The trip to Maui alone is an indulgence with its dream-like beaches, countless waterfalls, lush mountain landscapes, and picturesque small towns. Over two million visitors per year can testify to the beauty of the Magic Isle. But once on the island, what are the best ways for tourists to treat themselves? Here are my favorite Maui indulgences.
Exercise your credit cards at the Shops of Wailea
Contrary to popular belief, Iβm not a big shopper when traveling. Unless itβs an awesome market or something unusual, I normally pass. But when I saw the shops of Wailea just a stoneβs throw from my hotel, the Wailea Beach Marriott, I knew I had to take a look.
What I discovered is that with over 70 stores, galleries, and restaurants, the Shops of Wailea is the premier shopping destination on Maui. Oh-la-la! Luxury designers such as Bottega Veneta, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton are standouts, as are perennial favorites, Baron & Leeds and Tiffany & Co, for jewelry. For something unique, check out everything from jeweled flip-flops to wedding gowns, at Enchantress Boutique. Finding a swimsuit is a breeze at places like Maui WaterWear or Canyon Beachwear. In the market for art? The Shops have galleries such as Eclectic Image Gallery and The Art of Peter Max Gallery. Β Basically, if you need it then it can probably be found at the Shops of Wailea.
And in addition to an arm full of bags, you might just have a Steven Tyler sighting. I hear heβs a regular at there.
Get your hands sticky with Ululaniβs Hawaiian Shave Ice in LΔhainΔ
Iβm not a huge fan of standing in line (Hello, Doughnut Vault) and I almost didnβt when I saw one about 15 deep at Ululaniβs. But thanks to a Twitter tip, I sucked it up and stood my ground. It wasnβt ten minutes before I was ordering my very first Hawaiian shave ice.
The first thing to keep in mind when visiting Ululaniβs is that the small is really large and the large is really giant. Had I spotted the micro size in time I would have ordered it. C’est la vie, y’all. At $4.25 for a small and $5.25 for a large, itβs still a bargain at twice the price.Β Step up to the counter and choose your size. Up to three flavors are included with add-ons such as ice cream, sweet cream, coconut, and azuki beans (!) costing extra. Choose from some of the suggested combinations or go with your own.
I picked pineapple, coconut, and lychee. It was pretty darn tasty. Not only was this sweet treat refreshing, but it gave me sticky fingers and turned my tongue a neon shade of yellow. Unnatural colors blended with ice and pure cane sugarβ¦ Whatβs not to like about that? Nothing, I tell you.
Zone out with a massage at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea
Simply walking into the changing room of the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea Spa will do wonders for those looking to relax. The dim lighting, deafening silence, and soothing surroundings prepare guests for the ultimate in pampering. The plush robe and squishy sandals continue to set the tone. Make sure to get a cup of the warm ginger drink available. Itβs divine. Nibble on dried tropical fruit in the waiting room until your name is called. Whether having a skin treatment or a massage, guests are sure to feel revitalized and restored.
For me, after flying over 10,000 miles in less than two weeks, a massage was as essential as air. The spaβs signature Lomi Mohala massage combined the magical hands of Jennifer and an exclusive herbal oil blend. My back, once shaped like a question mark from too many cramped airline seats, was better than normal after the 50-minute treatment. Typical of Four Seasons, the experience, service, and facilities were worth their weight in gold.
Sip on a Nickβs Sunset at Nickβs Fish Market in the Fairmont Kea Lani.
Thereβs a plethora of brightly-colored drinks filled with vodka, rum, and various flavors of fruit juice found throughout Maui. Pick your poison: Mai tai, blue Hawaiian, piΓ±a colada, or lava flow. I sampled my fare share of these drinks on Maui, but none held a candle to Nickβs Sunset at Nickβs Fish Market. A version of the lava flow, Nickβs Sunset is made with Meyerβs Platinum Rum, DeKuyper Peachtree Schnapps, and juices blended with a sweet mango puree.
I promise that this calorie bomb is worth the extra exercise. Itβs like dessert in a glass and gives a little buzz as an added bonus. Drink one (or three) on the patio during sunset for an awesome Maui evening.
Dive into Molokai Sweet Potato Gnocchi at Pulehu in the Westin Kaβanapali.
Β I made gnocchi once. What a disaster! It was an inordinate amount of work for pitiful results. I was so traumatized by the incident that I havenβt been able to even order gnocchi since. Then I walked into Pulehu and met executive sous chef, Wesley Holder. One of his specialties is gnocchi made from purple sweet potatoes grown on Molokai.
Purple sweet potatoes? Thatβs what I thought, too. Created by L & R Farms in 1978, these special spuds are only grown on Molokai and itβs rich volcanic soil.
I couldnβt resist the novelty of ordering this dish, and Iβm so happy I did. Despite my recent aversion to gnocchi, I was pleasantly pleased by Pulehuβs purple dish. Tossed with sautΓ©ed Kula onion and bacon and garnished with pine nuts, currants, and micro basil, the Molokai sweet potato gnocchi was everything I hoped it would be. Thatβs good news for my taste buds and bad news for my waistline.
