You Really Need to Visit Maui

Seen from above, the two shield volcanoes that make up the island of Maui look like the head and torso of the well-loved demigod for whom the island is named.

Maui was a tricky fellow who is said to have stolen fire from its supernatural keepers, gifting to the mortals. He also captured the sun with a rope woven from his wifes tresses and slowed its path so that we could enjoy more hours of daylight on his beautiful island.

Modern visitors to this most magical of islands still reap the fruits of his labors by making the most of sunny tropical weather, where the temperature rarely dips below 65 degrees and the lush vegetation and colorful animal life just add to the feeling that they’ve just arrived in paradise.

This second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands is host to Haleakala, the largest dormant volcano in the world, at 10,023 feet tall. The summit of Haleakala National Park provides awe-inspiring views of five of the eight major islands. Watching the sunrise on the summit of Haleakala is an experience that visitors carry with them the rest of their lives.

Wainapanapa State Park is another wondrous natural adventure. Discover the black sand beaches, sea arch and caves for yourself. Every year from mid-December through mid-May pods of humpback whales make their way back to the waters surrounding Maui. The Kai Kanani will take you out to Molokini Island as you marvel at the grace of these peaceful giants.

The Whale Discovery Center at the Maui Ocean Center helps visitors understand the humpbacks strange and beautiful life cycle as it takes them from the frigid waters of the Artic to the warm and soothing seas around Maui and back again each year.

The natural beauty of Maui will surround and envelope you as you explore its endless beaches. Swim the calmer waters of the west shore, including Maalaea and Kaanapali.

Or head up to North Maui Ho’okipa for some of the best surfing, boogie boarding and windsurfing in the world. If youre looking for a little privacy, try Oneloa Beach, the last undeveloped beach on Maui s leeward side.

During a daily sun shower, duck into the Hana Cultural Center, a traditional Hawaiian village showcasing hundreds of artifacts and books and thousands of historical photographs.

The Maui Arts and Cultural Center is a 12-acre visual arts center and the Tedeschi Vineyards in the Upcountry offers tours of a unique pineapple wine vineyard. Dont forget to try a sample!

Dining is another fabulous adventure in Maui. It won’t take long before you run into the ever-popular plate lunch. Hawaii’s version of fast food, a plate lunch is inexpensive and perfect to take to one of the island’s breathtaking parks. Each shop’s plate lunch is unique, so stop in at a few shops during your explorations.

For something a little more upscale, try the Tropica Restaurant and Bar at the Westin Maui or Vino Italian Tapas & Wine Bar in Kapalua. Mango Cafe Grill & Bar offers a fabulous buffet on Sundays that includes both traditional Hawaiian fare and mainland comfort foods.

Maui isn’t just a visual and culinary delight, it’s also a shopper’s dream come true. Spend a few hours browsing for interesting island gifts at the Kapalua Shops, enjoy free Hawaiian entertainment while you shop at Queen Kaahumanu Center or do some power shopping in air-conditioned comfort at the Lahaina Cannery Mall.

Maui accommodations are just as diverse as its natural beauty and entertaining activities. Opt for an intimate and cost-conscious stay at one of the island’s lovely bed-and-breakfasts, choose from an array of luxurious condominiums or find relaxation or lots of opportunities to play whatever your pleasure at one of Maui’s golf resort hotels, spa resorts, beachfront hotels, family-friendly hotels or romantic accommodations perfect for honeymooners.

Another great option is to try a privately owned rental. There are a number of private owners who are willing to rent their home or condo. Many rental by owner websites are available to help you locate the perfect place to settle in for your stay in this little slice of heaven.

Like its mythological namesake, Maui Island is powerfully memorable and perfectly magical. Make it a part of your memories forever.

Great Maui Attractions for $25 Or Less

Maui, the valley isle, is expensive, but worth it. There are some great activities available on Maui that WON’T break the bank! They range from Under $25 to free. With options for the whole family from body surfing to free hula shows.

Try some of the following suggestions for a great and inexpensive time!

General: One great way to save money on Maui is to use the natural resources to your advantage!

