HAWAII: Maui & Kauai
One of the most beautiful places on the planet, Hawaii has always been best known as an unoriginal honeymoon spot, where ukuleles, hula skirts and coconut bras were invented, where Bobby Brady found a bad luck tiki idol and everyone surfs and yells “shaka brah”. While a lot of that is true, don’t be fooled by all of the touristy haters that have acted too cool for school.
Although true tourist destinations often come with a larger price tag, what most people don’t know, is that Hawaii is jam packed with tons to see, do and eat at all price points. No matter if you’re traveling alone or with a large group, Hawaii truly has it all. Hawaii is 100% awesome and we’re happy to Decode Hawaii for what it truly is – the PERFECT vacation destination.
MAUI & KAUAI PICKS
Maui & Kauai are homes to some of the most beautiful resorts, fantastic nature preserves, incredible beaches, beautiful hiking trails, great dining options and the very best luau on the islands! There’s fun for everyone on these tourist friendly, safe and clean islands, so whether you’re looking to chill or want to pack your days with stuff to do, we’ve got all of The Decoder’s favorite picks:
What To Do: There’s so much to do in Maui & Kauai that our recommendations include a list for all ages and abilities.
MAUI: The Road to Hana (Hana Highway) is an incredibly scenic, 50+ mile road that’s become a right-of-passage for Maui visitors. NOT for people with motion sickness, there are 617 hairpin turns, 59 one-lane bridges, and fast and furious locals that speed through blind spots. Often called the “Divorce Highway”, the speed limit is 25 mph and takes ~3 hours with no stops. This could take an entire day and many stay overnight. Why do it? THE MOST AMAZING LANDSCAPES YOUR EYES WILL EVER SEE, including The Pools at ‘Ohe’o (7 Sacred Pools). You can take a tour bus or drive yourself. TravelDecoder suggests watching some YouTube videos before deciding if it’s worth it.
MAUI: The Old Lahaina Luau is the very best and authentic Luau on the islands. With traditional Hawaiin games for early arrivals, a wonderful meal and fantastic show, you’ll have a choice to sit up front in backless seats and low tables, or set back in standard tables and chairs. TravelDecoder suggests taking a chair and saving your back! Make sure to reserve your seats way in advance as this Luau is almost always a sell out.
Snorkeling
Old Lahaina Luau
Kahoma Ranch ATV
Spas
Atlantis Adventures Submarine Tour
Maui Aquarium
Beaches
Sunsets
Nature: Nakalele Blowhole, Bamboo Forrest
PLAN FOR MAUI & KAUAI
Where to Stay: Picking the right part of the island to stay on can really determine how much driving you’ll have to do. If you plan on staying in the same place during the duration of your stay, keeping close to the middle of the island might be for you. Here’s a list of a few places we’d recommend:
Hotel 1
Hotel 2
Hotel 3
Where to Eat: There are so many great options from fast food to fine dining. We’ll break it down for you so you know the must-haves and where you need to make a reservation in advance. One thing’s for sure – you always want to reserve a table around sunset. It’s the most popular time of the day and there’s nothing more special than a pink Hawaiin sunset.
Mama’s Fish House: Nothing we can say about this restaurant will do it justice. This place is truly a meal to remember for the rest of your life.
Restaurant 2
Restaurant 3
Restaurant 4
Restaurant 5
Restaurant 6
PACKING DECODED:
What to Bring to Hawaii
Being Prepared: There’s nothing worse than planning the perfect vacation, getting there and then realizing you didn’t pack properly. TravelDecoder has your back. We know that each location requires unique gear that could make or break your trip. Avoid paying tourist prices for items you can get at home and bring with you for much cheaper. If you do your homework, you could potentially save hundreds of dollars!
FYI: Our Best Insider Tips
- Rent The Jeep: The gas mileage is horrible, and it doesn’t carry a ton of luggage, but there’s no better way to get around the islands than in a Jeep with the top down/off, the Reggae (that you downloaded in advance) playing loudly and the wind rushing through your hair. Although you may be tempted by the convertible Mustang, remember that the terrain can be a little rough depending on where you adventure. You’ll feel like a Jeep commercial and you won’t regret it.
- Reservations: One of the most important things you need to do in advance of your trip is book particular restaurants and activities that sell out months in advance. Not to worry, we’ll walk you through the must-haves for your trip in the planning section.
- Music: This may seem silly, but trust the Decoders on this one. Regardless of if you use a streaming service or download music directly, you’re going to want to make sure you have a decent Reggae playlist ready to go. Service can be spotty in remote areas, so be prepared. It’s also important to remember that while most NEWER rental cars have a Bluetooth pairing option, that may not exist in your car. Pack the audio cables if you can!
What Goes In The Bag:
- Sunscreen: Sunscreen can be pretty pricey on the islands. If you’re checking bags and can afford the extra weight, you’ll save yourself some cash.
- Bug Spray: Not many people consider that there are mosquitoes on the islands and that they especially love sweet tourists!
- Water Shoes: With beaches of all kinds, waterfalls, ponds, hiking trails, snorkeling and more, make sure to protect your little piggies! No matter how tough you think you are, these are a must!
- Rain Gear: Yes – the weather in Hawaii is picture perfect every day, but there are different climates in different parts of the islands depending on the season. Pack a poncho just in case.
- Sneakers & Sandals: Depending on your level of adventure, make sure to pack comfortable, breathable and washable sneakers. Bringing “throw away” kicks might be a good idea too.
- Cameras: Instaheaven should be the new motto for Hawaii. There’s so much to document from the land, air and sea that you’ll easily take thousands of pictures on your trip! Make sure to pack a small point-and-shoot, a waterproof camera for waterfalls and snorkeling and your GoPro for some crazy adventures!
- Sunglasses: Whether it’s cruising the coast, hanging by the pool or playing sports, don’t forget the eye-wear. There are plenty of fancy sunglasses stores on each island, but be prepared. The sun is strong and you’ll be outdoors constantly.
- Hat: Like sunglasses, this will come in VERY handy, especially by the pool, the beach or on a ride with the top down. We recommend a fold-able hat that can be packed easily.
- Hawaiian Gear: Yes – Hawaiian shirts and dresses will be all over the place when you get there…but they’ll also be incredibly over-priced. Bargain hunt before you go and plan your cute and coordinating outfits prior!
- Snorkel Gear: Like the touristy Hawaiian shirts, snorkel gear is available no matter where you go. Expect to pay a premium for these items when you’re on the islands, so if you have the room in your luggage, throw it in…you will 100% use them no matter where you stay!