Goods & Services
Best Local Clothing Designer
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Maui Thing
Our readers love Maui Thing for their original designs made for people of all ages. Their clothing encompasses the aloha spirit in their unique brand that was built upon the saying, “Stuck on Good.” And how could you be stuck on anything else when you’re on such a glorious island? Maui Thing strives to show off the soul of island life through their “clothing with a conscience.” Many of their clothes use Hawaiian floral print or even Hawaii’s state motto to show off the many wonderful aspects of our Maui lifestyle as well as the pride that we take in our Hawaiian culture. 7 N. Market St., Wailuku; 808-249-0215; Mauithing.com. @ashprobsticle
Maui Thing 17%
Maggie Columbe 7%
Tamara Katz 6%
Other 70%
Best Local Boutique
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Over the past six years, Mahina has not faltered as our readers favorite local boutique, and for good reason! Ever since I could say “credit card,” I’ve shopped at Mahina for the hottest fashions with an island flare that makes all of my mainland friends envious. From comfy tanks to dazzling dresses and all the accessories you could ask for, there is something for everyone and every occasion at this vivacious one-stop shop. Their awesome prices don’t hurt either as they make both your wallet and your closet happy. Located island-wide; 213-745-4091; Shopmahina.com. @ashprobsticle
Mahina 23%
Biasa Rose 10%
Simply Soul 7%
Other 60%
Best Salon
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Whether you need a simple trim or an elegant up-do, our readers say that Salon 253 is the place to go to take care of your luscious locks. No matter which stylist you go to, you’re sure to have an exceptional experience with their talented and sociable staff. The salon itself is as classy as they come with a beautiful interior complete with chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. Sit back and relax as Salon 253 turns you into a new woman (or man)! 253 S. Market St., Wailuku; 808-270-2759; Mauisalon.com. @ashprobsticle
Salon 253 31%
Paragon 22%
Vanity Salon 4%
Other 43%
Best Hardware Store
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Redoing a condo? Trying to improve your garden? Ace Hardware has everything you might need for tasks of all sizes. It’s easy to enhance any room in your home with their huge selection of products, from nails to ceiling fans. Whenever our readers have a do-it-yourself project, you’ll be sure to find them among the aisles of the Ace Hardware closest to them. Located island-wide; 866-290-5334; Acehardware.com. @ashprobsticle
Ace Hardware 78%
Home Depot 9%
Lowes 3%
Other 10%
Best Swimwear Shop
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
In a land where women appreciate bikinis as much as we do, it’s important to know where the best bathing suits are available and our readers have once again chosen Maui Girl as Maui’s best swimwear shop. Whether you’re a surfer or just like to lay by the pool, Maui Girl has tons of options for everyone. Being featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition since 2006 has definitely given this local shop a boost, nationally, which makes us even more grateful that we have them right here in Paia for us to get our favorite styles. 12 Baldwin Ave., Paia; 808-579-9266; Maui-girl.com. @ashprobsticle
Maui Girl 22%
Pakaloha 21%
San Lorenzo 5%
Other 52%
Best Scuba/Snorkel Shop
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
This locally-owned business has yet again won the hearts of our readers as Maui’s best scuba/snorkel shop. Whether you’re an experienced diver or it’s your first time putting on a snorkel mask, Maui Dive Shop will guide you through the motion of the ocean. With knowledgeable staff and quality equipment that is available for rent or purchase, Maui Dive Shop will ensure that you have everything you need to enjoy all of the wonders of the sea. Located island-wide; 800-542-3483; Mauidiveshop.com. @ashprobsticle
Maui Dive Shop 29%
Snorkel Bob’s 17%
The Snorkel Store 6%
Other 48%
Best Auto Mechanic
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Bob’s Car Care