Swimming – All 81 of Maui’s beaches are free and open to the public and many have showers, restrooms.
Snorkeling – You can take a few hours or a whole day exploring Maui’s sea life, up close and personal. Rent a set of gear from the Beach Shack and go on you own adventure!
Sunbathing – Maui is perfect for sun worshipers. You can sunbathe anywhere from sunrise to sunset. Don’t forget the sunscreen, though!
Sunsets – There is nothing more spectacular than a Maui sunset. Sip in a tropical drink (virgin or alcoholic) and enjoy Mother Nature’s finest work.
Reading – Bring your own reading material, or visit the historical public library and sit on the beach, by the pool or pick a nice shady spot.
Picnicking – There are many beach parks that have picnic tables and barbeque pits.
Stargazing – Hawaii’s seclusion allows you to view the night sky unobstructed by big city lights and tall buildings. You can even go to the top of Haleakala Crater to view the stars. Join a group, with electronic telescopes, or do it on your own.
Whale Watching – Watch the 400 humpback Whales that winter in Maui from the beach or your lanai.
Try Beachcombing – Find seashells at Kanaha Beach Park or Waiehee Beach.
Surf Watch – Watch the surfers from any shore.
Scuba Dive – Introductory and experienced divers can take part in a myriad of dive locations from Kaanapali to Makena.
Body Surf – Let the cool blue water of the Pacific Ocean move you as you body surf in some of the most spectacular locations.
Go Surfing – You can take a two hour surf lesson from an experienced instructor, or if you would rather just rent a board and head out on your own, there are many locations throughout Maui that can accommodate your needs and abilities.
LOCAL EVENTS – Maui is famous for Halloween (also called Mardi Gras of the Pacific), The Taro Festival, The Makawao Rodeo, The Maui County Fair. There are way to many fun things happening year round to list. Check our Calendar of events to see if anything is going on during your stay.
Playgrounds – Kihei’s Kamaole and Kalama Parks have free swings, slides, and jungle gyms.
Play Tennis – public courts in Wailuku, Kahului, Kihei, Lahaina, Makawao, Pukalani, Haliimaile, Hana.
Go Camping – Kanaha Beach, Hosmer’s Grove, Waianapanapa Park, Oheo Gulch.
Go Hiking – Haleakala, West Maui Mountains, over fifty trails.
Attend a Golf Tournament – Mercedes Championship (January), Ka’anapali Classic.
Hawaii’s largest collection of whaling artifacts from Lahaina’s whaling era, Short films on whaling and whales, photomurals, graphics, a large scrimshaw collection and gift shop. Free tours by a certified marine naturalist may be arranged. Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Free.

TIP: Whale watch for free from the shore, or get on a boat. You might be able to save money by combining 2 boat trips, like a Whale watch and a cocktail cruise.

Iao Valley & lao Needle

Iao Valley’s sheer green walls are adorned with long, slender waterfalls. It is one of the most awe-inspiring sights on Maui.
On the road up to it from Wailuku is the Tropical Gardens of Maui, 808/244-3085 http://www.tropicalgardensofmaui.com; open weekdays), where for $3 you can explore four acres of tropical plants, koi ponds, streams, and taro patches.
Further into the valley, you will find the nonprofit Hawaii Nature Center 808/244-6500, http://www.hawaiinaturecenter.org
Rainforest Walks can be booked at 11:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Cost for the Rainforest Walk is $24.95 for adults and $22.95 for children. The fee includes a visit to the museum.

Hana

Hana is much more than just a destination, rather what counts on this trip is the spectacular scenery. The east side of Maui is what you would picture Hawaii to be: lush, tropical beauty.
Pack a big lunch and stop at as many waterfalls freshwater pools as you can. There are many flower and fruit stands and if you have the opportunity, you must try the banana bread.

TIP: Check out Hana’s Red Sand Beach, which is a small crescent of sand in a collapsed volcanic dome. The snorkeling is unparalleled and you’ll often have the entire place to yourself.

Upcountry

Kula Botanical Gardens with more than 700 tropical plants on display with helpful tags explaining their types and uses.$4 adults, $1 kids 6-12 yrs.
A&B Sugar Museum: Learn about the sugar cane, its impact on Maui and the history of the industry. The museum is open daily from 9:00AM to 4:00 PM. Non-profit, $4.00 for adults, $2.00 for kids (17-6), under 6 free.
Tedeschi Vineyards on 20,000 acres of Maui’s Upcountry (near Ulupalakua) has been making their specialty Pineapple wine since 1974. The history of the winery goes back to the legendarily wild parties held here by King Kalakaua (aka the Merrie Monarch).
The historic Iao Theater (circa 1928), located in the old section of Wailuku, hosts theater events for enthusiastic local crowds, like splashy Broadway-style revues and musicals. Best of all are the non-Broadway prices: Tickets for most shows start at only $18 (68 N. Market St., Wailuku, 808/242-6969, http://www.mauionstage.com).

