Known as the “Valley Isle,” Maui is dotted with quaint towns, artist communities and local favorites that have been around for generations. Head to Wailuku for pastries from a “mom and pop” bakery, or head to Lahaina for a taste of Maui’s famed farm to table cuisine. From shimmering beaches and sacred Iao Valley to migrating humpback whales and sunset on Haleakala, it’s not surprising Maui was voted the “Best Island” by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler for 19 years.
Stand above a
sea of clouds high atop Haleakala. Watch a 45-foot whale breach off the
coast of Lahaina. Lose count of the waterfalls along the road as you
maneuver the hairpin turns of the Hana highway.
One visit and it’s easy to see why Maui is called “The Valley Isle.”
The second
largest Hawaiian island has a smaller population than you’d expect,
making Maui popular with visitors who are looking for sophisticated
diversions and amenities in the small towns and airy
resorts spread throughout the island.
From the scenic
slopes of fertile Upcountry Maui to beaches that have repeatedly been
voted among the best in the world, a visit to the Valley Isle recharges
the senses. But like every good magic trick,
you’ll have to see it for yourself to believe it.
SOUTH MAUI:
You’ll
find the sunniest, driest area of Maui on the peaceful southwestern
coast. Blessed with miles of sandy beaches
and clear views of the islands of Lanai, Molokini and Kahoolawe, South
Maui is a place for lazy days and romantic nights. Explore the immersive
underwater aquarium at the Maui Ocean Center in the whale-friendly
Maalaea Bay. Golf at world-class courses in Wailea
and Makena. Shop and dine in some of Maui’s finest restaurants and
resorts. Discover Maui’s warm hospitality on its spectacular southern
coast.
CENTRAL MAUI:
Most
visitors will begin their vacations here in Central Maui, arriving at
Kahului Airport. Home to much of the
island’s local community, Central Maui offers plenty of
off-the-beaten-path treasures to uncover. Browse the small town shops
and restaurants of Wailuku. Visit historic and sacred spots like Iao
Valley State Park. Discover Maui’s thriving arts community at
galleries and performance venues like the Maui Arts & Cultural
Center. Or explore the streets of Kahului for its unique variety of
shops, malls and restaurants. Experience the Magic Isle like a local in
Central Maui.
EAST MAUI:
The
lush, East Maui coast is famous for the winding road to Hana. Beginning
in the Central Maui city of
Kahului, the Hana Highway runs for 52 miles amongst waterfalls,
dramatic vistas and flowering rainforests. Hana itself is a small town
where Hawaiian traditions are alive and aloha is a way of life. Beyond
Hana is the Kipahulu section of Haleakala National
Park, the site of the beautiful Pools of Oheo. Go back in time with a
day-trip through unforgettable East Maui.
WEST MAUI:
The
sunny northwest coast of Maui was once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty
and the capitol of the Hawaiian
Kingdom. Today, West Maui is home to spectacular resorts, shopping,
restaurants, a wealth of activities and some of the most amazing sunsets
in the world.
The Honoapiilani Highway takes you from one sun-kissed resort to the next, each with its own personality. Traveling north from Maalaea and the Maui Ocean Center, your first stop is the historic whaling town of Lahaina. Rustic buildings recall its days as Hawaii’s busiest port, while bustling shops on Front Street and winter whale watching make it a favorite port of call for cruise ship passengers.
A few minutes more on the Highway and you’ll find yourself drawn into the vibrant Kaanapali Resort. Whether you’re staying in the area or just passing through, a stroll on the Kaanapali Beachwalk is always in order. Families play on the beach, shoppers buzz in and out, and diners sit back and simply soak in the view.
On this side of the island, resorts melt into one another, and it doesn’t take long to lead you to Kapalua, known for championship golf and private getaways. Here, the tone is a bit quieter, with understated elegance.
Despite their proximity to each other, and the other hotels nestled in between, there is one thing these resorts disagree on: which resort has the best sunset and the best view. The islands of Lanai and Molokai are just across the channel, and as the West Maui sun sets, its rays wrap around the islands washing the coastline in a magical glow. Which sunset is the best? You’ll have to find out for yourself.
UPCOUNTRY MAUI:
Rolling
hills and misty mountains unfold as cool breezes carry the scent of
eucalyptus throughout
Upcountry Maui. Located on the high elevations around Haleakala, the
fertile slopes of Upcountry are home to ranches, botanical gardens and
farms with soaring views.
From early times, Hawaiians farmed the volcanic soil of the Upcountry fields, growing taro and sweet potato. Today, take a farm tour in Kula and see how Maui produces the famous Maui onion and other fresh farm-to-table ingredients for Hawaii’s finest restaurants. Discover small town Makawao, home to the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) and a thriving art scene. And don’t forget to drive beyond Upcountry up to Maui’s highest peak to explore the rare flora and fauna of Haleakala National Park.
MAUI WEATHER:
Maui contains a number of microclimates. It is generally drier on Maui’s
leeward side where you’ll find the spectacular beaches and resorts of
Kapalua, Kaanapali, Lahaina, Kihei and Wailea along the western coast.
On the wetter windward side you’ll find lush
Iao Valley and the scenic road to Hana. It’s warmer along the coast
than Upcountry Maui where temperatures are typically 8-10 degrees
cooler. If you’re driving up to the 9,740-foot Haleakala Visitor Center
atop Haleakala National Park, expect temperatures
in the 40s or lower, so bring warm clothes.
There are generally two seasons in Maui. Winter (November through
April), when temperatures typically range in the low-70s to mid-80s, and
summer when the high can run into the low-90s. The trade winds keep you
comfortable year-round so any time of year is
a good time to visit Maui.
