Answer: For elderly visitors who want to experience Maui without a lot of walking or hiking, there are several options that can provide comfort, scenic views, and a full island experience. Here’s a breakdown:

Answer: Kihei is one of the best places on Maui to learn how to surf—gentle rolling waves, sandy bottoms, and plenty of beginner-friendly breaks. While many surf schools operate online booking systems, there are still several well-established companies with physical locations, storefronts, or beach shacks so you can check in face-to-face rather than dealing only with a website.

Answer: Maui offers several vibrant local events that take place throughout the month, especially on Fridays. These celebrations are a fantastic way to experience the island’s culture, enjoy live music, shop from local vendors, and participate in family-friendly activities. Here are two of the most popular "Friday Town Celebrations" you can check out:

Answer: It's great that you're looking for ways to save while dining on Maui! The In Kind app is a fantastic resource, and there are certainly other ways to save money on meals and experiences, aside from just happy hours. Here are a few more ideas and tips for getting discounts or deals while dining on Maui, as well as information about Costco's local gift cards:

Answer: Your plan to drive the Road to Hana sounds wonderful, and you've already picked some great spots to visit! I can definitely offer some guidance on your itinerary and suggest a few tweaks to make sure you have enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Let's break down your itinerary, especially considering the reservation constraints and your must-see spots:

Answer: If you're arriving in Maui on the NCL Pride of America next March and need to park your rental car overnight near the port, there are a few options to consider. While the port itself doesn't offer extensive parking facilities for cruise passengers, there are nearby places where you can leave your car. Here's what you can do:

Answer: Both the Fairmont Kea Lani and the Marriott Maui Beach Resort are excellent options for a family vacation with a teen, but they offer different experiences, so it depends on what your priorities are.

Answer: Many restaurants in the Ka'anapali area of Maui can get busy, especially during peak seasons like May, so it's a good idea to make reservations in advance. However, the availability for walk-ins can vary depending on the restaurant, time of day, and day of the week. Here's some insight to help you plan:

Answer: Aloha! Late September to early October can be a wonderful time to visit Maui. The weather is typically warm, and it’s just after the busy summer season, so beaches and resorts are less crowded. For calm waters suitable for swimming and snorkeling, your best bets are usually on the western and northwestern shores of the island.

Answer: Renting a car at the Kahului Cruise Port and driving to Hana is absolutely realistic, though it requires a bit of planning to ensure the experience goes smoothly. The Road to Hana is a beautiful and scenic drive, but it’s important to consider a few details before embarking on the trip.

Answer: With roughly five hours between your cruise docking at 10am and your 3pm tour, renting a Jeep can definitely be worthwhile if you want to explore a bit on your own. Maui is compact enough that you can see some highlights without feeling rushed, but it’s best to pick one or two nearby spots rather than trying to do too much.

Answer: Maui is generally friendly to visitors with mobility needs, but terrain can vary, so planning ahead is important for someone using a cane. Many popular beaches and attractions provide some accessibility features, but it’s helpful to know which ones are easiest to navigate.

Answer: The best month for whale watching in Maui is generally from mid-January through March, with the peak often occurring in February. During this period, humpback whales migrate from Alaska to the warm waters around Hawaii to breed, calve, and socialize, making sightings more frequent and spectacular.

Answer: Great questions. The “back road” or loop around Maui via the Piʻilani Highway (Highway 31) past Hana is seductive — more remote, dramatic, and off-the-beaten-path — but it also comes with real risks and trade-offs. Whether it’s “worth it” depends on how comfortable you are with rougher roads, your rental car contract, and how much time and risk you’re willing to take on.

Answer: Visiting Maui with a toddler can be a wonderful experience, as the island offers plenty of family-friendly activities, beautiful beaches, and natural beauty. Here are some tips and recommendations to help you plan your trip:

Answer: For a family with kids who have snorkeled in Hawaii before, all three options you mentioned — Quicksilver, Four Winds, and Malolo — generally provide good snorkeling experiences at Coral Gardens. The choice between morning and afternoon trips mostly comes down to water conditions, crowd levels, and personal preference.