Of course, a Maui sunset could be one of the best indulgences and it doesn’t cost a thing. They do say that the best things in life are free.
Indeed.
I was a guest of the Maui Tourism Board. In no way was I prompted to write a positive review based on their righteous rainbows, spectacular seafood, or brilliant blue water. As always, opinions are my own.
Note: There are affiliate links in this post, meaning I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links. It costs you nothing more, but helps keep me stocked in French wine {and a roof over my head}.
@mrsoaroundworld
May 20, 2013I think Maui would be very Mrs O friendly, don’t you think? I like it already! Can I come with you next time??
Leah Walker
May 21, 2013I do believe you are correct, Mrs. O. Maui has beautiful scenery, great beaches, luxury properties, and gin. I think you’d be A-OK. Perhaps we should return together.
@mrsoaroundworld
May 22, 2013I think you could be on to something π
Leah Walker
May 22, 2013Hmmmm…we may need to work on that a bit.
Vanessa
May 20, 2013Fantastic photos. It looks so interesting and I want to go there… may be on my list for Q3/Q4-2013 and the Four Seasons look fantastic… thanks for sharing – have a great week!
Leah Walker
May 21, 2013For sure, Vanessa. I’d totally recommend Maui. In fact, I’m counting the days until I am able to return. There’s so much I didn’t get to do.
fotoeins | Henry
May 20, 2013I’ve never made the “leap” over to Maui, as I’ve spent most of the time visiting or working on the Big Island. However, your beautiful and delicious photos should help anyone to make the short hop over from Oahu or Hawaii proper. π
Leah Walker
May 21, 2013Why wait, Henry? As you said, it’s a short hop. Make sure to give Maui a shot the next time you’re in that part of the world. Or better yet, just go there directly and take me with you! π
Alexandra
May 20, 2013I can’t wait to get home and have some shave ice! I miss it so! Glad to hear you enjoyed my home. Hopefully I’ll be there next time to buy you a drink π
Leah Walker
May 21, 2013You just wait. I’ll be walking into Fleetwood’s asking for you. Mark my word!
Hogga
May 20, 2013my credit card has exercised so much its abs have abs lol
Leah Walker
May 21, 2013Now that’s a visual, and an accurate one for me, too.
RobRob
May 21, 2013So I’m reading the list and fondly remembering my own Maui indulgences. When I get to the bottom, I’m reminded that you are exactly right – that beautiful Maui sunset, a gentle reminder that you are, after all, on Maui, is the best indulgence of all. Thanks for sharing…and adding to my Next Visit To Do List! π
Leah Walker
May 21, 2013It’s hard to beat Mother Nature, isn’t it?
Kieu ~ GQ trippin
May 22, 2013Ooh I’ll take a nick’s sunset any day! Would love to visit Maui – G and I have only been to Oahu. Hrm.. honeymoon idea?? π
Leah Walker
May 22, 2013Maui would absolutely make a great honeymoon location. And with you being in the Bay Area, it’s easy to get there. I know Delta and United both have direct flights from San Fran.
Craig Zabransky
May 23, 2013nicely done… sunset. it is always about the sunset π
stay adventurous, Craig
Leah Walker
May 23, 2013Every sunset I saw in Maui and in Jordan made me think of you. Great branding, Craig.
Traveling Ted
May 23, 2013Amazing post. The lychee, pineapple shaved ice sounds incredible. I am ready to jump on a plane and see Maui and get a massage before exploring.
Leah Walker
June 9, 2013There’s some awesome hiking in Maui. And they have beer, which I know is essential for you.
Anita Mac
May 24, 2013I am with you – not much of a shopper while on the road, or at home for that matter! But when I shop, I generally come home with multiple bags! Think I would be heading to that spa….that is right up my alley!
Leah Walker
June 9, 2013Yep, when it rains it pours for me in regard to the shopping. I could use a day at the spa right now, as I know you could, too.
the lazy travelers
May 24, 2013ok, you know what. this post just makes me angry. your shave ice looks NOTHING like my cockamamy experience. i’m flying back to hawaii right now just to do it RIGHT.
ps shnazz new site design! probs late to the party, but i likey, i likey.
Leah Walker
June 9, 2013I’ll meet you there. We can share one with a side of vodka. That would be good, don’t you think?
lola
May 25, 2013wow. looks delicious in every way!
Tawny of Captain and Clark
May 25, 2013Le sigh. Hawaii will always have a place in my heart. Looks like you had a blast in Maui. Next time, I’m taking you to Oahu where you’ll experience Matsumoto’s shave ice π
Leah Walker
June 9, 2013I think I’m going to Oahu in September, so I’ll make sure to give it a shot. Although, it would be more fun with you and the Captain.
The World Wanderer
May 25, 2013Oh, Maui! I’m convinced, I need to visit here asap. What a beautiful place, and all of those activities sound right up my alley. Love it!
Leah Walker
June 9, 2013Yep! Yep! Yep! It’s a long way from Jersey, but so worth the trip. Get thyself there ASAP.
Raul (@ilivetotravel)
May 26, 2013Wow, the food at Pulehu looks good. And what makes a Hawaiian shave unique? I grew up eating shaved ice and wonder if there is a difference.