When our readers’ cars break down, it seems that they head to Bob’s Car Care to have their vehicles fixed properly. The service is fast and cheap, which is exactly what you need when fixing your car. No matter what needs to be done to your car, rest assured that the hospitable staff at Bob’s Car Care will take great care of you and your vehicle. 142 Kupuohi St., Lahaina; 808-661-3553. @ashprobsticle
Bob’s Car Care 14%
Lahaina Foreign Auto 9%
Mike’s Automotive 6%
Other 71%
Best Preschool/Daycare
The Children’s Garden
For the second year in a row, our readers have chosen The Children’s Garden as Maui’s best preschool/daycare. The dedicated staff will watch over and educate children between the ages two and six with a curriculum that emphasizes the importance of art, dance, technology and the Hawaiian culture. The children in this program have so much fun that they don’t even realize how much they’re learning! 2140 Kanakanui Rd., Kihei; 808-879-8786. @ashprobsticle
Children’s Garden 13%
Montessori 9%
Kapalua Preschool 6%
Other 72%
Best Bridal Shop
Photo courtesy of Elly’s Formal Wear
This family-owned and operated bridal shop will welcome you with open arms as you browse through their spacious shop where you’re sure to find the perfect dress for your special day. Not only does Elly’s have the best variety of dresses available for rent or purchase, they also offer special (and often necessary) services such as alterations, pressing, bridal assistance, on-site fitting, pick up and delivery. You deserve the very best on your wedding day and our readers say that Elly’s is the place to go. Let the friendly and helpful staff turn you into the blushing bride that you’ve always envisioned yourself to be. 145 N. Kihei Rd.; 808-879-7010; Ellysformalwear.com. @ashprobsticle
Elly’s 57%
Queen’s Bridal Shop 7%
Platinum Weddings 6%
Other 30%
Best Local Jewelry Store
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Sophie Grace Maui
This family-run business created island inspired jewelry in a variety of designs from sophisticated and simple to daring and detailed. Featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition 2013 and 2014, Sophie Grace Maui is making a fashion statement that makes our readers proud. Every design is hand-made using semi-precious stones, recycled coral, freshwater pearls and a variety of metals that make for exceedingly beautiful and elegant pieces. My ears aren’t pierced but the gorgeous earrings at Sophie Grace Maui make me want to face that dreaded piercing gun just so I can wear a pair. 36 Baldwin Ave., Paia; 808-579-8560; Sophiegracemaui.com. @ashprobsticle
Sophie Grace 7%
Studio 22k 5%
Hale Zen 4%
Other 84%
Best Shopping Center
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center
There’s always something to do at Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center, you can easily spend an entire day having the time of your life at our readers’ favorite shopping center. With more than 100 shops and restaurants, which include Maui’s only department stores and the best food court on the island, it’s the perfect place for a shopping spree. There is often live entertainment on the main stage, as well as a movie theater and Steppingstone Playhouse where local theater groups often perform. You can even get fresh produce at the farmer’s market every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Plus, there’s a children’s play area for the keiki to enjoy. It’s in a convenient location too, seeing as the Maui Bus drops off right at the mall, so everyone can revel in the joys of Maui’s best shopping center. 275 W. Ka‘ahumanu Ave., Kahului; 808-877-3369; Queenkaahumanucenter.com. @ashprobsticle
Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center 34%
Shops at Wailea 14%
Maui Mall 13%
Other 39%
Best Bookstore
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Barnes & Noble
