Our lack of sleep and early adventure left us craving breakfast as soon as we started the switchback path down the mountain.

The eucalyptus trees reminded us of California's redwood trees!

Since none of us know Maui very well, other than the few places my Papa insisted we visit, Dad and I have been relying on Yelp and Trip Advisor for tips and tricks, especially in regards to food. As we headed down the mountain I searched on Yelp for restaurants which were within a few miles of the base and open for breakfast. Based on ratings, it was clear that the only choice was Kula Lodge & Restaurant. 

Perched on the side of a luscious hill, 3200 feet above sea level, their expansive dining area is lit naturally with wall to wall windows, allowing diners to enjoy amazing views while they eat breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The first thing on our mind was their fresh brewed Kona coffee! They even had coconut syrup for it but we both all found that to be far too sweet.

While my mom had her eye on their macadamia nut and banana pancakes, I had one thing in mind: fresh fruit. Due to dehydration and passing multiple closed fruit stands on the way up the mountain I wanted nothing to do with savory egg dishes or sweet pancakes. Luckily, their tropical fruit salad delivered more than I could have expected! Priced at $14.50, the Tropical Fruit Salad with a side of homemade granola included nearly a half pound of Maui fresh mango, strawberry, banana, and pineapples paired with vanilla yogurt.

I was in heaven!

Having the chance to enjoy a bite of my mom’s decadent pancakes and my dad’s savory Portuguese sausage was the perfect way to complete my first taste of Maui!

Check out the amazing gardens surrounding the restaurant! We could have spent hours exploring their beautiful trails and flowers!

Later in the afternoon, around 2pm, we were done exploring my Papa’s boyhood and family beach home in Kihei and finally hungry again. Within minutes Yelp was able to direct us to “the best fish tacos in the world.” at Coconuts Fish Cafe in Kihei.

 Opened 2009 by a local couple, they only deliver the freshest seafood in the “healthiest way possible” to diners eagerly awaiting food at their surfboard tables and small outdoor area. They never use microwaves and everything is made to order whether you’re carrying out or dining in.

Based on the Yelp reviews we knew that fish tacos were the primary draw but as soon as we stepped up to order we saw their fresh coconut shrimp and were sold on splitting one of those as an appetizer.

These are hands down the best coconut shrimp we've ever had!!