Central Maui

Swap Meet, Kahului – $1 per person (Saturdays) : The Maui Swap Meet blossoms every Saturday from seven in the morning until noon, with island items like aloha shirts, fresh taro, fruit breads, tropical flowers, and more-all for an entrance fee of only 50 cents. Located on South Pu’unene Avenue, next to the Kahului Post Office. For more fresh Maui produce, check out the free Ohana Farmers Market under the monkeypod trees at the Kahului Shopping Center every Wednesday morning.
The Maui Tropical Plantation, In Waikapu offers visitors an opportunity to learn about all of the plants that grow on Maui. The plantation offers free admission, but the tram tour is $8.50 adults and $3.50 children

Lahaina

Sugar Cane Train: although this trip is admittedly very touristy, the Sugar Cane Train from Lahaina to Ka’anapali is a pretty fun outing, along six miles of incredible scenery at the foot of the West Maui Mountains. The conductor even sings! You must note that there is no longer any sugar cane being grown on the West Side of Maui, but the golf Course views are just as pretty. A round trip costs $15.95 Adults, $9.95 Kids (3-12 yrs).
Friday Night is Art Night, Front Street. Lahaina Arts Society, Lahaina voluntary donation for exhibit gallery: The old whaling streets of Lahaina are now filled with outstanding art. The galleries open their doors Friday Nights so you can meet the artists. Many galleries offer appetizers and beverages.
There is a Complimentary Hawaiian Music and Hula Show, nightly held in the Tiki Courtyard of the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel. The show is open to the public the Hawaiian music is played from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and the hula show from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For Aloha Friday, there are local crafters making their products in the lobby and courtyard between 9 a.m. and noon, and at 11 a.m. on Fridays the staff gets involved by performing songs and hula, as well.
The three-acre Maui Ocean Center at Ma’alaea Harbor is more than just an aquarium, it is also a cultural experience, with an exhibit called “Hawaiians & the Sea,” which features the bonds of the Polynesians with the Pacific. The exhibit displays authentic hooks, traps, and nets. The guides at the Maui Ocean Center even refer to the sea creatures by their Hawaiian names. Tickets are $19 http://www.mauioceancenter.com. Contact the Online Concierge for tickets and more information.

Hula Shows

The Arts and Craft Fair at the Lahaina Civic Center is a great place to buy souvenirs to take home for your friends and family, or for yourself – Sunday $1 admission. A great place to save money on Hawaii – made products.
Take an Art Class at Kapalua Art School for adults and children, ages 4 ½ and up. Prices for classes range from $10 for ceramic painting to $110 for kids’ all day programs. The Kapalua Art School also offers Yoga and dance classes. See http://www.kapaluaart.com for a complete listing and schedule of classes.
Cliff Diving Ceremony, Sheraton Maui. This dramatic sunset show features a lone male diver lighting torches atop Black Rock, then plunging 100 feet into surging Pacific waves.

South Maui

Makena Beach (Big beach) is one of the largest and prettiest beaches on the island. Makena is the last major undeveloped beaches on the south side of the island. This beach is now a state park. People enjoy the soft white sand and crystal blue waters. From the right side of the beach, you can take a short walk to an outcrop, on the other side of the outcrop is Little Beach, hidden from the road and often used by nudists (which is illegal in Hawaii, by the way).
Walk the shoreline nature path between the Outrigger Wailea and the Kea Lani it also makes a great place for jogging.
Tour the Art & Sculpture at the posh and exotic Grand Wailea Resort, a tourist attraction, all on it’s own.
Go shopping at the Shops at Wailea (a shopper’s paradise).

Maui Vacation Homes in a Glance

The crown jewels of Hawaii, the Maui islands, are renowned in the world for their unspoiled beauty and for their popularity with world’s most hard to please guests. Maui island became a synonym for modern, environmentally conscious vacations.

The nature seems to have given its best to this part of the Hawaii, with Maui flourishing on the rich soil of volcanic origin and draining its energy from nearby hills which also protect the island from winds of Pacific. Long evening walks and the sun drowning into the Pacific, scenes matched only by Hollywood’s most romantic pictures. The total effect is just too appealing. Maui really casts the spell over its visitors.

This place has turned out to be one of the most popular vacation destinations for people from all over the globe. As a matter of fact, over two million people from the US and Canada alone visit this place annually. Maui really stands out in terms of popularity, luxury and attraction.

The consequence of popularity is skyrocketing interest in Maui vacation homes. They are ideal for those who want to cherish the beauty of this place without being hindered by any hassles of the world around us. Maui vacation homes can be found in populated Maui center as well as special vacation home communities which have been designed solely for the purpose of vacation home seekers.