For those of you who still like to read new books that are printed on paper, this is the Maui’s only bookstore. And yeah, they have a lot of books (including, at one time, books that were somehow written by me) as well as magazines, CDs, movies, LEGO sets, puzzles, kid toys, calendars, greeting cards and probably some other stuff I’m forgetting. But mostly, it’s the books. And if they don’t have a particular book you’re looking for, chances are they can locate it (though you might be able to do that yourself online). So in conclusion, if you like being in a physical room with lots of physical books that you can purchase with either cash or credit, then this place is for you. 325 Keawe St., Lahaina; 808-662-1300. @apignataro
Barnes & Noble 67%
Maui Friends of the Library 18%
Awakening in Paradise 2%
Other 13%
Best Local Surf Shop
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
HI Tech Surf Sports
This is a solid choice, and it wins often. And it’s a huge shop, too, with tons of gear inside. They’ve got a huge selection of surfboards, skateboards, bodyboards, apparel and, yes, that Volkswagen is still attached upside down to the ceiling. As far as we know, it hasn’t fallen down yet on some guy who just went in to buy a new leash and maybe look at the board shorts. So it’s got that going for it, too. 425 Koloa St., Kahului; 888-717-0683; Surfmaui.com. @apignataro
Hi Tech 47%
Big Kahuna 6%
Local Motion 4%
Other 43%
Best ‘Ukulele Shop
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Mele ‘Ukulele
So not long ago I bought a ‘ukulele. Nothing serious of fancy (though it is blue and triangular)–just a starter deal that isn’t a toy you’d find at Wal-Mart. Anyway, a friend who shall remain nameless stopped by started strumming it. “It’s strung wrong,” he said. He knew guitars, and me not knowing much about ‘ukes, let him “fix” it. Not long after I took it out to strum it, and I suddenly had two loose strings on my hands and my friend was nowhere in sight. Though I hadn’t bought it at Mele, I took it to them. Turns out, as I expected, it had been strung correctly the first time. They fixed it for free, and wouldn’t even accept a small gratuity. “Just come back when you want to buy a real ‘ukulele,” they said. I looked around at the gorgeous instruments on the walls, and quickly agreed. 1750 Ka‘ahumanu Ave., Wailuku; 808-244-3938; Meleukulele.com. @apignataro
Mele Ukulele 50%
Bounty Music 28%
Lahaina Music 11%
Other 11%
Best Bike Shop
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
West Maui Cycles
This venerable shop in Lahaina has bikes, parts, maintenance and even maps. But not tours. They don’t do tours. Seriously–if the county starts regulating downhill bike tours, then even little shops like this may get caught up in the fray. Anyway, they offer “fitting” appointments (which can take one to two and a half hours and cost between $75 and $200) and full service. They’ll even build a bike you ship them. 1087 Limahana Pl., Lahaina; 808-661-9005; Westmauicycles.com. @apignataro
West Maui Cycles 23%
Maui Cyclery 15%
South Maui Bikes 12%
Other 50%
Best Way To Get Rid Of That Giant TV Sitting In Your Garage [STAFF PICK]
Habitat for Humanity
They take computers, TVs, phones, microwave ovens, audio devices, battery backups, gaming consoles, video equipment and all the hook-ups and attachments that go with this stuff. But please, don’t just dump the stuff at the site if no one’s there–only drop off items when they’re open. They’re currently open Tuesdays and Saturdays, 9am-1pm. But starting Aug. 2, they’ll be open Tuesday 2-6pm and Saturday 8am-1pm. 901 Lower Main St., Wailuku. 808-242-1140; Habitat-maui.org. @apignataro
Best Place On Maui To See WWII Memorabilia
Story of Hawaii Museum
Not long ago the Story of Hawaii Museum at the Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center opened its expanded 1941 Pearl Harbor Attack exhibit. On display they have a “rare Japanese war situation room map and an initial draft of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s ‘Day of Infamy’ address to the nation,” according to their website. The museum as a whole is small, but packs in a lot of Hawaii history. There’s also a gift shop, because America. 275 W. Ka‘ahumanu Ave., Kahului; 808-871-4547; Storyofhawaiimuseum.com. @apignataro
Best Adult Gift Shop
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
The Love Shack