Answer: For your family trip to Kihei, it sounds like you're looking for a place that provides a combination of convenience, beachfront access, and spacious accommodations. Since you're considering multiple condos within a building and want to avoid high-rise structures, here are a few options that might suit your needs:

Answer: With only 48 hours on Maui, it’s best to focus on a couple of areas to maximize your experience without feeling rushed. Since you already have Haleakala sunrise planned, staying somewhere central to explore other highlights makes sense. Wailea is an excellent choice, especially for upscale resorts, beaches, and convenient access to good dining.

Answer: Your concern is thoughtful and reflects the delicate balance between supporting a community and being mindful of ongoing recovery efforts. As of now, Lahaina itself is slowly rebuilding from the devastating fires, but the main tourist areas—particularly along Front Street, the harbor, and nearby resorts—have seen significant restoration. Some local businesses may still be closed, while others are operating to serve both residents and visitors.

Answer: Ka’anapali is one of Maui’s most famous resort areas, located on the west side of the island, just north of Lahaina. It is primarily known for its long stretch of golden sand beach and the string of large resorts that line the shoreline. Most visitors come here for the hotels, beaches, golf courses, and resort amenities.

Answer: When driving around Maui, including trips to Haleakalā and along the Road to Hana, cell reception can be spotty in certain areas, especially when you're further from the main towns or deep into more rural areas. While parts of the island, particularly near Kaanapali and Lahaina, generally have good reception, there are stretches along the Road to Hana where signal can be inconsistent or unavailable for extended periods.

Answer: The short-term rental ban that recently passed on Maui is intended to address the island’s housing shortage by limiting the number of vacation rentals, especially in residential neighborhoods. While the goal is to make more housing available for residents, the law is already expected to be controversial and may face legal challenges.

Answer: Yes! Maui still has areas with healthy, colorful coral for snorkeling, although conditions can vary depending on the reef, weather, and water temperature. The island has a mix of protected reefs, marine preserves, and popular snorkeling spots where you can still see vibrant coral and abundant fish.

Answer: Since the Plantation Inn in Lahaina was a small, tropical-style boutique hotel with easy access to shops, restaurants, and beaches, you are looking for something similar in Kihei with a small hotel feel, walking distance to amenities, and a budget-conscious approach.

Answer: If you’re planning an 8-day spring break stay on the west side of Maui (Kaʻanapali / nearby) with a group, there *are* some condos, resorts, and vacation-rental properties that tend to work especially well for groups — offering enough space, common areas, kitchen facilities, and decent access to beach or resort amenities. Which one’s “best” depends a bit on how big your group is, how much budget flexibility you have, and how much you value resort-style amenities vs. space and flexibility.

Answer: If you’re hunting for the best banana macadamia nut pancakes near Ka’anapali, The Gazebo in Napili is definitely a standout. It’s famous for its large portions, golden-brown pancakes, and generous macadamia nut topping. Be prepared for lines, as it’s a local favorite and can get busy, especially on weekends.

Answer: Great question — your concern about Kahekili Beach (also called Airport Beach) is very valid. The short version: yes, erosion is a long-term issue there, but according to recent visitor reports, things are more stable now than what you saw last October.

Answer: Aloha,

Answer: The $50 per day resort credit at the Royal Lahaina Resort when booking through Costco works as a daily allowance that you can use for various resort services and amenities, including the gift shop, ice cream shop, or other dining options. Here's how it typically works:

Answer: Both Hali‘imaile General Store and Kula Lodge are excellent options for a mid-range “splurge” meal on Maui, each offering a different experience. Here’s a detailed look at both:

Answer: It's heartwarming to hear about the resilience of the Lahaina Banyan Tree, even after the devastation caused by the fire. The recovery of the historic Lahaina area, including the tree, has been a testament to the strength of the community, volunteers, and organizations like Lahaina Restoration. The memories you've shared, from the hula classes to the snowy moments with kids in flip-flops, really capture the spirit of this iconic place.

Answer: Choosing between Luana Kai and Maui Kamaole depends largely on your priorities regarding beach access, pools, and overall convenience. Both complexes are well-maintained, offer spacious condos, and are in Kihei, making them convenient bases for exploring Maui by car.

