My Last Holiday
My family and I recently took a week-long holiday over the winter break last month. It was much needed time to relax and recharge after a busy year. Our destination was Maui, Hawaii – one of the most beautiful island getaways in the world. Hawaii is known for its pristine beaches, towering volcanoes, lush tropical forests and warm, balmy weather even in the winter months. We were all eagerly anticipating our time in paradise after months of planning and saving up our vacation days.
We flew out of Chicago O’Hare International Airport on Christmas Eve. The airport was predictably crowded with many others traveling to visit loved ones or escape the cold for the holidays. After a long flight with stops in Los Angeles and Honolulu, we finally landed in Kahului Airport on Maui in the late afternoon. The weather was hot and humid, even after the sun had gone down –quite a shock to the system after leaving below freezing temperatures in Illinois. We picked up our rental car and drove the short distance to our resort in Kihei along the sunny south shore of Maui.
Our resort was beautiful, nestled between the ocean and rolling green hills framed by the imposing 10,000 foot tall Haleakala volcano in the distance. We checked into our ocean view room just in time to catch the breathtaking Maui sunset coloring the sky in vibrant hues of orange, pink and purple. After settling in and freshening up from our long journey, we went for a stroll along the empty white sand beach lit only by moonlight. The warm air and gentle crashes of waves were so soothing and helped ease any remaining jet lag. That first night falling asleep to the sound of the ocean will always stay with me as a perfect way to start our Hawaiian adventure.
The next morning we woke up well rested and energized for a busy day of activities planned. After a hearty breakfast at the resort’s oceanfront restaurant, we drove the short distance to historic Lahaina town. Parking was easy to find on the less crowded weekday morning. Lahaina has well-preserved historical buildings and charming boutique shops. We browsed for souvenirs, postcards and snacks while learning about Hawaii’s history at the Old Lahaina Courthouse. Next, we took the scenic drive up the winding roads of the West Maui Mountains for spectacular views of the rugged Napili coastline hundreds of feet below.
In the afternoon, we went on a snorkeling cruise to Molokini, a small volcanic crater island just off the coast of Maui known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. The boat ride out was smooth and we spotted impressive humpback whales breaching on our way. Snorkeling in the vibrant blue waters of Molokini was an incredible experience. Schools of colorful fish surrounded us along with playful sea turtles and even shy octopuses hiding in anemones. The water was crystal clear, comfortably warm and teeming with sea creatures. After a few hours of exploring the underwater world, we sailed over to a secluded white sand cove for a delicious picnic lunch. The fresh tuna poke and Maui Gold pineapple hit the spot after our energetic snorkel.
We returned to our resort just in time for the sunset. After cleaning up, we drove 20 minutes to the buzzing town of Wailea for a fun night out. We had reservations at Mulligan’s On The Blue, a lively Irish pub right on the beach. They had live music, Guinness on draft and mouthwatering appetizers like fish tacos and Kalua pork sliders. It was so fun to be out enjoying the island nightlife and great food with my family after the busy day. After dinner, we walked down the beach and watched the moon rise over the ocean. I couldn’t believe we were in such a beautiful tropical paradise enjoying our holiday.
The rest of the week was equally busy and memorable. Some other highlights included: an afternoon exploring Haleakala National Park, hiking up through gorgeous waterfalls and rainforests to see the breathtaking crater vista at sunrise; an ATV ride through Upcountry Farm trails taking in panoramic agricultural fields and stopping to learn about organic tropical fruit growing; and relaxing days lounging by the infinity pool taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
Our last full day was bittersweet as we packed our bags to head home the following morning. We squeezed in one last beach day enjoying kihei-style shave ice from the resort shave ice stand and building a gigantic sandcastle. That evening, we went to nearby Kīhei for our farewell dinner. We chose Maui Fish Company right on the harbor, known for its fresh locally-caught seafood and spectacular views of the sunset coloring towering palms and Mākena coastline in shades of blush and gold. Lingering over pūpū apps and kalua pork tacos while watching the sunset perfectly summed up our magical Hawaiian holiday.
All too soon, it was time for our red-eye flight back to dreary Chicago winter. Even though we were exhausted from our whirlwind trip, the memories would sustain us through the long airport layovers and flight home. Our week in Maui rejuvenated us in body and spirit and brought us closer as a family. The awe-inspiring scenery, tasty island cuisine, relaxing resort and locals who radiated ‘aloha’ left us reluctant to return to reality. This holiday was the best gift and getaway we could ask for. I know we will return to Maui again to experience more of its natural beauty, culture and endless summer. The islands of Hawai’i truly have a special place in my heart as one of the most memorable family holidays of my life.
Andrew Stroud