For true relaxation with nothing but privacy all around you and with the all present touch of the beautiful nature, vacation homes alongside the beach should do the trick. Not everyone needs the privacy of a vacation home in Maui, but than again Maui vacation homes offer many advantages to those luxury hotels usually found on Maui.

There are so many things to do in Maui that you can hardly manage your events. Maui vacation homes are just what they promise to be, the facility that gets as close to that “home feeling” as possible. If you like to prepare your own meal, wash your own clothes, if you like to enjoy the luxury of your own apartment, Maui vacation homes have it all.

A special kind of hospitality and ambient can be experienced in top extravagance Maui vacation homes. Among others there are some mind blowing vacation homes in Maui, traditionally designed but equipped with high class furniture, spacious rooms, extraordinary beautiful surroundings, very own luxury bbq, swimming pool, xxl bathrooms, sauna, private club rooms with luxury furniture and mandatory billiard, to mention just few of the highlights.

Regardless how well equipped the true pizzazz to the overall experience is ensured through the beauty of the island itself. The island has thousands of interesting spots to offer and Maui vacation homes are always situated near one of them. When searching for the suitable vacation home, there is always clearly stated the distance to the sea, with luxury vacation homes in Maui this usually means a stone throw away from the beach.

Not only does the island itself offer many activities, the character of the Pacific climate makes Maui a Mecca for water sports especially wind-water sports. The Maui vacation homes come in a wide range of varieties. They are sure to meet your budget plans as well, however varied they be.

Tips on Maui Tours and Things to do in Maui

Planning a vacation to Hawaii? Planning a journey to Maui? Obviously, there must be so much you do not know, if you have never come to the tropical paradise. First you have to know your history, so here is a quick history lesson and then a couple of ideas a tourist might want to consider doing before leaving.

The state was admitted to the Union on August 21, 1959, making it the 50th state. The most recent census puts the state’s population at 1,211,53. Its capital is located in its major city, Honolulu on the island of Oahu. We aren’t discussing Oahu, and frankly this all typically a tourist will know of Hawaiian history, so onto Maui vacation planning.

Imagine your sitting in your beautiful Maui vacation rental sitting on Wailea Beach and your bored? Perhaps, we can discuss the various tours a tourist can embark on. There is so much beauty to see and such little time on a vacation. There are literally hundreds of Maui activities to choose from, so if you are a little overwhelmed, check out our air, land and sea activity.

Helicopter Tours in Maui:

Possibly, if you are the zealous traveler, you want to see everything as quickly as possible. Keep in mind, the highlights of both East and West Maui are equally jaw dropping. Helicopter tours tend to gratify the zealous traveler. Maui helicopter tours are united by conducting unique aerial trips of the complete island of Maui.

Head south to Haleakala, where you will get amazing views of the Haleakala crater, Molokini and Kaho’olawe. Visit the heights of Haleakala, exploring the moon-like terrains of this dormant volcano. Fly over Honokahau valley and the Northern end of Maui.

Flying above remote areas of Maui, you will see sights that there are no other ways to see. Air Maui Offers discounted Maui helicopter tours. ALEXAIR Helicopter Tours and Sunshine Helicopters, also can take you sightseeing on aerial tours of Maui. Bring your camera to capture all the highlights of your Maui helicopter tour.

Snorkeling in Maui:

Absolutely the best deal you might find on the Island is a two stop morning Molokini Maui snorkeling tour. The Frogman is a fifty five foot power catamaran that will get you to Molokini quickly for some of the best snorkeling Maui has to offer.

Limo-Van Tours:

If you like party vans then perhaps a Limo tour is what you want to use to explore the remote and see the uncommonly beautiful a places during your Maui vacation. Leave that Wailea condo and appreciate the value of time to fit more excitement and variety into each vacation day. 6-8 guests per Limo-Van, you will share your adventure with others as you explore the Hana coast for a hands-on tropical exploration.

During any limo van tour you can have a picnic on the exotic beaches of Hawaii or a meal at the Paia plantation. The advantage of the limo bus tours is you are able to see the beauty up close but not all of the Island.

Hiking Tours in Maui:

If you are a hiker or enjoy exploration and moving at a slower pace then explore the incredible Ka’eleku Cavern, One of Maui’s Greatest Natural Wonders! Walk through cool underground passages to view the colorful beauty and amazing formations of an ancient volcano, lava stalactites, stalagmites everywhere. Most of the cave is easy walking. There is no paved walkway throughout. You’ll have to duck down in a couple of spots & any crawling is optional for those wearing long pants.

