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Originally Posted by fotze
Just booked a trip to Maui for the first 2 weeks of December after years and years of dithering and frustration with booking tickets. Was able to actually use my aeroplan points. I have never been there and it seems like I am the only person on earth to do so.
Really have no idea where to stay even after reading all these threads and online stuff. That Maui revealed app is pretty good.
Kaanapali seems alright, expensive. Kihei seems kind of retro and not much around it other than condos.
Thinking of doing 1 week at one are and another week somewhere else. Thinking or renting a car the entire time, but not sure if necessary. VRBO has a billion places at a billion prices.
Would prefer oceanfront so you could walk from the beach to the condo to take a dump or whatever. Have 2 kids aged 3 and 7.
Checked Honua Kai and its pretty pricy and am not sure I want a giant Mexican style all-inclusive resort, but maybe I do. The Westin villas look like they will cost >$8000, which just seems ######ed.
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Stayed at the 2 adjacent properties to Honua Kai the last couple of years (Maui Kai and Mahana - and really enjoyed both). Beach in that area is decent but better in the Kanaapali area. Pool at Honua Kai looks fantastic, and I really think your kids would enjoy it. All three are quite close to the beach, although Honua Kai is set back a bit behind Dukes and the pool area. I believe all rooms in Mahana and Maui Kai would be ocean view as well. IIRC, the units in all three properties are individually owned, so finishings/furnishings will vary by room. Honua Kai is fairly new, so I would think most rooms would be fairly updated.
I would say a car is a must for your entire trip. Haven't tried the bus there, but I heard it can be a pain to use. We've gotten good rates through costcotravel.com (if you have membership). Will compare all the major rental companies, and allows you to reserve without a deposit. I would reserve cheapest right now and keep checking up until you leave and rebook if you find a lower rate. Last year we ended up with a mid-size suv for $18/day from Alamo.
Would recommend Road to Hana, rented a little GPS unit call Gypsy from a kiosk near Front St in Lahaina. It provides info along the way pointing out secninc stops and also provides some history on the island and state.
Halealaka was also good, didn't make it up there for sunrise, but still an impressive view if it is a clear day. Make sure to bring jackets and pants as it can be quite windy and cold up there.