Two dimensions are so last year… Whether you’re watching those big blue cat people jump around on Pandora, oogling a Playboy centerfold or even reading a damn children’s book, chances are you’re doing it in 3D. So why shouldn’t Best of Maui—our biggest, boldest, most popular issue of the year—get in on the extra dimensional action?
Of course, saying you’re going to put together an 80-page 3D newspaper is one thing; doing it is something else. (Something we’re pretty sure has never been attempted.) And we won’t pretend it was easy. This issue always kicks our collective butt, but this year the butt-kicking was taken to a new stratosphere. Honestly, we’re not even sure we still have butts.
And yet, you’re worth it. All of you—the readers, the winners. We love you guys. Oh, we know in the following pages you’ll find inclusions and omissions to quibble with; you always do. And we welcome your feedback, good, bad and indifferent. Of course, our not-so-secret hope is that you’ll be so blown away by all the eye-melting 3D you’ll forget about everything else.
Our new motto—once you go 3D, it’s the only way you’ll want to see. Enjoy.
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Contributors:
Words By:
Nancy Kanyuk (@nancykanyuk on Twitter)
Anthony Pignataro (@apignataro)
Jen Russo (@jenrusso)
Jacob Shafer (@jacobshafer)
Ynez Tongson (@angryshortgirl)
Anu Yagi (@anuheayagi)
Photos By:
Sean Michael Hower (howerphotography.com)
Anna Breedlove & Chris Skiles
Illustration By:
Brad Parker (tikishark.com)
Design By:
Chris Skiles (lucky11studios.com)
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GOODS & SERVICES
BEST LOCAL CLOTHING DESIGNER
Maui Thing
MauiTime readers are stuck on the goodness that is Maui Thing. And thank goodness for them, too! It’s been a long time coming for Mauians to have our island’s moniker printed on threads in an entirely unpretentious, not-cheesy way. From either their Market St. shop or online, you can outfit the whole ‘ohana in clothes that look as good as they feel. But more than being the hippest of no ka oi clothiers, they embrace localism to the fullest and do tons of creative work in the community, especially with keiki. “It’s a movement,” they say. “It’s about growth and change. We believe that good ideas and good design have the power to inspire, to stimulate, to make good things happen.” A thing of beauty. 7 N. Market St., Wailuku, 891-8595, mauithing.com @anuheayagi
Runner-Up: Tamara Catz Inc., Paia
BEST LOCAL BOUTIQUE
Mahina Boutique
I started shopping at Mahina because I fell in love with their reusable shopping bags. I always felt a twinge of jealousy when I saw people carrying around the adorable totes and I finally had to check the place out myself. Let me say, as amazing as the bags are, they are the least impressive thing about Mahina. The clothes are chic, fashionable and totally adapted to island life. Even their accessories have a flamboyant vintage look, from psychedelic purses to rose rings to beaded bracelets. If you like your dresses colorful, light and airy, Mahina is where it’s at. (And those cool reusable bags? They’ll give you a discount if you bring them in.) 335 Keawe St. #208, Lahaina, 661-0383; 1913-B South Kihei Rd., Kihei, 879-3453, mahinamaui.com @angryshortgirl
Runner-Up: Alice In Hulaland, Paia
BEST LASER HAIR REMOVAL
Dr. Bennett’s Med Spa
In our culture men don’t revere hairy women; in fact, women don’t revere hairy women. What does that mean? No matter how much of a pain in the butt (maybe literally) hair removal is, people will keep doing it. Fortunately, Dr. Bennett’s makes it easy and the results of their laser hair removal are long lasting. If it’s smooth skin you want, go see the Dr.
