We just got back from our cheap Maui trip. Best decision we ever did was to go as cheap as possible. Found great deal on Southwest for flights for $350-$500 RT during their $59 sale. Rented vintage camper van for my family for 5 nights for $1100 total after taxes. That meant for airfare, lodging, and transportation it was around $2300 total for our family of 3. Not counting the food and souvenirs. We camped at Olowalu, Kīpahulu, and Wai’anapanapa. We ate primarily only at food trucks and it was amazing! I used to never think I’d be able to visit Maui. Now planning for another trip next year, because we can do that for that budget!!!
I’m not one to choose a luau either but after attending multiple, and having friends and family who have worked at them…I can say it is a real investment into keeping culture minded. Most dancers are local and by attending you can indirectly support Polynesian language, foods and arts within the community. Sometimes the value is in giving back to the culture you visit ❤️
I love luaus. I've been to Hawaii about 15 times and I just love the whole "tourist" experience. Why would I want to go and then turn my nose up at what makes Hawaii such a fun place to go. My friend and I are trying to plan a trip and I was a bit taken aback for the prices. It's been a minute since I was last there but we can fly on points so makes it easier. I'm really interested in watching this. We both LOVE the Hyatt on Maui and are trying to figure out how to make it work. Breakfast on the Swan Court is just such a beautiful way to start the day. Parking can break you even if you can swing it for the room. LOL Love the tent, but not for me. Showering under the stars with the roaches and the Banana Spiders, not so much. My friend and went to a retreat up round Haiku for many years. It was very zen and we had one person tents we put up on our beds and zipped up every night to keep the roaches off us. I went out to the kitchen one night and turned the light on and there were at least a dozen crawling up the wall. Ah, nature. LOL
The two times we went to Maui, we booked ocean side at Lahaina Shores. Best decision ever! Free parking at back door, walk through our two room suite, and out front door to beach. No plastic fantastic BS, just a great place to call home base. Current rates are in $200-$300 range.
I am a forty year full time resident on Maui. I agree, Lahaina Shores is a great place to stay, due its small size and location. Not only are you on a quiet stretch of beach, but you are walking distance to Lahaina town proper with fun restaurants and cafes. I have spent time there myself.
Tim you and your wife share very thorough videos. I love how you share each budget and are very transparent of the value for money. I appreciate these videos. Thank you for what you do. I’ve followed you all for years. Still thank you.
I was on a tiny budget when I booked my trip to Hawaii for my Birthday 20 years ago. I booked my jeep, treehouse in Hannah and several national parks lodges. Air, food, transportation & lodging for 10 days for $1400.00 but I am the definition of frugal. I spent the majority of my money on film development lol Hawaii is heavenly
My family's usual itinerary for our Maui trips has been a few days camping followed by a few days in a resort. Last month we hiked into and camped inside Haleakala crater. Sleeping above the clouds and watching the sunrise with only two other groups of campers around was amazing. Then just relax on the beach for a few days.
Different strokes for different folks … you made it easy for a wide variety of tastes & budgets to see before choosing. And nice job as tour guides. I am a boomer who grew up in the islands … so have a different perspective. You guys are at a perfect time in your lives to do what you are doing, LOVING what you are doing … warmest alohas!
I never would have thought of camping being great when going to a bucket list item like Maui, but now having been there, I would totally do it. No air conditioning? No problem! The weather is incredible. We spent mornings and evenings at our resort which we LOVED but we also spend 90% of our time outside exploring and doing all the things we could possibly do in our 10 day stay. We loved it so much we are going back!
Thank you for not overly glamorizing it. Paradise yes, very very beautiful but don’t forget at what cost. Thanks for being respectful and all the reminders. Hope you enjoyed your visit! ❤️
We go to Maui almost annually. We always stay at Kahana Village Resort condos. Only 43 units and literally on the water north of Lahaina. Fully furnished with washer and dryer etc. Great Lanai’s. Cost varies depending on season but about $350 per day on 2 bedrooms which sleeps 6. And Free mai tai parties. Overall great. Will do a video in June as going back
Great point about resorts. Go to them when you are confined to them. Choose simpler when you’re not staying on the grounds for the bulk of your vacation.
5 years ago my wife and I took our 2 daughters to Maui and stayed in a small 1-bedroom VRBO in Napili for $110/night. It was a small spot but we really spent very little time there other than sleeping and eating some meals. Such an incredible experience and we seriously didn’t spend that much money while we were there. We all had so much fun just exploring all the beaches around the island. I think we ended visiting 14 different beaches while we were there. Napili Bay was our favorite! Great video and thanks for all the tips. We plan on heading back next summer with our now 3 daughters and stay in West Maui once again!
@@1whitecottagelife770 The place we stayed is called the Napili Ridge and it still has very decent rates compared to many places on the island. Many of the condos have been remodeled. Great spot to stay and only about a 5 minute walk to Napili Bay! Hope you guys enjoy your next visit as much as we enjoyed ours!
I’ve booked excursions with Kayak Oluwalu three times (each time with the same guide you guys he’s) and have always been impressed. Great video and great insight. My family will be back soon!
We were just there two weeks ago. We stayed two nights, using points. It was well worth it. Status gave us a ocean view upgrade. Those savings allowed us to splurge and enjoy the Westin Luau, which is back to a buffet. Rates for the room we had was $1,300 per night. It was definitely a great way to end our Maui trip.
So sad to see this now and know that no one will experience this for some time into the future because of the fires. So sad!!! Glad they visited a year ago a and weren't there in the midst of the fires trying to escape!!!
Rent a timeshare condo from an owner off REdweek or TUG-$$1200-$4000 a week (depending on week/resort/size) and you have a kitchen with SPACE to spread out, resort amenities for cost effective lodging. Our week in June is $1600/week for 1 bedroom oceanfront.
My daughter and I used to live in Carmel, Ca. We moved to Maui 5 years ago. We love it. We have two places, upcountry in NorthEast Maui and South Maui, Kihei/Wailea. We drove to the West Maui once in a while to Kaanapali and Kapalua Bay. The climate is fantastic! We feel like we are on vacation everyday. It was a great choice to reside here.