When our readers want love toys, they know there’s only one place to go: the Love Shack. The sexperts there can answer all your questions, help you stock up a bachelor or bachelorette party or assist in locating what you didn’t know you were looking for. When it comes to adult decisions, Love Shack’s the best. 1913 S. Kihei Rd.; 808-875-0303; Loveshackmaui.com. @jenrusso
The Love Shack 84%
Hot Spot Video 6%
Other 10%
Best Consignment Store
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Elise
There’s a better way to go about shopping for clothing, and it starts at Elise. Their consigned goods are fashionable, fun and a fraction of full retail price. You can recycle clothing and make some extra cash by bringing over your garments. Elise also has multiple locations to across the island to stock your closet. 840 Waine’e St., Lahaina.; 808-661-5473; Eliseclothingcompany.com. @jenrusso
Elise 27%
Rainbow Attic 26%
Droplets 8%
Other 39%
Best Place to Get Waxed
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Plush Beauty Lounge
The plushest bikini line around is at Plush in Lahaina. They have Maui’s best waxing; it’s painless, efficient and smooth. You won’t even know you had hair where you didn’t want it. 325 Keawe St., Lahaina. 808-667-5874. Plushbeautylounge.com. @jenrusso
Plush 29%
Madison Ave 7%
Quinnie’s Nail Salon & Spa 6%
Other 58%
Best SUP Board Shop
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Hawaiian Island Surf & Sport
Stand up paddleboarding is one of Maui’s most appealing water sports, and it’s taken Maui by storm. Riding waves or just quality time between you and your board is just one stop away at Hawaiian Island Surf & Sport. They will show you the ropes if you’re just getting started. That’s gotta be a big reason why they get the votes. 415 Dairy Rd., Kahului; 808-871-4981; Hawaiianisland.com. @jenrusso
Hawaiian Island Surf & Sport 25%
Naish 8%
808 Boards 7%
Other 60%
Best Place To Get A Bodyboard
Body boarders who love to rip go to the Foam Company at the Maui Mall in Kahului. They’ve got all the boogie stuff like board bags, fin socks, leashes, rash guards and DVDs. We consider it our drop knee culture headquarters. 70 E Ka’ahumanu Ave., Kahului, 808-873-7833. @jenrusso
Best Head Shop
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Still Smokin
Got somethin’ to fire up? If you’re still smokin,’ there are shops in Lahaina, Kahului and Kihei that are burning up for you. They’ve got smoke buddies, tobacco water bubblers, glass pipes, torches, scales, grinders and sales. 161 Alamaha St., Kahului; 808-873-3111; Facebook.com/StillSmokinKahului. @jenrusso
Still Smokin’ 33%
Westside Vibes 31%
Hawaiian Holy Smokes 13%
Other 23%
Best Place To Buy An Airplane Seat [STAFF PICK]
Photo courtesy of Mauifeed.com
Kama’aina Loan
If the furniture in your house is missing that really unique conversational piece, you need only to take a look at Kama’aina Loan’s corner store on Vineyard and Market in Wailuku. Within those walls are the most eclectic group of goods, hard to find antiques, art pieces, netsukis, fine gems and jewelry, sculpture and, believe it or not, airplane seats. The built-in aquarium is something to see, too. Web Auctions Hawaii; 98 N. Market St., Wailuku; Kamaainaloan.com. @jenrusso
Best “Green” Business
Haleakala Solar
Haleakala Solar is spreading the responsible kind of green around Maui. Lower your carbon footprint with a photovoltaic plan for your business or household, or try a solar water heating system–all powered by sunshine. 70 E. Ka’ahumanu Ave., Kahului; 808-871-4059; Haleakalasolar.com. @jenrusso
Haleakala Solar 14%
Rising Sun Solar 6%
Westin 4%
Other 76%
Best Pet Supply Store
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Petco
If our furry, feathered and cold blooded friends could vote they would say Petco is the place to pick up all their treats and necessities. Well they can’t vote, but their fingered family members did. We love their great selection of bedding, gourmet foods, tanks, cages and convenience. 270 Dairy Rd., Kahului; 808-877-6150; Petco.com. @jenrusso
Petco 39%
The Pet Shop 32%
Kihei Pet Supply 8%
Other 21%
Best Hotel/Accomodations
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Grand Wailea
