My Journey of Falling in Love with Maui

A frequent visitor shares their insights on Maui's top vacation spots

Whether it’s destination weddings or family vacations, Hawaii is a sought-after location for travelers eager to experience stunning natural landscapes. Plus, there are numerous exciting date options in Maui, along with vibrant nightlife!

For Joe, who has been visiting since childhood, Maui occupies a cherished spot in his heart. A Seattle native with a passion for travel, Joe reminisced about his adventures in Maui from childhood to adulthood, illustrating how the island truly embodies its reputation as a slice of paradise.

Are you a regular visitor to Maui?

Absolutely! I feel incredibly lucky that my family has been taking trips to Maui since my childhood. My parents got engaged on the island, and interestingly, my aunt and uncle did too, so we have quite a bit of family history there!

Maui was where my grandparents found their greatest happiness, and it has always been a place we looked forward to as a family. Every experience was so serene—adventures in the jungle, playing games in the sand and surf, enjoying the consistently beautiful weather, and of course, savoring delicious meals... It truly is a slice of paradise.

What are some must-know travel tips for Maui?

Remember to take things slow while you're there. Have a solid itinerary for the first few days, but leave the rest flexible, kick back, and truly soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

It's crucial to remember that Maui is more than just a tourist destination, and we should be considerate of the local community. I always strive to give the locals their space so they can fully enjoy their home.

What activities do you enjoy the most?

Waterfall hiking! There’s a fantastic spot where you can backpack through stunning waterfalls, and even take the plunge down them if you like, sliding down natural waterslides. It's incredibly enjoyable and, most importantly, it's quite secluded, ensuring it doesn't disturb local life.

My grandfather was also a big fan of whale watching. He would simply grab his binoculars and enjoy the view right from his balcony. It was truly remarkable.

Let’s discuss food! What are some of your favorite dishes you’ve tried there? 

I’m a huge fan of fish, and Maui is an excellent place to sample a variety—whether cooked or raw! A local friend recommended a small fish bar hidden inside a liquor store. It turned out to be a true hidden gem, serving some of the best poké (diced raw fish typically marinated in sesame oil and soy sauce) I've ever tasted.

SPAM is quite popular there—I recently sampled spam musubi (grilled spam atop a block of white rice, wrapped in seaweed) for the first time, and although it's simple, it was incredibly tasty. I really wish it were more common on the mainland.

Is it true that Maui has something for everyone?

Absolutely. It's suitable for families, adults, and couples alike. As a kid, I loved inventing games on the beach with my family—the Maui Olympics were a highlight for my brother and me.

Now that I visit with my girlfriend, we focus more on finding restaurants for nice sit-down dinners. Star Noodle is a fantastic option; it's a well-known eatery right by the water. The food and atmosphere are perfect for couples.

What keeps you returning?

Maui is the only Hawaiian island I’ve visited because my family and I fell in love with it. I hope to explore the other islands someday, but Maui holds a special magic for me.

I appreciate its remoteness, something that's hard to find these days. The beaches are stunning, pristine, and tranquil... What makes it truly special for me is that the most challenging part of visiting Maui is actually having to leave.