I book a condo.. but i make sure I can talk to a live person from a website. When I talked to the condo rep, she actually gave me lower rate than online. Also, all the 5 star resorts have beaches that are public. Heck, i even used their beach chair. So do your research at least 3-4 months before trip.. u will save alot
150$ for a Tentalow looks crazy expensive. We'll go to Maui the sixth time this year and will pay 250$ for a full apartment at Waiilea Grand Champions Villas! I find your videos extremely helpful for other travelers like us, we'll definitely use the app you recommended. Thank you.
Thank you so much for this valuable info! I am going to Maui in September and had sticker shock for accomodations. Now, thanks to you, I have viable options on where to stay. Thank you!
One of the great benefits of staying at a Condo over a resort is the food savings. Staying in a condo could save you $20-40 a day just if you eat breakfast in, versus eating out. Knowing when to go also saves you big money. Our unit rents for between $199 and 289 a night depending on the time of the year. If you go in fall, before high season it's the low end. We don't go out to eat much, but that's because we prefer to eat in and on our own lanai watching sunsets. We spend every day snorkeling and exploring the island for very little money. We pack our own lunches, and hit the road. I know that's not for everyone, but you'd be surprised how much there is to do on Maui at very little to no cost. Read the reviews of the condo before you go. We provide towels, beach chairs and umbrella, and a cooler to haul drinks and food etc. We have snorkel gear there, but I would rent it, it's probably better gear and it's not expensive. Our philosophy is that our guests have paid a lot of money for a dream vacation, and we'd like to make sure to help them have fun without having to spend extra money for no reason.
My point was not to promote our condo on someone else’s channel. I was just pointing out the benefits. There are tons of great places on Abnb. Be selective in your search, search by price. There are some great deals
As a Maui native I just don’t understand what’s happening with the hotel room rates here! The only thing I can think is that hotels are trying to recoup lost revenue from the Covid pandemic that hit us hard for 2 years but, DAMN!
We were in Kahana Sunset for 3 weeks in 2019. We could share the price with two other parties, which was quite ok, but as you mentioned, the prices are unbelievable. We are planning to come back in August 2023, but this time only we as a little family (2 adults and our 6 year old boy) you as a Maui native, do you have any suggestions for us, where we can book for example 3 weeks and do not have to pay 500$ or even higher per day? Mahalo from freezing cold Germay 🤙🏾🌈🤙🏾
I booked a flight to Maui from Oahu - I live in Hawaii and I wanted to help support Maui's economy after the wildfires. We were supposed to go the second week of October, when Maui opens up to tourists but every single hotel is ridiculously priced, even the one by Kahului airport - $2,000 for two night's stay. The online price says $350 but after all the taxes, fees, service charges, your $700 room turns into a 2K room. I checked all over Maui including VRBOs, all over a thousand so I cancelled my trip. I am going to the Big island instead. I think I would just rather make a donation than going to Maui - the rental cars and airfares were cheap but the hotels are just over my budget.
As someone born and raised on Maui (Now I live in LA) its interesting to see a first person perspective of what its like to visit Maui. When i go back home to visit its a very different experience and i am desensitized to it beauty a bit. cool video.
I was really saddened to see that the average hotel price on Maui is now $900 a night. Yes there are some budget accommodations but the price has gone through the roof for three and four star hotels. A hotel that I stayed at years ago (2014) went for about 150 a night, and now it’s over 500. Thanks for sharing your trip. Cant wait for Kauai!
You'd be even more saddened if you had to live here as a middle class worker 😅🤑🤑 Most people who live here have 2 jobs. More homeless than I've ever seen my entire life here. Sad.
You'd be even more saddened if you had to live here as a middle class worker 😅🤑🤑 Most people who live here have 2 jobs. More homeless than I've ever seen my entire life here. Sad.
I booked a flight to Maui from Oahu - I live in Hawaii and I wanted to help support Maui's economy after the wildfires. We were supposed to go the second week of October, when West Maui opens up to tourists but every single hotel is ridiculously priced, even the one by Kahului airport - $2,000 for two night's stay. The online price says $350 but after all the taxes, fees, service charges, your $700 room turns into a 2K room. I checked all over Maui including VRBOs, all over a thousand so I cancelled my trip. I am going to the Big island instead. I think I would just rather make a donation than going to Maui - the rental cars and airfares were cheap but the hotels are just over my budget.
Wow....amazing,this is the dream of all the world. The dream is to live there. Without a doubt, this place is certainly one of the most beautiful place of the world....thanks for sharing!!!!
I just booked our trip to Maui a week ago at the Camp Olowalu in the tent site. I just could bring myself to spend hundreds on a room I was only going to sleep in. That said a resort would be nice! But not enough to miss out on the rest of the island and all the small adventures! Thank you for sharing! I love your videos!
As long a room is clean and have all amenities. Remember, all rooms look the same when eyes are closed. You can find condos,,with kitchen!! Kitchen is a must..
Wow! I didn't know those places were so expensive! Last time we went we stayed at an Airbnb right by our favorite beach - Kam 1 - and paid about $250/nt. I like condos because you have a kitchen and can save a lot by cooking most meals. We did try Turo last time and it worked out great! He met us at the airport and handed off the car. Even better than waiting for the rental. Maui is our favorite island. Can't wait to go back!
I agree 100% on the tentalow being over priced. My wife and I get a very nice one bedroom condo in Kihei for a little over $200 per night. We also always spend around five days at the resort to just relax. The first week in the condo is explore mode. We use Shaka Guide, which is akin to the Gypsy Guide.
Are the other people that live at the Condo complex friendly, or at least indifferent? I've heard many stories of locals being hateful to visitors as you get away from the resorts.
@@-sensibleChris The condo is a rental/live in condo, so half the people are in the same boat as you, the other half are pretty much transplants. No problems. Also, most of the native Hawaiians are amazing and treat you with the same respect you give them.
