Welcome back to our Maui adventures!

As promised this is going to be a continuation of our first-time thrills in Hawaii. Before reading further, here is part one if you missed it: MAUI TRAVEL DIARY PART 1!

Now that we’re all caught up and in the mood for sunshine, let’s explore more of this beautiful island. Just writing this post puts me in my happiest place. This Hawaiian trip was one of my 2024 top highlights because it’s the MOST dreamy and romantic honeymoon I could ever have asked for. Hawaii’s popularity with honeymooners is no surprise, and we seemed to fit the part! The moment we arrived, a friendly local greeted us with a warm smile and asked if we were on our honeymoon—it was such a sweet way to start our trip. Later, while buying a beautiful lei-patterned dress (which you’ll see me wearing soon) from an adorable older woman, we heard the same comment. Maybe we really did have that honeymoon glow!

Places to Explore:

Whalers Village

I mentioned the “Black Rock” in the first part of the travel diary, so if you continue walking from there and head South you’ll soon reach Whalers Village. This beautiful beachfront shopping center is full of famous retailers, boutiques, restaurants and cute play areas for the kids. It has everything, so I definitely suggest sparing some time to explore and walk around. On top of that you’ll find entertainment like hula classes, a night at the movies, or book yourself on a wildlife adventure at their Discovery Center. How Fun!

Teralani Sailing Trip

I can’t think of anything more romantic than a sunset sailing trip. We booked ours through Teralani, and they offer dolphin and whale watching adventures depending on the season you visit Kaanapali. April is one of the best months for watching these mesmerizing creatures swim right in front of your eyes.

To dock the boat, we headed to Aqualani Beach & Ocean Recreation, where we checked in and prepared for a magical sunset sail. The experience was truly unforgettable—relaxing deep into the blue waters while taking in Hawaii’s breathtaking beauty in every direction. The air felt different, almost magical, and the cocktails were deliciously refreshing, paired perfectly with the tasty bites provided. The friendly and entertaining staff made the trip even more enjoyable, especially during the exciting moment they opened the sail. If you’re ever in Hawaii, a boat trip like this is an absolute must—it’s a memory you’ll cherish forever!

Hike the Mahana Ridge Trail

Long before visiting Hawaii became a reality, I dreamed of hiking through its lush jungles. So, we made sure to dedicate a day to getting lost in the vibrant greenery, and it turned out to be even more magical than I imagined. Towering leaves surrounded us, a narrow uphill path led to breathtaking views, gentle raindrops kissed our skin as we climbed higher, and a rainbow stretched across the sky, smiling down at us. It was everything I had hoped for and more!

To get to this hike, we took an Uber from our hotel north to D.T. Fleming Park. The trail is a long one, taking up to six hours to complete, but we decided to tackle just half of it. We turned back just in time to catch the last glimpse of the sun setting, painting the sky in brilliant colors.

This trail seems to be a favorite among tourists, and it’s easy to see why. It offers a bit of everything—starting with a dirt path that gradually transitions into lush surroundings filled with trees, uphill steps, and breathtaking views. It’s absolutely worth it! If you’re in Hawaii, I highly recommend venturing into nature. It’s a unique, peaceful experience that lets you fully disconnect and recharge.

Snorkel at Kapalua Bay Beach

This beach is the perfect spot for anyone looking to explore the ocean’s wonders in a peaceful, intimate setting. It’s especially great for beginners who want to immerse themselves in underwater life. We saw people of all ages enjoying the sunshine and having a blast. Nearby, you’ll find the stunning Montage resort, which is worth walking through. We loved strolling along the coast, as it felt so family-friendly and serene. Of course, the scenery was the absolute highlight of every step we took. It was so captivating that it inspired me to walk further each day.

We left our resort, Aston Kaanapali Shores, early in the morning, and on our way, we made a stop at Island Vibes Cafe (Napali Village). It was the perfect break—serving the best acai bowls and coffee in the most laid-back, beachy wooden cafe that truly made my day. I’m so glad we stumbled upon it by chance. If you’re in the area or planning to spend your day nearby, I highly recommend checking it out!

Thank you for coming along with me to this beautiful island. For more recommendations, be sure to check out part one, which I published last summer.