Hawaii Travel Guide: Living Lux at Fairmont, Swimming with Whales, and Our Road to Hana
A Slice of Paradise in Maui
Welcome to the enchanting world of Hawaii—a paradise where the finest experiences await. Imagine an island truly far away from the mainland and only surrounded by a deep, magnificent ocean, its blue waters filled with ancient tales and humpback whales.
Hawaii has a magical pull, drawing visitors to its shores. But it’s not just about luxury; it’s about healing, too. A sweet local therapist at the Fairmont Hotel revealed to me that Hawaii’s sea salt not only benefits your body on the outer spectrum but also possesses power — if you’re open to it — to heal your emotional wounds and traumas. Personally, I felt it a great place to allow myself to just let go.
Here, we found a unique oneness with Mother Nature, unlike any other place experienced in the world.
Here, I swam with whales where a family of 3 got super playful and up close to us. The locals said it was a once in a lifetime experience even for them, Jaclynn was a bit nervous, but I decided to jump in where I heard dozens of them singing, laughing, swimming freely in this magnificently magical ocean.
Debunking Misconceptions
Locals want you to know that there’s a big misconception among tourists. Some believe they may not be welcomed in Hawaii. But right now, Hawaii needs your support more than ever. So book that trip, good things will follow.
Where to Stay
We indulged in the ultimate 5-star experience at the Fairmont Kea Lani, Hawaii’s only all-suite and villa luxury resort. Located on the island of Wailea, next to the Four Season, an island insiders will tell you it’s where you’ll find the best weather Hawaii has to offer.
Embracing the transformation, Fairmont unveiled a revamped paradise to us. As the sun-kissed waves gently lapped against the shore, anticipation filled the air. The once-familiar retreat has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, and the world awaits its grand reveal.
The Artful Redesign: Suites and Villas Transformed
I stood at the threshold of elegance. The suites and villas, meticulously reimagined, now blend modern luxury with the timeless allure of Hawaiian heritage. Each space tells a story—a symphony of colors, textures, and comfort. We marveled at the seamless fusion of aesthetics and functionality.
We were blessed with an ocean-view one-bedroom suite, big enough for a family of four. Our balcony wrapped around like an ocean wave and we spent many mornings watching the sunrise and many afternoons responding to emails and taking our work calls from.
The Open-Air Lobby: A Gateway to Serenity
Beyond the threshold lies the open-air lobby—an invitation to paradise. Waterfalls cascade, their soothing melody echoing through the space. Lush gardens breathe life into every corner. And there, framed by swaying palms, the boundless ocean stretches to the horizon. I felt a connection—to nature, to tranquility, to the essence of Maui.
Also, I highly recommend – locals will tell you the same – to plan a night or two in Hana. I’ll explain more about our experience on the Road to Hana guide below. But for now, keep it as an option.
What to Do
It’s your vacation, so sleeping in seems like a must. But in Hawaii, the most amazing things happen during the sun hours. Luckily, the Hawaiian time zone is just as leisurely, so when it’s 6 am in Hawaii, it’s actually 9 am in LA. Most water sports are best before 1 pm. My guide will highlight swimming with whales and the Road to Hana—keep scrolling for details.
Hale Kukuna: Where Culture Comes Alive
Venturing deeper into Fairmont’s lobby, we discovered Hale Kukuna—a cultural oasis. Here, ancient traditions intertwine with modern curiosity. Exhibits beckon, revealing the soul of Hawaii. We were immersed in a traditional lei-making class surrounded by stories of voyagers. Hale Kukuna is more than a building; it’s a vessel for heritage, a bridge across time and I really enjoyed their selections of books.
Swimming with Whales
There are other ways to experience seeing these majestic beasts. They get really close to the shore, and locals told us they can swim in waters as low as 10 feet. During sunrise, you’re most likely to see and hear the whales. Their babies make a lot of noise, and their moms follow, so walking out to the beach along the pathway will serve you well.
At Fairmont, they offer a lot of activities, including a traditional outrigger canoe ride in hopes of seeing some sea life. And if you’re really lucky—or as they say, chosen—whales!
By the will of Mother Nature, we were chosen and it was one of the most incredible things to experience. The odds were not in our favor, but somehow it happened.
Here are some tips for an unforgettable experience swimming with whales, these majestic creatures:
- Time of the Year: Humpback Whales (Kohola) arrive in Hawaii after their journey from Alaska sometime from November to May, with most sightings January to March, making February the peak time. We went in February. The more than 3,000-mile journey is believed to take as little as 36 days up to 4-6 weeks one-way.
- Early Morning Magic: In our case, we set out late-ish at around 10/11 am, which made the encounter even more incredible. You’ll find humpback whales along the shores of Wailea Island on Maui. Their proximity is awe-inspiring.
- Be Cool and Respectful: When the whales swim toward you, maintain your cool (literally and figuratively). Point your canoe away from their path to avoid posing as a threat. These gentle giants deserve our respect.
- Dive In: Be brave! Grab your goggles and dive into the crystal-clear waters. Don’t worry; they don’t consider humans a tasty snack.
- Underwater Symphony: Swim under your boat and hold your arms up to stay submerged. You’ll hear their enchanting symphony—the haunting melodies of these magnificent creatures.
We had a delightful encounter with a family of three whales who got super close and playful. Surprisingly, the female whales are the largest and are often chased by the males trying to impress them. Even when they’re with their kids, sometimes two men flirt with them. Like human parents taking their kids to the park, the mama whales let their babies play freely, leading the way through the ocean.
