Keawakapu Beach – Does Wailea Life Get Better

Yet another post that is completely unrelated to real estate. Although pretty pictures of the ocean or beachfront luxury estates are always ‘nice’ to see, it doesn’t truly reflect what Maui has to offer. I moved out here from New York City four years ago, sight unseen for me as I had never been to Hawaii. What prompted the move was news of the impending arrival of our first baby – neither of us had any family remaining in NYC and all her family lives on Maui, so that made the decision somewhat easy and straightforward. (more…)

From all over the world, many flock to Wailea not just for its world-class beaches, perfectly landscaped setting, or five star resorts – but rather, for the championship-grade golf courses. Boasting golf-ready weather year round and some of the most scenic golf courses in the Pacific, it is easy to see why it has become a haven for golf aficionados. With that said, it’s time we explored a bit more what Wailea golf is all about (more…)

Earlier today, I had the pleasure of taking my son on his school’s whale watching tour. About 50 kids ranging in age from 2 to 5 boarded a Pacific Whale Foundation vessel and took to the sea. It turned out to be quite enjoyable and we saw more whales than we could count, including a pod less than 50 yards away from the boat. Regardless of how many times I see them, it is always humbling to see such magnificent mammals in their natural element.

The point of this post is not sell real estate or to feature a luxury listing, but rather to talk about the lifestyle that Maui has to offer. Today was a bit of whale watching, tomorrow will be an Aloha Friday full of work, this weekend perhaps some golfing or a lazy day at the beach, all while trying to raise two kids with the values that I hold dear. Truly, with a multitude of micro-climates, Maui has much to offer: its cowboy-rich history yet laid back way in Makawao, to resort living in Wailea and Kapalua, to Hawaiiana luxury estates in Makena, to Lahaina with its historic roots, to quiet gentleman estates in Kula. But it’s not for everyone. There isn’t a significant nightlife to speak of, shopping is not plentiful (I do quite a bit of my shopping online), and choices can sometimes be very limited (when I get hungry late at night for Chinese food, I don’t have much of a selection on South Maui). But for those to whom Maui is a good fit, it can become THE place to call home.

Wailea Welcomes the Maui Film Festival

From June 15 to June 19, the Maui Film Festival will captivate audiences in Wailea and at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. Movie stars from all the world flock to Hawaii’s answer to Sundance, in the past this has included Helen Hunt, Greg Kinnear, Pierce Brosnan, Clint Eastwood, Dennis Quaid, and much more. There are several establishments that are conducting specials, such as Bev Gannon’s “Dinner & Movie” (click here to learn more), which pairs five-star cuisine with cinema under the stars in a very convenient setting.

Tickets can be purchase as single-film tickets -prices varying from $10 for films at the MACC to $22 for movies shown at the Wailea Gold & Emerald Golf Courses- or as festival passes – varying from $40 to $595, depending on the level of benefits. In addition, tickets for special events are also available: $120 for Opening Night Twilight Reception, $70 for Starry Night Moondance, $125 for Taste of Chocolate, $120 for Taste of Wailea, and $60 for Cosmic Closing Night. For more information on purchasing tickets, visit the Box Office.

Although we specialize in Wailea real estate, we would love to hear your experience of the Maui Film Festival and hope to see you there.

One of my favorite events of the year will be hosted this Saturday, February 19, in Kihei. Whale Day is one of the key events in the Pacific Whale Foundation’s Whale Festival. As a fundraiser for Marine Education Programs benefiting Maui schoolchildren, it is day of fun that ultimately betters the Maui community. The day begins with Parade of Whales at 9am , starting at Alanui Keali’i Drive going northbound on South Kihei Rd and ends at the Kihei Library, next to the Firestation.

There is a plethora of things to see and do, sure to please every member of the family. Food booths from some local favorites will be available, as well as delicious desserts from Banyan Tree Deli, Cold Stone, Da Local Banana, Paradise Tropical Ice, and more. The keiki carnival will feature inflatable rides, shave ice, cotton candy, and the crowd-pleasing ‘Whale Competition Pod’ game. In addition, there will be PWF exhibits, Silent Auctions, the Whale Regatta, and Eco Valley. Last, but certainly not least, is the music entertainment, showcasing some of Maui’s best, including Anuhea, John Cruz, Marty Dread, The Throwdowns, Gail Swanson, George Kahumoku Jr., and Cecilio & Kapono.

Bring appetite and your love for fun, this event will not disappoint.