aggiederelict said:
Bring good trail shoes. It can get muddy up in the high country.
Lived on the west side of Maui in 2017/18.
Feel free to email me with any questions. Username at gmail.
Did plenty of hiking, golfing, exploring.
Few quick hitters.
-will always recommend Hana, but stay out there one night. Way more fun if you aren't trying to cram it into one day. 7 sacred ponds hike prob my favorite activity out there.
-My favorite places to eat were probably Tin Roof (super casual spot by the airport) and Merrimans or Plantation House Brunch. Also Japengo at the Hyatt. Mamas is so far away from wherever you're probably staying. To me, it's overhyped for the drive.
Forget what it's called but you can hike around the old golf course in Kapalua which was a good one. Or the windmill hike (by the wind turbines on your way to the west side). Waihee ridge is cool but always so muddy. Hiking down into Haleakala crater is great, but it's a beating getting back out. So be prepared. Buddy and I backpacked in there and camped out and was one of my favorite memories in Maui.
Favorite beaches were probably Airport beach, Honolua bay (very unique experience walking through "the jungle" to get there. And who doesn't love wild chickens, and Kapalua bay (last two are usually a sea turtle guarantee. They like to hang out on the edges of the bays by the rocks).
I also really enjoyed going to Maui wines in upcountry for the views. And the general store across the street is good eats. It's something to pair w Haleakala.
If you're staying around Kihei/wailea, Maui brew co. Is also a nice spot to just relax and take in the surroundings.
Shooting from the hip here so feel free to reach out for any specifics.
Also, whale season is ~Dec-April. I would not spend money doing a tour outside that. And even if it is whale season, spend money doing a snorkel excursion or a ferry out to Lanai and you'll see whales on the way.