Just returned last night. We had a great time, despite it having rained every day except one (and not just brief periods- extended periods of light rain and even heavy rain at times). Also so much for calling beforehand and requesting a higher floor- we were given a ground floor room- nice grass and plants outside, but no privacy with workman frequently back and forth, so really no balcony use. But we were on Maui, and the resort is BEAUTIFUL! I know why many here look at it as their home away from home. Despite the long flights for us, even my DH (who was reticent about going because of the flights) is looking forward to another trip. Layout if the resort is beautiful, it's well located on a very walkable strip, and the staff is great!
Thanks to Greg and others for great restaurant suggestions and "to do lists." We did the sunrise bike tour to Haleakala (sadly no sunrise for us- just freezing and rainy), but did get to ride down the volcano, and only wasn't able to do the last stretch past the town (thanks to more rain); it was an awesome experience! Saw whales on a PWF whale watch (they were the only ones starting the beg. of Dec.)- saw and heard whales, and even managed to get a few pics. We did the Road to Hana- we did follow some advice to do the full circle- would rec. doubling back and not doing the road on the other side, part of which is unpaved but, more imp., very narrow and windy at times, with some locals zipping by on narrow cliffside roads. And I was finally able to snorkel, something I've never been able to manage before.
A few recommendations: if you have an iphone (my be available for androids, not sure) look for the
Gypsy Guides to Maui App(s), There is a bundle app for 9.99, or single ones for 4.99 each. We bought the
guide for the Road to Hana and it was amazing!! It is a GPS guided tour- tracks your location and gives you a great narrative of where you are, what attractions are coming up, how long they'll take, whether it's a must see or not, and where to turn and park. Cell service is spotty at best, so a GPS guide was especially helpful, and the guide was funny and advice spot on! The advice helps you keep on course and make the most use of your time. We were on the road before 8 and returned at 6, so even basically sticking to his must-see spots it was a very full day, and it's a drive you want to do in daylight. Narrow, often one lane (not one lane in each direction) unlit roads are best navigated in daylight. There is also a guide for driving to Haleakala and a general Maui guide, which also can be purchased individually or as part of the Maui bundle.
Another tip some might find useful- they recently came out with all in one snorkel/mask, which we first saw a few months ago in Aruba. Several companies make them, including Tribord, Head and a few others. They all look the same to me, so I'm guessing there's one manufacturer and it's rebadged under different names.
Tribord on Amazon. I was never able to snorkel before; I couldn't stop hyperventilating. This mask made all the difference- allows one to breathe through the nose or mouth while underwater. Even accomplished snorkelers love it- it's just easy to use. I saw a few others on the beach with them and it was featured in several shops.
For those driving to Haleakala- besides making reservations in advance (they sell out) after Feb. 1st, make sure to save your entry ticket, which is good for 3 dys. If you're doing the Road to Hana, past Hana is the Seven Pools, which is a short hike inside the park, so you can use the same admission ticket.
