I have been doing LOTS of research for a friend and her family that want to go to Hawaii next month. Her husband is in a wheelchair so it is extremely important that everything be accessible for them.
In the process of my research I came across a condo in Maui that is rented out to individuals who need a place that is accessible. I have been e-mailing the owner the last few days and want to pass on the information here.
If any of you cruise to or from Hawaii and then want to stay in Maui, this just might be a great option for you. We personally have NOT stayed here, but have seen many references on the internet and the condo is specifically mentioned as a good choice in the book called: 101 Accessible Vacations.
Here's the link, it is loaded with lots of photos and information:
Accessible Holidays
Here's some additional information I received from Bruce (one of the owners) about the location:
1. What is within walking distance of your condo and is the area paved (sidewalks) for the wheelchair?
It is an easy walk/ roll .4 mile down a level sidewalked road to the commercial area in our village of Maalaea. In this commercial area is a $20 million aquarium which I highly recommend, a fun park that includes mini golf, rock climbing and bumper boats, 5 restaurants, other shops and the main anchor of the village which is the Maalaea harbour that is the main tourist boat harbour for Maui. This is also home to a major bus hub on Maui http://www.co.maui.hi.us/index.aspx?NID=605 and the buses on Maui are wheelchair accessible.
2. The condo is right by the beach, is there good swimming at the beach?
The beach in front of the condo is 4 miles long and about a 100 feet down from our complex it is good for swimming and about a B for snorkelling.
3. Our friends have a 12 year old boy … are there things close by that he might be interested in?
As I mentioned earlier there is the aquarium Maui Ocean Center | The Hawaiian Aquarium | Maui Family Activity | (808) 270-7000 and the fun park Maui Golf and sports park - Maui's family fun park! located close by and next door to the complex is a public park that is frequented by families with kids.
4. How far away is the grocery store?
We have a couple good convience stores in our village but for major grocery shopping you'd hit Costco which is located in Kahului which is 7 miles away or at the 24 hour Safeway in Kahului or Kihei which is also 7 miles away but different direction.
5. Do you feel a car will be a necessity at the condo?
I've had people stay at the condo using just the public bus system augmented with accessible tours but it does limit you since Maui is rural and much of the beauty is off the beaten path. So yes I'd say a car would be needed to thoroughly appreciate the magic of Maui.
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I felt posting the information here may help some of you considering Maui.

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