Answer: Aloha! The topic of beach parking fees for non-residents on Maui has certainly gained attention in recent years as more and more beach parks have started implementing these fees. Understanding how these fees work is important, especially if you're planning to visit several beach parks during your stay. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:

Answer: Nice—you’ve already done the hard part (narrowing to two great options). Below I’ll compare the two islands specifically for your family needs (2-bedroom condo, low-rise, walkable-ish shops/restaurants, active but low-stress days, and a short volcano stay if you go to the Big Island). I’ll also give practical notes on the properties you mentioned (Honua Kai, Wailea options, Haliʻi Kai, Volcano Village Lodge) and some persuading points to help convince a creature-of-habit husband to try the Big Island.

Answer: For a 9-night trip to Maui (and possibly Kauai) in late September to early October, focusing on flexibility, hiking, photography, snorkeling, and a relaxed pace, there are several approaches to consider. Since you prefer condos with kitchens and a rental car, you have the freedom to explore different regions at your own pace without relying on resort amenities.

Answer: For a low-key, budget-friendly beach wedding on Maui with around 20 guests, there are several condo resorts that could be great options for both the ceremony and the reception. Many of these resorts offer beachfront locations with communal BBQs, which would allow you to prepare your own meal and host a relaxed reception afterward. Here are some suggestions that might fit your needs:

Answer: Watching the sunrise at Haleakalā is a spectacular experience, but the weather can be unpredictable due to the high elevation (over 10,000 feet) and the mountain's microclimates. Even if it’s clear at sea level, clouds or fog can obscure the view at the summit. Planning ahead using reliable forecasts is essential for your early-morning drive from West Maui.

Answer: Via Pizza at Whaler’s Village in Kaanapali offers a great NYC-style pizza experience right on Maui. Customers have reported ordering both whole pies and slices, with XL pizzas feeding multiple adults comfortably. The pricing may seem high initially — around $44 per whole pizza, with additional charges for extra toppings — but given the size, the value is good.

Answer: Both the Grand Wailea and Hilton Grand Vacations Kaanapali are excellent options for a family trip to Maui, each offering unique advantages depending on what you’re looking for in terms of the resort experience and surrounding area. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide:

Answer: In Hawaii, the General Excise Tax (GET) is a tax on business gross income, rather than a traditional sales tax like in other states. This means that businesses are required to pay the GET on their sales, but they can choose whether to pass it on to customers or not.

Answer: It's great that you're planning to hike the Pipiwai Trail! This trail, located in the Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park, offers some of the most beautiful scenery in Maui, with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and incredible views of the coastline. However, accessing the trail can be tricky due to road conditions, especially when traveling along the southern route.

Answer: Hiring a private driver on Maui can be an excellent way to explore the island at your own pace, especially if you dislike organized tours and want flexibility. Rates vary depending on the company, vehicle type, and duration, but for a general idea:

Answer: Aloha,

Answer: No need to apologize — good question. Kahului Airport (OGG) to the Maui Kamaole area in Kihei is a common trip and totally doable by Uber, but prices vary by time of day, demand, and vehicle type. Below is a practical breakdown so you can plan if your flight is late.

Answer: Vacamaui is a vacation rental management company that lists properties for rent, similar to VRBO or Airbnb. However, it's important to be cautious when booking through lesser-known sites, especially if you're unfamiliar with them. Many users have reported positive experiences, but there are some risks associated with booking through smaller or less established platforms.

Answer: It sounds like you're gearing up for an exciting whale-watching trip during peak season in Maui! Kaanapali Beach is a great spot to embark on whale-watching catamarans, and there are several excellent options for larger boats. Here’s some insight into the options and what to expect:

Answer: Driving the Road to Hana (RTH) in late November can be a mixed experience. While the scenery is beautiful year-round, November is in the rainy season on Maui, particularly along the eastern coastline, which can make some parts of the road slippery, and certain waterfalls and streams may be swollen. That said, many travelers do enjoy it at this time if they plan carefully.

Answer: Maui is a fantastic island for families with young children, and staying near Kahului gives you convenient access to many attractions, shopping, and beaches without long drives. With a two-year-old, you'll want a mix of low-key activities and easy access to outdoor fun.

Answer: For an all-day Road to Hana tour from Maui with cruise ship pickup, the main challenge is timing—most standard tours depart early, around 7:00 a.m., and your arrival at 8:00 a.m. means you’ll need a company that can accommodate a later start or provide private tours. Here are some options and tips to consider:

Answer: Hi Teri — thanks for sharing! You’re absolutely right: this year’s 33rd Celebration of the Arts at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is *extra special* — it’s the final one. Here’s a detailed look at what the festival is, why this year is meaningful, and what to expect — plus reflections from past attendees.

