Imagine a map of the world, the Pacific Ocean... That’s where the Hawaiian Islands are located, which is a fairly large archipelago. One of the most beautiful islands on our planet is located here - the island of Maui. What is he famous for? Of course, natural landscapes and picturesque places. Beaches and canyons, mountains and tall waterfalls - this is what visitors remember about the island.
But, perhaps, its main attraction is its beautiful gardens, in the parks of which “Jurassic Park” was filmed.
About fifty different plants became inhabitants of the botanical garden of the island of Maui.
Aloha and welcome to the island of Maui, where the islanders' sense of pride is expressed in the island's unofficial slogan: "Maui no ka oi," which means "Maui is the best." Maui, a "magical island" and "valley island" with stunning scenery where quiet towns rub shoulders with upscale resorts, has something special to offer for everyone. An unforgettable vacation is guaranteed here!
You can spend time on the shores of the largest harbour, in the bustling port of Lahaina, formerly a whaling center and now a city with attractive art galleries, exotic restaurants and unique shops that rarely close early.
Whether your desire is for a secluded getaway in nature or city nightlife, Maui has it all. Lovers of water and hills will enjoy a wide variety of opportunities - a variety of hiking routes and attractions, as well as recreation on the water.
The island's 1,882 km2 area is enough to spark the imagination of any adventurer. Maui combines sophistication with beauty in a way unique to other islands. The West Coast is home to world-class resorts for anyone looking to pamper themselves. Maui is also home to a dozen golf schools founded by legendary players such as Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer. By contrast, you can drive along the east coast of Maui and feel like you've traveled back in time. Here is the secluded town of Hana with picturesque landscapes, waterfalls and attractions.
Maui is the second largest island of the Hawaiian archipelago with a population of 120,000 people. The tropical climate on the island is quite comfortable with an average annual temperature of approximately 23.8-29.4 C at sea level. Trade winds carry rain clouds towards the northern end of the island, leaving the southern part drier.
Maui is sometimes called the "Valley Island" because of the huge area of lush vegetation that connects the island's two volcanoes - Puu Kukui to the west and Haleakala, or "house of the Sun", to the east. Maui offers a variety of landscapes: inland lowlands, steep mountain slopes, gentler slopes and high mountain peaks.
At an altitude of more than 914 m, you can notice that the air has become drier and the temperature has dropped significantly. Due to intermittent terrain, weather data such as cloud level, precipitation, temperature and wind speed can vary significantly even over short distances. For example, in Haleakala National Park alone you can find 7 different climate zones.
Haleakala Crater
Haleakala Crater, the peak of the eastern volcano, is located at an impressive height of 3,055 m above sea level. This peak is famous for its amazing sunset views, which may seem nothing less than a miracle to some. If you're visiting the island, set aside at least one day to explore the largest dormant volcano in the world.
Kaanapali
A 4.8 km stretch of beach on Maui's west coast is called Ka'anapali, a historically and culturally significant site. Here you can visit Black Mountain (Puu Kekaa), a sacred place in Hawaiian mythology - according to legend, here the souls of the dead pass from the world of people to the world of spirits. In the southern part of Kaanapali is the picturesque village of Whalers Village with an open-air market and a dozen different shops and restaurants. Enjoy an unforgettable ride on the Sugar Cain Train from Ka'anapali to Lahaina and back.
Road to Hana
Drive along the stunning 88km road to truly appreciate the island's varied landscapes, across bridges and along bamboo groves, up hillsides, past fruit trees and fabulous native flowers. The city of Hana is a good reward for such a long journey. Spend the rest of your time lounging on one of Hana's beaches, go to the Hana Cultural Center or visit Rachno Hana - or you can choose any other entertainment that the city has to offer.
Molokini Island
Molokini Island is located near Maui and is shaped like a crescent moon. By its origin, it is an underwater volcano that has been inactive for several decades. The island is well known to lovers of underwater recreation because of the bright and colorful inhabitants of the underwater world, the status of the island as a national reserve and whales.
Ocean Center Maui
The Maui Ocean Center is a great place for those interested in the underwater life of Maui and other islands of the Hawaiian archipelago. Here you can see more than a thousand ea (fish species) in a huge aquarium with a capacity of about 3 million liters! Children are simply delighted to watch their favorite animals: turtles, stingrays and starfish.
Whale watching
Not many people know that the waters around Hawaii are home to thousands of humpback whales between December and April. These huge mammals migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to the warmer waters of this region of the Pacific Ocean to breed. The whales prefer the secluded space of the Auau Channel between the islands of Maui and Lanai. Kaanapali Park is the most popular place to observe these amazing 40-ton creatures.
Why is Maui a unique place?
The island of Maui is ideal for those who seek maximum variety in their vacation, who love the opportunities of a huge city, but value privacy and enjoy exploring the unique and diverse nature. For example, you can enjoy a massage in the morning at one of Maui's beautiful resorts, head to the mountains for an unforgettable hike in the afternoon, and end the day with delicious Hawaiian cuisine.
