Being an out-of-state college student can be difficult. It's even harder when you're over 3,000 miles away from home and live in a state where there are far more snow days than warm beach days. But, being far away from home makes me appreciate the Hawaiian islands even more and once I touch down into Kahului Airport on Maui, I can't wait to go to my top three favorite places. Below is a list of the places that I can't live without.
1. Da Kitchen
Craving fried spam musubi or local loco moco right when you get off the plane? Their menu offers a variety of local pupus, or appetizers, salads, burgers and sandwiches, combo plates, noodle dishes, seafood dishes and moco madness plates. This is one the restaurants where you can get the best local foods in Maui. Their big portions and friendly staff make you feel welcome, as soon as you step foot into the restaurant. You can also visit the other location in Kihei to satisfy your hunger and can enjoy a taste of Hawai'i 's favorite dishes.
2. Tasaka Guri Guri
This small, family owned business is located within minutes from the airport and has been operating for over 100 years. You're probably wondering what "Guri Guri" is and why it's called that — Guri Guri is a mixture of sherbet and ice cream that also includes guava juice, lime soda and condensed milk. Jokichi Tasaka first created this masterpiece in the early 1900s while he was living in Japan. He called this creation "goodie-goodie" as in something good to eat. However, the elderly Japanese people had a difficult time saying that, therefore changed it to "guri guri". The two flavors that they offer are pineapple and strawberry. The hype for this creamy dessert is so high and it will definitely take ice cream to a whole 'nother level.
3. Big Beach
When it's 82 degrees outside and you live in paradise, the main thing on your mind is the beach. Big Beach is one of Maui's most famous beaches, popular among both millennials as well as tourists. It has been voted as the #1 Beach in Maui. The clear crystal blue waters and the golden sand between your toes makes your day nearly perfect. Waves tend to be about one to three feet, however, it is still fairly easy to swim and relax in the water. It is also not as windy as other beaches, making it a great place for families to gather.
These places are my personal top three picks that I would recommend to anyone getting off a plane on the beautiful island of Maui. The experience of eating local foods as well as visiting this magnificent beach will leave you wanting to stay in Maui forever. Maui is truly paradise.
