Chasing Double Rainbows

Road to Hana and Wai'anapanapa
(Seventh of a Series)

Day 4  - December 18, 2013


We've driven the long Road to Hana before and we still remember how much fun we had. One of the most scenic highways in the US, it's a 68-mile drive that makes for a whole day's trip. The zig-zag roads, narrow one-lane bridges, and compelling sights along the way make you willingly slow down and enjoy it.

Last time, we traveled all the way to the end where you'd find the Seven Sacred Pools. Since we headed out a little late in the day, we didn't quite make it that far this time around.

Scenic lookouts with breathtaking views command you to stop and take a photo.

You'll pass about 59 small one lane bridges while on the Road to Hana.

This popular landmark is where we stopped to buy some banana bread.

And here at Coconut Glen's is where we stopped to buy fresh coconut. 

I was craving for fresh coconut and hoped I could buy some at Halfway to Hana snack shop. Instead, I was directed to the next shack called Coconut Glen's.  I prefer to call it the "Happy Hippie Shack" because of the characters tending that store. They were very entertaining to watch.

In the left corner of the store stood a forty-something Caucasian woman wearing rain boots. The branches and ornaments at her feet convinced me that she was about to set up a Christmas tree. There was a Muppet Christmas Carol playing and she happily sang along off-key.  Meanwhile, a younger woman, sitting on a stool close to her, could not be bothered as she tried to sort her tangled seashell garland.

The lad, who was behind the counter, walked out to the front to get me a coconut. It was rather painful to watch him crack it open.  Typically, an islander successfully does so with only a few whacks. No one was in a hurry but soon it started to rain. So once I got my coco-delight, I jumped back in the car to continue our journey.

We've been to the usual stops before like Garden of Eden Arboretum. But during this trip, we found our way to the Honokalani Black Sand Beach of Wai'anapanapa. It was like entering a completely different world.

A bird's eye view of the striking Honokalani Beach in Wai'anapanapa.

Alan and I having fun on the black sand beach.

Trevor treads slowly on the rocky pebbles on this black sand beach.

These pebbles of volcanic origin are smooth with no sharp edges.

You'd never guess that I shrieked and sprinted about a half mile away when they pointed to a spider in there.

Trevor goofing off with Alan here.  The contrasting colors of lava rocks, lush vegetation, and deep blue ocean provide a magnificent backdrop for the photo.

Trevor takes another snapshot of this beautiful shangri-la.

We were among a handful of tourists exploring the breathtaking area.

Here's a panoramic view of the Honokalani Black Sand Beach in Wai'anapanapa. You'll even see a rainbow.

The rain poured again while we were there.  Some Japanese tourists joined us in taking cover under a big rock. Eventually, we all ran back to our cars.

I didn't mind getting wet.  In fact, I love the rain because sometimes it brings rainbows.

I found this while on the famous Road to Hana. It's a little faint, but there's a second rainbow outlining the first.

This was my second sighting of a double rainbow this year. And I did find my double pots of gold in Hana. Discovering the incredible Wai'anapanapa Black Sand Beach was one.  The other is having another priceless family bonding time in Hawaii.

Learn more about the History of Road to Hana and Wai'anapanapa State Park.

This story was continued from Heavenly Pampering. Next is our ATV off-road adventure called Clouds of Red.

Heavenly Pampering

Spa Grande at Grand Wailea
(Sixth of a Series)

Day 4 - December 18, 2013

Some pampering time at the spa? Yes, please!

I didn't want to leave Grand Wailea without experiencing the award-winning Spa Grande. I saw an ad in the Hana Hou in-flight magazine stating that it is the Top Hotel Spa in Hawaii (Travel + Leisure). I'm not going to pass up this chance unlike the last time -- see blog post SPA-tastic!

With an appointment set for 8:00 a.m., I was the first guest at this lovely sanctuary that day. I enjoyed the advantage of having the entire place exclusively to myself for an hour!

The grandiose entrance to Spa Grande at the Grand Wailea.

I started my self-pampering time with a dip in this inviting Roman whirlpool and cold plunge.

What's distinctive about this spa is its philosophy of East meets West...in the Hawaiian Islands. The East uses herbs and ancient Eastern techniques while the West uses new technologies to enhance inner and outer beauty. And here, it's a harmonious combination of both plus the Hawaiian touch.

The other differentiating feature of this spa is the Terme Hydrotherapy Circuit. Words are not quite enough to describe the experience.  Thankfully, Spa Grande has this video that walks you through it. [Video Clip]

This video best explains the Terme Hydrotherapy Circuit experience at Spa Grande.

