A Day in the Life of a Maui Tourist

Touching down onto the OGG tarmac is a thing of blood pressure reducing blissfulness. Only this airport can take me away to pure bliss. Traffic? No problem. Luggage to drag around? Not a problem. Trying to get used to the humidity? Oh, I love it. As you can see, I love Maui! Maui No Ka Oi!

I go get my rental, and then head straight to my condo at the Kamaole Sands Resort – a condo resort of over 400 condos right across the street from Kamaole Beach Park III.  I will never forget my first time there in South Kihei – yes, like my first kiss. My wife and I just got married.  We arrived in the evening.  And, as we drove down South Kihei the long way, we saw people walking down the sidewalk makai side. They were perfectly happy walking and enjoying the scene as the sunset was at its last glorious streams of red and yellow. I thought to myself, “This is where I want to be”.

Two years later, we got our first condo in Maui!  It was in Maui Banyan resort, not far from Kamaole Sands.

Maui Banyan is a medium sized resort with about 220 condos also right across from the beach – Kamaole Beach Park II.  During our subsequent trips back to Aloha, we learned more about what to do as a “tourist” (I call Maui Aloha because that’s exactly what it is. Yes, very cheesy or I might say very macadamia nutty). Now, remember this list.

1. Try to book a car rental off of OGG – they charge less. Cheaper rental = happy renter. I like Aloha Rent a Car. They have older models but I’m not complaining.
2. Costco. Go there for water and groceries.  But, don’t get too much.  Just the ones you know will be consumed. Get the Maui chips. I know it’s not made in Maui. But, it’s good enough to finish the whole large bag for that long Road to Hana! Check out this Road to Hana Itinerary to get ready.
3. Foodland in Kihei. This is where you get stuff you don’t want to get from Costco like toilet paper, poke, detergent, etc.
4. Make sure you book Mama’s Fish House a couple of months beforehand. Expensive food – but, worth it.  I like to save it at the end of our trip to end with a big Aloha.
5. Road to Hana. Check the tips for safe driving in Maui, and then do it. And, buy a “I survived the road to Hana” T-shirt. Take your time and enjoy.
6. Sunny Kihei is a great home base for all your Maui adventures. Enjoy your vacation!

That’s all I have to say for now. I have so much to share. There might be a part II.  But, I rather be thinking of the OGG tarmac.  I hope you get to enjoy Aloha as much as I do or more!

Aloha.

About Maui Banyan

Maui Banyan resort is home to several of majestic banyan trees, hence the name. It boasts lush tropical landscaping, two swimming pools, jet spas, tennis courts, a putting green, a gas barbecue and picnic areas. Maui Banyan is located just across Kamaole Beach Park II – one of the best swimming beaches on Maui and is a short walk to Kamaole Beach Park I to the north and Kamaole Beach Park III to the south. All three beach parks have free parking, public restrooms and showers. Dining and shopping as well as many ocean activities are within walking distance.