I went to Hawaii when I served aboard a Coast Guard ship in the 90s. I got to attend a fia fia in Western Samoa. That’s a Samoan luau. I don’t feel the need to go to a luau. I’m heading back to Honolulu for a week at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Then a week at a cabin for $40 a night on the Big Island. I’m certain I will love both places.
we got an Airbnb right next to the beach for 175 a night can't wait to go on our honeymoon pan on doing some shopping and cooking for most of meals when we can to save money
Last time we did a combo of camping by flying with our tent at Olowalu and renting an off grid hut (in Kula) on hipcamp. The adventures are def outside not inside. Someday we will do a couple resort nights but for now we're able to go to Maui every 6 months by camping & it's always amazing
Rather than using sun block. a full body rash guard is much better for both you and the marine life. Additionally, on a hot day, by keeping it wet is like having your personal air conditioner. On Maui, I highly recommend driving to the town of Hanna on east end of the Isl. There you will find beautiful mountains, waterfalls and hidden ocean coves. And, the lava fields on the southeast of Maui are also worth a visit.
I was in a hostel in Maui last year and was a great experience, they offered tours to Iao Valley, Road to Hana, Lahaina and more and the prices were very good
I paid $200/night this year for a nice condo in Kihei. In the recent past I've gotten resort rooms for around $250 a night on the west side. Hotel prices have doubled in the last two years.
Thank you for your video. I’ll be in Maui end of February and I was debating on what to do. I get rooms for under 300 with the Marriott discount but I wasn’t sure if it was best to just rent a van and camp out. We are on a budget but don’t want to feel like I missed out on the Maui experience since this will probably be our only time going.
My European brain thought the stay at the resort would be the 100$ stay. Can't imagine ever paying $1000 for that :0. Take me to Asia where i'll be able to stay 2 months off of that budget!
Great video! It popped up on my explore page and couldn't be more timely. My folks and my partner and I are staying at the Westin next week! None of us have been to Hawaii before and we DEFINITELY haven't stayed at a place anywhere close to the caliber of this resort before - it's probably gonna blow our minds lol. It'll be an experience for sure! I'm used to staying at hostels when I travel with friends. I definitely think it'll be a much more memorable trip if we get out and do things outside the resort, like you say (I booked us paragliding.... so stoked!!).
that hotel closed way to early... i couldnt find a bar open past 10. had good views and alot of pools when u have a chance to be there since your excursions take you away from there.
Another great video! I’m back to bingeing all your videos from the beginning as we are back in a very strict lockdown here in Shanghai. Thank you for letting us travel virtually through your videos ❤️
Appreciate this as it is a true representation of our experience. - stayed at the Westin April 21’ and thought the Ocean view room for $480 was weak, let alone for $800+ now. Small room, tiny bathroom and very subpar service. Had the very view you had, which was nice but the overall experience 👎
Totally agree about the resorts on Maui. We stayed at 2 on our honeymoon using Marriott and Hilton points and barely used the resort amenities because we were out exploring. Would 100% go for a condo if we came back and were paying for accommodations.
Just stayed in Maui in a tentalow for 3 nights thanks to you guys & it was AMAZING!! Also did 4 nights at a nice VRBO in Kihei but the open air tentalow is my FAVORITE memory ❤️
Ka'anapali was one of the first resorts in the world and the beach is one of the best. Old Lahaina Luau is one of the, if not the best, luau's experiences in the state, right on the beach in Lahaina. Glad you had a great time on Maui, it is the best but Kaua'i and Big Island could use some love too... not too much... over saturation can spoil paradise.
There’s def a happy medium between a resort and rustic camping (because I’m not interested in either, lol, and have been to Maui many times). You can get a nice VRBO or Airbnb and strike the balance between having a relaxing and comfortable place to stay while leaving room in your budget for exploring
Exactly! we have done it this way every time we have gone to Maui. It's expensive enough. I find the only advantage of staying in the hotels is that you'll be that much closer to the water. Heck you don't even have to eat out every day, the grocery stores there have awesome options to take back to your place or the beach and eat good food, drink etc. It all depends what you want your experience to be.
We recently did this math for a 3-family trip to big island. One of the families are resort people, so we booked a large condo that had privileges to the Hilton pools for half the price of what the hotel rooms would've been. We still paid a good chunk of change for rental cars but we got a mini van and a 3 row SUV for the 9 of us.
@@BlissGroove There are a large number of condo complexes within Waikoloa, we stayed at the Fairway Villas, but it was pretty far from everything I might not recommend it specifically. But we only searched for ones that had Hilton privileges, the rental listings will say if they do.
I love the content and the style that you guys put out. It's not the same content and the same kind of theme like other travel/logging channel. Only thing I would like to see is weekly publishing of new content
Hey guys!!!! So! Small background, my hubs got a KILLER job offer in Maui, starting January 9th. We are pretty tight on cash, not broke as hell but tight, and we need some cheap options for the first couple weeks, till we can go look at a few places and get permanent housing. Our only hesitation is we have an almost 5yr old (5 on Jan 18th), so I want to make sure where we stay is safe and all that. We are super outdoorsy people and don't mind camping at all. We are literally watching one of your UA-cam videos and we saw a Tentalows (?so) and thought those look like a SUPER great option for us and wanted to chat with y'all a bit about the different options and cost effective ways for us to get through the first 3ish weeks there. Any advice or input you have would be GREAT! Hope to hear back soon, thanks in advance! Mahalo! 😁
I'm a new Subsciber enjoying your channel. When I went to Maui I stayed at the Kaanapali Royal it is condos with a swiming pool i had to my self on a golf corse. It was across from two Hotels on the water. And I payed 800 for a week including flight but I shared it with my Cuz and only payed 1/3 I liked it so much more then a big hotel. I would of been just as happy in a tent on the beach. But I did save having alot having a full Kitchen. Mind you 20 years ago. I looked it up about 300+ a night now
"I don't like resorts..." And THIS is why I follow you guys! I'm anti the homogenized tourist typical experience. For so many or most even, that is what resorts are created for. I think we're travelers, those looking for experiences, soaking up local culture, etc... Just because I might afford all that it's just that I'm not going to. I like the challenge of frugal (not to be interpreted as motel 6). The tent set up was so super cute! Hubs gonna have to have ac at night for sure. Reminds me of our tiny cabin we had before we built our cabin. Thanks for sharing all that! I'm so glad y'all aren't recommending Margaritaville for lunch ;-)
Thanks for the video! We go to Hawaii a couple times a year and hadn’t even considered camping. Looks like a fun way to mix it up. Also, where did you get your cute blue dress shown in the beginning of the video?