62 Baldwin Ave., Paia, 579-8979 @jenrusso
Runner-Up: Lei Spa, Lahaina
BEST PLACE TO GET WAXED
Grace Beauty Day Spa
When I’ve had a rough week, nothing calms me down more than having hot wax slathered on me, then having my body hair ripped out. Seriously though, the staff at Grace Beauty Day Spa is friendly and personable, and most importantly highly skilled and quick (vital in trickier waxing processes that include your girlie bits). Wax on, wax off. 62 B Baldwin Ave., Paia, 579-9779, gracebeautymaui.com @angryshortgirl
Runner-Up: Maui Hair and Body, Kahului
BEST HARDWARE STORE
Marmac Ace Hardware
A couple months ago, while attempting to fix the faucet on my bathtub, I misplaced a small but essential part. After a long and fruitless search, I visited the folks at Marmac Ace. They didn’t have the part. I went all over Central Maui looking for someplace that did, to no avail. And so I found myself back at Marmac. They still didn’t have the part, but they took time out to talk about other ways to get the job done. In the end, after probably a half-hour of patient discussion, I wound up buying a 50 cent piece of plastic that, if cut and “MacGyvered” properly, looked like it’d serve the purpose. Then, of course, I went home and found the missing part. What’s the moral of this rambling tale of botched home improvement? Only that Ace Marmac is the kind of hardware store where getting your money isn’t the primary objective, it’s offering you personal, knowledgeable service so that you’ll become a lifelong, loyal customer. I know I am. 334 Alamaha St., Kahului, 877-3931 @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: Lahaina Ace Hardware, Lahaina
BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE
The Rainbow Attic
This is the way fashionistas recycle. Bedeck both body and hale with a unique stock of men’s and women’s clothing, accessories and household decor. Rainbow Attic’s selective compilation of our collective excess makes for a fine spectrum of secondhand pickins. Plus, there really is a pot of gold at the end of this rainbow, when you consign your items for a 50/50 split and are paid when your items sell. If it’s a been awhile since you’ve treated yourself, just follow the… 1881 S. Kihei Rd. # B5, Kihei, 874-0884 @anuheayagi
Runner-Up: Elise Clothing Co., Kahului
EDIT PICK: BEST PLACE TO BUY GIRLIE GIFTS FOR THE PRODUCT JUNKIE
Lilikoi Beauty
There are lots of occasions when you need the right gift, something that isn’t too personal but will definitely be appreciated. For girlie gifts, my go-to place is Lilikoi Beauty. You don’t need to know anyone’s size or style to get them a gift here. They have the most amazing candles, lots of body products from Ali’i Lavendar Farm and natural skin-care and beauty products. The service is great and the shop is on the North Shore, a perfect excuse to go boutique shopping in Paia. 18 Baldwin Ave., Paia, 579-6055 @jenrusso
BEST SALON
Plush Beauty Lounge
When I was a little girl people used to cover me in cream and put a cherry on my head. It was tough growing up in the gateau. (Ba dum…cha!) Despite this, I grew from my experiences and became of pillar of society. Admittedly that pillar is a little dented and the mortar is a little crumbly, but it’s a pillar nonetheless.Even pillars sometimes want to feel like princesses and Plush Beauty Lounge is the place for that. If you’re looking to get yo’ hair did and makeup done with professionalism and high-quality products in a serene and low stress environment, check out Plush Beauty Lounge. Non-pillars also accepted. 845 Wainee St. #208, Lahaina, 667-5874 @angryshortgirl
Runner-Up: Soleil Luna, Lahaina
BEST LOCAL SURF SHOP
Hi Tech Surf Sports
Since the first location (in Paia) opened nearly three decades ago, Hi Tech has done one essential thing: offer Maui’s passionate watermen and water-wahine the tools they need to tackle Maui’s epic breaks. Sounds simple, but the only way you last—in any business, but this one in particular—is if you bring a love and commitment to match your customers.’ Whether novice or pro, renter or owner, grom or gizzled vet, Hi Tech has the staff, knowledge and selection to get you in, out and, most importantly, on the waves. 425 Koloa St., Kahului, 877-2111; 58 Bladwin Ave., Paia, 579-9297, surfmaui.com @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: Local Motion, Kihei & Kahului
