Maui is a dream for the active traveler. It's been consistently chosen as the best island in the world. There are so many things to do that you'll never be able to do them all in just one visit. Here, however, are some of our picks for the best things to do in Maui.
No visit to Hawaii would be complete without experiencing an authentic Hawaiian Luau. On Maui there is a great selection to choose from.
Several hotels stage beachside luaus featuring Hawaiian foods such as kalua pig, cooked in an earthen oven, poi and haupia (coconut pudding), along with a buffet of more familiar foods. There is lots of Hawaiian music, hula, and even fire dancing.
For a more refined, fine-dining experience, the Feast at Lele in Lahaina is definitely worth consideration.
Here are three of our favorites.
Old Lahaina Luau
The Old Lahaina Luau is offered nightly at their own private luau grounds behind the Cannery Mall in Lahaina, West Maui. The Old Lahaina Luau takes great pride in presenting an authentic Hawaiian luau - an evening of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music, cultural dances and island crafts. Guests will appreciate a genuine reflection of Hawaii's rich history, while enjoying an ocean view and sunset.
As a three time attendee, I can attest that this is, by far, the best luau that you will find anywhere in the islands. It offers the most delicious and authentic food and the most well-produced and choreographed entertainment. If you only attend one luau while you're in Hawaii, be sure to attend the Old Lahaina Luau on Maui.
Read our feature on the Old Lahaina Luau.
Maui - Feast at Lele
What happens when you combine the Polynesian cuisine of Chef James McDonald (of Pacific'o and I'o Restaurant fame), the entertainment expertise of the folks who run the Old Lahaina Luau and one of the best beachfront settings in Hawaii? The answer is The Feast at Lele in Lahaina, Maui.
The Feast at Lele is more like a fine dinner show than a traditional luau. Each table has a tablecloth, china with silverware and cloth napkins. Guests receive very personal attention from at least two servers. The "Feast" itself is the real star here. The menu consists of a five-course meal featuring cuisine from Hawaii, Tonga, Tahiti, and Samoa, plus dessert. Each course is followed by dramatic Polynesian entertainment from each island.
Read our review of the Feast at Lele.
Maui - Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa Drums of the Pacific Luau
If you're staying at Ka'anapali Beach, there's no more convenient luau than the Drums of Pacific Luau at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa. The luau is held Tuesday through Sunday at the resort's Sunset Terrace.
The Drums of the Pacific Polynesian Spectacular is another Tihati Production. It takes you on a journey through the islands of Polynesia, complete with a traditional imu ceremony and the exotic flavors of native Hawaiian cuisine. They feature authentic dances and music of the old Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, New Zealand, Tahiti, Tonga, and Rarotonga.
As good as the entertainment is, the real star of this luau is the food. It is some of the best I've ever eaten at a luau in Hawaii.
