Post #487080 by Hibiscus on Thu, Oct 8, 2009 11:05 AM

As for drinks at La Mariana - we never make it past the mai tais, so have fun experimenting! BTW, they're selling their own signature mugs now, designed by one of the waitresses, so that's worth a look.

There are plenty of great drives and day trips on Maui. The most famous, of course, if you have the time and fortitude, is the Road to Hana...http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/drives/maui/rthp1.htm has some information about it. Miles of twisty road with tiny, single-lane bridges and multiple waterfalls - a must-see.

Another option is the scenic Iao Valley. Stop at a little cafe in nearby Wailuku and people-watch. You never know who may come in and sit down next to you - Mick Fleetwood came in when we were there. Another beautiful spot nearby is the Maui Tropical Plantation, if you're into flowers at all. You can make your own lei at Aunty Pua's lei hut. Ma'alaea Harbor is a pretty place to stop for dinner - you can look out over the boats and out to Haleakala beyond.

Speaking of which, it's really worth going to the top of Haleakala to see the Mars-like landscape and Science City, and the breathtaking view across to the Big Island. On the way down, you can explore some of the upcountry farms, like Ali'i Kula Lavender farm, or stop at the funky little paniolo town of Makawao.

Lahaina has a great arts and crafts fair on certain Sundays, right under the giant banyan tree - tiki carvers, painters, jewelry, etc. The Old Lahaina Luau is worth doing, but they fill up months in advance - the luau is right on the beach and really well produced. If you can't get in to the evening show, they have a breakfast buffet/show/cultural events and talks thing called Ho'omanao which might be fun. Lots of great Hawaiian cultural stuff and photo ops.

Sorry for the dissertation here - I guess what you can take away is that you'll have plenty to do in Maui!