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Maui
Hawaii
Visit Maui
Maui, the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, is a world-renowned destination that offers a spectacular blend of lush landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. Known as the "Valley Isle," due to the great valley that lies between its two major volcanoes, Maui boasts a variety of environments and experiences, from the volcanic landscapes of Haleakalā National Park to the luxurious beach resorts of Wailea and Kaanapali. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Maui provides an unforgettable backdrop for all kinds of activities.
One of Maui's must-visit destinations is Haleakalā National Park, where visitors can witness an awe-inspiring sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā volcano. Standing over 10,000 feet above sea level, the summit offers panoramic views of the island and a glimpse into the unique volcanic landscapes that shaped Maui. For those who prefer the sea to the sky, snorkeling at Molokini Crater offers a vibrant display of marine life in a partially submerged volcanic crater just off the coast. The clear waters and abundant coral reefs make this a perfect spot for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers.
Apart from its natural beauty, Maui is also rich in cultural experiences. The historic town of Lahaina provides a glimpse into Hawaii's past as a former royal capital and a whaling village. Today, its bustling Front Street is lined with shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Every Friday, Lahaina hosts an Art Night, where galleries open their doors to show the work of local artists. Additionally, a visit to Maui is not complete without attending a traditional luau, where guests can enjoy Hawaiian music, dance, and food, providing a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions.
For those who enjoy scenic drives, the Road to Hana is one of the most famous routes in the world, known for its stunning ocean views, waterfalls, and lush rainforest. The drive itself is a leisurely journey, meant to be savored with numerous stops along the way to explore hidden beaches, hike to waterfalls, and visit botanical gardens. Each turn in the road brings a new surprise, from roadside stands selling fresh coconut water and banana bread to panoramic lookouts over the Pacific. Maui's diverse landscapes and vibrant culture make it a destination that offers something for every traveler, ensuring that a visit to the island is an enriching and memorable experience.
Maui Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
64°F
79°F
11
February
64°F
81°F
11
March
64°F
81°F
11
April
64°F
81°F
11
May
64°F
82°F
11
June
68°F
84°F
11
July
71°F
86°F
11
August
70°F
86°F
3
September
70°F
86°F
9
October
68°F
84°F
11
November
64°F
81°F
11
December
64°F
81°F
11
Need to Know Before You Go To Maui
Nickname:
The Valley Isle
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
Pacific/Honolulu
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A and Type B
Annual Visitors:
Over 2 million
Primary Export:
Sugar
Busiest Travel Months:
December, January, February
Quietest Travel Months:
October, September, May
Find your Next Adventure in Maui
Explore Maui
Iconic Landmarks
Haleakalā National Park
This national park is home to Haleakalā Volcano, which stands at over 10,000 feet above sea level. Visitors can witness an unforgettable sunrise or sunset from the summit, explore the volcanic landscapes, and enjoy the native flora and fauna.
Road to Hana
This famous scenic drive stretches along Maui's northeastern coastline, featuring 620 curves and 59 bridges. The journey offers stunning views of waterfalls, rainforests, and the ocean. Key stops include the Garden of Eden Arboretum, Wai'anapanapa State Park, and Hana town.
Iao Valley State Park
Known for its lush greenery and historical significance, this park is home to the iconic Iao Needle, a natural rock pinnacle rising 1,200 feet from the valley floor. The park is also a site of great cultural importance as it was the location of the Battle of Kepaniwai.
Lahaina Historic Town
Once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and a historic whaling village, Lahaina is now a lively destination with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Don't miss the large banyan tree in the town square, planted in 1873, which covers an entire city block.
Molokini Crater
This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater is located off the southern coast of Maui and is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The clear waters and rich marine life make it a must-visit for underwater enthusiasts.
Waianapanapa State Park
Situated along the Road to Hana, this park features a beautiful black sand beach, sea caves, natural stone arches, and ancient Hawaiian burial sites. It's an excellent spot for photography, hiking, and soaking in the natural beauty of Maui.
Cultural Experiences
Old Lahaina Luau
Often considered the most authentic Hawaiian luau for visitors, the Old Lahaina Luau offers a traditional Hawaiian feast along with performances that showcase Hawaiian music, dance, and history. It's a great way to experience Hawaiian culture and learn about the island's traditions.
Haleakalā National Park
While primarily known for its breathtaking landscapes and sunrise views, Haleakalā National Park also offers a deep dive into the native Hawaiian culture and its connection to the natural world. Participate in guided walks and talks by park rangers who explain the cultural significance of the area.
ʻĪao Valley State Park
This park is not only a natural paradise but also a place of great historical significance. It was the site of the Battle of Kepaniwai, where King Kamehameha clashed with Maui's army in his quest to unite the Hawaiian Islands. The park's lush scenery and the iconic ʻĪao Needle provide a beautiful backdrop for learning about Maui's history.
Maui Ocean Center
This aquarium offers insights into the marine life of Hawaii but also emphasizes the cultural connections to the ocean that are a big part of Hawaiian life. The center includes exhibits and programs that highlight the role of the ocean in Hawaiian culture and the traditional practices of navigation and fishing.
Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concerts
Slack Key Guitar (Kiho'alu) is a unique style of guitar playing that originated in Hawaii. Attending one of these concerts can give you a taste of Hawaii's musical traditions and the stories they carry.
