Wailea April 16-20
First let me say , I love these forums and have been scouring over them since we booked this trip in November. Now that we are getting close, I got up the enerve to post for some advice.
This is our first visit to Hawaii and in Wailea April 16-20. 2 adults mid 50's and 21 yo son.
Staying at the Fairmont Kea Lani and have a car. Only there 4 nights before heading to Oahu.
My husband needs to unwind and so do I , but we do want to do some sight seeing, and cultural experiences without overdoing it.
Should we enjoy Polo Beach only or head out to others?
Dinner recommendations for those with selfish allergies and dislike of seafood? We can do fancy, casual and anything in between.
Not going to a Luau but thinking of going to the Polynesian show at shops at Wailea on Thursday. Restaurant recommendations nearby?
We will be there on Easter Sunday...any particularly special brunches/church services ? Departing for Oahu at 4pm on Easter Sunday
Thank you so much for all of those that share your wisdom.
Welcome to Maui! Wailea is a beautiful and relaxing area, and staying at the Fairmont Kea Lani puts you in a prime location for both unwinding and exploring. With just four nights, it’s wise to balance downtime with a few select experiences so you can really enjoy the island without feeling rushed.
For beaches, Polo Beach right in Wailea is excellent for relaxing, swimming, and easy access from your resort. However, if you’re up for a short drive, there are other fantastic beaches nearby that are worth a visit:
- Big Beach (Makena Beach) – Stunning and expansive, great for sunbathing and walking. Waves can be strong, so swimming might be limited.
- Little Beach – Just past Big Beach, known for its scenic views. Be aware of local clothing-optional customs here.
- Wailea Beach – Close by, calm waters, perfect for snorkeling and lounging.
- Makena Landing – Great for light snorkeling and watching the sunset.
For dining, especially considering dietary restrictions and seafood avoidance, Wailea has a variety of options ranging from casual to upscale:
- Humuhumunukunukuapua’a at the Grand Wailea – Upscale, Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. Can accommodate allergies if you notify them ahead.
- Monkeypod Kitchen – Casual to mid-range, with fresh, farm-to-table options, many allergy-friendly dishes, and a lively atmosphere.
- Gannon’s – Excellent for a scenic, romantic dinner with non-seafood options.
- Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante – Italian cuisine with multiple pasta, meat, and vegetarian options; good for those avoiding seafood.
- Mana Foods (Paia) – If you venture out for lunch or picnic supplies, excellent for allergy-friendly snacks and local produce.
For cultural experiences, the Polynesian show at the Shops at Wailea on Thursday is a great choice. Pair it with a dinner nearby, perhaps at Morimoto Maui or another restaurant within the Shops at Wailea complex, so you can enjoy both the performance and a convenient meal.
Since you’ll be in Wailea over Easter Sunday, there are some special options for brunch and church services:
- Fairmont Kea Lani Easter Brunch – Often a lavish buffet with views, live music, and special dishes. Advance reservations are highly recommended.
- Hotel Wailea – Elegant Easter brunch with a quiet, upscale atmosphere, excellent for adults looking to relax.
- St. Theresa Catholic Church (Kihei) or St. Anthony Parish (Wailuku) – For Easter Mass services; check times ahead of your visit as they often have multiple services.
For your short stay, consider a simple sightseeing itinerary: one morning or afternoon exploring Upcountry Maui (Makawao, Kula), a relaxing beach day at Polo or Wailea Beach, and a casual evening at the Shops at Wailea with the Polynesian show. This keeps the trip light and enjoyable without feeling like you’re rushing around.
Enjoy your first visit to Maui! With just four nights, focusing on a few beaches, a special cultural show, and great food will make for a memorable and rejuvenating experience.
