Edit: It’s been 3 years since I wrote this post and we’ve been back to Maui since then with THREE (3) kids, five and under, in tow. I have an updated post about more of our family adventures: Maui with kids; what to see & do.
Last year we were fortunate enough to go to Hawaii through my husband’s work. Kyle was turning 6 months while we were there. So while I stressed out about what to pack, I was very excited to be heading to Maui. My husband and I had always considered going to Hawaii for our honeymoon, but we ended up flying east instead. I was sooo excited to finally enjoy this piece of paradise for two weeks.
The view from our balcony
We arrived a week before the work-paid part of the trip and stayed at Kahana Sunset (http://www.kahanasunset.com/) on the West side of Maui. I can’t recommend this place enough! It’s one of the few places to have only a 2-story building and a private beach.
Oh ya, this place is so nice, a family of sea turtles have decided to make Kahana Sunset their private beach home as well! Which means, you will get to swim FOR FREE every day with sea turtles (if you’re not freaked out by it – they look huge underwater). This was a dream of mine for as long as I can remember (I have a slight turtle obsession) and I couldn’t believe I got to enjoy it at my “new home away from home”. I really think that this accommodation is one of the best kept secrets in Maui.
Checking out the sea turtles from land
Sea Turtles
Beach Tent can be purchased on Amazon.ca – HERE
Kyle ready for his first day on the beach
Before the trip, I picked up the Frommer’s Maui day by day book and made a list of things we must do. Other than sun-bathe and check out some of the other beaches, I also wanted to go to Hana Highway and see the sunrise on top of a dormant volcano (Haleakala national park). As it turns out, Kyle decided he hated his car seat while we were in Hawaii. He literally cried the entire time he was in the car. The timing wasn’t terrible since we were on vacation and not spending much time in the car, but at the same time, it also meant that it had to limit our excursion options.
Our first day-trip was to check out some of the beaches in South Maui. The South is commonly known as the hottest, sunniest and driest coastline on Maui. Most of the high-end hotels and the island’s best shopping is found on the South side. We planned a day-trip full of stops along the way and enjoy some of the best beaches in the South. The drive alone was spectacular. To our right was the beautiful pacific ocean and two of Hawaii’s islands. To the left was beautiful lush hills. 
At every corner and turn, we stopped, gasped, and got out to take some pictures. Our first stop was at Oneloa Beach (Big Beach); stretching over 3,300 feet long. After a quick stop to enjoy a picnic lunch, we put Kyle in the baby Bjorn, and walked up and down the beach.
From there we started making our way home with a planned stop at Maluaka Beach. We ended up at another beach altogether, but it didn’t matter, when you’re in Maui, a beach is a beach is a beach. They’re all so beautiful, and the water is bright blue, and the view is amazing. That evening we had pre-arranged professional family pictures to be taken that night in West Maui on the famous Kapalua beach. Our amazing photographer was Andreas from Ritual Photo. He was very friendly and professional. Within a few days he graciously dropped off our high-resolution cd at our hotel room. I would definitely recommend him if you’re looking to get professional pictures done while in Maui. (EDIT: Andreas is no longer active in Hawaii. I would highly recommend Pacific Dream Photography for your family pictures. The best part is that they have locations on several of the islands)
Speaking to some other travelers on our resort, we decided to opt out of the Hana Highway trip and instead, go and see the sunrise on top of a dormant volcano. Although the sunset would be beautiful, everyone said that the sunrise is spectacular!
We were also glad they advised us about the cold weather that we should expect at the top of the mountain. We came prepared, while others were freezing their tushies. Seeing the sunrise also meant that we would have to leave around 4am and Kyle would still be asleep for one-way of the drive. The 10,000 foot volcano is located in Haleakala (which means “House of the Sun”) National park. To get there, you need to take an extremely windy, twisty road which on a map, looks like this: WWWWW. It’s one of the fastest-ascending roads in the world and passes through numerous climate zones. The highest point on the volcano is called Puu Ulaula Overlook. From here, you can usually see all the way to the Big Island. We decided to watch the sunset just a bit lower, at the Haleakala Visitor Center. I have to say, it was one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen. The colours of the sunrise were spectacular; even the pictures don’t do it any justice. And since it was dark when we were driving there, it was amazing to see the beautiful landscape around us as the sun slowly rises above the vast crater.
Kyle is underneath all those blankets in a carrier
Kyle with the lei
After a week at Kahana Sunset, we moved to the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua for the work-paid part of the trip. I honestly have never stayed at a nicer hotel. We had a full kitchen, living room and two balconies in our room. To say the least, we were spoiled. Even if you’re not able to stay here, I would highly recommend stopping by for breakfast! We spent our days relaxing by the waddle pool. 
The hotel also happens to be on D.T. Fleming Beach Park which was named as the top beach in America in 2006 and is a great place to take the family. While we stayed here, we walked over to Merriman’s restaurant (http://merrimanshawaii.com/), located directly on the ocean, and watched the sunsets from “The Point”, while enjoying our amazing dinner.
