Get ready for a tropical escape on this episode of NBC’s 1st Look: Destination West Maui! Join guest host Tabitha Lipkin as she explores the exquisite beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts of West Maui, capturing the essence of paradise. From breathtaking landscapes to local culture, this episode is your ultimate travel inspiration.
The journey begins in the stunning Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua, located on the northern shore. Upon arrival, a warm welcome is extended by the staff, emphasizing the resort’s dedication to Aloha, a cultural value passed down through generations. Maile Bryan, a cultural representative of the resort, explains how Aloha creates a familial atmosphere, tying everyone together. While making flower leis, they also explain the cultural significance of the coconut trees around the resort, particularly the papu papu, a woven cordage symbolizing strength and unity. This symbol is also seen in the traditional leis, which are given as symbols of gratitude, love, and connection.
Now time for outdoor adventures! After ziplining over a volcano with the incredible team at Kapalua Ziplines, Tabitha’s next excursion is through the Ritz-Carlton’s ambassador program, which educates visitors about West Maui’s delicate ecosystem. Tabitha embarks on a guided adventure to Honolua Bay, one of the last marine preserves on the island. Captain Riley Coon explains that no fishing or trapping is allowed in the Bay, protecting its pristine condition. Tabitha learns about the importance of Hawaiian culture and its connection to the land through the program’s teachings about the sea turtles and the significance of local marine life.
Following that, Tabitha meets Michael Castillo, the head golf professional at the Plantation Course at the Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua. Michael shares some history about the course, which was built in 1991 and offers gorgeous ocean views from every hole. He explains how each hole has its own unique character, ensuring that no two rounds of golf are the same. The course is known for being the site of the PGA’s year-opening event, The Sentry, and offers a bucket list experience for golf lovers. As Tabitha enjoys her round, she receives golf technique tips from Michael, all while taking in the glorious views.
Next, Tabitha heads off on a riveting ride with Maui Off-Road Adventures and joins a rugged eco-tour that explores an old pineapple plantation. The tour’s focus is on giving back to the land and restoring the native Hawaiian rainforest. Guide Weston Patrie explains the importance of the Koa tree, used by Hawaiians for canoe making, and Tabitha participates in planting a tree as part of the program’s conservation efforts.
After a thrilling day, Tabitha heads back to the Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua for some rest and relaxation. When she awakens, she enjoys a run along a scenic route with the RunWESTIN Hotel Fitness Program, which takes her along the shores of Ka’anapali Beach. She learns that Ka’anapali has been named the top beach in the US and is known for its expansive backdrop. Following her run, Tabitha cools off with a Mai Tai at Ulu Kitchen and some fresh cuisine at a beachside restaurant. She meets restaurant owner Peter Merriman who shares the importance of using locally sourced ingredients and how they support local farmers, making their dishes not only delicious but also sustainable.
Tabitha’s next experience takes her to a traditional Hawaiian feast at the The Westin Maui Resort & Spa where she participates in a private hula lesson. The instructor explains that hula was historically used to pass down stories and knowledge orally, as Hawaiians didn’t have a written language. As the day transitions into night, Tabitha enjoys the festive atmosphere of the Wailele Lu’au, where she witnesses lively performances and an exciting fire knife dance. The performances tell ancestral stories and connect the land, people, and ocean of Hawaii, leaving the audience mesmerized.
Finally, Tabitha explores the charming town of Lahaina, which is in the process of rebuilding after the devastating wildfires that consumed a good portion of homes and land in the area in 2023. She visits a local chocolatier, Kauai Coffee Estate, where she learns about the cacao farming process. The estate’s cacao trees grow in the West Maui mountains, an area known for its unique climate that is ideal for growing cacao. Tabitha is introduced to the cacao fruit and its sweet pulp, with the chocolatier explaining how these beans are harvested and turned into Maui’s signature chocolate, which is locally referred to as “Ono” for its delicious taste. Tabitha takes a moment to appreciate the process and the delicious end product.
Overall, all these magical moments combine to showcase Maui’s unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and local traditions — an unforgettable journey of discovering the spirit of aloha.
