chasinrainbow

Feb 25 2025

Romantic Getaways in Hawai’i with Chase ‘N Rainbows

Romantic Getaways in Hawaii: A romantic couple in their early fifties walks along a beautiful shoreline in Hawai'i.

As the month of love, February reminds us that romantic getaways in Hawai’i are great any time of the year. From spontaneous escapes to annual celebrations, our tropical paradise offers an unrivaled and unforgettable experience for couples seeking a retreat to rekindle their passion or stoke the flames of admiration. Still, planning an escape can feel like a tall task with so many things to do and places to go. That’s why Chase ‘N Rainbows is here to help break down your options and give you some things to add to your itinerary, no matter when you’re here.

Whale-Watching Season in Hawai’i

A romantic getaway to Hawai‘i becomes even more enchanting during the whale-watching season when humpback whales return to the islands’ warm, shallow waters to mate, give birth, and raise their young. From November through April—peaking between January and March—couples can witness these magnificent creatures from shore or on a guided tour. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, which spans waters around Maui Nui, Penguin Bank, and beyond, offers a front-row seat to the whales’ fascinating behaviors, from playful breaches to melodic songs. Sharing these awe-inspiring moments adds a touch of magic to any romantic escape.

The Magic of a Hawaiian Sunset

A romantic getaway in Hawai‘i isn’t complete without witnessing an oceanfront sunset from the comfort of a vacation rental with direct beach access. Imagine stepping outside to soft sand and watching the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant pinks, oranges, and purples as the sun dips below the horizon. Whether you’re savoring the moment from a private lanai or strolling hand-in-hand along the beach, the experience is pure magic.

The Best Places to Propose in Hawai’i

For some couples, a romantic getaway to Hawai’i means starting a new chapter in their lives. It’s no secret that popping the question amid a beach sunset or lush flowering greenery can make the moment more memorable. With that in mind, here are some romantic places to propose in Hawai’i.

Haleakalā Summit, Maui: Propose at sunrise above the clouds for an awe-inspiring moment.
Waikīkī Beach, O‘ahu: A sunset proposal with Diamond Head in the background provides a classic, picturesque setting.
Nā Pali Coast, Kaua‘i: Take a private boat tour and pop the question with dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters as your backdrop.
Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach, Hawai‘i Island: This unique beach offers a one-of-a-kind, natural setting perfect for a surprise proposal.
Mauna Kea Stargazing, Hawai‘i Island: Propose under a sky full of stars for a truly magical experience.
Secret Beach (Kauapea Beach), Kaua’i: Secluded and scenic. What more could you want for a private and intimate moment?
Lanai Lookout, O‘ahu: The rugged cliffs and panoramic ocean views create a breathtaking proposal location.

Dinner for Two

Dining at a restaurant during a romantic getaway in Hawai‘i offers an unforgettable blend of exquisite flavors and breathtaking scenery. Whether enjoying fresh seafood by the water or a candlelit dinner overlooking the coastline, each meal is an experience to savor. Many restaurants highlight local ingredients, from just-caught fish to tropical fruits, enhancing every bite with the essence of the islands. Paired with a stunning sunset or live Hawaiian music, dinner becomes more than a meal—it’s a moment to cherish together.

Hawaii Vacation Rentals from Chase ‘N Rainbows

A romantic getaway in Hawai‘i offers more than beautiful views and relaxing moments—it creates shared memories that last a lifetime. Whether watching whales from the shore, savoring dinner by the ocean, or saying “yes” against a breathtaking backdrop, the islands provide endless ways to celebrate your connection. Chase ‘N Rainbows has the ideal vacation rental to make your romantic escape seamless and unforgettable. Let the magic of Hawai‘i set the stage for a magical escape!

Dec 06 2024

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 200^th 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 100^th 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!

Nov 15 2024

4 Must-Stop West Maui Shopping Destinations

Maui Shopping: A woman smiles while she carries shopping bags through a West Maui mall.

When visiting Maui, shopping is one of the best ways to pick up a memento to remember your incredible vacation. Whether you’re looking for an island-inspired T-shirt, outfit, or jewelry, searching for Maui-made arts and crafts, buying Maui gifts and souvenirs, seeking essentials for forgotten items, or grocery shopping to stock your Maui vacation rental, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular West Maui shopping malls.

Where to Go Shopping in Maui

West Maui has something for every kind of shopper, whether you’re looking for luxury items, local crafts, or just the basics. Each shopping destination offers its unique experience, with convenient locations and a range of shops, eateries, and services. Whether you’re strolling through open-air spaces, discovering hidden gems, or simply stocking up on essentials, West Maui’s shopping centers offer a blend of local charm and modern convenience. Let’s look at what each of these popular spots offers.

