Facts: Population 117,644, Area 727 sq. miles
The "Magic Isle" produces sugar, pineapple, cattle and horses. The 10,023-foot Haleakala is the largest dormant volcano crater in the world. Lahaina was Hawaii's capital before 1845, and still has some of the atmosphere of an old whaling town. Nearby are the Kaanapali and Wailea resort areas and golf courses. Hana and Iao Valley draw many visitors.
Flower: Lokelani (Pink Cottage Rose)
Island Color: Pink
1. Molokini Island
2. Lahaina
3. Maui Nature Center
4. Maui Ocean Center
5. Hana
6. Haleakala Crater
7. Kapalua
8. Kaanapali
9. Wailea
10. Makena
Photo courtesy of Ron Dahlquist
Molokini Island
A popular dive spot, Molokini is a partially submerged, inactive volcano and nature preserve off the Maui coast. One of the best diving spots, Molokini's underwater life is home to kikakapu (lemon butterfly fish), puhi (eel), honu (sea turtle), hahalua (manta ray), mano (reef shark), orange cup coral and a whole lot of marine life. During winter months, scuba divers can hear the haunting songs of humpback whales.
Photo courtesy of Ron Dahlquist
Lahaina: A National Historic District
Once the capital of Hawaii, Lahaina was the largest whaling port of the Pacific during the 1800s. Today, it's a National Historic District with restored buildings, museums, missionary homes and a replica of a 19th century whaling ship - not to mention fun places to eat and shop along the historic waterfront.
Maui Nature Center
The Hawaii Nature Center’s Rainforest Walk is woven through ancient footsteps of the Alii (Hawaiian Royalty) through the Iao Valley. After crossing Iao Stream, visitors pass by a live Taro patch and an old village site where evidence of 'terraces' can be found. Guided tours describe life as it may have been lived by native Hawaiians and help to identify plants and wildlife. Be sure to visit the Interactive Nature Museum.
Photo courtesy of Ron Dahlquist
Maui Ocean Center
Check out the marine life at The Maui Ocean Center without ever getting wet! This is best place to get nose-to-nose with 2,000 fish and even sharks that can be viewed safely through the clear acrylic tunnel of a 750,000-gallon tank. You can explore the stingray cove, turtle lagoon or get a hands-on encounter with starfish, sea urchin or sea cucumber in the "touch" pond. From mid-December through May, over 1,000 whales come to Hawaiian waters to give birth.
Hana
Hana is a quaint little town on Maui’s northeast side. To get there, you’ll take a long, windy drive down the famous “Road to Hana,” where drivers can take in some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet. Be sure to visit Hana’s beautiful beaches: Hamoa Beach, Koki Beach, and Waianapanapa State Park.
Photo courtesy of Ron Dahlquist
Haleakala Crater
As the world's largest dormant volcano rising 10 000 feet above sea level, Haleakala's landscape looks a lot like the moon! You'll have to be up extra early to see the sunrise, but it'll be worth it as you stand at the crater's summit where you'll see a rainbow of colors as the sun peeks through the clouds - it's a totally awesome experience! Look for the rare silversword plants and endangered Hawaiian nene goose that live at the "house of the sun
Kapalua
Located on the island’s northwestern shoulder, Kapalua begins and ends in two spectacular nature preserves. In between, you’ll find an abundance of beach activities and some of the best golf in the world. It’s no surprise that the prestigious Mercedes Championships are held in Kapalua each year. Kapalua is just minutes away from Kaanapali and the whaling town of Lahaina. Kapalua Airport, a small commuter airport, allows visitors to fly in directly to West Maui.
Kaanapali
On Maui’s west coast, Kaanapali encompasses some of the best shoreline, shopping and golf action available. Sunbathers and snorkelers share in the large expanse of white sand beach and pristine waters. To take a break from the sun, Whalers Village offers fine dining and shopping galore, while its free Whale Museum provides an educational spin. Golfers delight in two excellent courses, one designed by Robert Trent Jones and the other by Jack Snyder.
Wailea
Nestled along Maui’s spectacular southern coastline, Wailea is home to world-class resorts, nationally acclaimed beaches, challenging golf courses and first-rate dining and shopping venues. The Wendy’s Champions Skins Game is held in beautiful Wailea and brings together some of today’s top golfers. Wailea beaches are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Check out Mokapu Beach Park, Polo Beach Park, Ulua Beach Park and Wailea Beach (named “America’s Best Beach” in 1999).
Makena
At the southern end of Wailea, Makena is the perfect place for working on your swing – or your tan. The North and South Makena courses, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., showcase 1800 acres of breathtaking landscape. Makena Beach State Park is home to Big Beach, which is considered the ideal spot for sunbathing and swimming. Nearby Maluaka Beach is a good place to spot green sea turtles, but please observe the turtles from a respectful distance.
