A perennial winner of the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards for Best U.S. Island, Maui is one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations. It’s no wonder then that it’s a favorite among Inspirato Members, too. The club offers nearly 20 different accommodations in two distinct parts of the island: Wailea, on the southwestern coast, and Kapalua, at Maui’s northern point.
Member Lacey Johns traveled to one of Inspirato’s residences at the Montage Kapalua Bay earlier this year with a group of three couples. Maui’s variety of stunning terrain, acclaimed restaurants, and luxurious ways to relax all offer plenty of ways to create a perfect week – which Lacey and her friends took full advantage of. “We had an awesome itinerary,” Lacey said. “The team helped us plan the perfect trip!”
We had a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure! The Montage Kapalua Bay is wonderful in every way. We so enjoyed the trip!
Day 1
After arriving at Maui’s Kahului Airport (OGG) and checking into their Inspirato accommodations at the Montage the previous afternoon, the group kicked off its first full day of vacation with a round of golf on the award-winning Plantation Course.
Day 2
In the morning, all three couples enjoyed relaxing treatments at the Montage’s acclaimed spa. Later, they dined at Merriman’s, a gorgeous, celebrated restaurant known for using at least 90% locally sourced ingredients for its farm-to-table cuisine — and located within walking of the Montage.
Day 3
Perhaps the best way to become immersed in Maui’s scenery is on the iconic Road to Hana, a lengthy stretch of winding highway that meanders through some of the island’s most stunning settings. Lacey and her group opted for a guided drive, stopping at several spots along the way. “Waterfalls, black sand beaches, cliff jumping…. so much fun!” she said.
Even more thrilling? The group combined their Road to Hana excursion with a helicopter tour high above the West Maui mountains and the nearby island of Molokai.
They finished up the adventurous day with dinner at the beloved local restaurant Merriman’s — #10 on the list of the 25 Best Fine Dining Restaurants in the country in the 2016 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards — in the charming town of Paia.
Day 4
Lacey and her group continued their culinary exploration at Feast at Lele (pictured at right). The unique dining experience encompasses a five-course dinner featuring the cuisine of the Polynesian Islands, plus a performance and cultural demonstration of traditional Hawaiian music and dance.
Day 5
One Maui’s top attractions is whale watching, which is best from December through April. Lacey was there right at the peak of whale season, and the group saw plenty of the animals, especially during a guided tour. “Whales could be seen easily from the trails and beach! They were everywhere!” Lacey said. “We did a tour also, with Maui Adventures on a super raft. We were able to get so close to the whales! It was a great experience.”
Day 6
On their final evening, the couples bid aloha to Maui with dinner at Lahaina Grill, one of the most popular and respected restaurants on the island. Voted Maui’s best restaurant by readers of Honolulu Magazine nearly every year since 1994, it’s known for ultra-fresh seafood and all-natural meats. “Lahaina Grille was the best restaurant,” Lacey wrote.
Day 7
Two members of the group enjoyed one final massage at the Spa Montage before everyone checked out and returned home.
Even with a packed itinerary, Lacey and her companions found plenty of time to relax back on-site at the Montage Kapalua Bay. “The Montage has great pools and beach area,” Lacey said. “The beach club pool was our favorite spot!” Lacey said their spacious condo — located just a short walk from the beach and the rest of the Montage’s amenities — was “great for three couples,” as well.
Lacey is just one of hundreds of Inspirato Members who have incredible experiences in Maui with the club every year. Read what other members have to say about vacationing with Inspirato in Kapalua, or explore all 175+ destinations in the Inspirato Collection and find inspiration in Hawaii and beyond.
