First time and w/teenagers

Question

Hello. Coming to Maui from April 16-20 with my granddaughters, both 16. Need some suggestions on our itinerary. We’re not strong swimmers but will definitely do boat tours. We’re staying at the Andaz. I don’t mind group tours but would prefer smaller, comfortable, curated tours (less people) I’m thinking Molokini on Thurs, Hana on Friday and Lahaina on Sat. Would you recommend tour companies for each of these please? Restaurant recommendations (I’m a foodie) Do I need to rent a car? What should we do in Lahaina? I’d like to sneak in some spa time too. Thank you!

Answer

That sounds like a fantastic trip to Maui! Since you're traveling with teenagers and prefer smaller, more curated experiences, I’ve put together some suggestions for your itinerary based on your preferences for boat tours, comfort, and exploring without too many crowds.

For your Molokini trip on Thursday, you can opt for a more private, smaller boat experience. Molokini Crater is one of Maui's most famous snorkeling spots, but given that you mentioned you're not strong swimmers, you may want to choose a company that offers snorkeling gear and guides to make it comfortable for everyone. Here are a couple of excellent choices:

Pacific Whale Foundation - They offer small group tours to Molokini that focus on marine life education and sustainability. The boats are comfortable, and they prioritize keeping the groups smaller for a more relaxed experience.
Four Winds II - This is another great option with smaller groups, and they provide an all-inclusive experience (snorkeling gear, lunch, drinks, etc.). They also have a “reef-safe” philosophy, which is important for eco-conscious travelers.

On Friday, for the Hana trip, it’s best to book a tour since the Road to Hana can be a long and winding drive, and it’s nice to have someone else handle the navigation. You can enjoy the scenic views and focus on the experience without the stress of driving. A couple of options:

Hana Tours of Maui - They offer smaller, more intimate tours along the Road to Hana, with a focus on comfort and personalized service. You’ll stop at waterfalls, beaches, and other scenic locations.
Maui Luxury Tours - For a more high-end experience, this company offers luxury van tours with fewer guests, giving you a more private and customized experience as you explore Hana’s beauty.

For Saturday in Lahaina, this town is rich in history and charm, offering a variety of activities. Since you're staying at the Andaz, you're already in a prime location to explore Lahaina. Here are some ideas:

Lahaina Historic Walking Tour - Discover Lahaina’s history through a guided walking tour that highlights its old whaling town roots, historic buildings, and the famous Banyan Tree.
Maui Sailing Canoe - If you're interested in a boat experience that’s a bit different, check out this canoe tour. It's a fun way to experience Lahaina's coastline with a small group.
Lahaina Front Street - Take a stroll down Front Street for some great shopping, art galleries, and dining. This area is vibrant and offers plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace.

In terms of restaurants, since you’re a foodie, Maui has a lot to offer! Here are some recommendations for your trip:

Mama's Fish House (Paia) - This iconic restaurant serves fresh fish and seafood, with stunning views of the ocean. It’s a bit upscale, so perfect for a nice meal out.
Lahaina Grill (Lahaina) - A must-visit for a fine dining experience, offering local cuisine with an innovative twist. The ambiance is intimate and ideal for a special meal.
Morimoto Maui (Wailea) - If you enjoy high-end sushi, Morimoto offers amazing sushi and seafood dishes with beautiful views of the Pacific.
The Mill House (Waikapu) - Located on a plantation, this restaurant focuses on farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on local produce and sustainable practices.

Regarding transportation, you may want to rent a car for flexibility, especially for your trip to Hana and exploring other parts of the island. However, if you prefer to avoid the hassle of parking and navigating, many of the tour companies provide hotel pick-up, so you can easily manage without a car. Lahaina, however, is very walkable, and taxis or shuttles are easy to access if needed.

As for spa time, Maui has some fantastic options. Since you're staying at the Andaz, their spa offers a variety of treatments that are perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. If you want to try somewhere else, consider these options:

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort (Wailea) - An upscale, luxurious experience offering a wide range of treatments to help you unwind and relax.
Ho‘olei Spa (Wailea) - A more serene, peaceful option with treatments that emphasize local Hawaiian healing traditions and natural ingredients.

With this itinerary, you’ll get a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and delicious food while exploring the best that Maui has to offer! Have an amazing trip!

First time and w/teenagers

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