BEST ‘UKULELE SHOP
Bounty Music
It’s like an instrument orgy at Bounty Music spawned litters of little ‘ukuleles, hung in tidy rows from rafters and on walls. For four-stringers, its a sight to behold; and for staff, it’s their forte. Established in 1979, this shop has been a real musician’s friend and the ultimate local resource for all things uniquely ‘uke. They carry more makes and models than you ever knew existed, from prestigious local makers like Kanile’a, KoAloha, and king of ‘ukes, Kamaka. So whether beginner or pro, this Hana Highway hub is the place to go. 111 Hana Hwy. #105, Kahului, 871-1141, ukes,com @anuheayagi
Runner-Up: Mele Ukulele, Wailuku
BEST STAND-UP PADDLE BOARD SHOP
Hawaiian Island Surf & Sport
Stand-up paddling (SUP, to you) has officially made the transition from fad to established sport; stand-up paddlers now outnumber surfers and kayakers at many spots. (Actually SUP traces its origins back to ancient Polynesia, so you could argue it was always more than a trend.) With that comes increased demand—not just for gear, but for advice and know-how. Hawaiian Island Surf & Sport has Maui’s burgeoning SUP community covered on both fronts, offering the latest brands and a friendly, experienced crew that doesn’t just sell this stuff but lives it, too. All in all, they’re just stand-up guys (sorry, couldn’t resist). 415 Dairy Rd., Kahului, 871-4981, hawaiianisland.com @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: Hi Tech Surf Sports, Kahului
BEST BOOKSTORE
Borders Books & Music
It used to be that people mourned the loss of small neighborhood bookstores at the hands of big chains like Borders. Now, all bookstores are in trouble, with online services and new technologies making buying and downloading books easier than ever. And yet some bookstores—big and small—survive, because they provide a service that a community wants. Clearly Borders—a perennial winner in this category—is one such store (or, more precisely, three stores). There’s just something about being able to run your hands over a book—taking in the subtle textures of its cover, the quality of its paper, the smell of its spine—that can’t be replicated. Meanwhile, Borders’ shelves are well-stocked with titles both new and old; I’ve frequently gone in to look for something specific and come out hours later having flipped through everything from children’s books to cook books to mystery novels, and possibly having purchased one of each. Whatever the next chapter may be for the book industry, for Maui, Borders is undeniably an important part of the story. 275 Kaahumanu Ave., Space 101, Kahului, 871-6112; 270 Dairy Rd., Suite 190, Kahului, 877-6160; 291 Piikea Ave., Kihei, 875-6607, borders.com @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: Barnes & Noble, Lahaina
BEST SCUBA / SNORKEL SHOP
Boss Frog’s Dive & Surf
Any place with the tag line “Frogs Just Have More Fun” earns automatic points with us. Add a cute cartoon frog chilling in a hammock and you’ve already won us over (yeah, we’re easy like that). But you didn’t vote Boss Frog’s the best place to get dive and snorkel gear because of a slogan and an anthropomorphic mascot; you chose them for their selection, convenient locations (on all four major islands if you’re on a mini-vacay) and vast knowledge of the best places to bob around and oogle fish. Nothing ruins a Scuba or snorkel trip faster than faulty equipment; go with the place with the established rep. And say hi to that cartoon frog for us. 150 Lahainaluna Rd., Lahaina, 661-3333; 2395 South Kihei Rd., Kihei, 875-4477, bossfrog.com @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: Maui Dive Shop, Wailea & Kihei
EDIT PICK: Best Vortex of Nostalgia
Daddy O’s Barber Shop
