Maui Coverage

Hawaii—it’s one of those destinations that’s exotic yet familiar at the same time. The United States’ slice of paradise; a group of volcanic islands that comprise a beach and rainforest oasis in the middle of the Pacific with Asian and Polynesian influences, but without the need for a passport, another language or currency conversions.

This issue we’re featuring Maui and the Big Island. Both are great places for families, especially Maui, with its many resorts and kids clubs. The Big Island offers up more adventurous exploration, such as lava tube treks, which TravelMuse featured a couple months ago. Also, in December 2008 look for the soft reopening of the legendary Mauna Kea Beach Resort on the Big Island, after a $150 million repair and renovation following its closure in June 2007 after earthquakes damaged the property. Its grand re-opening is scheduled for March 2009.

Dana Young, one of our two fabulous PR mavens, is married to a Hawaiian and loves to visit the islands with him and their children. Hana is her favorite part of Maui and says the cottages at the Hotel Hana Maui are amazing. She also says to be sure to check out the Seven Sacred Pools, black sand beach and red sand beach stops on the road to Hana.

As for the Big Island, she strongly recommends stopping at “Punalu’u for killer malasadas and delicious Hawaiian sweetbreads (onolicious!!) and the Hawaiian Style Café in Waimea. Loco Moco, chicken-fried steak, humongous portions at cheap prices—my husband wanted to eat there for breakfast, lunch and dinner.”

Her kids’ favorite activity was going “turtling” at night in a golf cart at the Four Seasons Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu. “The resort is totally kid friendly, and we saw sea turtle after sea turtle that night. They also have their own enclosed marine area where you can feed manta rays.”

I’m sold!