Valentine’s Day on the Valley Isle: Ideas to share the love this weekend
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the season of love is being celebrated across Maui and there is no shortage of events taking place this Saturday.
Every winter in Hawaii, humpback whales cruise the warm island waters with up to 12,000 whales visiting annually, according to the Pacific Whale Foundation.
As a result, the season offers the perfect opportunity for whale watching on a sunset cruise provided by Hula Grill Sailing Charters and the Aliʻi Nui.
Departing at 2:45 p.m. from Kaanapali Beach, the Hula Grill Sailing charter runs from 3:00-6:30 p.m. For $150, guests can enjoy a variety of beverages, from tropical cocktails to fine wines.
The Aliʻi Nui catamaran has been a staple of Maui’s coastline sailing since 1978, and it will be hosting a special chartered evening for Valentine’s Day where guests can enjoy a signature five-course dinner from 5:15 to 7:45 p.m., departing from the Maʻalaea Harbor, for $299 per person.
For many couples, a Valentine’s Day whale cruise could be the perfect way to celebrate — with stunning ocean views, the chance to spot majestic whales and a memorable way to spend the day on the water.
On Friday and Saturday at the Montage at Kapalua Bay, there will be a fine-dining experience with a three-course meal at Cane & Canoe. For $295 per guest, ahi carpaccio will be served before a main course of a petite wagyu filet and buttered poached Kona lobster, followed by a strawberry tart with meringue and mint.
For those who prefer a view above the ocean, Maui’s Upcountry Ocean Vodka Farm and Distillery is hosting a Valentine’s celebration from 3 to 7 p.m. Each couple entering the gate will receive a rose, and guests can enjoy a curated dinner menu by Chef Adrienne Gaoat, paired with live music from Patrick Lutz followed by Da Office Ladies. Reservations are highly encouraged via OpenTable.com.
Mixing a little instruction and a lot of fun, Sugar Beach Events in Kihei will be hosting a Boozy Desserts Cooking Class on Friday and Saturday. Chef Lee Anderson and Pastry Chef Melanie Roy will guide participants in creating alcohol-infused desserts, made together as a special Valentine’s treat, followed by a family-style meal.
From 6 to 8 p.m., Hāna Farms will host a live performance by reggae artist Mardy Dread. With a music career spanning 30 years and 21 albums, Dread will bring his signature sound to enhance the Valentine’s Day celebration. The Bamboo Restaurant at Hāna Farms will be open on a first-come, first-served basis.
At Da Playground Maui, High Watah will perform live for $30 per ticket. The local group will play reggae music and smooth alternatives, giving attendees a fun night out with a popular island band.
Also, it’s best not to forget the flowers. Several flower shops on Maui have been offering Valentine’s Day bouquets this season, including Pukalani Floral delivering throughout Paia town, Maui Flower Delivery serving Makawao and Maui Blooms covering the West Side. Bella Bloom in Kihei delivers islandwide, and Maui Floral Inc. can provide deliveries with advance orders.
During this season of aloha, there are opportunities to express love and to share it by also supporting a local florist, restaurant or boat company.


