Maui Travel Guide by Courtney

We recently caught up with Courtney (@dear.courtney) about her trip to Maui, Hawaii.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m Courtney, I currently live in Calgary, I’m a cappuccino drinker by day, and wine sipper by night, I count down the days to Christmas all year long, my weakness is theatre popcorn, I still dream about being locked in a mall after hours with keys to all the stores, and I’m a blogger (DearEverything.com) who is just enjoying the journey!

 

Best thing about Maui?

The best thing about Maui is its slow-paced perfection. There is something really calming and peaceful about the Hawaiian air, it is simply a place that slows you down, and makes you feel happy.

Why did you choose Maui out of all the Hawaiian Islands?

Although I was travelling to Maui for my sister’s wedding, I honestly would have chosen that island regardless. As much as I love exploring big cities and bustling streets, I really wanted to unwind, and Maui was the perfect place to do just that.

How long did you stay? Would you stay longer next time?

I was there for almost two weeks, which was a good amount of time to see various parts of the island, but who wouldn’t want to stay longer?!

What was your favourite place in Maui?

My favourite place in Maui was Kihei - there are so many great restaurants, shops, and beaches, and the vibe is so laid back.

 

What was the first thing you did when you arrived?

The flight got in late at night, so the first thing I did was check into the hotel, and then went outside to the beach (it was right there!) and star gazed - not a bad way to kick things off if you ask me.

 

What were some of your favourite places or eat/drink?

There are so many! When I travel, I eat my way through a city, but if I had to pick a few I would say Lava Java for coffee in Kihei, Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop in Lahaina (they have an amazing hot dog with pineapple chutney, and the BEST banana cream pie), Star Noodle in Lahaina is incredible (I still dream about the hot n sour soup, and the scallop shots), the fried spam musubi from Da Kitchen Cafe is a must-try, and Morimoto in Wailea is probably the best meal I’ve ever had.

 

Best place for sunset cocktails?

If you’re lucky and can snag a table by the window, Mama’s Fish House has the most stunning sunset views (pictured below) hands down. Fred’s Mexican Cafe in Kihei is another great spot to watch the sun disappear into the ocean…with a margarita in your hand of course.

What are some of your packing essentials?

I’m a big pouch user - I have one for makeup, one for hair products, and one for body products. This keeps me organized, but also limits how much product I bring with me.  A multipurpose salve or ointment is great - use it on your lips, cuts, or as a quick relief for sunburn, Lucas Papaw is my favourite. Make sure you pack swimsuits that can easily be mixed and matched, that way two options suddenly turns into four! And the last packing essential to bring is an open mind - the best part about traveling is the way it can change you, so take it all in, and enjoy learning a little more about the world and about yourself!

My 5 tips for others travelling to Maui:

1. Rent a car, it is super affordable and a must if you want to get out to some amazing beaches like Makena which is one of the largest in Maui. Trust me. Paradise. Found.

2. Wear sunscreen! I know this one seems like a no brainer, but the sun is strong in Maui, so make sure you protect your skin, and throw on a cute beach hat while you're at it.

3. Try shaved ice! I stopped at Local Boys Shave Ice in Kihei, and I promise you, after walking around for hours in the hot Maui sun, it will be an extra sweet treat.

4. Get up early (maybe even super early, we're talking 3am, and watch the sunrise from the top of Haleakala). The wind tends to pick up in the afternoon too, so if you plan on doing any water related activities, aim to go in the morning or early afternoon. I’d highly recommend a snorkel sail to Turtle Point.

5. While there are lots of activities and sights to see, make sure you take time to relax on a beach. The sunsets in Maui are some of the most stunning ones I’ve ever seen, make time to watch it every night and soak in all of the feels from the day.

Describe your trip in 1 word.

Magical

Watch Maui Highlights Video 

For more travel guides read our Bahamas travel guide by Brooke Mcauley.

See more from Courtney at deareverything.com and @dear.courtney

Courtney wears our Lucia crochet top and Athena bottoms you can get them here.