After soaking in the Roman Whirlpool, I made my way to the Hawaiian corner.  I thoroughly enjoyed the cascading waterfalls. Imagine soaking underneath a giant faucet with water dropping from 10 feet above you. The hydro pressure on my neck, shoulders, and and back felt good! It reminded me of my favorite feature in Aquae Sulis Spa of JW Marriott in Las Vegas. 

The tropical shower was just as invigorating.  This shower enclosure surrounds you with 50 water spouts and a large shower head.  The result is a jet stream of water that massages you from head to toe.

Following this, I explored the sea salt baths. These magnificent baths were developed exclusively for Spa Grande using minerals, herbs, fruits, and essences that are indigenous to Hawaii.

The five Hawaiian sea salt baths. (Photo courtesy of Spa Grande at Grand Wailea.)

Each bath of various colors and aromas offered benefits ranging from relieving stress to nourishing the skin. I tried the Kaua'i bath with lava red sea salt and tropical guava; the Lana'i bath with green papaya sea salt and golden pineapple; and the Maui bath with Wailea Blue sea salt and cocounut nectar.  At the end of it all, I smelled like Hawaii!

This is what convinced me to go.  At the entrance to the spa is a display explaining the different bath soaks from indigenous Hawaiian sea salts.

In between my explorations, I was invited to the treatment room for a full-body honey-mango exfoliation.  I lay on my stomach on the spa treatment table while the spa attendant gently scrubbed my back, arms, and legs with a loofah.  It felt like light rain on my body when she rinsed me off using a shower wand.

Mind you, all of this is accessible to a guest for only $55 (2 hours in the facility) or comes complimentary when you book a spa treatment. Someday, I'd like to return and try the Six-Hand Lava Stone Massage.  It's where three therapists (yes three!) simultaneously massage your entire body with hot lava stones.  Sounds heavenly!

On the "East side" of the spa, I tried the Japanese furo bath -- a shallow pool with bubbles emanating from the bottom, gently massaging the body as the air bubbles rise to the surface. The spa attendant pointed out the traditional Japanese shower in this area.  It is low level and has no shower head. Instead, it has a shower wand and a wooden stool as it is meant for one to sit while showering.

I didn't know much about the furo bath until I did some research recently. I learned that in the traditional Japanese ritual of bathing, a wooden bathtub is filled with water and left overnight. It is important to be completely clean before entering the bath.  This is why there's a Japanese type shower next to it where one sits on a small wooden stool and lightly rinses off before entering the bath.

Spa Grande's private lanai. (Photo courtesy of Spa Grande at Grand Wailea,)

As a fitting finale to my pampering session, I went upstairs to the relaxation area -- a private lanai with sweeping views of the resort's Relaxation Pool and the Wailea Beach. This alone makes Spa Grande one of the best spas in the world.

Now I can check out without hesitation.


Continued from Bouncing Off The Clouds, It's A Hula-day, and My Heart Smiled. More on this adventure continued on Chasing Double Rainbows.

Bouncing off the Clouds

Haleakala Bike Tour
(Fifth of a Series)

Day 3 - December 17, 2013

My hubby Alan didn't want to just visit the famous Maui volcano again during our return trip. This time around, he wanted to try the Haleakala downhill bike ride. So I made arrangements for Bike Maui's 9:30 a.m. Summit Deluxe Tour. (Research warned me that the sunrise ride was a wee bit early and probably too cold for me. Although I hear that it's an experience of a lifetime.)

We rented our bikes from Bike Maui

After selecting our bikes and receiving our gear, our entire tour group boarded a shuttle commandeered by the lively tour guide named Kimo.  He drove us all the way to the Haleakala National Park's Visitor Center located at the peak so we could view the crater. Along the way, Kimo regaled us with his fun tales and historical facts while pointing at landmarks to help us easily find our way back.

The entrance to Haleaka National Park in Maui

At the summit (about 10,000 ft), you can look down at the breathtaking Haleakala crater. 

Haleakala, which means "House of the Sun," forms about 75% of the island of Maui.

I don't remember noticing the 'ahinahina or silversword plant the last time we were up here. Its leaves that appear like silver hairs piqued my curiosity. I learned that this endangered species has a very delicate root structure that can easily be damaged just by walking around the plant.

'Ahinahina or silversword plant

After our short visit at the summit, Kimo took us down to the 6500 feet level to start the 23 mile ride downhill.

Posing before our 23-mile bike journey

I guess I flashed the I Love You sign instead of Hang Loose.  

With Alan leading the way, me in the middle, and Trevor at my tail, we began our exciting downhill journey. I'll admit I was white-knuckled at first while zipping down the mountain and making the turns. I kept reassuring myself, "You're doing just fine. You're doing fabulous." Soon enough, I relaxed and bicycled with ease. The views were stunning!

Biking down Haleakala

It was a great day for an amazing bike ride down Haleakala.

