The Old Lahaina Laua is a must - they're booked a month ahead, but call to see if they have cancellations, they often do. The North road to Kahului was a blast, even more fun than the road to Hana, but both are a must if you like one-lane roads with lots of hairpin turns and one-lane bridges. Breathtaking views of green cliffs plunging down to gorgeous beaches which invite you to stop, park, and wander down to the beach. Waterfalls plunge down the sides of the hills around every corner, orchids bloom wild along the side of the hill, and flowers explode into view around every corner.
Big Mama's Fish House - Wow! Expensive, but worth it. The menu is dated, with each fresh catch listed by the captain and boat who caught it, where, and with what tackle. No wonder it tasted great! The service is fantasic, and so are the prices!
Roy's Kanaha Grill is great, especially Roy's signature dessert, Chocolate Souffle Cake.
Maui Ocean Center is a must, but so is snorkeling. Even in three feet of watet, the fish are incredible.
Quick Tips:
Spend a day or two in Lahaina, a town with lots of history. The Whaler Museum in the Whaler Village Mall has great artifacts and lively descriptions of whaling times in the Islands. All the beaches are free access - you can walk right next to a hotel or house and go to a beach. Check the guidebooks for the best snorkeling and swimming beaches.
Best Way To Get Around:
You must have a car. It takes at least an hour to get from Kahalui airport to the West side where most of the condos and timeshares are. Driving time on Maui is nothing like Mainland time. Average driving speed is 35 to 40 miles per hour. Once you are in an area like Lahaina or Kahana, you can park your car and walk.