It’s a kane-only barbershop, whose checkerboard floor alone makes me want to exhaust a roll of duct tape to disguise the girls. Hello? Pistachio-colored porcelain barber’s chairs from 1924. A Seeburg Jukebox. A mounted buffalo’s head. Complimentary Coca-Cola. How can it get better than that? It does for the boys, with a “hot lather neck shave and shoulder massage” included with every cut, and option for an old-fashioned, hot towel straight-razor shave. Befitting of a place bedecked with pinups and rock ‘n roll paraphernalia, shop owners “love cars and car people,” and regularly play host to events for the whole ‘ohana. There, you’ll see such fuel-injected treats as the Delorean from Back to the Future, the General Lee from The Dukes of Hazzard and Herbie…yes, the Love Bug himself. They had me at “pistachio.” 360 Papa Place, Kahului, 893-2322 @anuheayagi
BEST HEAD SHOP
Hawaiian Holy Smokes
For tobacco products only, of course (cough). It’s a no stems, no seediness sort of shop, where they aim for a vibe that’s “art gallery meets jewelry store,” with bright lights, clean lines and OCD-organized display cases, say managers Michael “Pittsburgh” Guenther and Lynn Moody. Check out the 64-percolator water pipe, made for a mad scientist’s lair, or slides cut like oversized diamonds, or hookahs with futuristic freezable gel and floating fish that swim with every hit, or clever stash cans and other modes of masquerade, or… The list goes on—and will go on—with new merchandise arriving more than weekly, and expansion to a Kahului location in the works. 320 Ohukai Rd. # 404, Kihei, 879-2826 @anuheayagi
Runner-Up: West Side Vibes, Lahaina
BEST RECYCLING / REDEMPTION CENTER
Kihei Recycling Center
This may not be the sexiest category—ask someone what they want to do on a sunny Saturday and “go to the recycling center” probably won’t be their first choice—but it’s an important one. If you recycle (and shame on you if you don’t) having a reliable, convenient spot to drop off those cans and bottles is essential. Kihei Recycling meets both of those criteria and is also, as we noted last year when they won, well- kept up, meaning a minimum of flies, sticky puddles, weird smells and other things that prevent people from following through on the last of the three “R”s. And really, how many businesses hand you money on your way out? Maybe recycling is a little sexy after all. Welakahao Rd., Kihei @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: Aloha Recycling, Kahului
BEST AUTO MECHANIC
Bruno Goldberg/ Makawao
The person you trust with your car is only a small step down from the person you trust with your kid. (And honestly, when was the last time your kid transported you somewhere while playing you music and blowing cool air on you?) So choosing a mechanic isn’t something that should be taken lightly. The buzz on Goldberg is that he’s one of those rock-solid neighborhood mechanics who gives every job—big or small—the care it deserves, and eschews the stereotype of the grease-covered con man by offering his customers fair estimates and reliable work. You may not have given birth to your car (ouch) but chances are it’s an important part of your family. Treat it accordingly. 253 Nehe Pl., Makawao, 572-5689 @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: Throckmorton Towing & Auto Repair, Lahaina
BEST NEW BUSINESS
Whole Foods Market
Yes, they’re a Mainland chain. But, since opening in February to much hype, discussion and fanfare, Whole Foods has made admirable efforts to become a part of the community—most notably stocking their shelves with an array of Maui products, everything from Maui Cattle Company beef to locally grown fruits and veggies to (Best of Maui-winning) Maui Brew Co. beer. And everything is clearly labeled so you know how far your food traveled and who you’re supporting by buying it. Add a range of hard-to-find specialty products, an expansive salad and hot bar and a friendly, easer-to-help crew of “team member” and its easy to see why Mauians named Whole Foods the most popular new kid on the block. 70 Kaahumanu Ave., Kahului, 844-4444, wholefoodsmarket.com @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: HIM, Lahaina
BEST ADULT GIFT SHOP
Love Shack Maui
