Despite its charms, Kihei can be a little sleepy, so be adventurous and take a couple day or overnight trips to Hana and the Haleakala Crater. The famous “Road to Hana” is at least two hours away from Kihei, and swarming with tourists, so leave your L.A. impatience behind and make many stops to explore. Your first should be in the bohemian town of Pa‘ia for breakfast at Anthony’s (90 Hana Hwy; 808/579-8340); while you’re there, do some shopping for curios and stock up on food supplies (there’s very little in Hana). In Hana, stay at Luana Spa Retreat (www.luana spa.com; 888/898-2772), a deluxe yurt overlooking Hana’s famous black-sand beach—or at least get a massage there from Nancy, the proprietress. Grab your grub from a roadside stand—cheap and delicious!
On your descent back to Kihei, stop at the Ali‘i Kula Lavender farm (www.aliikulalavender.com; 808/878-3004) for a tour of their fragrant gardens. Be sure to pick up some lavender iced tea and bath products in their yummy gift shop.
While on “island time,” be sure to watch the sunset every day from a choice spot, eat of the famous Maui white pineapples, and enjoy the best coffee in the world.
KORINA JOCHIM