So crazy to watch as a Maui local. I trim the palm trees at this exact resort as well as all the others and even four seasons lanai. We live such a different life than you all on vacatiob
On Maui, We stay in a condo across the street from the beach in Kihei for $150-$200/night then head to resort areas like Wailea and Kaanapali for dinners, outdoor drinks, and luaus, a few times, during our visits. $1000/night is ridiculous to us, comes with huge crowds and parking structures--definitely a Hawaiian buzz kill, as it buys a HUGE amount of fun we would rather spend elsewhere on the island--for excursions. And, for that price, I would choose vacationing in Europe, Paris, Switzerland Alps, Italy, for much less a night in a primo location.
The Polynesian Cultural Center has tons of interesting features all in one place and lovely shows and boat rides.. kinda Disney style... I went twice and that was enough! I am not someone that would EVER want to go back to any Disney stuff. I did the Hawaii Blue Helicopter tour in Kauai... Now THAT was dramatic!! Saw my first ever circle rainbow just as the Pilot switched on IZ singing "somewhere over the rainbow" Emotional! I was also fortunate enough to see the Volcano on Big Island many times. I shared vacations on Hawaii with friends and family... Seriously when we shared it was cheaper than most other vacations. I admit I am good at finding cheaper hotels/condos... but Every trip to Hawaiian Islands were amazing! I like alone time so each trip I carved out at least 3-4 days of Solo time... only $50 a night... but that was all Before COVID19 Honestly don't care to go back with current situation ... Paradise should never include restrictions as they now have.
Note: The Polynesian Cultural Center was founded and is owned by the LDS (Mormon) church during their missionary expeditions to convert locals. They still go on missions to this center, and it's not a local altruistic institution.
Everybody has different preferences. I know people who see a hotel room as just a place to lay their head. My wife and I like luxury on our vacations. I don't want a $100 room two blocks away. For that little bit of time that I get away from work and the cares of life, I want to live and eat good. To us it's worth it, especially now that we can afford it.
My hubby and I are the same. We are very picky when it comes to hotels… Booking our trip to Maui for February. Trying to find a great place on the beach…
I just stayed down the road at the Hyatt Regency. I was there for a conference, and the discounted rate for the conference was $380/night, but my employer reimbursed me for that. The regular rate for rooms there was on par with what you found at the Westin, $800/night plus. It's a nice room and all, but it really is a rip-off, especially these days with all the Airbnb options that are out there. If it were all-inclusive and there was a lot included in that price, it might be worth it, but it's not. It's just the room.
Could you say at least it was okay at the discounted price? I also was thinking of booking there and I have a discount with them also but even then I felt 370 was too much to pay with airbnbs available. ...
@@mmmdanni yeah, like I said it's really just the room! I guess it depends if you want that "hotel experience" and want the pool right there, etc. But if you're more like me and want to go out and explore the island, and just need a place to sleep, you can probably find an Airbnb for much less! But I only glanced at Airbnb options there, so I'm not sure what you could get. BTW, it's not in my video ( I should've put it in), but Miso Phat sushi I would highly recommend if you like sushi! It's really small, so get there early or make a reservation. They were turning people away later in the evening.
Find a tent or house with electricity and bring an e-scooter along and you multiply your experience tenfold. A hi-range e-scooter like the Nami gives you the whole island like you are on foot only at 30+ mph... transformative.
➡️ Access our Free Maui Travel Guide Here: www.timandfintravel.com/blog/maui-travel-guide
We just got back from our cheap Maui trip. Best decision we ever did was to go as cheap as possible. Found great deal on Southwest for flights for $350-$500 RT during their $59 sale. Rented vintage camper van for my family for 5 nights for $1100 total after taxes. That meant for airfare, lodging, and transportation it was around $2300 total for our family of 3. Not counting the food and souvenirs. We camped at Olowalu, Kīpahulu, and Wai’anapanapa. We ate primarily only at food trucks and it was amazing! I used to never think I’d be able to visit Maui. Now planning for another trip next year, because we can do that for that budget!!!
I’m not one to choose a luau either but after attending multiple, and having friends and family who have worked at them…I can say it is a real investment into keeping culture minded. Most dancers are local and by attending you can indirectly support Polynesian language, foods and arts within the community. Sometimes the value is in giving back to the culture you visit ❤️
I love luaus. I've been to Hawaii about 15 times and I just love the whole "tourist" experience. Why would I want to go and then turn my nose up at what makes Hawaii such a fun place to go. My friend and I are trying to plan a trip and I was a bit taken aback for the prices. It's been a minute since I was last there but we can fly on points so makes it easier. I'm really interested in watching this. We both LOVE the Hyatt on Maui and are trying to figure out how to make it work. Breakfast on the Swan Court is just such a beautiful way to start the day.
Parking can break you even if you can swing it for the room. LOL
Love the tent, but not for me. Showering under the stars with the roaches and the Banana Spiders, not so much. My friend and went to a retreat up round Haiku for many years. It was very zen and we had one person tents we put up on our beds and zipped up every night to keep the roaches off us. I went out to the kitchen one night and turned the light on and there were at least a dozen crawling up the wall. Ah, nature. LOL
ok cornball lol
@@cyndidumas2251 how is this 'cornball'?
The two times we went to Maui, we booked ocean side at Lahaina Shores. Best decision ever! Free parking at back door, walk through our two room suite, and out front door to beach. No plastic fantastic BS, just a great place to call home base. Current rates are in $200-$300 range.
Sounds perfect!
I found it 600$ in Oct😭😭😭
@@heartbach6740 best place take stay imo
I am a forty year full time resident on Maui. I agree, Lahaina Shores is a great place to stay, due its small size and location. Not only are you on a quiet stretch of beach, but you are walking distance to Lahaina town proper with fun restaurants and cafes. I have spent time there myself.
How long ago was that? 🤔
Tim you and your wife share very thorough videos. I love how you share each budget and are very transparent of the value for money. I appreciate these videos. Thank you for what you do. I’ve followed you all for years. Still thank you.
I was on a tiny budget when I booked my trip to Hawaii for my Birthday 20 years ago. I booked my jeep, treehouse in Hannah and several national parks lodges. Air, food, transportation & lodging for 10 days for $1400.00 but I am the definition of frugal. I spent the majority of my money on film development lol Hawaii is heavenly
My family's usual itinerary for our Maui trips has been a few days camping followed by a few days in a resort. Last month we hiked into and camped inside Haleakala crater. Sleeping above the clouds and watching the sunrise with only two other groups of campers around was amazing. Then just relax on the beach for a few days.