It was gratifying to see stunning views of the vast blue ocean and the lush greenery.

We only made a few stops to take some pictures and get a quick bite at Maui Lavender. What an exhilarating experience! And there was no rain. We were yet again granted beautiful weather. I couldn't be more thrilled.

My favorite part of the tour was when Kimo, our creative and entertaining tour guide, took us to a spot for a perfect photo opp.  We were at a level above the clouds and it created a great backdrop.  He instructed us to jump as he quickly took a snapshot.  The result was a fun pic making it appear as though we're jumping on cloud trampolines.

At this level, we were above the clouds

With this great backdrop, all we had to do was jump to look like we're skydiving.

We're bouncing off the clouds!

Whee!!!

Later that day, I sent photos to my friend Cheryl via text.  She said, "From the pic, looked like a beautiful clear day. Lucky."

Lucky indeed!


Continued from It's A Hula-Day! Next is Heavenly Pampering. More to come on this Maui adventure.

It's a Hula-day

The Te Au Moana Luau
(Fourth of a series)

Day 2 - December 16, 2013

A visit to Hawaii would not be complete without going to a luau.  My good friend Cheryl recommended the Te Au Moana Luau presented at Wailea Beach Marriott Resort and Spa.  During my early morning exploratory walk the day before, I discovered it's just next door to Grand Wailea! All it took was a 5-minute leisurely walk from our hotel room to the venue.

We all agreed to meet at 4:30 pm so we could save good seats.  I was surprised to see the place already filling up.

Our group photo with Cheryl and Mike at the Te Au Moana Luau

While waiting for the feast to start, we received our orchid leis, had our photos taken, and chatted away over mai tais and pina coladas.  I told Alan and Trevor that Cheryl and her husband Mike own Mele Ukulele, known to be the Best Ukulele Shop in Maui. We asked them if they've ever met any celebrities at their store.  Apparently, several famous folks such as Mick Fleetwood, Steve Miller, John Fogerty, and even comedian Mike Myers have purchased ukuleles from them.

Soon a young man, dressed in traditional Hawaiian garment, trumpeted with a conch shell horn.  It was his way of inviting guests to come closer to the imu or oven pit.  Here they "unveiled" the kalua pig and signaled the start of the feast.

Guests gathered round the imu or oven pit to witness the unveiling of the kalua pig. 

Presenting the kalua pig, the star of the luau feast.  Kalua means to cook in an underground oven.

We all joined the buffet line where Cheryl explained to me that Kalua Pork goes well with Lomi Lomi salmon (Think Hawaiian salsa made of salmon, tomatoes, and Maui onions.)  After trying that combination, I don't think I could have Kalua Pork any other way. Yummy! It was great to enjoy all the delicious food including the grilled teriyaki steaks, seafood pasta, shoyu chicken, and Hawaiian fried rice while watching the sun slowly go to sleep.

This wasn't even the main performance.  But the pre-show was a visual delight against the spectacular Maui sunset.

The ocean and the setting sun provided an incredible stage backdrop. And once the sun had set, the stage remained vibrant with colorful dance performances and storytelling of Hawaiian legends.

I was so excited to see my friend and former grade school classmate who is now a long time resident of Maui. I have such fond memories of her and my childhood.  I still vividly recall how she and her sisters -- along with me and my sisters -- would always sit together at the same lunch table in school. 

Cheryl and I somehow manage to find each other even after being out of touch for years. Thanks to social media and a recent class reunion, we reconnected once again.

Cheryl and me

Continued from My Heart Smiled. More Maui adventures to follow. See Bouncing Off The Clouds.

My Heart Smiled

The Beach, The Pools, The Restaurants at The Grand Wailea

(Third of a series)

Day 2 - December 16, 2013

The day after our arrival, I got up at sunrise to explore the grounds of Grand Wailea.  Several early birds were already roaming the property like I was. Most were doing their morning run. I walked past an entire group of mostly ladies, with towels under their arms, preparing for 7:00 a.m. beach yoga.

First stop, Wailea Beach. [Watch 12-second video.]

How I love the soothing sound of ocean waves and the rippling water on my bare feet! This beach is so clean that it seems untouched.  The fine red sand here is incredibly smooth and soft. You don't have to worry about hurting your feet with pebbles, rocks, or broken shells because there are none.

Sunrise at Wailea Beach

A meandering pathway weaved together the high end resorts in this area. Following the walkway, I found even more striking views from different vantage points.  And I chanced upon a small shack that served Starbucks coffee. Bingo!

The path also led me to a lookout point popular for whale sightings. It had an informational sign about humpback whales and the surrounding islands. From that very spot, you could easily see the Molokini crater and the island of Kaho'olawe behind it. In the distance, the island of Lanai is also visible.

