Nature lovers pick Maui for its wildlife and dramatic landscapes, while active people come here for hiking, golfing and watersports. No matter what your interests are, Hawai‘i’s “Magic Isle” is a dream destination. The 80 or so beaches are inviting, the water is warm, the facilities are excellent and the countryside is lush.
Maui is serviced by Honolulu International Airport, and shortly after landing you can start exploring its capital Wailuku. This quaint commercial center is the gateway to the ‘Iao Valley and home to the Bailey House Museum.
If you visit in winter, travel west to historic Lahaina for whale-watching, or head northwest to Honolua Bay to watch surfers ride big barrel waves. Relax in award-winning resorts, such as Kaanapali Beach, to make the most of the island’s year-round warm weather.
In summer, when the water is calmer, enjoy snorkeling and diving off Kapalua Beach. Head south to Keawakapu to find a family-friendly beach, or spot green turtles at Maluaka and Wailea. Nearby Makena State Park has two distinct beaches and a volcanic crater. Set sail for the crescent-shaped Molokini crater island crater island for bird-watching, snorkeling or scuba diving.
From Makena, travel east and get above the clouds at the Haleakalā Crater (House of the Sun). Visit at dawn for one of the best views in the whole of the U.S. The diverse ecosystem of forest and volcanic rock that unfolds in front of you is where Maui originated. Explore Maui’s east coast and drive along the Hana Highway, an epic coastal journey with hairpin bends and old stone bridges. Stop off at waterfalls and swimming holes and visit the Garden of Eden Botanical Gardens and Arboretum to spot native and exotic plants.
A vacation in Maui can be expensive, but many people feel it is a small price to pay for paradise. Whether you are honeymooners seeking romance, families with energetic kids, couples looking to relax or youthful thrill-seekers, Maui shares its magic with everyone.
For more details on interesting local attractions and activities, check out our things to do on Maui page.