Kurt Wright, CMP
President; The Wright Company; Kahului, Maui
What are three great activity options for groups based on Maui?
- Stargazing: Stargazing with telescopes and astronomers is a great option during evening receptions on Maui. The night skies are incredible here. We can bring in high-powered telescopes and an astronomer to explain the constellations. A great place to do this is Molokini Gardens, event space located just above the golf courses at the Wailea Resort. The view is amazing and groups of 500 can easily be accommodated. In addition to stargazing, we've done '80s theme parties, drive-in movies under the sky, elegant dinners—it lends itself to any concept.
- Lanai Day Trip: Boat trips to Lanai offered by Trilogy Excursions are extremely popular for groups. Trilogy has a beach pavilion over there where groups can have lunch and do some snorkeling. You can also do a road rally around Lanai, explore the town or enjoy activities like clay shooting, horseback riding and hiking. The golf courses over there are wonderful. The day ends with a sunset sail back to Maui.
- Farm-to-Table: Maui has some great small specialty farms like the Surfing Goat Dairy, which makes goat cheese, and Alii Kula Lavender Farm that groups can tour. They get to explore upcountry Maui and experience a part of the island they might not otherwise see. There are also chef-owned farms where they can pick salad greens and vegetables and then enjoy a lunch prepared by the chef. There's a lot more interest now in local cuisine—people want to see where it comes from.