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West Maui Vacation Rentals

Tropical Holiday Vacations: Celebrating Christmas in Maui

The holidays are a time for families, and we always look forward to welcoming back our guests and families who have become ‘ohana on their annual Maui Christmas vacation.  However, things have changed and will feel slightly different since the Maui wildfires destroyed Lāhainā town’s familiar restaurants, shops, and hangout spots.  If you are a returning guest or if it’s your first visit, we’ve made a list and checked it twice for things to do on Maui to help spread good cheer.

Santa Sightings

Tell the kids not to worry. Santa Claus is coming to town! 

Santa will surf by catamaran at Kā‘anapali Beach before heading to Hula Grill at Whaler’s Village for a family-friendly event with photo opportunities with Santa, cookie decorating, cocoa, and take-home goodie bags. 

Ali‘I Nui Catamarans is sailing with Santa on board for an intimate two-hour morning cruise, including free digital photos & holiday story time, a hot cocoa & holiday coffee bar, Christmas cookies & hot and cold gourmet appetizers.  Or book a brunch or dinner on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, or New Year’s Day.  

Maui Christmas Events  

Meet Santa at the Halona Kai Holiday Village on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The experience also includes a free family photo with Santa, a tree lighting ceremony, a holiday dinner buffet, sweet treats, family activities, and an outdoor holiday movie under the stars with popcorn and cocoa. 

Uplifting the island of Maui, here are a few Maui holiday events to welcome you to your island home for the holidays.

The Maui Ocean Center will hold an inaugural Festival of Lights, an ocean-themed light display showcasing Maui’s ocean life, including sea turtles, whales, and jellyfish. Admission includes the holiday-themed dive show in the 750,000-gallon aquarium, live music, family crafts, and a festive 3D screening of How the Grinch Stole Christmas.  

Hanau Ke Ali‘i’s A King is Born is an inspirational performance at the Maui Community Cultural Center, affectionately known locally as The MACC. The show features Hawaiian songs and over 100 Hālau Nā Lei Kaumaka o Uka dancers. The performers will also be collecting Food Bank donations for those impacted by the wildfires. 

Buy local at the annual Hui Holidays presented by the Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center on their beautiful Kuluanui estate. ‘Tis the season to truly find a one-of-kind Maui gift or memento crafted by and supporting Maui’s top artisans.  There is also a one-day Santa’s workshop with crafts, games, and a visit with Santa. 

West Maui Christmas Church Services 

  • The historic Maria Lanakila  Catholic Church, completed in 1873, was miraculously spared from the fire despite its devastation.  While the burn zone area is still off limits, their sister church, the Sacred Hearts Mission in Kapalua, typically holds mass on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
  • Sadly, Lāhainā’s historic Waiola Church, established as the first Christian Church on Maui in 1823, was destroyed in the Maui wildfires just after celebrating its 200th Anniversary. Established in 1840, Lahuiokalani Kā‘anapali in Honokōwai has embraced the Waiola congregation and will hold a Christmas Eve service.  
  • The Lahaina United Methodist Church had just celebrated its 100th anniversary, but it was lost 10 months later. They are holding a Christmas Day service at Lahuiokalani Kā‘anapali in Honokōwai, which has graciously provided a place to worship for other faiths. 

West Maui Vacation Rentals and Resorts

Let Chase ‘N Rainbows by Castle Resorts be the backdrop to your cherished Christmas traditions and unforgettable moments by spending Christmas in Maui. Decorate your living room with twinkling lights, garland, and aloha print stockings while the kids dream of sugar plums in their private bedrooms.  Order a special holiday meal from Foodland Farms Lāhainā or Safeway Lāhainā to heat up in your full kitchen and pick an oceanfront condo for a sit-down meal in the dining area or outdoor lanai with golden sunset and blue ocean views, surrounded with aloha by those you love most. 

These holiday recommendations are seasonal and may only be for one day. Reservations for accommodations and activities are limited, so start planning your island getaway today and unwrap the magic of Christmas in Hawai‘i!

5 West Maui Family Activities You’ll Remember Forever

If you’re planning a family trip to West Maui, you’re in for a treat! The island is brimming with exciting and memorable activities that will delight every family member. There’s something for everyone, from the youngest adventurer to the most seasoned traveler. Here, Chase ‘N Rainbows will help you explore some memorable Maui family activities to make your vacation truly unforgettable. 

Explore the Maui Ocean Center

For a more relaxed yet captivating experience, visit the Maui Ocean Center. This award-winning aquarium is home to diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. Interactive exhibits and educational programs make it a fantastic learning experience for kids. They can feed coral, view sea turtles up close, and learn about humpback whales inhabiting Maui’s waters. The Maui Ocean Center provides a perfect balance of fun and education, making it a standout among family activities in Maui.