Wow you can camp inside Haleakala crater?? Will look into that for sure!
Different strokes for different folks … you made it easy for a wide variety of tastes & budgets to see before choosing. And nice job as tour guides. I am a boomer who grew up in the islands … so have a different perspective. You guys are at a perfect time in your lives to do what you are doing, LOVING what you are doing … warmest alohas!
I never would have thought of camping being great when going to a bucket list item like Maui, but now having been there, I would totally do it. No air conditioning? No problem! The weather is incredible. We spent mornings and evenings at our resort which we LOVED but we also spend 90% of our time outside exploring and doing all the things we could possibly do in our 10 day stay. We loved it so much we are going back!
Thank you for not overly glamorizing it. Paradise yes, very very beautiful but don’t forget at what cost. Thanks for being respectful and all the reminders. Hope you enjoyed your visit! ❤️
We go to Maui almost annually. We always stay at Kahana Village Resort condos. Only 43 units and literally on the water north of Lahaina. Fully furnished with washer and dryer etc. Great Lanai’s. Cost varies depending on season but about $350 per day on 2 bedrooms which sleeps 6. And Free mai tai parties. Overall great. Will do a video in June as going back
Great point about resorts. Go to them when you are confined to them. Choose simpler when you’re not staying on the grounds for the bulk of your vacation.
5 years ago my wife and I took our 2 daughters to Maui and stayed in a small 1-bedroom VRBO in Napili for $110/night. It was a small spot but we really spent very little time there other than sleeping and eating some meals. Such an incredible experience and we seriously didn’t spend that much money while we were there. We all had so much fun just exploring all the beaches around the island. I think we ended visiting 14 different beaches while we were there. Napili Bay was our favorite! Great video and thanks for all the tips. We plan on heading back next summer with our now 3 daughters and stay in West Maui once again!
We’ve always gone back to Whalers condominiums but we’re thinking about trying Napili next
@@1whitecottagelife770 The place we stayed is called the Napili Ridge and it still has very decent rates compared to many places on the island. Many of the condos have been remodeled. Great spot to stay and only about a 5 minute walk to Napili Bay! Hope you guys enjoy your next visit as much as we enjoyed ours!
I’ve booked excursions with Kayak Oluwalu three times (each time with the same guide you guys he’s) and have always been impressed. Great video and great insight. My family will be back soon!
We were just there two weeks ago. We stayed two nights, using points. It was well worth it. Status gave us a ocean view upgrade. Those savings allowed us to splurge and enjoy the Westin Luau, which is back to a buffet. Rates for the room we had was $1,300 per night. It was definitely a great way to end our Maui trip.
So sad to see this now and know that no one will experience this for some time into the future because of the fires. So sad!!!
Glad they visited a year ago a and weren't there in the midst of the fires trying to escape!!!
Rent a timeshare condo from an owner off REdweek or TUG-$$1200-$4000 a week (depending on week/resort/size) and you have a kitchen with SPACE to spread out, resort amenities for cost effective lodging. Our week in June is $1600/week for 1 bedroom oceanfront.
My daughter and I used to live in Carmel, Ca. We moved to Maui 5 years ago. We love it. We have two places, upcountry in NorthEast Maui and South Maui, Kihei/Wailea. We drove to the West Maui once in a while to Kaanapali and Kapalua Bay. The climate is fantastic! We feel like we are on vacation everyday. It was a great choice to reside here.
Carmel ca feels like you are on vacation everyday too, specially Big Sur area
I book a condo.. but i make sure I can talk to a live person from a website. When I talked to the condo rep, she actually gave me lower rate than online. Also, all the 5 star resorts have beaches that are public. Heck, i even used their beach chair. So do your research at least 3-4 months before trip.. u will save alot
You can't be wrong choosing Maui, the scenery is heavenly.
150$ for a Tentalow looks crazy expensive. We'll go to Maui the sixth time this year and will pay 250$ for a full apartment at Waiilea Grand Champions Villas!
I find your videos extremely helpful for other travelers like us, we'll definitely use the app you recommended. Thank you.
My favourite UA-cam people! Thank you for giving me something fun to look at while I enjoy my Sunday lunch.
Ocean views are great. But I choose parking lot view or mtn view and save tons of money. Literally never in the room except sleeping and showering.
Need to go to the "Old Lahinia Luau"its amazing and reasonably priced give it a try next time you won't be disappointed.
Thank you so much for this valuable info! I am going to Maui in September and had sticker shock for accomodations. Now, thanks to you, I have viable options on where to stay. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Beautiful!! Anxiously anticipating the Kauai video. That is the next island on my list!
One of the great benefits of staying at a Condo over a resort is the food savings. Staying in a condo could save you $20-40 a day just if you eat breakfast in, versus eating out. Knowing when to go also saves you big money. Our unit rents for between $199 and 289 a night depending on the time of the year. If you go in fall, before high season it's the low end. We don't go out to eat much, but that's because we prefer to eat in and on our own lanai watching sunsets. We spend every day snorkeling and exploring the island for very little money. We pack our own lunches, and hit the road. I know that's not for everyone, but you'd be surprised how much there is to do on Maui at very little to no cost. Read the reviews of the condo before you go. We provide towels, beach chairs and umbrella, and a cooler to haul drinks and food etc. We have snorkel gear there, but I would rent it, it's probably better gear and it's not expensive. Our philosophy is that our guests have paid a lot of money for a dream vacation, and we'd like to make sure to help them have fun without having to spend extra money for no reason.
Is it on Airbnb?
sooo what’s the name?
My point was not to promote our condo on someone else’s channel. I was just pointing out the benefits. There are tons of great places on Abnb. Be selective in your search, search by price. There are some great deals
@@tednottodd can you please just say it? i don’t believe they’ll think it’s that deep
the whales are so incredibly majestic, so beautiful. I'm in awe! I can't imagine how crazy to see them in person in the ocean.
I feel like this is spam, I wasn't aware of a competition
My bf and I were just in Maui! Best time ever! I’m so glad I got to watch your Maui videos before we went!
