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Maui Wedding Planning
Having a Maui destination wedding and want to give your wedding guests some fun ideas of things to do? Here’s a top 10 list that’s sure to please.
1. Take a helicopter tour of the island:
Your wedding guests will never forget this. The Hana/Haleakala tour and is particularly spectacular. A helicopter trip is also a great bridesmaid or groomsmen gift. There are many companies that offer rides. Blue Hawaiian is one of the best. Approx. $200/person. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters http://www.bluehawaiian.com/maui/tours, (808) 871-8844
2. Experience an authentic luau at the Old Lahaina Luau:
We think this is the best luau on the island, and we are not alone! That’s why this one books up early, so we recommend your wedding guests order their tickets before you leave for Maui. Also, we recommend sitting at the tables; it was MUCH more comfortable than sitting on the ground and the view was still great. Old Lahaina Luau can even be rented for weddings and receptions. Or it makes a great wedding welcome reception location. http://www.oldlahainaluau.com, 1-800-248-5828
3. Take a road trip to Hana:
Many wedding couples and guests rent a car and drive along the Hana Highway 360. You’ll want to start early in the morning and make frequent stops at hidden waterfalls and beaches along the way. Up for a pre-wedding adventure? Take the trip in reverse by going counterclockwise around the island. The road is a bit bumpy, but you’ll have time to visit the bamboo forest (See #7).
4. Watch the sunrise on top of Mount Haleakala:
Tell your destination wedding guests to bring warm clothes for this trip, since it averages around 30 degrees Fahrenheit at the summit at dawn. But, the sunrise view is worth it. If you rent a car, you can drive up to the summit. For all you adventurers out there, you can also book a sunrise bike tour. The tour drives you to the top of the mountain for the sunrise and then they give you a bicycle to coast down. http://www.bikemaui.com/, 1-888-922-2453
5. Eat at Mama’s Fish House:
This restaurant is famous. If you like fresh fish, you’ll love Mama’s. It is located on the North Shore, a bit far from the usual wedding resort area. Many people choose to visit here after driving the road to Hana since it’s along the drive. Also, it can be rented for private weddings and receptions. Call well ahead for reservations. http://www.mamasfishhouse.com 1-808-579-8488
6. Snorkel:
If snorkeling appeals to you, then you are in luck. There are many amazing snorkel spots around Maui and the neighboring islands. We recommend visiting the Molokini crater just off Wailea or taking a half day snorkel trip to Lanai on a high speed rubber raft. Tours leave from Lahaina Harbor and Maalaea Harbor daily. You can book through many local tour companies such as: http://adventuremaui.com/molokini_snorkel.htm
7. Hike through a bamboo forest to visit the Waimoku Falls:
If you are in relatively good health, this is an amazing hike. Waimoku Fall is the largest waterfall in Maui. To see it, your guests will take a 4 mile hike (2 miles each way) along a jungle trail through a bamboo forest. Driving Directions: Take Highway 31 east from Wailea or south from Hana (check your rental car agreement before going, since many car companies do not allow you to take your car this route). The parking lot for all falls and trails is located just before Mile Marker #42 on the ocean side of the road. Follow the signs to the trailhead. http://www.hawaiiweb.com/maui/sites_to_see/WaimokuFalls.htm
8. Get in a round of golf on your wedding day:
If you are a golfer, or pretend to be one, why not schedule a wedding tee time at the Wailea Golf Club. Choose from three courses: Blue, Emerald, and Gold. http://www.waileagolf.com 808-875-7450
9. Shop:
The Shops at Wailea are great for luxury shopping and last minute wedding gifts. Or, Lahaina on the West side of the island has a greater variety of shops, especially for Hawaiian wedding favors. If you go, leave some time to stroll along Front Street and plan to stay for dinner at one of the numerous restaurants along the strip.
10. Soak up some sun!
All beaches in Hawaii are public (even those in front of resorts). So, bring your sun block and explore them all. Better yet, get married right on the beach and your guests will experience a truly memorable beach wedding! |