After loads of pool time, work dinners, parties and lots of hammock time, it was time to go to the island of Lanai (also part of the work-paid portion).
Lanai is the smallest of all the Hawaiian Island. It used to be a big pineapple plantation but today, it has a small town and only two resorts. To us, it was paradise. To get to Lanai from Maui, we hoped on a catamaran from Lahaina harbour. The ride included a stop for snorkeling and dolphin / whale watching. 
snorkeling fun!
After half a day, we arrived at Manele Bay Harbor. We were staying at the Four Seasons Resort at Manele Bay, right on Hulopoe Beach. The room was set-up with a crib and a little care-package for Kyle including a swimsuit. The hotel grounds were spectacular and all of the rooms were surrounded by the natural beauty of the island, with beautiful themed gardens all around. They did such an exceptional job at preserving the natural environment while adding a resort for visitors. 
Everyday, from our room’s terrace, we were able to look out straight into the ocean, and watch the dolphins jump.
I couldn’t believe my eyes and get-over just how lucky we were to be staying here. Similar to the Turtles at Kahana Sunset, Monk seals have made this their home and enjoy sleeping on the beach.
We spent the morning on the beach, and the remainder of the day by the pool. 
We also tried to do some hikes around the area. My favourite was walking along the hill-tops of the shore to see the Sweetheart Rock on Manele Bay. 
We were just so spoiled there, we wanted to take full advantage of it all. Even Kyle loved it! 
After more work dinners and events, it was sadly time to say good-bye
It was an amazing 12 days and a trip that we would not soon be forgotten. This year fortunately John has qualified for this trip again and we’re heading to Kauai in a few days!!* This time around Kyle will be a toddler, running on the sandy beaches and playing with water toys in the pool. I can’t wait to form new memories with my family.
Until I return, I have two amazing guest posts lined up that I can’t wait to share. I know you will enjoy reading these stories as much as I did. Both Jennifer and Jenn have some very amazing and different motherhood insights to share. I’m so thankful that they have agreed to write during my vacation.
Have you been to Maui? What did you do and see? Anything you would recommend?
Hawaii looks amazing but what is more amazing is your figure 6 months after labour.
wow!!!
enjoy your second visit
Awww! You’re too sweet. Xoxo
The Hawaiian Islands are just beautiful; one of my favortie places to visit. It looks like you had a wonderful trip!!
They really are beautiful. I feel so spoiled. I can’t wait for Kauai. When were you there last?
My husband and I took a 15-Day Hawaiian Cruise in the fall of 2008. We traveled to 4 different islands. We loved it; I’d like to go back at some point.
Cruises are the best. Esp. ones that involve Hawaii! That’ll be on my list later on in life for sure.
You look amazing for 6 months post partum! Love the pictures and all the info. Currently we are planning my 40th bday in Maui for August. I’m so excited.
Thank you for your sweet words 🙂 you are going to have an amazing time!! Hopefully my info will help plan your trip a little more. I highly recommend a stop-over, even for the day, at Lanai. It really is paradise on earth. Happy early birthday. Hope to read about your adventures there once you’re back.
Have a great time! Congrats to your husband!
Thanks Nat. Any chance the lawyers get to qualify as well?
You have a beautiful family! My husband and I went to Maui last month and just like you said, it was BEYOND beautiful. I fell so hard in love that I cannot stop talking about moving there! I’ve been trying to write about the road to Hana but find I don’t have enough adjectives to describe the beauty found along that road.
A few recommendations I would have: Places to eat – 808 Deli has fantastic organic sandwiches and Sansei Seafood in Kihei was highly recommended by every local we asked. We also stopped by the only winery on the island, Ulupalakua Ranch, which had a fantastic pineapple wine. May not be fun for baby… 🙂
A helicopter ride is a fun adventure for anyone willing to pay $400+ for out-of-this-world views of the islands. On Sunday nights, the locals have a beach party on Little Beach – this was a lot of fun, and required climbing over a lava formation to get there, AND it’s a clothing optional beach, so prepare yourself 🙂
The great thing about Maui is that there is an OVERABUNDANCE of things to see and do on this relatively small island – sounds like your family had a great time, but you also have reasons to go back!
Wow! Thanks so much for all of your recommendations. It’s always nice to hear from others about their experiences. Hopefully we go again in the next few years and we’ll try out some of the things you suggested. And we’ll also hopefully do the Hana Hwy drive 🙂 I hope to read your post about your trip there soon!!
What an amazing trip! I’d like to go to Kaui in the fall when my daughter will be 11 monthes, I’d love to hear any tips you have!
Thanks Emily. It was awesome. Here’s some tips but not sure how many will be applicable as your daughter will be almost a year. http://wp.me/p3dEqj-9d Have a great time 🙂
Your photos are beautiful! We visited Maui a few years ago with our kids but my youngest had just turned 5. My girls would have loved to get such a close up look at sea turtles and monk seals. We also skipped the Hana Highway because we didn’t think the girls would enjoy the long drive and we drove up Haleakala but didn’t make it for the sunrise! We loved the Maui Ocean Center and the Maui Tropical Plantation.