Unlike many adult stores, the staff at The Love Shack is friendly, knowledgeable and provides shoppers with a sex-positive and welcoming atmosphere. Gone are the days when you had to wait until dark and wear your collar up high (unless you’re into that, in which case by all means). Not only can The Love Shack help enhance your experience,they can also educate you on safer sex practices while keeping everything fun and kinky. Maybe you’re not ready to take things out of the bedroom just yet? The Love Shack will bring the fun to you with a privately hosted party. Finally, I should say I had all sorts of awesome ideas for 3D photos to accompany this write-up, but MauiTime is too classy. 1913 South Kihei Rd., Kihei, 875-0303, loveshackmaui.com @angryshortgirl
Runner-Up: Hot Spot Video, Kihei
BEST “GREEN” BUSINESS
Rising Sun Solar
Vermont has maple syrup. Alaska has grizzly bears. Hawaii has the sun. We’re lucky in that sense, because while neither maple syrup nor grizzly bears can provide clean energy (that we know of) the sun certainly can. And, as oil gushed into the Gulf, the need for that clean energy became even more acute. Specializing in both residential and commercial PV installations, Rising Sun has gained an islandwide reputation for being on the cutting edge of this long-overdue trend (they’ve been in business since 1986, back when green was mostly just a color). We live in a place where solar literally makes sense for everyone, from both a practical and ecological standpoint. Here comes the sun, indeed. 810 Kokomo Rd., Suite 160, Haiku, 579-8287, risingsunsolar.com @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: Pacific Biodiesel, Kahului
BEST PET SUPPLY STORE
The Pet Shop
Since we don’t have a zoo on Maui, my young daughter and I like to drop by The Pet Shop just to look at the animals. The birds, the fish, bunnies, puppies, kittens and reptiles are all fun in their own way. But when it’s time to take one home, choose responsibly. The most recent addition to our family? Six tetra fish that the helpful Pet Shop staff helped us choose; I’m happy to report they’re thriving. The fish section is really huge, and they have all the bells, whistles and accoutrements you’ll need. 70 E. Kaahumanu Ave., Kahului, 877-3040, petshopmaui.com @jenrusso
Runner-Up: West Maui Pet Supply, Lahaina
BEST BRIDAL SHOP
Tamara Catz Inc.
Nothing makes me feel worse about my life as a single girl than writing about bridal shops. I might work, travel and play video games, but once my friends start talking about how excited they are to get married I feel like a failure. Especially when they take me shopping at Tamara Catz Inc, to look at the exquisite bridal collections, which are filled with long flowing skirts, Grecian influence, silk and chiffon. Even if you’re not getting married, Tamara Catz offers fashion straight out of a fairytale. The store is a girl’s dream come true. As long as that girl isn’t angry, single and jaded, of course. Oh well, the gays can’t get married, either. And hell, most of them are exponentially better looking and more talented than me. 83 Hana Hwy., Paia, 579-9184, tamaracatz.com @angryshortgirl
Runner-Up: Elly’s Formal Wear & Bridal, Kihei
BEST FURNITURE STORE
BJ Furniture Mart
BJ’s convenient location, on the corner of Hana Highway and Hanakai Street, makes popping in almost irresistible. Even more irresistible are the showrooms, each more breathtaking than the next. Space-saving, oversized, dark or light, they have it all. Whether you’re decorating a spacious home or one-bedroom condo, this is your stop. 374 Hanakai St., Kahului, 877-5503 @jenrusso
Runner-Up: Standard Furniture & Appliance, Wailuku
BEST TATTOO PARLOR
Paia Tattoo Parlor
Maui is filled with tattoo enthusiasts. As a result, tattoo shops are popping up everywhere, becoming more commonplace than Starbucks. While some shops may seem tantalizing at first, with their cheap prices and colorful flash art, remember if you don’t go for a quality artist in the first place, you’re only going to end up paying more to have the art covered up or removed. That said, the folks at Paia Tattoo Parlor are some of the more experienced artists on the island and specialize in traditional, Japanese, Polynesian, black and grey as well as photorealistic art. Not only that, but Paia Tattoo Parlor supports other local artists by hosting a revolving gallery of art installations. And remember, no matter where you go for your body modification needs: tip your artist! 120 Hana Hwy., Paia, 579-8515 @angryshortgirl
