This month and next, you’ll be on a guided tour with me to the two sides of Maui. Today we begin exploring the East Side.

Are you ready? Let’s go!

Maui’s best kept secret is a side of the island you may never forget.

Envision this: you’re in an ocean front cottage in the South Pacific.

You are surrounded by the tranquility of rolling green mountains and the royal blue colored Pacific Ocean.

In the horizon there is no other property in sight so it is pure peace and quiet and nature. Yet, you have an ocean facing pool to dip into in the event that the ocean that day is a little too rough or just because you’re in the mood for a relaxing dip.

You start and end the day at an ocean-facing restaurant which features farm to table fresh ingredients.

Steps from the sea you encounter a full service ocean-facing spa, tennis courts, yoga classes and more.

Will you be bored, is it too quiet? Not at all - if it’s planned just right. You will be surprised by how much there is to experience in the lesser known East side of Maui.

East Maui is a magical place full of authentic old world Hawaiian charm. It’s the South Pacific we have seen in movies. The Road to Hana is the only road leading to this paradise and getting there is part of the journey. We set you up with an open top 4x4 jeep or convertible so you drive along the sea hugging road to paradise with the wind blowing in your hair.

Along the way take a break to hike the rainforest, take a photo of the seaside cliffs and waterfalls and then unpack a picnic lunch. Just remember to go easy on the champagne. The drive can take anywhere from 3-4 hours, depending on how leisurely you take it, and you will want to go at a laid back pace to enjoy this special road trip.

But no worries, you will have plenty of opportunity to indulge in the sparkly stuff once you reach your destination – Travaasa Hana Maui – a resort like no other in Maui.

This is a special hotel that I describe as low key, barefoot elegance. Think “peacefully enchanting”. Situated on a sprawling historic ranch, this is an intimate boutique hotel consisting of 66 guestrooms. Some are bungalow-style cottages, some of which feature private hot tubs. Equipped with sliding doors that you will open to enjoy unobstructed panoramic ocean views and to take in the fabulous trade winds. Keep in mind there is no A/C at this hotel, but it is not necessary, due to its breezy hillside location.

Keeping you in the quiet and tranquil ambiance, the rooms are free of radios, clocks and television. The resort’s philosophy is that “nothing will distract you from the natural beauty and relaxation of Heavenly Hana”.

What is there to do? Some pretty cool and unique things actually!

Explore nearby black and red sand beaches that are found in only a few destinations in the world.
Haleakala crater, one of the most famous sights in all of Maui, is a volcanic crater located on this side of the island.
Take guided or self-guided nature walks or hikes along the pristine coastline.
Learn the art of Throw Net Fishing. Even fishing in Hawaii is special and authentic. Rather than using poles they throw nets into the ocean. It’s a skill you will not forget and one that will give you a glimpse of the island’s history and culture.
This is a perfect place to rent a beach cruiser bicycle and take off to explore the surrounding sights such as the Plantation Guest House, Hana town center, Hana Ball Park, Hana Hongwanji Buddhist temple and Waikaloa Beach.
Horseback ride on horse trail paths alongside the beach: the ocean views are breathtaking.
Spend a day exploring one of Hawaii’s oldest and most authentic towns – the town of Hana.
Learn to paddle an outrigger canoe with an expert guide as you spot sea turtles swimming beside you.
Visit historic Fagan’s Cross near the hotel.
These are just a handful of the many things that will keep you busy. Next month we will take you to West Maui, the more active side of the island. There’s lots to explore in West Maui to enhance your Hawaii Honeymoon or Family Vacation. So until next month - Aloha!

I look forward to all we can plan for you in 2019. Our world is full of many amazing destinations and our goal is to get you there one at a time! 

Relaxed or Active? Couples or Family?

Tell me what you’re craving and we will plan your next extraordinary experience!

973-887-7441 or Carmen@SuntasticHoneymoons.com