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Maui, called the Valley Isle, was formed by two volcanos. The West Maui Mountains are an older, extinct volcano, whose eroded crags created Iao Needle and Iao Valley.
Haleakala, a currently dormant volcano, rises over 10,000 feet into the clouds with a crater big enough to swallow all of Manhattan.
Maui is known for its warm sand beaches and regularly wins best in the world. When you come, be sure to reserve at least a day just for hanging out at the beach, sunning and swimming.
From December to May, Maui is home to the humpback whales who come to give birth to their young. If you are here during that time, be sure to take a snorkel cruise, dinner cruise or whale watch. No matter what kind of cruise you take, your captain will make sure you see these huge creatures jumping and splashing in the ocean.
Maui's luaus are spectacular and range from the intimate, gourmet Feast at Lele (not to be missed if you can afford it) to fun luaus at the various hotels. An inexpensive but exciting, big show is the Royal Lahaina Luau...especially good if you have kids.
Snorkeling the marine preserve around the tiny islet of Molokini (remnants of a volcanic crater in the sea) is one of the most popular activities. Visit Seafire Snorkling and check out Captain Don's Seafire Snorkling Cruise on our Maui links.
You can also see dolphins who hang out by the island of Lanai or on the South coast of Maui near La Perouse.
Maui must have the most gourmet restaurants per population as anywhere in the world. It is the birthplace of Pacific Rim Cuisine which uses many of the French Cuisine techniques but significantly lightens it with fresh vegetables, fruits and freshly caught fish with an Asian flair. Your mouth will be so happy you brought it to Maui!
You have never tasted such fresh fish as we get on Maui. The fishermen bring it directly to the restaurants in small boats. It never stays out to sea for days like the mainland fish does.
The Road to Hana is a popular tourist attraction. This winding road has 52 one-lane bridges and at almost every one of them you'll see a tropical waterfall. You'll pass through tropical forests, bamboo groves, see uninhabited coastline and be able to stop at numerous roadside parks for short hikes.
Remember that our Hana people commute to and from work on this road so when someone comes up behind you, pull over at the first safe spot so they can pass. Be sure to give everyone who yields to you the "shaka" (hang-loose hand sign) People on the Road to Hana are friendly and you can add a little aloha to their day by waving back and smiling. |