Sailing and Snorkeling with Trilogy Excursions

Sailing and snorkeling are some of the top family activities in Maui, and there are few better places to do them than the Bays of Honoapi’ilani. Accessible via sailboat from Ka’anapali Beach, West Maui’s reefs are home to some of Hawaii’s most vibrant marine life. Trilogy Excursions offers a half-day sailing and snorkeling tour that is perfect for families. With experienced guides, high-quality gear, and a focus on safety, you’ll feel at ease as you discover the underwater paradise and glide across the ocean. The sights will mesmerize kids and adults alike, from colorful coral reefs to playful fish.

Maui Animal Farm

Maui Animal Farm offers families a delightfully fun and educational experience amid stunning ocean views. This well-maintained farm allows children to interact closely with various animals, including rabbits, goats, donkeys, and tortoises. The hands-on experience includes opportunities to see, hold, and feed the animals, making it especially engaging for young visitors. The staff are enthusiastic and kind, ensuring a memorable visit. With reasonable tour prices, Maui Animal Farm is a must-visit destination for families with kids, providing fun and learning in a beautiful setting.

Slappy Cakes Breakfast

Slappy Cakes offers a fun and unique dining experience perfect for multi-generational families, including those with toddlers. Known for its delicious breakfast, it allows kids and kids at heart to create personalized pancakes right at the table. The restaurant’s attentive staff and excellent service enhance the enjoyable, kid-friendly atmosphere. Families will appreciate the easy and interactive dining, with the coconut syrup being a must-try. Slappy Cakes is an ideal spot for a memorable and engaging breakfast everyone will love.

See a Keiki Hula Show by The Napili Kai Foundation

The Napili Kai Foundation’s Keiki Hula Show is the longest-running of its kind and offers a low-key cultural experience that’s family-friendly and affordable. The children put on a fascinating performance showcasing their dedication to their craft, and your kids will love seeing other youngsters represented in traditional Hawaiian customs. This keiki hula show is educational and immersive, supported by a live band and local educators. The comfortable seating and affordable price make it an excellent venue for families with elders and preschoolers.

West Maui Resorts and Condo Vacation Rentals

West Maui is a treasure trove of family activities that promise to create lasting memories for your family. Whether exploring marine life, meeting furry friends, observing cultural traditions, or simply sharing a memorable family breakfast, these experiences will make your trip beyond special. And when it comes to finding more than a place to stay, look no further than Chase ‘N Rainbows for the ultimate condo vacation rentals and resort accommodations, which are near all the best things to do in Maui.

Ready to embark on your next family adventure? Book your trip to West Maui today and experience these unforgettable Maui family activities. Your dream vacation awaits!

Finding the Ultimate Luxury Spa Experience in West Maui

Maui Spa: A professional masseuse preforms a lomi lomi massage at a West Maui spa overlooking the beach.

Although Chase ‘N Rainbows offers a gateway to unparalleled spa experiences in West Maui, we don’t specialize in them. Still, many of our guests may wonder where to go to find the ideal treatments for their needs. Here, we’ll provide a top-level view of what to expect, along with an outline of the best available luxury spa services with easy access from our side of the island.

What to Expect at the Best West Maui Spas

When considering a visit to West Maui spas, embracing these establishments’ local charm and cultural richness is essential. From luxurious spa treatments utilizing indigenous ingredients and scents to personalized wellness regimes tailored to individual needs, each visit promises a journey of relaxation and self-care. 

Part of what makes Maui a perfect setting for a spa is the authenticity found within the various treatments, aromas, and oils, many of which utilize native herbs and other medicinal plants derived from the island. Another aspect of the Maui spa experience is the seemingly endless natural beauty found amid beaches and forested areas. Finally, the welcoming nature of our residences is the pinnacle of the service and hospitality visitors come to expect during their stay.

Embracing Nature

Beyond the serene ambiance of West Maui spas, visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the natural wonders surrounding them. Imagine lounging by the ocean, listening to the rhythmic lull of waves, or embarking on exhilarating hikes along coastal trails. Snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life further connects visitors with the island’s rich ecosystems, enhancing the holistic spa experience.

Spas in West Maui

Navigating West Maui’s spa scene reveals many choices catering to diverse preferences. Local treatments go beyond the ordinary, blending traditional practices and modern innovations that rejuvenate body and spirit. In light of the recent challenges West Maui’s community faces, Chase ‘N Rainbows remains mindful of its role in supporting local initiatives. 

While respecting the community’s current needs and sensitivities, the focus remains on promoting the essence of aloha through genuine spa experiences. Visitors can also contribute positively by exploring Mālama Hawai’i programs, aligning their stay with meaningful actions that benefit the local community.

Kā‘anapali

  • Spa La Mer – Whether you need a therapeutic massage, couples’ experience, or facial treatments, Spa La Mer has several signature packages to help you towards rejuvenation.
  • Spa Soleil (Formerly Kamahaʻo Marilyn Monroe Spa) Spa Soleil in Kā‘anapali offers a wide range of spa services, packages, and beauty treatments. They have something for everyone, from traditional lomi lomi massage therapy to hydro-peptide collagen skincare.
  • Hoʻola Spa – Spa rituals at Hoʻola Spa utilize the balancing powers of the earth’s and ocean’s ingredients to align your mind, body, and spirit with several distinct massage modalities, spa packages, and skincare regimens. 
  • The Spa at Black Rock The Spa at Black Rock offers a premier relaxation experience with seven indoor treatment rooms, an outdoor lanai, and an oceanfront cabana, where luxurious treatments like body wraps, black lava scrubs, and assorted facials using organic tropical fruits and Eminence Organic Skin Care rejuvenate your body and spirit.

