Maui day 2

The sun was up and so were we – nice and late! Breakfast was a relaxed affair at the hotel and we finally headed out around 10.

Entrance to our Garden Room

Having talked to Karly on the desk we went out armed with a good map and took the route to the I’ao Needle State Park. This was something we had missed on our last visit, so now it is ticked off the list. Only a small place, it is nevertheless one of peace and quiet and contemplation – if you can block out the other visitors!! Fortunately we missed the coach tours.

There are many historic churches on Maui.

Driving around Maui is such a pleasure. No freeways, some dual carriageways, 55mph max, and drivers give way!!!! With a bit of Grace Kelly happening in our open top Mustang , we headed for the Ali’i Kula Lavender farm, situated on the slopes of Mt Haleakala.


We took a side trip to visit an 1894 church – what a position; high up on the slopes of the mountain overlooking the ocean at Kihei. The Hawaiian Islands have a long and fascinating history. Parts of Maui really hold to the island’s roots. Where we were staying was one as are many of the small towns scattered across the western slopes of Haleakala.

Holy Ghost Church, Kula

After this short diversion we found the lavender farm, but it not as extensive as I had hoped. Some pretty gardens and many lavender products, but not what I was after. So we headed to Makawao for a late lunch.

Lovely gardens, but lavender products not to my liking

Makawao – hard to say and just as hard to describe. Somewhat Byron Bay mixed with a bit of raw cowboy, Makawao is full of boutiques, galleries and gift shops. We lunched at a local eatery where the milkshake I ordered was anything but. The food, on the other hand was superb.

Our day out finished with a visit to Ho’okipa Beach. The wind was blowing and this beach is a world renowned wind surfing location. At one end of the beach there were about half a dozen wind surfers slicing through the waves, almost hitting the beach before turning back out to sea, occasionally tipping, but mostly simply flying. 

At the other end of the beach dozens of surfers were catching some smooth waves. Parking was at a premium – well it was a free show after all.

Now for a serious decision – where to eat.