Renting a Car
Navigating Hawaii is a breeze, but it’s essential to understand the local rhythm. Most places operate on “Hawaiian time,” which means things move at a leisurely pace. I recommend planning a couple of days ahead for a car rental or asking your friendly Uber or Lyft driver for recommendations. Hawaii is generally safe, and crime rates are low. Trust your intuition and rely on your own experiences.
We opted for a yellow Jeep Wrangler with a retractable rooftop perfect for the drive through Hawaii’s most incredible stretch of rainsforests.
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is a mesmerizing drive through rainforests and along stunning beaches where we experienced the “real Hawaii”.
This 64-mile stretch connects Kahului to East Maui, with 620 curves up the mountain and 59 bridges (46 of them only one lane wide). We explored the magical rainforest with the top back, music on, and made stops along the way to immerse ourselves in the culture.
We were lucky to experience 8 waterfalls, 3 beaches, and 7 natural swimming pools. But the best part was meeting amazing locals, indulging in the most delicious roadside Maui-style BBQ, and enjoying the best view from our jeep.
I highly recommend this adventure on your next trip to Maui! Start your day early and for an immersive experience, download the Shaka Guide app—we affectionately called ours Henry and I highly advise to buy the guided tour.
Henry becomes your companion throughout the journey. He provides real-time guidance, shares great recommendations, and delves into Hawaii’s rich culture and history. If you take a wrong turn or miss something, Henry gently nudges you back on track. The road can be winding and narrow, so drive safely. If locals come up behind you, pull over and let them pass—they’re likely seasoned travelers on this route.
Black Sand Beach: Make it Happen
When visiting the captivating Black Sand Beach, consider making a reservation ahead of time or parking your car on the road and walking in. Space is limited, primarily due to the size of the parking lot. By walking in, without a reservation, you increase your chances of being welcomed into this unique coastal gem. However, if you couldn’t secure a reservation in advance or prefer not to walk the entire way, there’s another option. Drive down the road a little more – Henry will explain – where you can dip your feet in the black sand and marvel at its captivating beauty.
The Enchanting Red Sand Beach: A Hidden Gem
Nestled away like a secret whispered among the cliffs, Red Sand Beach reveals itself as a place of awe and wonder. Unlike any other cove, it beckons visitors with its dramatic beauty and mystical allure. The Hawaiian name means “roaring sea.”
As the waves crash relentlessly against the rugged coastline, the ocean outside the cove takes on an almost surreal hue—a deep, Kool-Aid blue that defies ordinary description. It’s as if nature herself dipped her brush into an otherworldly palette to create this mesmerizing seascape.
The beach, crescent-shaped and carved into the heart of the Ka’uiki Head cinder cone, owes its distinctive red sand to the rust-red lava cinder cliffs that surround it. These cliffs, composed of loose, crumbly cinders, rise almost vertically, defying gravity yet standing tall in their rugged glory.
On the ocean side, a formidable wall of jagged black lava rock stands guard, shielding the cove from the relentless tides. Together, these elements weave a tale of magic and mystery—a place where reality blurs, and the ordinary transcends into something extraordinary.
Red Sand Beach holds a special cultural meaning as it’s the birthplace of Queen Ka’ahumanu, and site of historical battles, and an ancient heiau.
Red Sand Beach awaits those who seek solace in its crimson sands, where the crashing waves and ancient lava cliffs create a symphony of natural wonder. Step into this hidden paradise and let its beauty wash over you, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.
How to Savor the Island’s Delights
Let the island tantalize your taste buds with its culinary offerings:
- Seafood Sensations: The seafood in Hawaii is a must-try. Always ask for local fish because they do have options. But did you also know about their delectable banana bread? It’s a delightful surprise that awaits you.
- Poke Bowls: For great-quality poke bowls at a great price, head to the local supermarket, like Safeway. These fresh and flavorful bowls are favorites among visitors and locals.
- Sushi Roll Balls: Don’t miss out on the delicious sushi rolls that you roll yourself, available at 7/11. They’re a delightful snack to fuel your adventures.
- Fairmont Hotel: As someone who works in the industry, I can confidently recommend the dining options at the Fairmont Hotel. It was a phenomenal stay, and their culinary offerings are top-notch. Their swim-up bar is one of the finest at Ama.
- Pilina: A place where connections flourish. We sipped on uniquely crafted cocktails with our eyes fixed on the horizon over one of the most delicious meals we encountered. This was our last night in Hawaii. The atmosphere sets it up for a place where conversations flow—a blend of laughter, shared memories, and newfound friendships. Pilina is more than a gathering spot; it’s a celebration of life set against the backdrop of the sparkling Pacific.
- Mama’s Fish House: A world famous must-visit! Mama’s Fish House isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience. The location exudes history and character. And here’s a fun thought: Imagine a reality show featuring the lives of the servers, bartenders, and waitstaff at Mama’s Fish House—they’re all incredibly good-looking, and it would make for great fun drama!
- Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread: Trust me, Gordon Ramsy was right about this place. The banana bread here is a must-try. Aunty Sandy’s serves up the best version, and you won’t be disappointed.
- BRADDAH Hutt’s: We stumbled upon this hidden gem, and it turned out to be an excellent choice. Even the locals were impressed by our find. Located in a fish trailer, BRADDAH Hutt’s offers some of the best food around.
Enjoy your Hawaiian adventure, and may each moment be as magical as the islands themselves!