If you want a hiking adventure the check out the “WILD Adventure” Cave Tour. No children on this tour (must be 15 years or older). Physically athletic only! You’ve got to crawl through a couple of tight spots and climb a ladder on this tour, but that’s just part of the fun.

Maui Vacation Activity for Kids:

In case you have smaller ones and want to make your Maui vacation tour fun. Then relax in an open-air coach whose nostalgic charm recalls the days of old Hawaii. Best known as the Sugar Cane Train, it adds a relaxing old fashion vibe to the Island getaway time.

Maui Horse Tours:

Speaking of old fashioned, travel around the island on Horseback riding tours. The horse tours actually offer some of the best panoramic views of Maui – from dramatic sea cliffs to rolling, lush green pastures. These tours aren’t just “trail rides”, you can actually ride the horse, which is a lot of fun!

Most tours offer beverages and snacks and some offer full lunches. Now it’s time to start planning while on the mainland otherwise you might get stuck in that Maui luxury vacation rental –worst case scenario you would have to hang out on the southern coast of Maui all day.

Winter Escape To The Hot Beaches Of Maui

Even though an avid road trip planner can still find plenty of road trips to take in the winter, after four months of a gray-sky backdrop, many start hankering for some fun in the sun and just don’t want to wait another four months for the climate to catch up to desire. So hop aboard a plane to Maui, rent a cool car like an SUV or Jeep and begin your road trip with nothing but blue skies overhead. There are three destinations in the United States where you’ll find warm sandy beaches during the winter and only one of them is accessible by car: Florida Keys, Hawaii and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The bonus for visiting these hot spots is that you don’t need a passport to get there. There’s something sinfully delicious about escaping the chilling rain and snow and stealing away to the warm tropics. It’s more than a sneak preview, it’s telling the local weather, “You’re not the boss of me!” So pull off your gloves and warm up your fingers by adding entries to your road trip planner for a great escape that’ll have you basking in the sun while others back home are bracing for yet another chilly day. Here are a few fun-in-the-sun recommendations to get you started. – NORTH SHORE – North Shore action centers around Paia and the popular windsurfing found in Hookipa Beach. A seemingly endless expanse of deep blue water, white rock and crashing waves, this beach has been called the windsurfing capital of the world and is popular with daredevil surfers as well. However, it is not recommended that you swim here. The surf is gorgeous, but dangerous and below the waves are sharp coral reefs. Paia the starting point for the Road to Hana. This serpentine 55-mile drive offers jaw dropping views of the coastline as well as lush rain forest niches and picture perfect waterfalls. Make a note on your road trip planner that, at about the 32-mile marker, you’ll find the exquisite Waianapanapa State Park. This park includes this gem of a black sand beach, great for swimming and will probably provide some of your best photographic moments. The park is rich with Hawaiian history and stairs will lead you to an icy cave pool, the secret hiding spot of a Hawaiian princess. It’s 122 acres big, so there’s plenty to keep you occupied for the entire day. Red Sand Beach is has a small cove great for snorkeling as well. – SOUTH SHORE – The South Shore gets more than its fair share of sun and thus, you’ll find a multitude of fine beaches here. Check out the world famous, Maui Ocean Center at the Maalaea Harbor. You’ll find lots of local flavor at Kihei, and popular resort activities at Wailea. Further south, make sure you explore Haleakala National Park. But since it’s beaches that brought you to Maui, here’s a few top beaches to add to your road trip planner: Makena State Park, a long stretch of golden sand. Visited often by dolphins and turtles. Go to Cove Beach Park off Kihei Road if you want to surf…or learn how to! Or have a blast sitting on the grass watching others surf…or learning to! Wailea Beach is a great place for a relaxing swim and snorkeling. – WEST MAUI – Steep cliffs separate West Maui from the rest of the Island. Here’s where you’ll find the popular whaler community of Lahaina, the largest city on Maui and the gateway to the famous Kaanapali and Kapalua beach resorts north of town. This is where you’ll probably do most of your souvenir shopping but a couple of beaches of note are: Napili Bay, a few miles south Kapalua, is a round, turtle filled bay in a perfect white crescent stretch of beach. Sunbathing, swimming, kid-friendly and a favorite sunset watching spot. Kapalua Bay Beach, off Kapalua Place, is considered one of the world’s best beaches by travel magazines. Walk through the tunnel and your eyes fall upon a pristine bay, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. Upon your return, your tan will remind you daily that it’s always sunny somewhere and there’s no reason your road trip planner can’t take you there.

Hawaii Vacation With the Top Maui Show Activities and Best Dining Places