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Souvenir Shopping in South Maui

 January 19, 2020

Alaska Airlines’ Saver Ticket — Deal or No Deal?

 October 14, 2019

Maui Sacred Garden — My Perfect Paradise

 July 27, 2019
Whaler's Village Yogurtland Playstructure

Whaler’s Village — A Family Tradition

 March 19, 2019
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All posts by: Amy at Secrets of Maui

Amy Larsen is the owner of Secrets of Maui, home of Anthurium House — a one bedroom ocean view vacation rental in South Maui. She also runs a publishing consulting company based out of Sacramento and is a wife and mom to two young boys. Amy considers Maui her second home and has vacationed there more than 15 times (and counting now that she is a homeowner). For the past two decades, Amy has explored the world seeking adventure and relaxation. Her research, travel advice and detailed itineraries have been enjoyed by friends and social media fans for years, and now Secrets of Maui gives her a permanent place to share her tips and tricks. Amy's goal is to make your next vacation to Maui your best vacation!

My Favorite Restaurant on Maui

If you ask someone who has been to Maui what their favorite fine dining restaurant is, they will most likely answer Mama’s Fish House. I’d give you the same answer. We’ve been every year for the past 15 years and have never been disappointed. It’s a bit of a drive from most resort areas and...... Read More

Rent, Buy or Bring Your Own Snorkel Equipment?

If you are heading to Maui, it’s almost a requirement to snorkel. Snorkeling is probably one of my favorite things to do on the island. It is so relaxing to float on the surface of the water searching for fish, honu (sea turtles) and other marine life. If you are a more experienced swimmer and...... Read More

Haleakala Sunrise…or Romantic Sunset?

If you plan to watch the sunrise at Haleakala, be sure to plan ahead! About a year ago, Haleakala National Park implemented a reservation program in response to steadily increasing traffic and overcrowding at the summit. The 150 parking spots available during the sunrise reservation period (from 3 to 7 a.m.) generally sell out in...... Read More

Maui to Lana’i in a Day

SECRET: Did you know that a day trip from Maui to Lana’i is possible? A ferry makes the approximately hour long trip several times a day from Lahaina Harbor. (If you are prone to motion sickness, prepare yourself appropriately.) Expeditions will help you plan your day or overnight stay on Lana’i. Visit www.go-lanai.com for more...... Read More

Gazebo Restaurant Menu

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The Answer to Your Banana Macadamia Nut Pancake Craving

Last weekend, my son’s school hosted a pancake breakfast. Unfortunately, I’m in the middle of a 30 day healthy eating cleanse, so I had to pass on the pancakes. Since then I’ve been thinking about Maui banana macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup on top…a lot. So I decided that I would share my favorite...... Read More

How to Save Money When Booking Your Maui Hotel

A hotel property might be the best choice for you if the thought of sipping a cold (but expensive) drink at a swim up bar is your version of heaven. If you plan to stay in a Maui hotel, you can combat high prices by trying these money-saving tricks. (Not sure if you are better...... Read More

Tips for Finding the Best Rate on a Condo

If you started your Maui planning on our home page, you have already determined when you are traveling and where you want your condominium to be. (Subscribe to download my Maui accommodations guide with links to my favorite properties on the island if you don’t know.) Now what? Well, if you know which condo community...... Read More

How to Book Owner Direct and Not Get Scammed

By now you know that booking owner direct is the surest way to get the best deal. However, you are scared and don’t want to take the risk of getting scammed. I totally get it! I remember the time when we almost fell for a fake ad. It was for a last minute trip, and...... Read More

Follow the Yellow Brick Road — Arriving at OGG & Picking Up Your Rental Car

The Wizard of Oz song, “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” always goes through my head when I land at OGG. Step outside (enjoy the shock of humidity!), look down and follow the line of yellow bricks toward baggage claim.... Read More