It's awesome being out in the water with so much sea life right! We live here on O'ahu and are so grateful to see them all the time.
As a Maui native I just don’t understand what’s happening with the hotel room rates here! The only thing I can think is that hotels are trying to recoup lost revenue from the Covid pandemic that hit us hard for 2 years but, DAMN!
We were in Kahana Sunset for 3 weeks in 2019. We could share the price with two other parties, which was quite ok, but as you mentioned, the prices are unbelievable. We are planning to come back in August 2023, but this time only we as a little family (2 adults and our 6 year old boy) you as a Maui native, do you have any suggestions for us, where we can book for example 3 weeks and do not have to pay 500$ or even higher per day? Mahalo from freezing cold Germay 🤙🏾🌈🤙🏾
Many resorts paid for upgrades and updating public spaces. Grand Wailea was $399/night in 2019. Now it's about $850+ for the basic room.
I booked a flight to Maui from Oahu - I live in Hawaii and I wanted to help support Maui's economy after the wildfires. We were supposed to go the second week of October, when Maui opens up to tourists but every single hotel is ridiculously priced, even the one by Kahului airport - $2,000 for two night's stay. The online price says $350 but after all the taxes, fees, service charges, your $700 room turns into a 2K room. I checked all over Maui including VRBOs, all over a thousand so I cancelled my trip. I am going to the Big island instead. I think I would just rather make a donation than going to Maui - the rental cars and airfares were cheap but the hotels are just over my budget.
I agree with the tentalow camping. It didn’t look bad but you can get a condo for 150 to 200 a night.
As someone born and raised on Maui (Now I live in LA) its interesting to see a first person perspective of what its like to visit Maui. When i go back home to visit its a very different experience and i am desensitized to it beauty a bit. cool video.
Thanks for the great video. One question, how safe are the tentalows? We are a couple with 3 kids.
I was really saddened to see that the average hotel price on Maui is now $900 a night. Yes there are some budget accommodations but the price has gone through the roof for three and four star hotels. A hotel that I stayed at years ago (2014) went for about 150 a night, and now it’s over 500. Thanks for sharing your trip. Cant wait for Kauai!
I live on Maui. It's insane $$$ right now.
You'd be even more saddened if you had to live here as a middle class worker 😅🤑🤑 Most people who live here have 2 jobs. More homeless than I've ever seen my entire life here. Sad.
You'd be even more saddened if you had to live here as a middle class worker 😅🤑🤑 Most people who live here have 2 jobs. More homeless than I've ever seen my entire life here. Sad.
I booked a flight to Maui from Oahu - I live in Hawaii and I wanted to help support Maui's economy after the wildfires. We were supposed to go the second week of October, when West Maui opens up to tourists but every single hotel is ridiculously priced, even the one by Kahului airport - $2,000 for two night's stay. The online price says $350 but after all the taxes, fees, service charges, your $700 room turns into a 2K room. I checked all over Maui including VRBOs, all over a thousand so I cancelled my trip. I am going to the Big island instead. I think I would just rather make a donation than going to Maui - the rental cars and airfares were cheap but the hotels are just over my budget.
Wow....amazing,this is the dream of all the world. The dream is to live there.
Without a doubt, this place is certainly one of the most beautiful place of the world....thanks for sharing!!!!
I use this channel for practice my English, I'm native of the Spanish, I love your channel 👍🏻
I just booked our trip to Maui a week ago at the Camp Olowalu in the tent site. I just could bring myself to spend hundreds on a room I was only going to sleep in. That said a resort would be nice! But not enough to miss out on the rest of the island and all the small adventures! Thank you for sharing! I love your videos!
do u mind if i ask how much u paid total with taxes and everything for the week??
I appreciate you talking about the toilet situation at the tentalows. Truly.
Just returned from Maui and wish I had seen this before. We dropped $10k easy and could have done it differently. Thanks so much for this.
Did you spend your time in a resort? Looking to go to Maui real soon? Just need some heads up.😊
You are my two favorite people to watch on UA-cam!
As long a room is clean and have all amenities. Remember, all rooms look the same when eyes are closed. You can find condos,,with kitchen!! Kitchen is a must..
Both of you are incredible. Big followers of both of you. Really spectacular.
Wow! I didn't know those places were so expensive! Last time we went we stayed at an Airbnb right by our favorite beach - Kam 1 - and paid about $250/nt. I like condos because you have a kitchen and can save a lot by cooking most meals. We did try Turo last time and it worked out great! He met us at the airport and handed off the car. Even better than waiting for the rental. Maui is our favorite island. Can't wait to go back!
After all these vacations these two must need a break!😄 Good to see you find time off camera for a while, much love ❤️✌️🇬🇧
Thank You for sharing. I have been to Hawaii. It is beautiful. Glad that you enjoyed yourself.
Really refreshing travel guide/review style, well done!
Thank you so much!!! for the TURO suggestion! I didn't know until I watched your video.
Love that you showed the difference in prices in Maui! Such a great idea!!! the tentalo actually looked really cool!
Very helpful video i leave for spring break soon and will definitely spend it cheaper like the 100 one you guys did.
I agree 100% on the tentalow being over priced. My wife and I get a very nice one bedroom condo in Kihei for a little over $200 per night. We also always spend around five days at the resort to just relax. The first week in the condo is explore mode. We use Shaka Guide, which is akin to the Gypsy Guide.
Are the other people that live at the Condo complex friendly, or at least indifferent? I've heard many stories of locals being hateful to visitors as you get away from the resorts.
@@-sensibleChris The condo is a rental/live in condo, so half the people are in the same boat as you, the other half are pretty much transplants. No problems. Also, most of the native Hawaiians are amazing and treat you with the same respect you give them.
