Another place we went to was the Maui Tropical Plantation. We took their trolley tour which was a great way to see the variety of fruits, produce, and plants that grow on the island. Along the way we got to see a coconut husking and opening demonstration.
Whenever in Maui, we visit the North Shore community of Paia. It is an artistic community, with galleries featuring local artists. Has great restaurants, interesting shops, and the best natural food store on the island. Not an easy place to park but well worth the visit. It’s also the starting point to travel the road to Hana. You will be cruising through one of the most fertile environments in all of Hawaii, one that is superabundant with Hawaiian flora and fauna. There are many ancient Hawaiian historical sites, waterfalls, valleys, and the most draw-dropping views on the entire island.
It is a very winding road so those who suffer from vertigo and motion sickness, be aware.
Our trip home was so straightforward. We came back after April 1 so did not need to get proof of a negative Covid test. One less thing to worry about or must plan for. We completed ArriveCan as you must do so to return to Canada. You will be asked to show the QR receipt upon airport check in as well as show your proof of being fully vaccinated. Upon arrival, we didn’t get called upon for a random Covid test, but you could be.
If you want to hear more about my recent experience to Maui or enquire about your trip there, please contact me.
Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before travelling. OnantaForbes.com does not endorse travelling against government advisories.
