Most mornings we had a continental breakfast at the resort, which was so fresh and delicious. We even tried a rambutan, a hairy questionable-looking fruit: watch the video to see how to eat it.
We decided to hop in the car and drive the road to Hana. A young couple we met told us to use the “Shaka” app for a self-guided tour. I can’t say enough about this app! It was amazing and so accurate. The app works for all the islands and I know we will be using it on future trips. The narrator is so entertaining and informative. If you visit Hawaii, you have to try this app!
The ride was long but well worth it. We saw so many beaches, including Black Sand Beach. There were more waterfalls then we could count. We also saw the 7 Scared Pools. My husband even went into a lava tunnel!
After driving so many narrow, winding roads, we finally reached the town of Hana. It’s a very small place with so much charm. The general store had so much to look at: good luck getting out of there without buying something! We had lunch at Ranch Restaurant. They had the best fish and chips I’ve ever had.
After a long day, we decided to stay at the resort for dinner. We ate at the Bistro Molokini. I don’t know if the food or the beautiful sunset was my favorite part.
The next morning we were up at 2:30 am to see the sunrise at the top of Haleakala Crater. The winding roads take you up over 10,000 feet. There are just no words to describe the feeling of watching the sun come up through the clouds…amazing and breathtaking!
After such an unbelievable morning, we needed another nap!! We didn’t do much more that afternoon except explore the grounds of this incredible resort. Guess what I found after just a little exploration…the stores! How had I missed them for all these days!
After shopping all afternoon, we had some dinner at Polli’s, the best Mexican food on the island! It was about a 30 minute drive, but the scenery was worth it.
The next day was our last to enjoy the beach, which we did. Alan even found a little coral reef just a few feet off shore with several fish, turtles and even a glimpse of an eel tail!
We went into town for a little more realistic shopping. We bought a coconut to ship home which always makes a cool souvenir gift for a special someone!! We had a quick lunch at Peggy Sue’s, a small 50’s diner, with island-inspired ice cream and shakes. Yum!
Our final night, we decided to splurge and go to the incredible HumuHumu for my favorite Blue Hawaiian drink and traditional Hawaiian appetizer. Boy, were we surprised with our options for an appetizer! We decided on squid ink monkey bread with bread fruit risotto! I know it doesn’t sound too appetizing, but I was amazed by how delicious it was.
That’s the most important part of being a “Fun” Empty Nester…trying new things. I’ve surprised myself over and over again by doing things out of my comfort zone, and enjoying most of it! Don’t let fear or routine hold you back: go out and experience life! Try the squid ink monkey bread…it might be your new favorite food!
It was bittersweet leaving Maui but these memories will be so special forever!
We need to go together. Oh the trouble we could get in to😃
Yes, let’s do it!