Resources
AIR TRANSPORTATION
Kahului (OGG) is the principal airport on Maui. There are many direct flights from the West Coast straight to Kahului ……or fly to Oahu (Honolulu) with connecting flights to Kahului airport. Another alternative is to take an inter-island commuter plane from Honolulu to the Kapalua (JHM) airport in West Maui. Although these flights are infrequent, this smaller airport is just a few minutes from Hale Kai.
GROUND TRANSPORTATION
Maui has a public transit system that stops right next door at Honokowai Beach Park; it is convenient for all local travel within West Maui. However, to make the most of your time here, you’ll probably want a rental car. Also, for your convenience, several taxi companies serve W. Maui. All the usual chain rental companies are located at Kahului airport; these same agencies are also located nearby in West Maui. For discount opportunities, Hale Kai does have an arrangement with Budget: “BCD”—customer code V673008. Because we have car rentals available in our neighborhood, you might also consider taking a shuttle from the main airport and renting a car for only part of your stay, as a cost saving alternative.
Suggestions for island options:
Shuttle Service-----800/833/2303; Maui Car Rental----877/873/6121 or 808/873/6121 if you might like to try bio-diesel, hybrid electric or full electric vehicles; Aloha Rent a Car---877/452/5642, a non-affiliated agency; Aloha Toy Store----808/662/0888 for exotic cars and Harleys.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Cancellation Policy: Because we are a smaller establishment than hotels, we have fewer requests for last moment reservations, so we have to be less forgiving regarding cancellations. Therefore we require full payment 60 days prior to arrival. If a cancellation is less than 60 days before arrival we can offer a refund for the parts of the original booking period…..which can be rented to another guest (less a $75 cancel fee). We recommend that you consider purchasing travel insurance to give you more assurance about your upcoming relaxing trip to Hale Kai.
Suggestions for travel insurance options: There are many providers who offer a variety of plans so you can custom design your insurance to meet your needs. For example, combine coverage for airfare in addition to accommodations. Internet search for “Travel Insurance” displays many options and gives comparative rates and reviews . Familiar companies include: AIG (Travel Guard); AAA Travel; CSA Travel Protection (‘Custom’ and ‘InsureMyTrip’); Allianz Travel.
ACTIVITIES/TOURS
As you look forward to interesting activities, a short description about the climate and clothing might be helpful. Hale Kai is located on the NW leeward side of the island where we enjoy regular trade winds which provide natural air conditioning; temperatures range in the 70’s and 80’s (Fahrenheit). Maui has several micro-climates, so temperatures and rain can be different just a few miles away, and it is cooler in the “upcountry” locales. Casual attire is normal---an Aloha shirt and slacks are appropriate , even in more formal venues. Warmer garments are recommended for a trip up to Haleakala. We have a laundry facility onsite, so no need to pack extra clothes.
Water Recreation: Snorkeling (Hale Kai, Old Airport Beach—Kahekili Park, Black Rock, Honolua); Sailing; Deep Sea Fishing; Whale Watching Cruises during the months November through March (Pacific Whale Foundation); SCUBA (Lahaina Dive---lessons and/or escorted trips); Snorkeling, Boogie Boarding, Skim Boarding (rentals at local Boss Frog’s or Snorkel Bob’s).
Land Recreation: Biking (West Maui Cycles); Parasailing (UFO Parasail); Zip Lining (Maui Zip Line Tours); Exercising (Sports Club Kahana); Spas (Zensation Spa, Kapalua Spa).
There are many more suggestions in Tom’s Barefoot Tours. They can assist you in reservations and transportation for activities.
Disclosure: All the items and activities listed here are based on our own experience. With the exception of Tom’s Barefoot Tours, our recommended activities broker. This company is mentioned for your convenience and should not be considered as an endorsement.