Runner-Up: Skin Deep Tattoo, Lahaina
EDIT PICK: Best Place To Bail Yourself Outta the Doghouse
Kama’aina Loan
Sometimes the best way to say you’re sorry is with jewelry. If you’re not sure where to go to get the good stuff, head to Kamaaina loan for the best bling for your buck. The ladies there can assist you in finding just the thing to get you out of hot water, and they have a great selection to choose from (especially these days). Diamonds, gold, silver, gems, sets, watches and more. Then try to stay out of trouble okay? 52 North Market St., Wailuku, 242-5555 @jenrusso
EDIT PICK: Best Place to Wish You Owned a Really Giant Farm
The Maui Humane Society, Puunene
With mews and longing eyes, the animals at the Maui Humane Society will claw at your heart. Unless you’re walking out with a Certified Pre-Owned Cat or Dog (or rodent or fowl or whatever), you’re going to have your heart broken a little bit. The organization faces $160,000 in estimated budget cuts this year—tacked atop a $190,000 cut from last year—but remains dedicated to its mission statement, which “envisions a time when our community celebrates the human-animal bond and treats all fellow beings with care, compassion and respect.” Stave the ache by adopting an animal for yourself and/or donating to the Society, and squash the cycle by preaching the Bob Barker, spay-and-neuter word. Mokulele Hwy. and Meha Meha Loop, Puunene, 877-3680, mauihumane.org @anuheayagi
BEST HOTEL / ACCOMODATIONS
Westin Maui
MauiTime readers voted and they love the Westin. With two gorgeous Kaanapali locations, The Westin Maui and the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas, there’s a lot to love. (Both offer kamaaina pricing.) The Westin Maui boasts a fantasy pool with slides and an area kids love, and they have parrots and flamingos to further mesmerize the keiki. At the Westin Ka’anapali Resort Villas, rooms have condo-style amenities like kitchens and living rooms, great for family stays. The best amenity (for me anyway) is at Westin Maui, where your dog can accompany you. Now that’s accommodating. 2365 Ka’anapali Parkway, Lahaina, 667-2525; 6 Kai Ala Drive, Lahaina, 667-3200, westinmaui.com @jenrusso
Runner-Up: Four Seasons Resort, Wailea
BEST OUT-OF-BUSINESS BUSINESS
Jacques
Aww… You miss Jacques (and so do we), but c’est la vie, right? All good things come to an end—sometimes when you least expect it. Just last year, Chef Jacques Pauvert was voted Best Chef for his mastery of menu fare as eclectic as the North Shore demographic. And of those Pa’ia peeps, it was a magnet for the hottest beach bodies and hippest hippies. It’s losses like these that remind us that no matter how good you are, the restaurant game is a tough biz. That said, I have a feeling this isn’t the last we’ll hear from the minds behind Jacuqes, though its previous incarnation will have to be resigned to our scrapbooks and fond recollections. Adieu… @anuheayagi
Runner-Up: Santa Fe Cantina
BEST PRESCHOOL / DAYCARE
Kamaaina Kids
The importance of preschool has thankfully gained broad acceptance; it may not be legally mandated, but it gives kids the essential building blocks needed for success in kindergarten and beyond. On Maui, options run the gamut, from backyard day cares to big, accredited institutions (see the runner up). Kamaaina Kids falls somewhere in the middle—flexible and affordable but also structured and staffed with trained, caring teachers who provide a safe, stimulating learning environment. Heck, I sent my son there are he’s the greatest, smartest, best kid in the history of the universe, so that should tell you something right there. 192 West Kamehameha Ave., Kahului, 871-8197; 553 Wainee St., Lahaina, 667-0422, kamaainakids.com @jacobshafer
Runner-Up: The Montessori School of Maui, Makawao
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