To celebrate our 30-year anniversary, we decided to go to Maui. Getting off the plane in Maui was very unique. It was a very small airport, and when we walked out of the small terminal, we found ourselves in the open air, with a fairly long walk to the baggage area. There were vendors with fruit carts and souvenirs all around. After retrieving our bags from the carousel, we boarded a tram that took us to the rental car office.
Driving on the road from the airport to the resort was pretty nondescript. It almost looked like any other small town, except for the massive mountain that surrounds the city and the burned sugar cane fields. The scene changed dramatically as we got closer to the resort, the Grand Wailea.
It looked nice as we drove in, with a big waterfall as you pulled into the valet parking. We were greeted with smiles and leis. Once we stepped into the resort, I was overwhelmed with how beautiful it all was; so amazing in every direction!
Walking to our room, we saw waterfalls, ponds and bridges. We were not disappointed with our room either. It was huge and bright and tropical. They even had champagne chilling for our anniversary with a personal note. The bathroom was roomy but the best part was our balcony, aka lanai… the view was spectacular! We were in the Chapel tower and the picture explains why.
After settling in, we hopped in the car to grab something quick to eat. We found a small public beach just minutes from the resort. We just sat and took in the beautiful sunset.
The next morning we got up early, which wasn’t too hard with the 7 hour time change. We headed out to Molokini Crater for a snorkeling trip. What a great time we had! We swam in the front and backside of the crater, seeing different types of colorful fish. We even swam with some turtles!
After a well-deserved nap, we headed to Lahaina for dinner. Such a cute town with so many shops and restaurants filling the street. The sunset from our table was just breathtaking.
Next day was Beach/Pool Day. The resort provided complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas on the beach. The pool was full of slides, waterfalls, Tarzan Rope Swing, hidden jacuzzi, pool bar and even a lazy river. It was definitely a full but relaxing day.
After another well-deserved nap, we headed out to the Luau at the resort. We had a blast! The food was amazing and so was the entertainment. We were even chosen to hula onstage!!
Stay tuned for the second part of our vacation!
What a fabulous trip. I would love to spend my anniversary alone in Hawaii. I’m jealous.
You can! It took us 30 years and well worth the wait!
Ah! I am reliving my honeymoon! We stayed on Maui, went to Molokini crater and Lahaina. I’m trying to talk my husband into going back for our 15 yr anniversary 🙂 Great photos! The resort looks amazing!
Yes, you need to go back!
That sounds like fun! We tried to do Molokini but you can only go in the morning our tour was in the afternoon. 🙁
Yes, definitely! It gets to hot and windy in the afternoon.
Gosh, the resort looks and sounds incredible! Snorkeling is one of the things I still want to do. Congrats on 30 years!
Thanks Eva!! I started snorkeling with my cousin years ago!
This looks amazing! How did you like snorkeling? I think I’d like to do it, but am a bit worried about the breathing part.
Snorkeling is so relaxing. It’s just your face barely under the water and the tube is above the water. We did try the full face mask this time. I didn’t like it so I used the traditional one instead, but my husband liked his. You need to try it!
Omg what an incredible trip! Now I am so ready to go!!!
awww Hawaii is always so memorable. they do such a great job at hospitality!!
Yes it was wonderful and so relaxing.
Hawaii is so beautiful! This sounds like a vacation I need to plan for my husband and I!
We’ve been to Hawaii sever times but I’ve always wanted to go rob maui. The resort looks beautiful. Happy Anniversary
It’s amazing how each island is so different. Thank you!
Hoping I can convince my hubby to take a trip to Hawaii one day!!
Happy Anniversary! What a great place to celebrate.
Thank You!
This blog sums up all the reasons why we love island..
Looks lovely and so peaceful! Hopefully one day my husband and I can go away alone haha It may take us 30 years too.
Even if it takes you 30 years, you have to go!
I love all of your tips! Great pics too!
Love Maui…what a perfect place to celebrate your anniversary! Beautiful pics!
That looks like a gorgeous resort! Will have to keep this in my files, I love Waldorf Astoria brand hotels and resorts!
It truly was amazing and the personal service was outstanding!
What an amazing way to celebrate your 30th! Happy Anniversary. It looks like a lot of great memories were made.
Happy 30-year anniversary!!! What a great way to spend your time together.