Answer: The proposal to impose a 52% total tax and fee surcharge on rental cars in Maui would indeed make it one of the most expensive places in the U.S. to rent a car. If enacted, the additional $3 daily surcharge would significantly increase the overall cost of renting a car, especially for those planning extended stays on the island.

Answer: Based on your experience, Mama’s Fish House on Maui clearly outshines Spago’s Wailea for a special occasion dining experience. While both restaurants are considered high-end and upscale, several factors make Mama’s the preferred choice.

Answer: Both the Hyatt and the Westin in the Lahaina/Kaanapali area are well-regarded resorts, but they cater to slightly different experiences and preferences. Here's a detailed comparison based on recent visitor experiences:

Answer: I can understand your concerns and the emotions that come with the decision, especially with everything going on politically and economically. The situation you're describing isn’t easy, and it’s totally valid to feel torn. Traveling abroad, especially with a currency that’s not as strong, can definitely put a strain on the experience—particularly if your husband’s frustration is affecting the excitement of the trip.

Answer: Choosing between a Road to Hana (RTH) tour and a Haleakala Sunrise tour depends on your preferences for sightseeing, comfort, and activity level. Both are iconic Maui experiences but offer very different experiences.

Answer: Aloha! If you’re hoping to enjoy hula performances at Wailea resorts, several of them incorporate Hawaiian cultural entertainment as part of their evening activities, though offerings can vary by season and day of the week.

Answer: Momona Bakery & Coffee Shop has become a beloved local spot in Kahului since opening across from Whole Foods. Their menu includes a variety of baked goods, coffee, and savory items such as Caprese sandwiches, chicken panino sandwiches, and breakfast sandwiches. The combination of Argentinian and European baking styles with island-inspired flavors has contributed to their popularity.

Answer: Aloha! Hawaiian quilts are a beautiful way to showcase local artistry and would indeed complement a handmade Amish bed wonderfully. Maui has a few artisans and shops where you can find authentic hand-stitched quilts, and visiting in person can make the experience even more special.

Answer: It’s fantastic to hear that Maui Brewing Company (MBC) is celebrating its 20th Anniversary! That’s an incredible milestone for the brewery, and it sounds like a great time to join the celebration.

Answer: For a couple in their 60s who prefer not to rent a car, it’s important to choose a location in Maui that offers easy access to attractions, dining, and activities within walking distance or via public transportation. Based on your preferences, here are a few suggestions for reasonably priced condos that may suit your needs:

Answer: Wailea Ekolu is a smaller, boutique-style condominium complex located in the prestigious Wailea area of Maui. It’s known for offering a quieter and more private experience compared to the larger resort-style properties, making it appealing to couples and families who prefer a relaxed atmosphere.

Answer: Your itinerary for Maui sounds fantastic! You've already packed in many of the island's highlights, so you're on the right track. I’ll go over your itinerary with some suggestions to make sure you don’t miss any must-see spots and provide some tips for snorkeling and other activities.

Answer: Aloha! Boogie boarding in Maui can be tricky because conditions vary a lot depending on the wind, tide, and swell direction. South Shore beaches like Polo, Maluaka, and Wailea are often very calm, especially in summer and early fall, which is great for swimming but not ideal for boogie boarding.

Answer: For beginner surfing in Maui, especially in June, you want a location with gentle, consistent waves, soft sandy beaches, and easy access to surf rentals and lessons. Napili Shores is charming and right on Napili Bay, but it’s worth evaluating if it’s ideal for a beginner who wants multiple days of surf practice without hassle.

Answer: It's understandable to feel a little worried when you see a forecast predicting rain for your entire trip. However, it’s important to keep in mind that weather forecasts, especially for tropical destinations like Maui, can be quite variable and not always accurate over a long period. Here are some things to consider:

Answer: Aloha! South Maui is a fantastic area to explore for both swimming and unique beach experiences. The beaches from Kihei to Wailea offer a variety of sand colors, calm waters for swimming, and some excellent snorkeling spots.

Answer: If you’ve only snorkeled once before, Maui has several beginner-friendly spots where the water is calm, clear, and shallow enough to feel comfortable exploring marine life without strong currents or waves.

