This is Part 1 of a two week series on West Maui lodging, dining and activities. We invited Jon Blum, someone who has spent decades visiting Maui, to join us. Jon has been writing about Maui as a hobby for the last 30 years. He shares something in common with us: he’s passionate about Maui and wants everyone to have an epic experience. During this West Maui series, Jon will share his top recommendations. So grab a pencil, and get ready to plan your Maui vacation.

One year ago this week, everyone in Hawaii received a notification that ballistic missiles were headed to the state. "This is not a drill" were the last words. On Episode 16 we discussed the thoughts that went through our minds and the things we did before we knew the notice was a mistake.

There are many great places for dining in Upcountry Maui. Restaurants range from casual food trucks to the fine dining experience at Hali’imaile General Store. If you’re looking for a sit-down restaurant that’s casual with awesome food that won’t break the bank, this episode will cover four of our favorites. What could be better than beginning or ending your day exploring Upcountry Maui with gorgeous views and a dining experience that you’ll still be talking about for weeks?

How do you choose what to do with 5 full days on Maui? Today we have our two sons, Jonathan & Jared, and Jonathan’s new fiancé, Caitlyn, joining us to break down some of the top activities you can enjoy with a five day itinerary on Maui. We all would love to spend 10 days to several weeks on a Maui vacation. It’s not always feasible due to work and school schedules. If you have less than a week in paradise, we’re going to share a suggested five day itinerary on today’s show.

Hear about our private whale watching experience with the knowledgable guides of Redline Rafting. Also: a surprise engagement party at Ultimate Air Maui trampoline park, Maui Brewing Company, Gus Hawaiian Shave Ice, Maui Fresh Streatery, and North Shore Pizza.

Mele Kalikimaka from Maui! On this special episode, our sons Jonathan and Jared Caubble, and Jonathan’s new fiancé, Caitlyn, join us to talk story about a special day. On December 20, Jonathan proposed to Caitlyn after five and a half years of dating. The proposal took place on the summit of Haleakala volcano, with a beautiful, clear view of the crater as the backdrop. The day started renting a Cessna 172 and flying around Maui County, including landing at Kalaupapa, once a colony for patients of leprosy

There are several challenging hikes on Maui that you really need to try out if you love the outdoors. One great thing about Maui is there are so many different hikes on the island. There are varying levels of difficulty, and the scenery changes with each one. Trails go to waterfalls, around coastlines, in a volcanic crater, over lava fields, and through upland forests. If you want more of a challenge with the reward of incredible scenery, we have four challenging hikes to tell you about today.