The best staycation resort, according to our readers, is the Grand Wailea Resort & Spa. Is it the 40-acre property with waterfalls, slides and Maui’s underwater elevator? Or the stunning food by renowned chefs? Then again, it could be the lovely rooms with chaise lounges and beautiful views. Or all of the above. 3850 Wailea Alanui Dr.; 808-875-1234; Grandwailea.com. @jenrusso
Grand Wailea 17%
Westin 16%
Andaz/Four Seasons 12%
Other 55%
Best Home Furnishings
Photo courtesy of Maui Hue
Maui Hue
Are you looking for that special touch to your home? Whether you consider yourself a decorator or someone who needs a professional designer’s touch, Maui Hue has a contemporary style that looks good in your space. Their new location on Alamaha that blows away their cozy former Lalo Street spot. 210 Alamaha St., Kahului; 808-873-6910; Mauihue.com. @jenrusso
Maui Hue 20%
Pier 1 Imports 8%
Minds Eye 6%
Other 66%
Best Out-of-Business Business
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Stella Blues
Maui was so sad to see her go, and so were are readers. It was a favorite restaurant, live music spot, watering hole and home away from home. We’ll remember a lot of good times with her. Farewell Stella Blues, until we meet again. 1279 S. Kihei Rd.; Stellablues.com. @jenrusso
Stella Blues 38%
Dragon Dragon 12%
100 Wines 7%
Other 43%
Best Place to Get a Facial
Photo courtesy of Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas
Spa Helani
When our readers need facial therapy, they go to Spa Helani. Their specialty is restoring the body to expand the mind. You can get Collagen, Botinal, Oxygen, Vitamin C, Hydro lift or indulge in any of their packages for rejuvenation and relaxation. 6 Kai Ala Dr., Ka’anapali; 808-662-2644; Westinkaanapali.com/spa. @jenrusso
Spa Helani 11%
The Face Place 7%
Emily Grace Esthetics 3%
Other 79%
Best Recycling/Redemption Center
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Kihei County Recycling Center
Redemption is waiting for you on Welakahao Road in Kihei. Its giant green bins beckon you, “bring me newspaper, bring me cardboard.” No other redemption even comes close, Kihei is where it’s at. E. Welakahao Rd., Kihei. @jenrusso
Kihei County Recycling Center 28%
Haiku County Recycling Center 12%
Kahului Recycling Center 7%
Other 53%
Best Place to Get a Mani/Pedi
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
David’s Happy Nails
Happy nails, happy life. David’s makes everyone happy with posts like “come by for a pau hana mani/pedi we are open till 7 pm.” Did we mention all the nail porn on their Facebook page? Their fans rave about the great service hands and feet get with David’s nail technicians. 305 Keawe St., Lahaina; 808-662-0303. @jenrusso
David’s Happy Nails 16%
VIP Nails 9%
Pedicare Center 8%
Other 67%
Best New Business
Go Hawaii Rentals
The new Go Hawaii Rentals can outfit you with mopeds, bike and pretty much anything you need to make your vacation unreal. Want a package deal? They got it. Need a paparazzi to capture your Maui moments? They have that, too. 3481 L. Honoapi’ilani Rd., Ka’anapali; 808-871-7433; Gohawaiirentals.com. @jenrusso
Go Hawaii Rentals 18%
Memphis Belle 6%
The Market Maui 5%
Other 71%
Best Tattoo Shop
Photo credit to Sean M. Hower
Mid-Pacific Tattoo
Tommy Tingle and the talented artists of Mid-Pacific Tattoo have taken top votes for tattoo shop. The hard workin’ crew just opened up a new stop in Kihei, too, ready to swath South Maui skin in beautiful ink. Got the tattoo of your dreams? The Lahainaluna shop has professional tattooists for all genres. Their Facebook and Instagram pages will keep you up to date. 196 Lahainaluna Rd.; 808-661-1100; 1993 S. Kihei Rd., 808-875-1500. Midpacifictattoo.com. @jenrusso
Mid-Pacific Tattoo 14%
Paia Tattoo Parlor 12%
Maui Tattoo Company 11%
Other 63%
Best Laser Hair Removal
Maui Medispa
Thank goodness for technology and the marvels of permanent laser hair removal. When we want that hair out of there, it’s Maui Medispa to the rescue with reasonably priced packages and professional staff. Smooth soft skin in seconds gets our readers’ votes. 41 E. Lipoa St., Kihei; 808-879-4909; Medispamaui.com. @jenrusso
Maui Medispa 50%
Soleil Luna 7%
Maui Plastic Surgeons 3%
Other 40%
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