Live on Island Time with Our Guide for Maui
Want to explore Maui like a local and fully embrace our culture and way of life during your stay at Hale Napili? Our Maui guide will help set you on the right path. Let go of the wikiwiki life and live on island time! Don’t have an accommodation secured? Book a stay!
Lifestyle
Our sandy beaches, tropical breezes, and island style make Maui a top destination for a relaxing vacation and a relaxing life. But how do you carry this into your everyday life? First, you must Embrace the Aloha spirit, the sharing of life energy in the present, and becoming attuned to mana. This is more than a philosophy, it’s an actual law in Hawaii! The Aloha Spirit Law states: “‘Aloha Spirit’ is the coordination of mind and heart within each person. It brings each person to the self. Each person must think and emote good feelings to others.”
One way we express the aloha spirit is with our greetings. You may be presented with a lei upon your arrival or at a luau. You might get a kiss on the cheek when it’s presented to you. (Never remove your lei in the presence of a person who gave it to you, as it is disrespectful.)
Another custom is women putting flowers behind their ears, but pay attention to which side they’re put on! The right side signals that you’re available, the left signifies your relationship status. Just remember, “Right side, right on. Left side, better left alone.”
Finally, if you’re visiting friends or a home in Hawaii, please take your slippers (flip-flops) off before entering. It’s common courtesy and helps keep sand and dirt outside where it belongs.
Finally, as you explore Maui, don’t be rigid with your routine or schedules. Slow down, embrace the island and our people. You might even want to try your hand at giving a local a shaka!
Getting Around
Having your own transportation is the easiest way to travel like a local around the island. Though, there are public transportation options if you want an eco- and budget-friendly alternative.
Dining
To fully experience Maui, skip the chain restaurants. To get a good “taste” of Maui and our extraordinary cuisine, see our Maui Dine & Drink page. Don’t be afraid to stop at the many food trucks, they are exceptional! And be sure to ask your tour guide or locals for their favorites!
On another note, eat SPAM. More than 7 million cans of it are sold in Hawaii each year! It has become a common staple in our food since its introduction to the island in World War II.
Activities
Explore off-site – Our major attractions and areas of sightseeing aren’t just for tourists, especially the Road to Hana. Be sure to stop and explore what’s next to the highway, such as trails or hidden beaches. This is where the locals will go.
Catch a show or listen to live music – There’s no shortage of local hangouts that feature live music, entertainment and karaoke.
End the weekend at the beach – A unique way to end the weekend is heading out to Makena’s Little Beach. On Sunday nights, you will find a party with fire spinning and drum circles. Please note that there are nudists at this beach, though it’s not legal to be nude; it’s not heavily enforced.
Go to the spa – Visiting Maui might feel like you’re already at a spa, but it never hurts to pamper yourself! A rejuvenating spa treatment or massage can enhance your relaxation.
Take a hula or lei-making lesson – No, not every local knows how to hula or make a lei, but these classes are very fun. And, it’s another great way to learn about our history and thriving culture.
Hike local trails – Skip the gym and see Hawaii by foot and take a hike. Literally! Or check out the many nature trails. Getting your island exercise the old-fashioned way is the best!
Festivals
Immerse yourself in our lifestyle, explore our history, or discover new Hawaiian foods you haven’t tried. There is no shortage of Festivals on Maui or our neighboring islands. The island hopper flights are quite reasonably priced if you choose to venture off Maui.
