Day 4: Only in Maui
The Hawaiian culture is rich with history, song, dance and traditions. Find a local farmers or crafters market to buy some souvenirs of your time here, and make sure to pick up a “hula girl” grass skirt, lei and coconut bra outfit for your next costume party. One Maui must-see is a traditional luau. While many resorts offer luaus, a few are heads and shoulders above the rest. See dinner suggestions below.
For lunch, go local and find a plate lunch. Embracing the many cultures that have made Maui their home, a plate lunch includes items with Asian, Polynesian and American influences. Da Kitchen in Kahului and Kihei have big plates at not-so-big prices, and on the West Side, Aloha Mixed Plate has a worldwide following. For dinner, go to a hukilau: You won't have to pull in the nets, but you will learn a lot about Hawaiian culture while enjoying a fabulous buffet with drinks included. Personal favorites include the Old Lahaina Luau as well as Honua'ula at the Wailea Beach Marriott.
www.da-kitchen.com, www.alohamixedplate.com, www.oldlahainaluau.com, www.honuaula-luau.com