Maui Itinerary
Maui residents say, "Maui no ka oi"
which means Maui is the best. Maui's west
coast is filled with tourist resorts, hotels, and condo's but there are plenty of things
to do around the island. There are many golf courses on the
island, but we won't include golf in our suggestions because avid
golfers will always find ways and the time to fit in a round on the beautiful
island courses.
Day 1
Haleakala Crater. The world's largest dormant
volcano rises to 10,023-feet above sea level and is one of the world's great natural
wonders. Get there
early (leave your hotel around 3:00 a.m.) to see sunrise if you're up to it.
An alternative to driving roundtrip to the top of Haleakala for those
who like outdoor activities is to arrange with one of the local activity
vendors to bike down from the summit. They will pick you up at your
hotel and drive you to the top. Although it's a 38 mile ride down the
volcano, it isn't very strenuous because it's almost all down hill. See
Maui Sightseeing for
details.
On the way back down the volcano you may want to stop for breakfast or
brunch. We always enjoy the restaurant at Kula Lodge. From your table you have
a view of the West Maui mountains and the ocean on both sides of the island. You probably won't feel like doing
much after such an early start so plan on spending the day on the beach or shopping after
taking a nap.
 |
Windsurfing at Ho'okipa
|
Day 2
Iao Valley: dominated by Iao Needle which is green covered lava
rock rising 2,250 feet. There are gardens and a nature center at the
same location.
Ho'okipa Beach Park: It's fun to watch experts at the "windsurfing
capital of the world."
While on this side of the island you may want to explore and shop in Wailuku and
Kahului.
Day 3
Drive to Hana: The infamous road to Hana has been improved through the
years, but you should still set aside the entire day for the round trip. Consider
postponing your trip if it's raining because driving is more difficult and the scenery
will not be as vivid. This trip is all about the drive so stop often
at the many waterfalls and vista points. There isn't too much
to do when you get to Hana so take your time and enjoy the scenery on the
trip.
Oheo Gulch
(formerly known as the Seven Sacred Pools) is about ten rough, winding miles past
Hana. The area can become very crowded during early afternoon in the summer.
The grave of Charles Lindbergh is located nearby at Kipahulu.
Day 4
Sail to Lanai: Lanai cruises normally leave from Lahaina and take most of
the day, or from December through March take a whale watching cruise from
either Lahaina or Ma'alaea Harbor. Check the
tourist magazines for many options on either choice.
Lahaina: This is where you find an abundance of souvenir
shops, galleries, and restaurants. You can also pick up a free map and
take a self-guided tour of Lahaina's historic sites.
Day 5
Snorkel Molokini: Most trips to this popular off-shore island leave from
Ma'alaea Harbor. Cruises leave early in the morning before the ocean becomes choppy
and while snorkeling and diving conditions are best. The crescent shaped crater that
forms Molokini has an amazing variety of sea life.
Maui Ocean Center: This acquarium is located in Ma'alaea and you
can visit it after your snorkel trip to Molokini. It is the place to see Hawaii's
unique indigenous marine life in over 60 indoor and outdoor aquarium
exhibits including large open ocean and game fish, sharks, sea turtles,
sting rays, and much more. There are a number of restaurants in the
vicinity.
|
|
