Escape to Wailea: Luxury Abounds in South Maui

Whale Watching - Likely the most WHALE-known activity - grab your binoculars or even just take a peek from the view of your resort balcony. Humpback whales fill the waters outside of Maui from mid-December through the end of April. Take a boat tour to see and hear these magnificent creatures up close!

Snorkel Molokini - Molokini Crater is just a few minutes sailing from the shores of Wailea. Hope aboard a sailing yacht and be prepared to experience some of the best snorkeling the world has to offer. You’ll likely see lots of exotic fish and my personal favorite - sea turtles!

Road to Hana - The road to Hana is a full day trip experience in my opinion. Rent a car and head up the coast and along the winding road. Download an audio guide that shares the history of the island and points out unique and interesting stops along the way. From hidden food stands to gorgeous waterfalls this is a journey you won’t want to miss.

ʻĪao Valley State Monument - Want to see gorgeous mountains and lush jungle? Then go no further than the ʻĪao Valley State Monument. Check out the visitors center and learn about the history of King Kamehameha. The park now requires out of state visitors to make a reservation - but it is well worth it!

Beaches - Grab your sunscreen, pull up a beach chair and plop open that umbrella! There’s no shortage of beaches in Wailea including Wailea beach adjacent to both the Four Seasons and the Grand Wailea. These beaches are kept in wonderful condition and are perfect for families. There’s plenty of room and affords the opportunity to relax and watch a beautiful sunset in the evening.

Wailea Walking Path - Along almost the entirety of Wailea is a walking path that connects the major resorts and shopping while offering breathtaking views of the ocean. This is a perfect trail for a morning or afternoon stroll (and I highly recommend going for a walk at least once a day!).

Shopping & Art - The Shops at Wailea offer a variety of restaurants, high end shopping and of course it wouldn’t be a trip to Hawai'i without an ABC convenience store. There are also many fine art dealers highlighting beautiful pieces by local and international artists. Don’t forget to stock up on some snacks at the Island Gourmet Market (or even stop by for breakfast and lunch!).

Humuhumunukunukuapua'a: This staple at the Grand Wailea recently went through a refresh and menu update. Highlighting outstanding seafood from the area with a dining area design to make you feel like you are eating on your own little island. Make a reservation near sunset and prepare to be treated to one of my favorite views on the island.

Duo Steak & Seafood: Whether you are stopping in for their one-of-a-kind breakfast buffet or booking a reservation for dinner, Duo is an outstanding offering located at the Four Seasons hotel. If you visit more than once, then the friendly staff will certainly remember your name. It’s a wonderful restaurant offering steak and seafood fare that you’d expect from the name with truly incredible service.

Ferraro's: Another offering by the Four Seasons, this one offering lunch and dinner with an Italian/Mediterranean inspired menu. This establishment has also recently got a few lovely upgrades and dinners are sure to appreciate a prime view of the ocean while dining under the newly installed shade.

Hotel Wailea Restaurant: The Hotel Wailea is an adults only resort - but the restaurant welcomes diners of all ages. Try the chef’s course for an excellent meal with a great elevated view of the Wailea coast. The scallops if available, are extraordinary.

Lineage: A local Asian fusion restaurant - it’s got great flavors and is located in the Shops at Wailea. I’d recommend a reservation for here as well as the wait can be quite long at prime time.

Mama’s Fish House - This isn’t in Wailea - but who cares? This is the best restaurant in Hawai'i, and possibly the world if you ask me. The fish is fresh, and caught daily by a local fisherman. The ambience, the food and the service are all quintessential Hawai'i. This place books up quickly, you will likely need to plan months, if not a year in advance, if you want to secure a reservation - but to say its worth it is an understatement.

Lappert’s Ice Cream - There’s usually a line here, and that’s because its an iconic Hawai'ian ice cream chain. Anything with macadamia nut is my favorite, but there are plenty of uniquely Hawai'ian and classic flavors here. I’d recommend getting a cone and grabbing a seat in the nearby remodeled plaza.

Honolulu Cookie Company - This is a great place to grab a souvenir for friends and family back home. These classic shortbread cookies come in a variety of flavors such as lilikoi or go for a classic macadamia nut.