Our number one priority when visiting Maui is our proximity to the ocean. We not only want to have a view of the ocean, amazing sunsets and the humpback whales we want to hear the surf. You can check off all three with this unit. In fact, the surf was almost too loud at times! Not that we're complaining. The profile photo tells the story.
Proximity to both Kapalua (hikes, snorkeling) and Kaanapai (snorkeling, dining, shopping, golf) is great. We also took advantage of the local neighborhood offerings. We picked up fresh fish from the Fish Market almost every night. They have marinades and seasonings for their ono, mahi mahi, monchong, ahi, crab cakes - you name it. You should also check out Bad Ass Coffee, the Farmer's Market and Snorkel Bob's.
We did venture from our home base at Paki Maui to catch the sunrise at Haleakala (leave by 3pm and pre-register your parking pass way in advance) and then have breakfast in Kula. We went to the Blowhole and Heart cutout at Nakalele and hiked along the volcanic coast south of Makena Beach. All doable day trips.
For the golfer, the resorts are great but I highly recommend The Dunes at Maui Lani, Maui Nui Gof Club and Pukalani Country Club.
Bottom line: We'll be back!