Whalers Village

Located in the luxurious Kā‘anapali Beach Resort, Whalers Village is an oceanfront West Maui shopping mall with nearly 100 shops and eateries. You’ll find luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, and Tourneau intermingled with upscale Hawai‘i retailers like SoHa Living and Nā Hoku jewelry. After exploring your favorite retailers, enjoy lunch, sunset cocktails, or dinner at one of Maui’s most popular beachfront restaurants, including Hula Grill, Leilani’s, or Monkeypod Kitchen.

Lahaina Cannery

Lahaina Cannery Mall is Maui’s only enclosed, air-conditioned shopping center. In the mid-20^th century, it served as a pineapple cannery, reflecting Lahaina’s rich agricultural history. Today, it welcomes the Lāhainā community and visitors with anchor retailers Safeway for groceries and Long’s Drugs, the local version of CVS. It has a variety of small local shops and fast food eateries, weekly hula lessons, and events that celebrate the multi-cultures of West Maui.

Honokōwai Marketplace

Honokōwai Marketplaces is a small strip mall that packs a big punch for those staying in Kā‘anapali condos or Honokōwai vacation rentals. Shop for groceries or hot and cold deli items at the local Times Supermarket, or grab a local plate lunch at L&L Hawaiian BBQ. In the morning, kids will be excited to create their own pancakes at Slappy Cakes, while the adults can enjoy an evening with a glass of wine and listen to live music at Java Jazz.

Napili Plaza

Napili Plaza is a strip mall that is a convenient shopping hub for visitors staying in West Maui condos and vacation rentals in Honokōwai, Kahana, or Nāpili. Stop in at Nāpili Market for groceries and fresh, local produce for your kitchen, or dine in at great local eateries, including Fond, A’A Roots, Joey’s Kitchen, or Mama’s Rib & Rotisserie. Shop at local boutiques, rent beach gear, get your nails or hair done, and even get a tattoo at this great neighborhood shopping mall.

Resort and Condo Accommodations in West Maui

When you stay with Chase ‘N Rainbows, exploring these West Maui shopping destinations is enjoyable and convenient. From the lively atmosphere of Whalers Village to the historic charm of Lahaina Cannery and the local flair at Napili Plaza, West Maui offers diverse shopping experiences that capture the island’s spirit. As you settle into your Chase ‘N Rainbows retreat, the area’s shops, markets, and eateries make it easy to embrace the best of Maui, whether looking for a memorable keepsake or simply enjoying a leisurely day out.

Oct 15 2024

The Best Ways to Enjoy a Maui Sunset

Maui Sunset: The sun sets in the distance in West Maui.

The greatest thing about witnessing a Maui sunset is that it is a quintessential experience you can enjoy almost every night of your stay. Still, if you’re hoping to maximize your experience, you should find various ways to do it. Thankfully, there are plenty of options for enjoying a Maui sunset, and Chase ‘N Rainbows is here to help you choose!

Discovering Maui’s Magical Sunsets

For those who want to make each sunset memorable, Maui offers countless ways to elevate the experience, whether you prefer watching from the beach, taking to the water, or exploring higher elevations. With a range of unique vantage points and activities, each evening can reveal a new perspective on the island’s vibrant beauty, making your stay feel even more remarkable. Let’s dive into some of the most captivating ways to take in the evening colors of the Maui sky.

Cliff Diving and Sunsets at Black Rock

One option that allows you to cross two items off your Maui itinerary is checking out the sunset at Black Rock at Ka’anapali Beach. The legendary Black Rock’s height ranges from 12 to 30 feet, depending on the tide. You can jump from two primary spots, halfway and at the pinnacle. Regardless of where you jump, you’ll want to swim from the shoreline as the rock’s craggy surface can be unstable until you reach the launch point. Once you reach a viable position, find a stable rock and begin your ascent. If climbing and jumping aren’t appealing, you can still enjoy the sunset while watching others plunge into the water!

Sunset Dining in West Maui

The only aspect that can make dining on authentic Hawai’ian fare better is doing so amid a beautiful Maui sunset. And with several nearby restaurants in West Maui, you’ll have no problem doing so. Here are five spots to consider:

Sea House Restaurant is an award-winning eatery with stunning views and exquisite sea-to-table cuisine.
Leilani’s on the Beach boasts various accolades and is easily accessible from the boardwalk, making it a nice place to stop after an early evening stroll.
Merriman’s Kapalua brings a unique style to the West Maui culinary scene and is an excellent spot for a romantic dinner.
Duke’s Beach House is a popular establishment featuring several traditional Hawai’i and familiar mainland dishes.
Pride of Maui Sunset Dinner Cruises combine luau and sunset experiences while coasting along the water.