It doesn't take a professional photographer to capture great photos here.

As the sun rose higher, I discovered more about this 40-acre sprawling property.

The Hibiscus Pool at Grand Wailea.

A closer look at Grand Wailea's Hibiscus Pool.
The bottom of this pool is inlaid with a giant hibiscus made of Mexican mosaic tile.

While the Hibiscus Pool is reserved for adults, there's the Wailea Canyon Activity Pool perfect for the entire family's enjoyment.  I found water slides, waterfalls, a kiddie pool, a river, a rope swing( a la Tarzan), and even a swim up bar.  I guess they all connected to form the large Canyon Activity pool which is about 2,000 feet in length.  That's about five times the length of a football field...with end zones! You can find out more about the Pools at Grand Wailea here.

Ok so I had to insert this photo.  Sorry couldn't resist.
This was taken in front of the Grand Wailea's Reflecting Pool.

Ah yes, the restaurants.  I wanted to dine at the famous Humuhumunukunukuapua'a.  (You can just call it Humu for short.  They'll know what you mean.)  Sadly, I was out-voted by the two picky eaters in the family. I thought I'd have better chances of going to Amasia, the best new restaurant by renowned Chef Alan Wong. But no such luck.  I must return and bring along my foodie friends with me.  More about the Grand Wailea restaurants here.

Can you say it with me? Humuhumunukunukuapua'a is an award-winning restaurant.  

The view from inside Humuhumunukunukuapua'a restaurant.
Look at that! I wish I had taken a photo also at sunset.

It's no wonder this restaurant garnered "Best Table for Two" by Islands Magazine. 

The ambience is both romantic and relaxing.

We spent the rest of the day at the famous beach.  Alan found a perfect spot where the staff set up some lounge chairs and a beach umbrella for us.  But after only a few minutes of relaxation, I craved some fun water activity.

Guests flocked to the beach to lounge, sunbathe, swim, snorkel, paddle-board, or kayak.

I couldn't have asked for a more gorgeous day!

I called Trevor to jump in the back of my tandem kayak rental.  We paddled into the ocean in sync: left, right, left, right. Having paddled far enough, we turned the kayak around to look at where we started.  That's when the majestic mountain behind our resort revealed itself in full glory.

"Wow!" we both gasped, stopping to marvel at the unbelievable sight in front of us.

"I wish I had my camera right now," I sighed.

"You know, a recent study revealed that people who take more pictures remember less about their experiences," Trevor said matter-of-factly.

"OK, let's just stay here a bit longer to take it all in. Then let's paddle back to shore so your Dad can go next. He has to see this!"

"I love Hawaii," Trevor said for the nth time.

My heart smiled and echoed his sentiment.  I'm so, so grateful!


Continued from blogpost "Three Wishes" and "Amazeballs." More on this adventure coming up. See It's A Hula-day.

Three Wishes

Wailea Seaside Chapel at the Grand Wailea
(Second of a series)
December 15, 2013

I was drawn to the lovely Wailea Seaside Chapel. Aside from my curiosity, I had to go inside because I practice the Catholic tradition of saying a prayer and making three wishes when visiting a church for the first time.

The charming Seaside Chapel at the Grand Wailea in Maui.

The New England style chapel with clock tower 

This classic yet elegant chapel boasts of stained glass window panels on each wall. Specially designed by local artist Yvonne Cheng, every floor-to-ceiling glass panel provides a glimpse of traditional Hawaiian life, each symbolizing new beginnings.  I can see why brides and grooms from all over the world, including celebrities, would want to exchange their I do's here.

 I stood in awe while gazing at the colorful stained glass murals and the stunning 17th century style chandeliers. Later, I learned that the exquisite chandeliers were handcrafted at Murano Glass in Venice, Italy.  

Inside, the chapel is lustrous with its cherry wood altar and pews complemented by sapele mahogany walls.

I made my way to the last pew and knelt down to pray. I gave thanks for the wonderful opportunity to celebrate Christmas with my family in Maui.

Then I wished for good health -- that none of us would catch the flu while we're here.  That wouldn't be fun.

Second, I wished for good weather during our visit.  Before getting here, I heard it had been rainy in Hawaii.  It would be disappointing if we had wet weather since we booked a lot of outdoor activities for this trip.

And finally, and most importantly, I wished that I would be granted another return trip to this paradise.

The enchanting Seaside Chapel seems afloat on the koi-filled pond that surrounds it.  

Large koi fish, known for good fortune, abound in the tranquil pond surrounding the chapel. 

Though charming in size, it overflows with splendor. It looks serene, romantic, and reverent. 

Learn more about the Wailea Seaside Chapel and its stained glass panels here:


This story was continued from blogpost entitled "Amazeballs."  Continued on My Heart Smiled. More to come.