Maui and Meditation

Maui may actually be the most magical place on earth (sorry, Disney!), especially it you are looking for a relaxing and spiritual vacation. 

I went to Maui this past August to complete a yoga teacher-training program and it was life-changing. If you are into yoga, be sure to check out Maui Hot Yoga and Kickboxing in North Kihei for a great workout!

August is a really great time travel to Maui, mainly because prices (flights and accommodation) are about half compared to what you would be spending during the winter months. The weather in Maui is pretty constant year round as well, so you don’t have to worry about extreme heat in the summer. I recommend renting an apartment (versus staying at a hotel), so you can make some of your own meals at home. Apartments are also significantly cheaper and just as nice as some of the hotels. Produce and groceries are fairly pricey year round (but still cheaper than eating out). If you can make it to Costco when you land (very close to the airport), stock up on food there to be most cost-efficient. 

The #1 thing you need to do in Maui is drive to the top of Haleakala National Park to watch the sunrise. You have to start the trek around 3 or 4 in the morning (depending where you are on the island) to make it to the top in time. There is a park fee of $10 to get to the top or you can camp and hike as another option. Be sure to dress for cooler weather, as there is a significant temperature drop at the top. I would suggest bringing a toque, mitts and even a blanket, to be the most comfortable. As the sunrises, people watch in silence and a local park ranger chants. It is such a magical moment that words and pictures can't even begin to do it justice.

Attempt at justice - Haleakala (Merriam, Megan. 2012)

If you plan on doing the Road to Hana (which you should), I would recommend stopping for a hike through the Bamboo Forest. The hike takes a couple hours and is moderate in terms of difficulty. In this forest, you will also find Rainbow Eucalyptus trees. They are so beautiful that they almost look fake!

 Bamboo Forest (Merriam, Megan. 2010)

The summer months in Maui are off-season for surfing. I can't make any recommendations on where to find good surf, but stand-up paddleboarding is a pretty good alternative! A friend of mine offers SUP rentals and lessons out of the Grand Wailea Resort (south of Kihei), where she even teaches paddleboard yoga (SO COOL). There are plenty of shops along the coast that rent boards as well. I would suggest going first thing in the morning, when the ocean is calm. 

The best beach close to Kihei is called Big Beach. Wind tends to pick up mid-afternoon, so try to get to the beaches earlier in the day to avoid blowing sand. On Sunday nights, a small beach connected to Big Beach (called Little Beach), has a drum circle, where people play and dance until sunset. Warning: This beach is clothing optional.

Sunset at Little Beach, Kihei (Merriam, Megan. 2010)

There is something about Maui that is truly awakening. The vibe on the island tends to be a bit 'hippy' and very health cautious. Check out various farmers markets for the amazing local produce (they are everywhere), and be sure to drink fresh coconut water straight out of the coconut (I have became slightly addicted)! I would also like to suggest a stop at my favourite natural food store, Mana Foods, located in the town of Paia. They have ridiculously good gluten-free and vegan treats.

Maui Revealed is the best guidebook to use, so be sure to grab one of those while you're down there. 

I would love to hear about any magical Maui moments, if you have some to share. 

Mahalo!