@@kofd04 That's great to hear. Thanks for the response.👍
I went to Hawaii when I served aboard a Coast Guard ship in the 90s. I got to attend a fia fia in Western Samoa. That’s a Samoan luau. I don’t feel the need to go to a luau. I’m heading back to Honolulu for a week at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Then a week at a cabin for $40 a night on the Big Island. I’m certain I will love both places.
we got an Airbnb right next to the beach for 175 a night can't wait to go on our honeymoon pan on doing some shopping and cooking for most of meals when we can to save money
Last time we did a combo of camping by flying with our tent at Olowalu and renting an off grid hut (in Kula) on hipcamp. The adventures are def outside not inside. Someday we will do a couple resort nights but for now we're able to go to Maui every 6 months by camping & it's always amazing
Rather than using sun block. a full body rash guard is much better for both you and the marine life. Additionally, on a hot day, by keeping it wet is like having your personal air conditioner. On Maui, I highly recommend driving to the town of Hanna on east end of the Isl. There you will find beautiful mountains, waterfalls and hidden ocean coves. And, the lava fields on the southeast of Maui are also worth a visit.
I'm not going to Maui unless I can hike up a volcano and snorkel with exotic fish and sea animals. truly. thank you so much for sharing
So excited to watch this tonight! Your video are so well done guys!
I was in a hostel in Maui last year and was a great experience, they offered tours to Iao Valley, Road to Hana, Lahaina and more and the prices were very good
Can you share the hostel.name please?
Could have been Banana Bungalow. I was there in March 2021 - daily tours with reasonable prices for accommodations. Staff was very friendly as well :)
I paid $200/night this year for a nice condo in Kihei. In the recent past I've gotten resort rooms for around $250 a night on the west side. Hotel prices have doubled in the last two years.
What a great idea! I loved this episode. That blue water was the prettiest deep blue 💙...no wonder the whales are happy 😍
I really love the 1000 vs 100 format!
Thanks Hanna!
Thank you for your video. I’ll be in Maui end of February and I was debating on what to do. I get rooms for under 300 with the Marriott discount but I wasn’t sure if it was best to just rent a van and camp out. We are on a budget but don’t want to feel like I missed out on the Maui experience since this will probably be our only time going.
Maybe split the trip in two!
My European brain thought the stay at the resort would be the 100$ stay. Can't imagine ever paying $1000 for that :0. Take me to Asia where i'll be able to stay 2 months off of that budget!
Great video! It popped up on my explore page and couldn't be more timely. My folks and my partner and I are staying at the Westin next week! None of us have been to Hawaii before and we DEFINITELY haven't stayed at a place anywhere close to the caliber of this resort before - it's probably gonna blow our minds lol. It'll be an experience for sure! I'm used to staying at hostels when I travel with friends. I definitely think it'll be a much more memorable trip if we get out and do things outside the resort, like you say (I booked us paragliding.... so stoked!!).
P.S. Love your presentation style. Subbed!
Update on your trip ?
Tim was so happy 😀 good drinks Tim?
Tough to film! 😂😅
Thank you so much for taking us along. Beautiful. Safe trips and hugs.
that hotel closed way to early... i couldnt find a bar open past 10. had good views and alot of pools when u have a chance to be there since your excursions take you away from there.
Another great video! I’m back to bingeing all your videos from the beginning as we are back in a very strict lockdown here in Shanghai. Thank you for letting us travel virtually through your videos ❤️
Appreciate this as it is a true representation of our experience. - stayed at the Westin April 21’ and thought the Ocean view room for $480 was weak, let alone for $800+ now. Small room, tiny bathroom and very subpar service. Had the very view you had, which was nice but the overall experience 👎
"That's what she said" Literally choked on my coke zero laughing. That's why I love your channel lol.
same here!
I was in Maui Four seasons for my honeymoon and thought it was quite expensive! Would love to visit the island with my son again!
Totally agree about the resorts on Maui. We stayed at 2 on our honeymoon using Marriott and Hilton points and barely used the resort amenities because we were out exploring. Would 100% go for a condo if we came back and were paying for accommodations.
Just stayed in Maui in a tentalow for 3 nights thanks to you guys & it was AMAZING!! Also did 4 nights at a nice VRBO in Kihei but the open air tentalow is my FAVORITE memory ❤️
Ka'anapali was one of the first resorts in the world and the beach is one of the best.
Old Lahaina Luau is one of the, if not the best, luau's experiences in the state, right on the beach in Lahaina.
Glad you had a great time on Maui, it is the best but Kaua'i and Big Island could use some love too...
not too much...
over saturation can spoil paradise.
Came back from Maui just last week and stayed at The Westin. Ah I wished I found your channel sooner!
Thank you for staying in maui and exploring our beautiful island. Hope you had fun and great job on the video!!! Keep up the great videos.
There’s hostils and camping you can eat local food the island can be okay prices it’s how you choose to explore
There’s def a happy medium between a resort and rustic camping (because I’m not interested in either, lol, and have been to Maui many times). You can get a nice VRBO or Airbnb and strike the balance between having a relaxing and comfortable place to stay while leaving room in your budget for exploring
Exactly! we have done it this way every time we have gone to Maui. It's expensive enough. I find the only advantage of staying in the hotels is that you'll be that much closer to the water. Heck you don't even have to eat out every day, the grocery stores there have awesome options to take back to your place or the beach and eat good food, drink etc. It all depends what you want your experience to be.
We stay in south maui , on Maalaea Bay, 2 bedroom 2 bath condo for $200 a night ocean front. West Maui is expensive. 🌴
We recently did this math for a 3-family trip to big island. One of the families are resort people, so we booked a large condo that had privileges to the Hilton pools for half the price of what the hotel rooms would've been. We still paid a good chunk of change for rental cars but we got a mini van and a 3 row SUV for the 9 of us.
Which condo is this that had Hilton resort pool privileges?
@@BlissGroove There are a large number of condo complexes within Waikoloa, we stayed at the Fairway Villas, but it was pretty far from everything I might not recommend it specifically. But we only searched for ones that had Hilton privileges, the rental listings will say if they do.
