One of the ten-karat gems in the emerald Hawaiian island chain, Maui has the beaches, lush tropical foliage, volcanic vistas and shopping that makes sunset over a Mai Tai so rewarding. Western Maui serves miles after miles of sea and sand garnished with palm-trees, perfect for strolling, sunning and an afternoon snorkel. The West Maui Mountains soar up as a suitably majestic backdrop, with equally rewarding views from their heights.
While away a lazy day in Lahaina contemplating local art, hunting down mementos and engaging in the feast otherwise known as an evening luau and then spend the next few days exploring the top-rated beaches stretching north from Lahaina to Kapalua working off the luau.
The isthmus linking West Maui to the East is home to many of Maui's year-round residents and a winding ride down from the West Maui Mountains. Most visits to Maui begin in Kahului airport, but beaches just a short flight-path away are a good way to get your first taste of ocean breezes after airplane air. Embark on a fishing trip, a whale-watching adventure, a pleasure cruise or a snorkelling expedition from Lahaina or Maalaea Bay—or just soak-up some salt-air dock side writing postcards.
East Maui is hard to miss for the big mountain mass of Haleakala. Surfers and sail-boarders frequent the beaches along the mountain's eastern flanks below the twists and turns of the road to Hana. Follow the winding route around the base of the mountain past Hana for waterfalls, beautiful pools and finally, access to the road up Haleakala. Step out at the summit for spectacular views, and then take a little exercise with your fresh air on the trail down. Stop in Wailea for a round of golf before diving in to explore the submerged volcano, Molokini, just off-shore. Snorkel or scuba here with fish, eels, turtles and dolphins before returning to land and comparably bright light of another sunny Maui day.
The island of Maui is a 35-minute flight west of the 'Big Island', Hawaii. Ferries run from Lahaina to the Islands of Lanai and Molokai.