Your photos are stunning – that one with the sunset behind the three of you is remarkable.
Maui is a dream destination for me. I hope to one day get to experience the island I know that it would be as magnificent as I imagine.
Thank you for linking up to Travel Tuesday!
You had me at swimming with the sea turtles. 🙂 My husband has dreamed of visiting Hawaii, but we’ve not narrowed down where we’d like to go from there. Maui is looking pretty good. It looks and sounds like you had a great time.
Great ideas and tips!! We are heading to maui in October with our 7 month old and 6 year old! Who did you have watch your son during the kid-free events? Thank you!!
It was a company hired by my husband’s company. You can check with your hotel. Most offer babysitting serves that come and watch your kids in the room.
We have a 13 month old (busy high energy runner) boy and are considering taking him to Maui along with our 8 year old science-loving daughter. We are riding the fence about the 8 hour flights and the high-adventure we will miss because we can’t do it all with baby. We’ve done Maui and The Big Island without kiddos before—so it wouldnt be a huge deal to not repeat some of the more ambitious activities—but we also don’t want to end up sitting at the resort beach when the Carribbean is only a 2 hour flight for us. . .
Your photos are amazing with your gorgeous baby. I can’t help but imagine us there with you–and then I see our lil guy diving headlong off your sailboat, eating sand, and being overly friendly toward the monk seals and it seems a tad daunting.
Have you any advice for toddlers there?????
Did you love the babysitting service and feel comfortable with them?
We’d really LOVE to go. But maybe toddlerhood and 5 hour time difference, 16 hours of flights just isn’t worth it? What do you think? Thanks.
It’s honestly such a personal decision. I would say it all depends on your personality. If you’re flexible and easy going, do it! You won’t regret it : ) as you said, travelling with kids is not the same, but at least you got to experience Maui pre-kids which is amazing in itself. But you do make a great point about going to an all inclusive 2 hours away. Tough call! We were lucky that our trip was paid for through my hubby’s work, so it was an easy decision. But, we just went to Dominican with our 3.5 year old and 15 month old and it was amazing. That might be a good alternative until your son is older.
The babysitting service was good but again, it was provides by my husband’s work. I’m sure any reputable hotel would have a great service as well.
Yikes, I’m no help! Lol Let me know what you decide at the end. Have fun!
Thanks for your insight. With a loose, realtively flexible plan in hand, (and plenty of naps by the ocean on the itinerary) we’ve decided to just go for it! Pray for us. ha. 🙂
You’ll have a great time! Have fun and keep me posted on your adventures
Great blog with great pictures and commentary! We’re leaving for Hawaii this Tuesday. I’m contemplating watching the sunrise at Haleakala Crater as well. How did your 6 month old do with the altitude? We have a 3.5 month old daughter and the altitude is the one thing that’s stopping me from deciding to do it. Thanks for this blog, it was fun to read!
Beautiful family pix you have here … I’ve always wanted to visit Maui!
Hello, can I ask what you packed or would pack for a 7 month old and 4 year old? We are headed there at the end of march. Did you rent a stroller, the beach shade, car seat, highchair, playpen or did you pack them all on the plane? Did you pack any toys for them? Food? Thanks for your help 🙂
We brought a stroller with us. Great for use in the airport. But rented the car seat from car company since our babe was a lap seat on the airplane anyway. Beach tent we brought with us but most places supply a pack n play. No for high chair but you can rent one if you really feel like you need it. Or bring a bambo chair and tray with you. Definetly pack toys. For the airplane and to keep in your room for down time – books too! Snacks for sure… But don’t overpack since you can buy there. But everything is more expensive there.
Loved reading about your trip. We are going to Maui in Oct, with our baby who will be turning 1. I was just curious did you take your little one on the dolphin cruise? If so, how did that go? What are your thoughts about trying a luau with a 1 year old?
Yes . we took him on the dolphin cruise. It wasn’t an issue but we had friends on board who watched him when we went snorkeling. Luau with 1 year old can be fine. As long as you’re flexible on sleeping time and where they sleep (i.e. stroller)
Great, thank you so much!
We took our 9 month old to the luau and it was fine but we didn’t think to bring the stroller and definitely wished we had. There was no shade and we had no where to put him down to sleep so that was tough but he enjoyed watching the show with the lights and fire etc.
We didn’t take him on the dolphin cruise with us and thank goodness we didn’t! Both myself and my oldest son ended up getting sea sick and puking the entire trip. We own a boat and I have spent many hours out there fishing in rough weather and have never gotten sick. We anchor for halibut fishing as well but there was something about being on that catamaran that did me in. I would say about 30% of the boat was ill. Definitely take that possibility into consideration as there is no way I could have cared for my baby if he was there.