Answer: If you’re looking to shop for Hawaiian motif plates in Maui, there are several places where you can find beautifully designed ceramics, locally made pottery, and souvenir-quality items. Whether you prefer handcrafted items, boutique stores, or larger marketplaces, Maui has options to suit a range of tastes and budgets.

Answer: Great question — the housing situation for Maui residents displaced by the 2023 Lahaina wildfires is still very complex, and many are still in temporary or transitional housing even now. There have been a lot of moving pieces. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s happening and where things stand as of 2025:

Answer: For your two full days in Maui, you’ve got plenty of options to make the most of your time without feeling rushed. Here are some ideas that cater to your interests and your desire to relax and enjoy the scenery:

Answer: Twin Falls, located along the Road to Hana on Maui, is widely considered one of the easiest and most family-friendly waterfall stops, making it a good choice if you have little kids. The falls are accessible via a short, mostly flat trail from the parking area, and the swimming areas are generally safe for children under supervision.

Answer: When considering Napili Shores, Napili Point, and Napili Kai, each property has its unique features, and the choice often depends on your priorities such as beach access, unit amenities, and budget.

Answer: When it comes to checking the weather on Maui, having an accurate and up-to-date forecast is essential to make the most of your trip. Since Hawaii's weather can vary greatly depending on the island and the time of day, it's helpful to use a reliable weather site or app that provides detailed forecasts specific to Maui. Here are a few of the best options:

Answer: Visiting West Maui from a Kihei base in one day is doable, but you’ll need to plan carefully since Waihee Ridge Trail is a moderately strenuous 4-mile hike and will take around 2-3 hours. Starting early at 7 am is a good choice to avoid heat and crowds.

Answer: The Maui Run (also known as the Maui Marathon or other local events) can definitely impact traffic, especially if lanes are closed due to road races or events. If you're driving from Westin Nanea Ocean Resort Villas in Lahaina to the airport on Sunday, and the race is taking place during that time, you can expect some delays. The typical drive time of around 45 minutes can be extended depending on the event's course and road closures.

Answer: Both the Andaz Maui at Wailea and the Hyatt Regency Maui in Kaanapali are excellent resorts, but they cater to slightly different beach experiences, which is important when traveling with kids who love snorkeling and boogie boarding.

Answer: Yes, you can definitely drive the Road to Hana without staying in Hana. Many visitors do the drive as a day trip, leaving from locations like Kihei. The road is a beautiful and scenic journey with plenty of places to stop and explore along the way, so it's definitely possible to enjoy it in a single day. Here's a general overview of what you can expect:

Answer: Great question! Conch shell horns (pū) are culturally significant in Hawaiʻi, so it’s wonderful you want an authentic one. On Maui, finding a blown conch horn in a store isn’t super common, but there *are* a few places and tips — plus online options if you don’t find one in person.

Answer: If you're staying in Napili Bay and want to swim at Kaanapali, you're in luck—Kaanapali Beach is beautiful, and there are a few ways to manage parking and changing without staying at a resort there. However, as you noted, parking can be a challenge, especially in busier months like December and January, but there are still options and strategies to make it easier for you to enjoy the beach.

Answer: Honua Kai Resort & Spa on Kaanapali Beach is a highly rated condo-style property offering spacious, fully equipped units and excellent amenities. It is indeed considered great value for money due to its combination of modern condos, prime location, and resort-style facilities.

Answer: Aloha — great question! If you’re staying in Kapalua and want a gym for your teen to work out, you’ve got a few decent options within a reasonable drive. Here are some gyms that offer day passes or visitor-friendly short-term rates, plus a few tips.

Answer: It’s truly a special experience to see a Hawaiian Monk Seal in the wild, especially since their population is so low. The Hawaiian Monk Seal is a protected species and a vital part of Hawaii's marine ecosystem, so it’s great to hear that beachgoers at Napili Bay have been respectful and mindful of their space. It’s important to remember that while monk seals are typically very docile, they should be given plenty of space, and it's wonderful to see the beach roped off to protect the seal’s resting area.