West Maui Oceanfront Hotels, Condos, and Resorts

When you stay with Chase ‘N Rainbows, you’ll have a choice between several oceanside hotels, condos, and resorts with gorgeous views and access to some of the island’s best sunsets. So, after you witness a Maui sunset from every spot on your list or simply become busy, the next best option is to enjoy the show from your accommodations or resort beach! To learn more, just visit us online and book your West Maui escape today!

Sep 15 2024

Celebrate The Maui Harvest Season at These Agribusinesses

Harvest Maui: Avocado, papaya and sugar cane cut open.

Cooking at your vacation rental is one of the perks of staying with Chase ‘N Rainbows. So, it’s worth mentioning that the Maui harvest season is an excellent reason to visit local farmers markets and other agribusinesses for fresh ingredients. Whether it’s healthy fruits and veggies or enticing libations and chocolates, there are many nearby options. Here, we’ll highlight some of the best offerings from our neighbors in West Maui.

Farms and Farmers Markets in West Maui

When it comes to getting groceries, nothing beats farm-to-table. Thankfully, there are several farms and farmers markets available throughout West Maui. Still, knowing where to go and what to expect can be challenging if you’re new to the area. Here are some places to check out when hunting for produce. You can also check out our blog about other available farmers markets and grocery stores.

Maui Dragon Fruit Farm

Maui Dragon Fruit Farm is a privately owned eco-friendly produce farm that offers tours and other activities. It offers a fun and educational experience with phenomenal tour guides and welcoming staff. Visitors can learn about various tropical fruits, including pineapples, bananas, soursop, and, of course, dragon fruit. The tour is informative and delicious, with the standout being their refreshing dragon fruit lemonade. It’s a great way to explore Maui’s agricultural side while enjoying a unique taste of the island.

Surfing Goat Dairy

Surfing Goat Dairy provides a delightful, family-friendly experience with fun tours showcasing behind-the-scenes operations and happy goats to pet. Known for its unbelievably tasty cheese, the dairy’s cheese and chocolate flights are a must-try. Visitors can also purchase frozen cheeses to take home. Overall, it’s an affordable and memorable activity for kids and adults. It’s a unique and yummy way to celebrate Maui’s harvest.

Maui Ku’ia Estate

Maui Ku’ia Estate offers an immersive and enriching tour where visitors can learn about the chocolate-making process from farm to finish. The experience highlights the estate’s unique methods and high attention to detail, with various flavors to sample. Attentive staff guide you through this one-of-a-kind journey, making it a must-visit for chocolate enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. It’s a deliciously educational adventure that showcases Maui’s finest chocolate.

Farmers Market Maui

Farmers Market Maui has a fantastic selection of healthy food options, including acai bowls, vegan and vegetarian groceries, and even a delicious lunch menu. The kind and helpful staff ensure a welcoming experience, while the store also features natural beauty and hygiene products. It’s a great spot for visitors looking for nutritious, eco-friendly items to fill their cupboards.

Nāpili Farmers Market

Napili Farmers Market is a vibrant local spot with high-quality, well-priced produce and handmade crafts. Known for some of the best banana bread around, many vendors also provide tasty food samples. The market creates a lively atmosphere with occasional live music, though arriving early for a good parking spot is best. It’s a must-visit for local flavors in West Maui.

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm offers an affordable and scenic escape with its beautiful property and lush gardens. Visitors can enjoy nice trails and stunning mountain vistas, perfect for a relaxing stroll. The well-stocked gift shop features a variety of lavender products and foods, making it easy to take a piece of the experience home.

Kula Country Farms

Kula Country Farms is a charming rural stop perfect for families. It offers fruits and vegetables, including seasonal gourds and pumpkins of all sizes. With a welcoming atmosphere and deals on produce, it’s an ideal stop on the way to or from Haleakala. The farm also provides excellent photo opportunities and is a fun experience for kids.

West Maui Condos and Resort Accommodations

Although going out for dinner on vacation is fun, having easy access to the best Maui-grown fare is a good reason to eat in while appreciating the harvest. What’s more, the various tours offer an intimate glimpse into the inner workings of West Maui’s unique agricultural assets. No matter your preference, Chase ‘N Rainbows invites you to discover these unforgettable places woven within the fabric of our community.