Our Return to Maui

Some vacations are memorable because of the destination. Others are memorable because of the experiences you have along the way. Our recent trip to Maui, Hawaii was both.

My wife and I were able to book an incredible getaway thanks to a great deal through Costco Travel. The package included accommodations and even a food voucher at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, which made the experience feel even more luxurious. This was our first time returning to Maui since our honeymoon trip 8 years prior.

Normally when we travel, we ask my parents to watch our pets while we’re away. This time, however, things worked out a little differently. By complete coincidence, my parents had already booked their own trip to Maui during the same week. It was such a fun surprise to spend time together in paradise and share meals, stories, and adventures during our stay.

One of the highlights of the trip was definitely the food. I’m convinced I ate poke nearly every single day, and honestly, I have no regrets. Fresh Hawaiian fish is hard to beat, and Maui delivers some of the best seafood I’ve ever had. Beyond the poke, we enjoyed some outstanding smash burgers and fish tacos throughout the island.

A few restaurants stood out as favorites. The Gazebo served an incredible traditional Hawaiian breakfast and quickly became a must-visit spot. We also loved Miso Phat Sushi, where the fish portions on the sushi rolls were absolutely enormous. Another standout was The Fish Market Maui, where we enjoyed some unforgettable fish tacos that perfectly captured the flavors of the island.

Of course, Maui isn’t just about eating. My wife and I made sure to balance all those amazing meals with some outdoor adventures. One of our favorite days was spent snorkeling at Honokeana Bay. The water was crystal clear, and we were lucky enough to swim alongside at least a dozen sea turtles. Watching these incredible creatures glide effortlessly through the water was an experience we’ll never forget.

Another unforgettable adventure was our hike to Honolua Bay. The trail wound through dense tropical vegetation, and the scenery was so lush and vibrant that it genuinely felt like we had stepped into the world of Avatar. Everywhere we looked there were towering trees, bright green foliage, and stunning views that made us stop and appreciate the beauty around us.

As incredible as the food, beaches, and adventures were, the most meaningful part of the trip happened during a sunset photoshoot on the beach. We used the occasion to announce that my wife is pregnant. Standing together on the sand, with the ocean behind us and the Maui sunset painting the sky, we celebrated the exciting news that we are expecting a baby girl.

That moment made an already amazing vacation truly unforgettable. Maui gave us wonderful memories, incredible food, and unforgettable adventures, but most importantly, it became the backdrop for one of the biggest milestones of our lives. I’m so excited to become a dad, and I can’t wait to meet our little girl. This trip will always hold a special place in our hearts—not just as a vacation, but as the beginning of our next great adventure.