I love the content and the style that you guys put out. It's not the same content and the same kind of theme like other travel/logging channel. Only thing I would like to see is weekly publishing of new content
Hey guys!!!! So! Small background, my hubs got a KILLER job offer in Maui, starting January 9th. We are pretty tight on cash, not broke as hell but tight, and we need some cheap options for the first couple weeks, till we can go look at a few places and get permanent housing. Our only hesitation is we have an almost 5yr old (5 on Jan 18th), so I want to make sure where we stay is safe and all that. We are super outdoorsy people and don't mind camping at all. We are literally watching one of your UA-cam videos and we saw a Tentalows (?so) and thought those look like a SUPER great option for us and wanted to chat with y'all a bit about the different options and cost effective ways for us to get through the first 3ish weeks there. Any advice or input you have would be GREAT! Hope to hear back soon, thanks in advance! Mahalo! 😁
I'm a new Subsciber enjoying your channel. When I went to Maui I stayed at the Kaanapali Royal it is condos with a swiming pool i had to my self on a golf corse. It was across from two Hotels on the water. And I payed 800 for a week including flight but I shared it with my Cuz and only payed 1/3 I liked it so much more then a big hotel. I would of been just as happy in a tent on the beach. But I did save having alot having a full Kitchen. Mind you 20 years ago. I looked it up about 300+ a night now
"I don't like resorts..." And THIS is why I follow you guys! I'm anti the homogenized tourist typical experience. For so many or most even, that is what resorts are created for. I think we're travelers, those looking for experiences, soaking up local culture, etc... Just because I might afford all that it's just that I'm not going to. I like the challenge of frugal (not to be interpreted as motel 6). The tent set up was so super cute! Hubs gonna have to have ac at night for sure. Reminds me of our tiny cabin we had before we built our cabin. Thanks for sharing all that! I'm so glad y'all aren't recommending Margaritaville for lunch ;-)
I don't like resorts either. That's why I don't go to Package Tour Hell Hawaii anymore.
Tim with the absolute perfect execution of the "That's what she said" :)
Thanks for the video! We go to Hawaii a couple times a year and hadn’t even considered camping. Looks like a fun way to mix it up. Also, where did you get your cute blue dress shown in the beginning of the video?
I was wondering this same thing... her dress is adorable! I want to find one!
So crazy to watch as a Maui local. I trim the palm trees at this exact resort as well as all the others and even four seasons lanai. We live such a different life than you all on vacatiob
You do a beautiful job, thanks for everything you do!
I used to work at Honokeanna Cove and I could never find someone to trim the palm trees!! They were always busy!!
How is that our fault
jonospikes808 - Thank you for what you do!
@@malloryking6204 They're not complaining or being rude. Sounds like they're simply making a statement. Chill.
The Luau food looks SUPER AMAZING!!! ALLLLLLLLOOOOOOOHA!
Awesome video Tim and Fin, keep up the amazing content!
On Maui, We stay in a condo across the street from the beach in Kihei for $150-$200/night then head to resort areas like Wailea and Kaanapali for dinners, outdoor drinks, and luaus, a few times, during our visits. $1000/night is ridiculous to us, comes with huge crowds and parking structures--definitely a Hawaiian buzz kill, as it buys a HUGE amount of fun we would rather spend elsewhere on the island--for excursions. And, for that price, I would choose vacationing in Europe, Paris, Switzerland Alps, Italy, for much less a night in a primo location.
Thank you. I miss Maui. Hope to be there soon!,
This a great series, I subscribed!
The Polynesian Cultural Center has tons of interesting features all in one place and lovely shows and boat rides.. kinda Disney style... I went twice and that was enough! I am not someone that would EVER want to go back to any Disney stuff. I did the Hawaii Blue Helicopter tour in Kauai... Now THAT was dramatic!! Saw my first ever circle rainbow just as the Pilot switched on IZ singing "somewhere over the rainbow" Emotional! I was also fortunate enough to see the Volcano on Big Island many times. I shared vacations on Hawaii with friends and family... Seriously when we shared it was cheaper than most other vacations. I admit I am good at finding cheaper hotels/condos... but Every trip to Hawaiian Islands were amazing! I like alone time so each trip I carved out at least 3-4 days of Solo time... only $50 a night... but that was all Before COVID19 Honestly don't care to go back with current situation ... Paradise should never include restrictions as they now have.
Note: The Polynesian Cultural Center was founded and is owned by the LDS (Mormon) church during their missionary expeditions to convert locals. They still go on missions to this center, and it's not a local altruistic institution.
Wow it's lovely video, beautiful view, delicious food, thanks for sharing ❤
Everybody has different preferences. I know people who see a hotel room as just a place to lay their head. My wife and I like luxury on our vacations. I don't want a $100 room two blocks away. For that little bit of time that I get away from work and the cares of life, I want to live and eat good. To us it's worth it, especially now that we can afford it.
My hubby and I are the same. We are very picky when it comes to hotels… Booking our trip to Maui for February. Trying to find a great place on the beach…
@@michellelampkin1983 Good luck! We went back in 2001 and love it! I hope you have a great time.
Thanks for this awesome Video! So looking forward to your Kauai Guide and maybe also Oahu?!
Kauai in two weeks! We didn't visit Oahu on this trip, but we will also head over to The Big Island for an incredible experience! ;)
I just stayed down the road at the Hyatt Regency. I was there for a conference, and the discounted rate for the conference was $380/night, but my employer reimbursed me for that. The regular rate for rooms there was on par with what you found at the Westin, $800/night plus. It's a nice room and all, but it really is a rip-off, especially these days with all the Airbnb options that are out there. If it were all-inclusive and there was a lot included in that price, it might be worth it, but it's not. It's just the room.
Could you say at least it was okay at the discounted price? I also was thinking of booking there and I have a discount with them also but even then I felt 370 was too much to pay with airbnbs available. ...
Also. I just noticed you uploaded a video on this! I'm definitely going to check it out !
@@mmmdanni yeah, like I said it's really just the room! I guess it depends if you want that "hotel experience" and want the pool right there, etc. But if you're more like me and want to go out and explore the island, and just need a place to sleep, you can probably find an Airbnb for much less! But I only glanced at Airbnb options there, so I'm not sure what you could get. BTW, it's not in my video ( I should've put it in), but Miso Phat sushi I would highly recommend if you like sushi! It's really small, so get there early or make a reservation. They were turning people away later in the evening.
Find a tent or house with electricity and bring an e-scooter along and you multiply your experience tenfold. A hi-range e-scooter like the Nami gives you the whole island like you are on foot only at 30+ mph... transformative.
Tim: "It all happened really quick" - Usually a description for a surprise life event rather than an epic meal - ha!
Love the content. We did Maui last year and wasted a ton of points at Ritz and We barely hung out at the hotel.
Love the feedback, thank you!! ... Maui is just too awesome
Great insight guys! Love seeing these perspectives of Maui.