Honokōwai

  • Puamana Day Spa Puamana Day Spa immerses guests in a curative oasis with transformative Hawaiian treatments using locally sourced, naturally derived products to rebalance and harmonize your energy.
  • Zensations Spa – Nestled between Ka’anapali and Kapalua on Maui’s West Side, Zensations Spa offers a cozy retreat featuring luxurious linens, soft music, and a range of services, from amazing massages and fabulous facials to professional waxing. 

Kahana

  • Smile Nail Salon – Located near Kahana Beach, Smile Nail Salon offers everything from French manicures to contemporary trends while ensuring professional services like cooling and revitalizing masques for the ultimate indulgence.

Nāpili

  • Makai Massage & Bodywork – Indulge in specialized treatments like mini facials and hand massages or massage therapies like lomi lomi, shiatsu, Swedish, and reflexology. 

Kapalua

  • Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua Spa – The Ritz-Carlton Spa offers therapies that embrace indigenous plants and customs for a holistic wellness experience amid lush gardens or secluded treatment areas.
  • Spa Montage – At Spa Montage Kapalua Bay, each treatment is customized and created using local derivatives and a distinct setting showcasing their infinity pool, sauna, and bamboo waterfall.

Oceanfront Maui Vacation Rentals

Kā’anapali Shores 3

Whether you’re drawn to luxurious spa treatments, immersive nature experiences, or cultural insights, Chase ‘N Rainbows is your launchpad for an experience unlike many. We have several vacation rentals and condos that offer ideal access to the local spas and the perfect home away from home as you go from one exciting Maui activity to the next. To find out more about our accommodations or book your stay, please browse our collection or reach out online today!

Where to Go for a Lū’au in West Maui

West Maui Luau: Three fire dancers show off their skills at a West Maui luau celebration.

Given the cultural significance, it’s no surprise that many West Maui visitors have put “attend a lū’au” firmly atop their must-do activities list. And although we may be a tad biased, the lū’aus on our side of the island are some of Hawaii’s best. While all closed as a result of the August 2023 wildfire, most have reopened, and Chase ‘N Rainbows has created an easy West Maui lū’au guide to help you find what’s available, including some new ones.

Find the Best West Maui Lū’au

Drums of the Pacific | 808-667-4727

Maui Nui | 877-846-5554

Myths of Maui | 833-539-5150

Old Lāhainā | 808-667-1998

Sunset Lū’au | (808) 662-6627

Tales of the Kapa Moe | 808-665-7089

Wailele Polynesian Lū’au | 808-661-2992

What to Know Before Attending Your First West Maui Lū’au

Before you attend a lū’au for the first time, you should know a few things.

  • Experience: A lū’au is a combination of feast and festivities, and more importantly, it shares the culture of Hawaii. Some Maui lū’au shows may be dedicated specifically to Hawaiian culture, while others embrace Polynesia with exciting fire knife dances. There may be lei greetings, cultural demonstrations or activities, but all offer an abundance of delicious food, tropical cocktails, and storytelling through music and dance.
  • Food:  Nearly all lū’aus will have traditional foods like shredded smoky kalua pork, fish poke, poi, and haupia coconut pudding. You’ll find a variety of familiar entrees, salads, starches, and sides from abundant buffets to sample everything and eat as much as you want! Many include an open bar serving your favorite tropical cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Attire: Attire for lū’aus can be dressy or casual, depending on the lū’au you choose. We recommend shopping on Maui for an Aloha shirt paired with slacks/shorts or a dress available in both bright or muted colors and patterns to suit your style and taste. Wear a flower on your left ear, which means you’re taken, and on your right to signify your availability! Casual beach footwear, including flip-flops, is allowed, and you may find yourself barefoot before night’s end!
  • Cost: An authentic lū’au experience can last two to four hours and starts at around $100 per guest. Prices vary greatly depending on the amenities, menu, inclusions, upgrades, deals, and production costs. Cash tips are always appreciated unless otherwise noted at the lū’au.
  • Reservations: Advance reservations are strongly recommended since they often sell out weeks or months in advance. Lū’aus are extremely popular and one of the top things to do in West Maui.

Discover Your West Maui Vacation Rental

Cultural immersion is a cornerstone of any vacation experience, so when you come to West Maui, we encourage you to attend at least one lū’au. The dedication it takes to execute such a performance is extraordinary, and you’ll enjoy an authentic cultural experience. We promise it’s something you’ll never forget. In the meantime, we invite you to peruse our vacation condo rentals, which offer the perfect combination of luxury and affordability, all on or near the beach. Book your stay online and start planning your Maui getaway today!

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