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Ideal if you're driving around because the book gives excellent directions on where to stop. This book is so good that we followed it with blind faith to plan our trip. The book is very well-written, accurate and gives sufficient background to prepare for the trip.
They even have a web site for more information and reviews. I don't think they left anything out of this book. I like the detailed descriptions.
There is a section on where to stay. The pictures are fantastic. I love this book, it has really helped us to plan our trip.
I really like the aerial pictures of the beaches and the condos and resort areas. I highly recommend this book. We would have stayed in a nasty beach area without this guide.
I'm using it to plan our Hana Hwy stops.
The entire reserve area has been closed to all uses for two years, starting in August 2008. In addition, the rangers and others told us that Molokini will likely be closed as well. As others have said, this is a pretty complete and generally accurate guide. Hefty fine and possible court date for violators. No one mentioned Honolua Bay, but.We did many of the "trails" and "adventures" described.and none of the trails were at all hard to find, as a clear path has been pretty much beaten in.Overall, it's a helpful book. One problem: it may be *too* good/popular, as several of the "secret" spots and adventures listed are now closed, as they have become too popular. These would include "the Aquarium" and "the Fishbowl" snorkeling spots near LaPerouse Bay.
Best of all, the book is small and easily carried wherever you decide to go.Perhaps the only negative aspect of the book is that the authors do tend to get lost in their narrative at times--mixing collateral trivia with the guide information. They also provide an aerial photograph of the property that really lets you know what you're getting--which is worth the price of the book itself. The chapters are well organized and information is easily found thanks to a detailed table of contents, color-coded chapters (tabs would have been better, but probably more expensive) and index. Occasionally directions are a bit vague, but it's still better than any map you will find anywhere else.
The most redeeming quality of this book is its brutal honesty in the information it provides and recommendations it makes. It's a nice story, but at times I could have done without the extra stuff.This book is truly and outstanding guidebook for all types of tourists, but is especially valuable for those kind of people that hate guided tours and prepackaged vacation experiences. Related info is cross-referenced throughout the book, which is also helpful. When something sucks, the book says it sucks and to avoid it.
The real value comes from the stuff that you won't find in other guidebooks like backwoods hiking trails, little known spots off the main path and insights that come from the fact that the authors actually live in Hawaii. It adds a sense of adventure to your trip and a satisfying feeling when you realize that your time and money were spent on your own terms. That's the kind of information I want when I know my time and money are at stake on a vacation.Web reviews of hotels and condos are free on their website and they are short, candid and informative (if a place is bad, they say it's bad). Road maps are outstanding and directions are good for the most part.
I always have this guide book with me when I travel and use as a reference. Having traveled to Maui several times--this guide book is right on--from accomadation to dining. Very useful for driving around Maui. This is a great Maui guide. I had previously used the 1st Edition and will be needing the 4th Edition updates for my upcoming trip.
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