chasinrainbow

Aug 15 2024

The Best Places to Go Snorkeling in West Maui

Maui Snorkeling: A mother and her young son explore a tropical reef off the West Maui coast.

If you’re planning your West Maui vacation and looking for things to do, you must consider snorkeling. The Maui snorkeling scene is world-class, and our side of the island is no exception. Still, you may want some help narrowing your options to only the best of the best. From floating above the reef to swimming with sea turtles, the ocean is beyond immersive—and Chase ‘N Rainbows is here to share some insider information on the top spots and where to buy gear so you know what to expect!

Where to Go Snorkeling in West Maui

West Maui offers a variety of top snorkeling spots that cater to different interests. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back beach vibe or full-day excursions, here are some of our favorites:

Olowalu is known for its massive protected coral gardens with tropical marine life and iconic green turtles.
Napili Bay provides outdoor showers, soft sand, and relatively calm waters, ideal for families.
Kaanapali Beach is home to the famous Black Rock, a prime location for beginners wanting to encounter marine life.
For another chance to swim with sea turtles, hop on a boat and head to Turtle Town near Makena.
For more adventure, consider a boat trip to Molokini Crater with Four Winds or Lanai Island with Trilogy Excursions. Both places are known for their clear waters and abundant marine life.

West Maui Snorkel Gear Rentals

Whether you plan to visit some of the places above or explore the waters near your condo, you may want to rent some snorkeling gear.

Snorkel Bob’s

Snorkel Bob’s is a go-to choice for snorkeling gear in West Maui, offering high-quality equipment and a wide selection to suit all needs. With seven convenient locations, renting gear is simple and hassle-free. The friendly staff ensures a smooth experience and online reservations make the process even easier. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, Snorkel Bob’s provides everything you need for a great day in the water.

Boss Frog’s

Boss Frog’s is another trusted resource for snorkeling gear rentals in West Maui. It is known for its knowledgeable staff and exceptional customer service. With nine locations in West and South Maui, they offer great gear prices and comprehensive instructions for use. Beyond equipment, the staff provides excellent advice on other activities, ensuring visitors get the most out of their Maui experience. Whether you need snorkeling gear or beach essentials, Boss Frog’s has you covered with convenience and expertise.

West Maui Vacation Condos on the Beach

West Maui is an outstanding snorkeling destination, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Our top spots will surely provide unforgettable underwater experiences for all skill levels. Staying with Chase ‘N Rainbows gives you easy access to these prime locations and convenient options for snorkeling gear rentals and nearby tour companies. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, West Maui’s stunning underwater landscapes await your exploration!
Remember to check out our specials page, which has plenty of Maui deals!

Jul 25 2024

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!

Jun 26 2024

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

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!

Apr 26 2024

May Day is Lei Day: Exploring the Different Types of Lei

Types of Lei: A young couple embrace while wearing newly adorned lei.

Few symbols are as iconic and beloved as the lei in the vibrant tapestry of Hawaiian culture. These intricately crafted garlands hold deep significance, symbolizing love and respect. Throughout the islands, various types of lei are created using traditional methods passed down through generations, each with its unique style and symbolism. In celebration of Lei Day, Chase ‘N Rainbows wants to showcase the different kinds of lei.

How May Day Became Lei Day

In the early 20th century, Lei Day in Hawaii began when poet Don Blanding proposed honoring the lei’s cultural significance. The first Lei Day was celebrated in 1927 in Honolulu, featuring lei-making contests, music, hula performances, and cultural demonstrations. Over the years, Lei Day grew in popularity and became an annual tradition, officially recognized by the state legislature in 1929. Held on May 1st to coincide with May Day, Lei Day serves as a celebration of Hawaiian traditions, the spirit of aloha, and the beauty of the lei. Today, we celebrate throughout Hawaii with various cultural events and festivities. Now, on to the different types of lei!

Kui

Among the most common types of lei, kui involves stringing flowers or materials onto a thread using a needle, resulting in a necklace-like adornment. This method showcases the beauty of flowers like plumerias, with each material individually pierced and strung onto the thread to create stunning floral arrangements.

Hili

The hili style features braiding a single type of material throughout the entire lei, resulting in a consistent and uniform appearance. Often made with ferns or vines, this method creates a sturdy and durable design, perfect for adorning special occasions or honoring loved ones.

Hipu’u

Knotting stems or materials together in a chain-like fashion characterizes the hipu’u style. Each stem is knotted to the next, creating a continuous string of materials that vary depending on the desired look. This method offers versatility in design and materials, making it a popular choice for lei-making enthusiasts.

Haku

The haku style mounts chosen materials onto the strands, creating a decorative and visually appealing design. Long leaves or tree bark are often braided together to form the base, with materials added into each braid wrap to create an eye-catching lei that celebrates nature’s beauty.

Wili

Twisting short lengths of material and securing them with a coil or wrap characterizes wili leis. Common materials include leaves, flowers, or fabric strips, which are twisted together for a twisted and layered appearance. This method offers a dynamic and contemporary twist on traditional lei-making techniques.

Hilo

The hilo style utilizes long, flexible materials like ti leaves. It involves twisting them together to form a rope, which is then used to create the lei. Two strands of ti leaves are twisted together to create various patterns and designs, making this style a timeless symbol of Hawaiian culture.

West Maui Condos and Vacation Rentals on the Beach

Exploring different types of lei is just one example of the various customs and traditions you’ll discover when you visit West Maui. As many of our guests will tell you, most locals are delighted to teach visitors the ways of the islands. Not only does this foster an appreciation for the culture, but it also helps create a sense of community among travelers and Hawaii’s inhabitants. To start planning your Maui getaway, visit our vacation rentals or condo resort pages and find your favorite spot on the beach with Chase ‘N Rainbows!

Apr 08 2024

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!