Iao Valley State Park

 

Iao Needle Iao Valley State Park Maui Hawaii

If your looking for beauty along with nature, visiting Iao Valley State Park may be the perfect fit for you.  Covered in rainforest, the park is considered Maui’s second wettest location.  The 6.2-acre park has trails and great photo opportunities.  Be sure to read the signs throughout the trail that give the history of what has taken place at that location.

For the more adventurous, you may want to bring your swimsuit.  The Iao Stream located in the park houses small rapids and pools that are fun to swim and play in.  Be advised swimming in the stream during heavy rains can be dangerous and is not recommended.

The park is open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.  Parking is free for Hawaii residents, and $5.00 for standard vehicles.  For more information including photos and videos visit their website here.

Maui Ocean Center

MauiOceanCenter

Since it’s opening in 1998, Maui Ocean Center has drawn visitors from around the globe interested in viewing the most unique collection of Hawaii’s marine life.  All marine life is collected from around the Hawaiian Islands.  Maui Ocean Center attracts over 400,00 visitors each year making it one of the biggest tourism activities.

Although an average tour takes 1 ½ to 2 hours, many people find themselves staying longer and enjoying one of the two restaurants, shopping in the Ocean Center Store, or simply enjoying the view and the surroundings.  Ocean front dining is available in the Seascape Maalaea Restaurant.

Not only is Maui Ocean Center available for private and guided tours, you can plan your special event there as well.  Holiday parties, birthdays and even weddings are all available.  Feeling adventurous? How about a shark dive!  Available all year, this 2-2 ½ hour event is on many peoples “must do” list.

Maui Ocean Center is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and til 6:00 pm in July and August.  Tickets range from daily, weekly, and annual passes.  You can visit the Maui Ocean Center website for more information on attractions and activities.

AKL Maui

lavender624x415

A true staple of Maui’s culture and lifestyle would have to be AKL Maui.   Started by Ali’I Chang, the 13.5-acre farm grows 45 different varieties of lavender year round.  Locals and tourists alike can enjoy the farm, which hosts a variety of activities.

Guided Walking Tours and Guided Cart Tours are offered throughout the day at various times.  Cart tours give an extended look at the farm while the walking tour gives visitors a chance to wander.

Looking for treasure?  The Lavender Treasure Hunt turns the farm into a magical wonderland.  Follow the treasure map through the enchanted garden and find your prize in the Gallery Gift Shop.  Fun for kids (and adults too)!

If you’re looking for a place truly amazing to host a special event, AKL Maui may be just what you’re looking for.  From private parties to weddings AKL Maui has the views and beauty to make your event truly spectacular.

New visitors, returning patrons, families and friends all find a little gift of Maui at AKL.  Explore their website for featured products, events, and tour times.

Sal tim bocca

photo 1photo 4

photo 3

Located at Maalaea by the Aquatic Center here on Maui is a truly rare find restaurant.  Sal tim bocca offers a variety of delicious food PLUS a gluten free and vegan selections.  Topped off with excellent service Sal tim bocca is definitely on the must dine list!  Visit their Facebook page here!

New Hotel Coming to Wailea

Construction for the new 200 room Piilani Suites, located in Wailea, is scheduled to begin by February 29, 2017.  The new hotel project will bring in an estimated 260 jobs over the course of the 18 month long job.  The new hotel will be managed by Marriott International.  Piilani Suites will feature amenities such as free breakfast, internet, laundry, pool, and fitness center.  You can read more here via star-telegram.com.