Beachfront Maui Condo Rental

THE AREA AND ITS ACTIVITIES

Along the south shore of Maui is the quiet Ma’alaea village which sits on Ma’alaea Bay. This is the first stop for the humpback whales every winter on their way to their breeding grounds where they will eventually give birth. During the winter months the whales can be seen from the beach, our lanai or from boats out on the ocean. The local Ma’alaea Harbor is the launching site for an armada of pleasure boats taking visitors on sunset/dinner cruses, trips to another island or on a snorkeling trip to Molokini. There you can see turtles, dolphins and even sharks. During winter the boats go on whale watching expeditions. Within a short drive is golf for adults, and miniature golf for the kids, amusement parks, fishing, horseback riding, shopping, restaurants, museums, live theater with hula dancers, sightseeing, swimming, snorkeling/diving, boating, sailing, surfing, windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing, rafting, hiking, biking and almost anything else you could think of.

Up the coast about 25 minutes, is the historical town of Lahaina with its famous Front Street, which is lined with shops, restaurants and art galleries. Lahaina was once Hawaii’s Royal Capital and is well known for it’s mix of 1800’s buildings, the amazing Banyan Tree Park, museums and the Lahaina harbor. Ten minutes from the condo in the opposite direction is the 'laid-back' town of Kihei. There you can rent jet skis for an exciting ride on the ocean or hunt for treasures at a street fair. Bird watchers and nature lovers will also find something to enjoy. At the north end of Kihei is the national Wildlife Conservation District, Keälia Pond, where endangered Hawaiian stilts and coots thrive in a salt-water marsh that is easily visible from the road. Almost within walking distance of the condo and just down the street is the renowned Maui Ocean Center, an aquarium with a walk thru tunnel to view fish and sharks, making you feel like you were walking under the sea. It is an amazing experience and well worth the $18 admission. There are shops, galleries, and four highly rated restaurants.

HEAVENLY HANA

The drive to Hana and the Oheo Gulch, home of Seven Sacred Pools is an unforgettable trip. The twisting narrow road weaves in and out of sea cliffs, mountains and valleys, fragrant rainforests and jungles of palms and ferns. The all day event is a must. There you will experience the 'real' Hawaii. During the drive is the opportunity to stop the car, hike a short distance and swim under waterfalls. Along the unspoiled coast, you will see lava tubes, blowholes, and black sand beaches. Don’t forget to visit the Keanae Village, to buy fresh baked banana bread. Just be sure you check all the 'mile markers' so you don’t miss anything. Stop at them and have your camcorder ready. It’s a wonderful journey not to be missed where a full day of incomparable sights awaits your discovery.

PLACES TO DINE: As of 2019. At Ma’alaea Harbor, just down Hauoli Street, (1/4 mile), a 8 to 9 minute walk or 1 minute car ride. Things change quickly on Maui, so these places may change in the future.

Tante's Restaurant and Fish Market On the upper level with harbor views. Their seafood menu is excellent. Great variety of dishes, from Ahi Poke, to Lobster. Nice Kid's menu. They sell fresh caught seafood. Upscale, nice decor. Lunch & Dinner.
10:30am - 8:30pm. 4 stars on Yelp.

Beach Bum's  Fun harbor-front spot offering breakfast followed by barbecue & grill fare with laid-back style. Nightly live music. A good place to have a drink, relax and enjoy the views. Daily 8:00am – 9:00pm. 4 stars on Yelp.

The Ma’alaea Grill  in a historic building, now a Cafe with views of harbor. After ordering your food, sit outside on stools facing the harbor. Not fancy, a store with small cafe. Large menu. 6:00 am – 6:00 pm. Kitchen closes 3:00pm. 4 stars on Yelp.

Seascape Restaurant is located inside the renowned Maui Ocean Center. When not visiting the Ocean Center, they have an entrance facing the harbor, on the lower lever. It is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Upscale place over-looking the harbor and ocean, with amazing views. 11:00 am – 8:30 pm. Dinner prices (2019) $28 to $48. 4 stars on Yelp. Within the Seascape is the Reef Café. On the lighter side of dining, offers an assortment of food ready to go including sandwiches, salads, and homemade pizzas, or open seating in a casual outdoor atmosphere. A variety of snacks and desserts. 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Thai Paradise Guests will be very surprised by the quality of the Thai foods they make. One guest wrote “I eat a lot of Thai food. With low quality Thai dishes, they usually over-power the taste to cover a lack of ingredients. Their yellow curry flavor was just right and well balanced”. Lots of veggie options and the servings are generous. Opens at 11:00 am. 4 ½ stars on Yelp.

Carls Jr is a drive-thru and walk up restaurant located next to the Union 76 gas station on the exit off Honoapiilani Hwy, at entrance to Maalaea to Hauoli street.

LOCAL CONVENIENCE STORES:

Circle K - located next to Carls Jr and the Union 76 gas station on Honoapiilani Hwy. They have extended hours, coffee, snacks, drinks of all kinds, local newspapers and maps.

The Tradewinds Mart & Deli is located on the lower level under the Ma’alaea Mermaid. It is at the far end of the building next to the ocean towards the harbor area. Their hours are 9 AM – 9 PM Mon- Thur. And 9 AM – 10 PM Fri & Sat. They make deli sandwiches, sell groceries and also rent videos.