Answer: Great question — Maui’s Costco in Kahului is a solid stop early or late in your trip, especially for grabbing local treats, essentials, and souvenirs. While inventory changes frequently, here are some of the notable recent finds and popular items people have spotted at Costco Maui (plus a few “insider picks” based on traveler reports):

Answer: For your trip to Maui, you're in for a treat when it comes to dining with a view of the water. The west side of the island has several fantastic restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the waves roll in. Here are some top recommendations that are popular for their great food and amazing oceanfront views:

Answer: The Kihei Fourth Friday Celebration is a wonderful way to experience local Maui culture, music, food, and crafts. Held monthly on the fourth Friday, it’s free to attend and offers a family-friendly environment. For the April 25th event, the entertainment lineup includes Marty Dread and the Arlie Asiu Trio, providing live music, along with guitar phenom Kenui Blue performing.

Answer: If you’re staying at the Hyatt Regency Maui in Ka’anapali and want to avoid the resort breakfast prices, there are several excellent local options within a short drive or even a reasonable walk, offering great food at much lower prices.

Answer: Mama's Fish House is known for its fine dining experience, fresh seafood, and beautiful oceanfront location. While it is traditionally more adult-oriented, families with well-behaved children are generally welcome, especially during lunch service.

Answer: As of the latest reports, a wildfire started this morning near Kahikinui, around mile marker 24 on the back road to Hana in Maui. By late afternoon, strong winds have fueled the fire, which now covers approximately 200 acres.

Answer: Renting a vehicle for an extended period, such as 6 to 8 weeks, can indeed be costly. However, there are a few strategies you can use to mitigate the high cost of long-term rentals on Maui. Here's a breakdown of options to consider:

Answer: The beach in front of the Hyatt Residence Club in Ka'anapali has experienced noticeable erosion over the past several years, particularly after winter swells and occasional storms. While some sections remain wide enough for sunbathing and walking, other areas closer to the resort have narrowed, especially near the high tide line.

Answer: Papi’s Ohana in Maui is known both for its bakery items, like the famous cinnamon rolls, and its dinner offerings through the pizzeria. However, based on their posted hours and local feedback, the cinnamon rolls are primarily made and sold during bakery hours, which typically run in the morning to early afternoon.

Answer: On Christmas Day in Maui, most businesses, including gas stations, may have reduced hours, but some are still open to accommodate travelers. It's good to plan ahead to ensure you can fill up before returning your rental car.

Answer: Opakapaka, also known as Hawaiian pink snapper, is indeed becoming harder to find due to fishing restrictions and sustainability efforts. However, there are still a few places and strategies you can try during your visit to Maui from February 16 to March 9th to find this delicious fish. Here are some ideas for where you might be able to get it:

Answer: Maui is well known for a few spots that serve exceptional cinnamon rolls, often attracting both locals and visitors. The most famous destination for cinnamon rolls is at the Upcountry region of the island, where fresh baked goods and scenic views combine for a memorable treat.

Answer: Welcome to Maui! As a track and field athlete, you’ll be happy to know that there are several places on the island where you can find running tracks or facilities to train. Maui has a few public tracks and sports complexes that can accommodate your needs. Here are some of the top locations for running tracks and general training:

Answer: Honua Kai Resort in Lahaina has had reports in the past of occasional sewage smells, particularly in certain lower-level units or near the pool areas. However, based on more recent guest feedback, these issues appear to have largely been addressed. Most guests in the last couple of years report no noticeable sewage odor, and many praise the resort for its well-maintained pools, grounds, and modern suites.

Answer: It sounds like you’ve been having quite a bit of trouble with getting a reservation at Mama Fish House, which is certainly a popular spot in Maui! While it’s understandable that the dinner reservations are highly sought after, lunch could be a more flexible option, depending on when you visit. Let’s go through some suggestions for how to approach getting a table at Mama Fish House without a reservation.

Answer: Your upcoming trip to Maui in February sounds amazing! Maui is an excellent choice for an active yet relaxing getaway, with a perfect balance of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Here are some suggestions for what to see, do, and where to stay within your budget:

Answer: Here’s a detailed overview of traffic considerations for Maui based on your itinerary:

Answer: Happy early birthday! Mama's Fish House is a popular spot, so parking logistics are important to plan ahead. As you noted, the restaurant has a small lot and offers complimentary valet parking, and they recommend arriving no more than 15 minutes before your reservation to avoid congestion.