Hawaii's second biggest island is home to some of the state's most well-known beaches, and no matter what your sport, you'll find the ideal wave for paddling and surfing, as well as sugar soft sands welcoming sunbathers. Because of the shallow entrance sites around Kaanapali Beach, there are also great reefs to explore via snorkelling, especially for the less experienced.
Jump to:
Then there's the incredible variety of interior landscapes to explore. After all, the Valley Isle was created when lava flows from two separate volcanoes (Pu'u Kukui and Haleakala) collided, creating a stunningly varied terrain. Take a beautiful drive down the Hana Highway one day, then go up to Haleakala Crater the following for dawn. View a magnificent display of stars and planets in the evening and learn about the Polynesian art of navigation.
1. The Hana Highway
This beautiful journey through Maui's breathtaking coastal cliffs and waterfalls should be on everyone's bucket list. Due to limited speeds through hazardous bends and blind turns, the 65-mile trip takes a long time, so plan on dedicating a whole day to this expedition. As you get closer to Hana, stop at Honokalani Beach for a stroll along black volcanic sand and a dip in the surf, then get some tacos from one of the numerous food trucks.
2. Old Lahaina Luau
Book an evening at Old Lahaina Luau for the perfect mix of island taste and entertainment. This event respects tradition with lively music and dance performances, as well as delicious meals like Pipi Kala—grilled steak with 'Alae salt, as well as fresh poke, marinated chicken, and tasty salads—all served alongside drinks. All of this takes place against a backdrop of magnificent ocean vistas and the renowned Maui sunset.
3. The Star-Studded Tour
Maui's sky light up with a spectacular show above on a clear night. Take a guided astronomy tour offered by the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa to truly appreciate everything that is shining above this piece of paradise. Spend the evening stargazing via powerful telescopes while munching on chocolate strawberries and sipping sparkling champagne while the astronomy director tells tales of celestial navigation.
4. Maui Ocean Center
At the Maui Ocean Center, you can view live reefs, unique corals, and a turtle lagoon. Then, as part of the spectacular "Open Ocean" display, visitors may walk through a glass tunnel and take in above views while watching sharks, rays, and large fish interact with one another. The 3D humpback whale sphere is a standout feature at this immersive marine life experience that will leave you speechless.
5. Haleakala National Park's Haleakala Crater
Not only is Haleakala Crater the site where the demigod Maui lassoed the sun, but it's also one of the most beautiful locations to see it rise, according to Hawaiian legend. To watch this enchantment develop, you must be an early riser, since it may take up to two hours to reach the top, and reservations are needed to access the area during the early hours. Bundle up: the Haleakala Visitor Center is approximately 10,000 feet above sea level and considerably colder than the surrounding area.
6. Kaanapali Surf School
The teachers at Kaanapali Surf School are seasoned professionals who are also known for helping beginners. They'll begin with a land-based technique and safety instruction before accompanying you out into the break to lead your ride. The waves at Kaanapali are soft and steady, making it a perfect place to learn to surf. There's nothing quite like catching your first wave on your own, believe us when we say that.
7. The Historic Trail of Lahaina
In Lahaina Town, you may learn about more than 500 years of history at 65 different locations. Begin with the Baldwin Home Museum, Maui's oldest surviving home, then continue via a courthouse, lighthouse, and more before arriving at the fabled Banyan tree. This enormous tree is about 145 years old and stands over 60 feet tall, making it the largest Banyan tree in the United States.
8. Maui Whale Festival
Maui Whale Festival will be celebrating 41 years of whale education and advocacy in 2021, while providing the public with spectacular views of these beautiful animals during peak humpback whale season. Whale viewing, film screenings, a craft market, and other activities are among the festivities.
9. Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice
With over 50 varieties to select from, it's hard to choose just one favourite shave ice topping, so get three or more. For a cool tropical favourite, combine mango and guava with passion orange, or try pineapple with coconut and lime for a sweet-tart delight. Pro tip: For a fast pick-me-up without the wait, visit the beachfront location at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort.
10. Maui Coffee Roasters
Maui's mountain and valley topography is ideal for creating a balanced cup of coffee, and visitors to Kahului's Maui Coffee Roasters will discover a delicious cup. From pour-overs to lattes, this eco-friendly roaster uses the finest beans from local farms. For a full dose of afternoon energy, get a housemade crab melt and combine it with a nitro cold brew.
Leave a Reply