The Island Scoop

A little local knowledge goes a long way! From Maui's natural wonders and island living tips to our favorite places to eat, explore, and unwind, here's the inside scoop to help you make the most of your stay.

Views of Molokai

Look across the sparkling Pacific toward the beautiful island of Molokai, visible right from your private oceanfront lanai. It's the perfect backdrop for morning coffee, sunset views, and relaxing to the sounds of the ocean.

Whale Watching Season

Visiting during the winter months? From December through March, keep an eye on the ocean for migrating humpback whales. You may even spot them from your own lanai!

Our Hawaiian Sea Turtles

One of the special experiences at Makani Sands is seeing Hawaiian green sea turtles swimming along our shoreline. Please admire these beautiful creatures from a respectful distance and never touch or disturb them.

Island Tradewinds

Maui's refreshing tradewinds are part of island life! They bring welcome ocean breezes, but occasionally a little dust or sand, especially along the shoreline. It's all part of the natural oceanfront experience.

Our Tropical Neighbors

Hawaii's warm climate is home to a variety of insects. Although the property receives routine pest control, you may occasionally encounter a few tropical visitors. Keeping screen doors closed and food properly stored helps keep them outside.

Our Ever-Changing Beach

The beach at Makani Sands changes naturally with the seasons and ocean conditions, with a sandy shoreline typically more plentiful during the summer months. Beach access is available by stairs from the property, although the amount of exposed sand can vary throughout the year.

Okazuya Deli – Honokōwai

One of our favorite spots for delicious local plate lunches! We especially love the lemon caper mahi mahi and the Friday ribeye teriyaki steak special.

Our Island Scoop: Cash only! If you're planning to enjoy the Friday ribeye teriyaki special for dinner, be sure to preorder by 3 PM to avoid missing out. It's a popular favorite and often sells out!

Foodland Poke – West Maui

You don't need a fancy restaurant to enjoy some of Maui's best local food! Foodland is well known for its delicious poke, and it's one of our favorite stops for a quick, satisfying island meal.

Our Island Scoop: Our favorites are the ahi shoyu, sweet-and-spicy K-pop salmon, and Alaskan pollock. Pick up a poke bowl and enjoy it back at your oceanfront lanai!

Joey's Kitchen – Nāpili

If you love Filipino food with an island twist, Joey's Kitchen is a must-try! It's one of our favorite places for flavorful, satisfying meals.

Our Island Scoop: Don't miss the crispy pata! It's a Filipino favorite featuring crispy, golden pork with tender, flavorful meat inside. One of our must-order dishes!

Honolua Store – Kapalua

Don't let the name fool you! This charming general store has a food counter in the back serving delicious local favorites. It's one of our favorite casual stops for breakfast or lunch.

Our Island Scoop: The ube pancakes are a must-try! We also love the garlic butter shrimp plate, avocado omelet, and Dole Whip. If you're craving prime rib, check out their Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday specials.

Kapalua Bay Beach – Kapalua

One of our favorite beaches in West Maui! This beautiful, sheltered bay is a wonderful place to relax, swim, and snorkel. The clear waters and colorful tropical fish make it especially memorable.

Our Island Scoop: Bring your snorkeling gear and keep an eye out for Hawaiian green sea turtles. It's a lovely spot to spend a relaxing morning. Remember to admire marine life from a respectful distance.

Kapalua Coastal Trail – Kapalua

One of our favorite scenic walks in West Maui! Enjoy breathtaking ocean views, beautiful beaches, and dramatic lava rock formations along this coastal trail. It's a wonderful way to experience Maui's natural beauty at your own pace.

Our Island Scoop: Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and your camera. Take your time enjoying the scenery, and keep an eye on the ocean for whales during the winter months!

Dragon's Teeth—Makaluapuna Point, Kapalua

Discover one of West Maui's most unusual natural wonders! These dramatic, jagged lava rock formations resemble a row of dragon's teeth, with beautiful ocean views along the coastline.

Our Island Scoop: Look for the small parking area at the end of Office Road near the Ritz-Carlton in Kapalua. Wear comfortable shoes for the short walk, and stay safely away from the cliff edges and crashing waves.

Nāpili Bay Beach – Nāpili

One of West Maui's most beautiful beaches! This picturesque, crescent-shaped bay is a favorite for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing on the sand. With its clear blue waters and beautiful coastal scenery, it's a wonderful place to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon.

Our Island Scoop: Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the colorful marine life, or enjoy watching the waves roll in. Ocean conditions can vary, so always check the surf before entering the water.

La Pérouse Bay – South Maui

One of our favorite places to experience Maui's rugged natural beauty! The dramatic black lava fields, striking coastline, and beautiful sunsets make this area unlike anywhere else on the island.

Our Island Scoop: During one of our sunset visits, we even spotted stingrays swimming along the lava rocks! Keep your eyes on the water—you never know what marine life you might see. Wear sturdy shoes for the rocky terrain, and enjoy the scenery from a safe distance from the waves.

Haleakalā National Park – Upcountry Maui

Experience Maui from above the clouds! Whether you're watching the sunrise or sunset from the summit, the sweeping volcanic landscape and breathtaking views make Haleakalā an unforgettable experience.

Our Island Scoop: Sunrise requires advance reservations, but sunset does not. Bring warm clothing—it can get surprisingly cold at the summit, even when it's warm at the beach! Allow plenty of time for the drive and changing weather conditions.

Road to Hāna – East Maui

One of Maui's most memorable scenic drives! Travel through lush tropical rainforests, past beautiful waterfalls, and along a winding coastline filled with breathtaking views. The journey itself is part of the adventure!

Our Island Scoop: Make time to stop at Ho'okipa Beach Park to watch the windsurfers, and keep an eye out for the colorful rainbow eucalyptus trees around Mile Marker 7—an easy sight to miss! Visit the famous black sand beach at Waiʻānapanapa State Park, where advance reservations are required. Start early, bring snacks and water, and only pull over in designated parking areas. It's a full-day adventure!