Maui - The Magic Isle
DID YOU KNOW? The Hana Highway on Maui is named as one of the World's Greatest Scenic Roads by National Geographic Traveler Magazine.
Fast Facts
Size: 727 square miles, 2nd largest of the islands
Coastline: 120 miles
Distance from Oahu: 70 miles
Highest Elevation: 10,023 feet (Haleakala)
Population: 120,000
Number of Golf Courses: 15
Main towns & resorts: Kahului, Lahaina, Wailea
Island colour: Pink
Nickname: The Valley Isle & The Magic Isle
Maui, the second youngest of the chain of Hawaiian Islands, is the most popular holiday island and is known as "the world´s greatest playground".
Legend has it the island is named after the demigod, Maui, who harnessed the sun from on top of the island's highest peak, Haleakala, in order to slow its progress across the heavens. You can visit the spot today and watch the sun rise over some of Maui's most beautiful terrain.
Looking over the central plains you see Maui's other dormant volcanic mountain, Kahalawi. Beneath it,on the south western shore, is the historic whaling town and former royal capital of Hawaii, Lahaina, around which the island's best known holiday location, Ka'anapali, has developed. Today, Lahaina retains much of its old world charm while offering a collection of shops, art galleries, entertainment and restaurants.
The central valley between the two mountain peaks is anchored by the bustling commercial centre of Kahului. This is home to the Maui Arts and Cultural Centre and to the Queen Ka'ahumanu Shopping Centre, the largest in Maui but fairly low-key by international standards, so don't expect to indulge in a huge spending spree!
The south coast of the island is beach-lined and where you will find the resort areas of Kihei, Wailea and Makena, all with gentle waters perfect for swimming. To the east are forested mountains and countless waterfalls. A great day trip is to take the road to Hana along the north east coast. Though called a 'highway' parts of the road are quite narrow reducing to single lane in some place. It is internationally recognised for its marvellous mountain and ocean views but is just as famous for its serpentine route.
The slopes below Haleakala are where you'll find the grassy ranch lands and flower farms of upcountry Maui. The views across the large family-owned ranches are sublime. You may even spot a genuine Hawaiian paniolo (cowboy) who share the beautiful area with the many artists who have settled here. This is a glorious area to explore on horseback.
Maui's Highlights:
'Iao Valley - On the northern side of Mauis' central valley head into the mountains and Iao Valley. It is notable for its pristine mountain stream and the Iao Needle, a dramatic green-covered rock face rising more than 100 stories from the valley floor. Learn about the ancient battles that took place here and marvel at the terrain the natives had to overcome to survive. On your way in, stop at the Hawaii Nature Centre to learn more about Maui's natural history.
Kaanapali Beach - one of Maui's most popular and best beaches close to the town of Lahaina. Snorkelling, swimming, catamaran sailing, deep sea fishing, dinner cruises and during the season, whale watching, are all popular pastimes.
Lahaina - is a National Historic District. Once the royal capital of Hawaii and later a rowdy whaling port, Front Street now boasts an array of little shops, museums, art galleries and restaurants. Pop in to the Baldwin Home to see what life must have been like for the early missionaries and make sure to check out the single, massive banyan tree that takes up a whole block!
Molokini - is a natural crater, a horseshoe shaped outcrop three miles off Maui's coast at Makena, famous for snorkelling and scuba diving. Full day and half day tours depart from the small boat harbours at Ma'alaea and Lahaina.
Haleakala National Park - Enjoy the scenic drive to the Haleakala Crater, stopping at one of the 3 visitor centres for information. Make the trip early enough and be rewarded with a spectacular sunrise seen from above the clouds.
Hana - the Hana Highway on Maui's north east coast ranks as the most spectacular coastal drive in Hawaii and it is wort allocating a full day to enjoy it properly. It can be a bit hair-raising wit more than 600 twists and turns and 54 bridges, some only single lane, but the views will be sufficient reward. The road weaves its way through lush rainforests, dense bamboo groves and fern-covered hillsides. You can opt to stop and stretch your legs on short trails and at historic sites en route. Discover white and black sand beaches as well as waterfall-fed pools for a cooling swim. Dog lovers should keep an eye out for the sandwich shop at which you can pick up a packed lunch and borrow a dog to bring out with you for the day!
Click here for information on accommodation in Maui.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hawaii Island Information
Between November and April all eyes are on the water for the annual return of an estimated 4,000 majestic humpback whales that make Maui's warm waters their winter home.
Great Value Hawaii in 2010!If we find cheaper prices on your travel dates we'll pass the savings on to you!
|