Maui Historical Society & Bailey House Museum
Located in Wailuku, this museum is housed in a historic 19th-century home and offers a glimpse into the life of 19th-century Hawaiians and the missionaries who lived on the island. The museum's collection includes Hawaiian artifacts, paintings, and furnishings, providing a comprehensive overview of Maui's cultural and historical heritage.
Outdoor Adventures
Road to Hana
This is perhaps the most famous drive in Maui, known for its stunning vistas, waterfalls, and lush rainforest. The winding road covers about 64 miles with over 600 curves and 59 bridges. Along the way, you can stop at various points to enjoy scenic lookouts, hike through bamboo forests, and visit black sand beaches.
Haleakalā National Park
Visiting this national park is a must for its breathtaking landscapes that range from stark volcanic terrains to lush subtropical rainforests. You can hike the trails, watch a mesmerizing sunrise or sunset from the summit, and explore the unique flora and fauna.
Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater is located off the southern coast of Maui and is a renowned spot for snorkeling and diving. The clear waters and rich marine life make it an ideal spot for underwater adventure.
Ziplining
Experience Maui’s lush landscapes from above by ziplining through its forests. There are several zipline tours available that cater to all levels of adventurers, offering stunning views of the island’s natural beauty.
Hiking in Iao Valley State Park
Known for its iconic Iao Needle, this lush valley offers scenic hiking trails that take you through rich greenery and historical sites. It’s a great place for a leisurely hike and to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area.
Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding
With its calm and clear waters, Maui is perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. You can paddle along the coastlines, enjoying views of the West Maui Mountains or the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai. This is also a great opportunity to spot marine life like turtles and dolphins.
Off the Beaten Path
La Perouse Bay
Located at the end of Makena Alanui Road, La Perouse Bay is a beautiful and less frequented area known for its rugged lava landscapes, created by the last eruption of Mount HaleakalÄ in the 1790s. It's a great spot for snorkeling, seeing dolphins, and exploring coastal trails.
Nakalele Blowhole and the Acid War Zone
The Nakalele Blowhole, located on the northern tip of Maui, offers a spectacular natural water show. Nearby, the lesser-known Acid War Zone features surreal rock formations and tide pools, formed by volcanic activity and ocean erosion. The area is less crowded and offers stunning photo opportunities.
Kahakuloa Village
This remote village on the northwestern side of Maui is accessed via a narrow, winding road that many tourists tend to avoid. The village offers a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian life and features quaint shops, local eateries like Julia's Banana Bread, and beautiful views of the cliffs and ocean.
Wai'anapanapa State Park's Black Sand Beach
While the black sand beach itself can draw tourists, the larger park offers many trails and hidden spots that are less explored. You can find blowholes, sea arches, and ancient Hawaiian burial sites, all within a relatively secluded setting.
Keone'o'io Bay (Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve)
South of Wailea, this protected marine area offers excellent snorkeling and diving in crystal clear waters, with a chance to see a variety of marine life in a less crowded environment compared to more popular spots like Molokini.
Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls
Located past Hana in the Kipahulu section of HaleakalÄ National Park, this trail is often overlooked by those who don't venture beyond the famous Road to Hana. The trail offers a stunning hike through a bamboo forest leading up to the impressive Waimoku Falls, a 400-foot high waterfall.
Maui Fun Facts
Maui, the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, is a destination rich in culture, natural beauty, and unique geological features. Here are the top 10 fun facts about Maui, HI:
- The Road to Hana
One of the most famous drives in the world, the Road to Hana is a 64.4-mile-long stretch with 620 curves and 59 bridges, many of which are only one lane. This scenic drive offers stunning views of waterfalls, rainforests, and the coastline.
- Haleakalā National Park
Home to the Haleakalā Volcano, which stands 10,023 feet above sea level, this national park is known for its breathtaking sunrises and unique landscape. The summit area resembles a moonscape and is very different from the lush tropical scenery commonly associated with Maui.
- Whale Watching
Maui is one of the best places in the world to watch humpback whales. Every winter, from December to April, these majestic creatures migrate from Alaska to the warm waters of Hawaii to breed and give birth.
- Lahaina’s Banyan Tree
Planted in 1873, the banyan tree in Lahaina is the largest in the United States. It covers an entire city block and is a popular spot for photos, gatherings, and art fairs.
- Pipiwai Trail
Located above the Seven Sacred Pools, this trail is one of the best hikes in Maui. It leads through a bamboo forest and past several waterfalls, including the impressive 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
- Maui Ocean Center
This facility is the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, offering a glimpse into Hawaii’s underwater ecosystems without having to get wet.
- Molokini Crater
This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater is located off the coast of Maui and is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. The waters around Molokini are incredibly clear, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet.
- Maui’s Winery
At an elevation of 2,000 feet, the Ulupalakua Ranch is home to Maui’s only winery, which is known for its unique pineapple wine among other traditional grape wines.
- Iao Valley State Park
Known for its lush greenery and the iconic Iao Needle, which rises 1,200 feet from the valley floor, this park is steeped in natural beauty and historical significance, having been the site of a pivotal battle in the unification of the Hawaiian Islands.
- Ho'okipa Beach Park
Renowned as a windsurfing capital of the world, Ho'okipa is also a great place to watch surfers and occasionally sea turtles, which can often be seen resting on the beach.
Featured Picture Gallery
Explore the Lush Landscape of Maui to Find Beautiful Waterfalls
Experience the Rainbows You Have Seen on Hawaiian License Plates
View the Crystal Clear Waters Off of the Maui Coastline
Maui's Waters are Full of Humpack Whales in January
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