The island of Maui is for romantics, tourists and adventurers - anyone who wants to experience the advantages of the big and small islands: Maui combines the vibrancy and tranquility of both. For many, Maui may be “just right.”
Lying between Hawaii and Molokai, the island of Maui (1883 sq. km - the second largest in the archipelago) is the only Polynesian island that received its name in honor of a deity (usually such a technique is taboo, but here the case is special - the great sailor Hawailoa first named his son in honor of God, and then an island in honor of his son). Formed by two huge extinct volcanoes - Haleakala (literally "House of the Sun", 3055 m) in the east and Maui (1720 m) in the west, from above it resembles a giant figure eight, since the volcanic cones are connected by a vast valley (hence the second name of Maui - "Island valleys"). West Maui is quite deserted and full of barren lava fields, but the lush rainforests and swamps of the eastern slopes are the most beautiful area of the island.
The main historical attraction of the island is the streets of the old town Lahaina, once the capital of the Hawaiian Islands, and today famous for its Old Court (1859, now there is a gallery of works by local artists), Baldwin House (the oldest building in the city - 1834), Hing Temple (1912 , now the Chinese Community Museum), the old Paahao Prison (1852, today the Historical Museum) and the old Hale-Pai Printing House, which is still in operation.
The best places to relax are considered wild Kiheli coast, famous Kaeleku Maui Caves at the foot of the tropical Hana forests, a fashionable resort town Kaanapali with the Whaling Museum north of Lahaina; rocky lava black rock cape and excellent diving spots around it; long sandy coastline around Kihei(southwest coast of Maui); Maalaea Bay- a great place for all types of surfing; botanical gardens and the Church of the Holy Spirit (1897) in Kula; rest zone Spring-Polipoli and the Kula Forest Preserve on the western slope of Haleakala; shores Maipoina Oe Lau Beach And Kamaole Beach; lava tubes and forest fields Ahihi-Kinau Nature Reserve in the bay of the same name; as well as an artificial reef beach Keawakapu Beach with good conditions for snorkeling.
The crater is also noteworthy Haleakala- the largest inactive volcano in the world (12 km long and 4 km wide), whose surface more closely resembles a lunar landscape. There is a national park of the same name that protects the entire mountain from the crater to the Oheo reservoirs located at the foot of the lake. In addition to the amazing life forms and massive lava formations found throughout the park, you can see the so-called “Brocken spectrum” - a rare optical phenomenon that manifests itself in the projection of an observer’s shadow, enlarged and colored with all the colors of the rainbow, onto the clouds.
There are many beautiful places to visit Hana Highway, running along the northeast coast of Maui between Kahului and Hana. Built in 1927, the road makes more than 600 turns along its route and crosses 54 valleys on bridges, passing through such picturesque places that it is often considered an independent landmark of the island. Here you can see Jaipuaena waterfalls with a deep pond, a small village Keanae with a 19th century church built from lava and coral blocks, roadside Puaa Kaa Park with a small waterfall and also magnificent Kainalimu Bay with Hawaiian temple ruins and many amazing landscape shapes.
Haleakala National Park offers the best walking tours through the craters of ancient volcanoes and about 60 km of cycling and horse riding routes throughout the surrounding area. State Waianapanapa Park Famous for its impressive lava caves, black beach, and many picturesque sea arches and caves. IN Kealia Pond National Forest An ancient salt marsh remains, inhabited by a variety of rare birds, from the endangered Hawaiian stilt and coots to herons.
Most of the modern tourist infrastructure is concentrated around Lahaina, Kaanapali and Kihei, as well as around Haiku, Kula or Hana (here they are slightly lower in level, but do not suffer from an influx of tourists).
Surfing is good on the windward northern and eastern shores, and Ho'okipa Beach near Paia is considered the best surfing destination along with Maalaea Pipeline and Honolua Bay. Hokipa Beach is suitable for experienced windsurfers, while extreme sports enthusiasts will appreciate the shores near Paia and Kanaha.
The best place to dive is the underwater volcanic crater of nearby Molokini Island or the waters of Lanai Island, where the fish are almost tame and the water is clear. The underwater volcanic crater of Molokini Island is located halfway between Maui and Kahoolawe. Half of the crater ring collapsed many thousands of years ago, leaving a crescent-shaped lagoon, and the island itself rises just 49 meters above the ocean's surface. The islet boasts many excellent snorkeling spots, clear waters and an abundance of marine life inhabiting the generally shallow lagoon. However, the local ecocenosis is under powerful pressure from tourism, so the local reefs are largely damaged by the anchors of numerous boats and pleasure boats. Black Rock in Kaanapali and Kapalua Bay are good spots for snorkeling.
Humpback whales enter the waters around Maui between December and March, and their pods are easily visible from shore.
The beaches of Maui are perfect for windsurfers.
Big Beach- the largest beach on the island. Length - 1100 feet, width - 65 feet. The beach, located within Makena State Park, feels secluded and wild compared to most Maui beaches. There is no developed infrastructure on the coast, so you need to take everything you need for your vacation with you. Big Beach is popular with boogie boarders, but beginners and inexperienced swimmers should not swim too far from shore due to strong undercurrents. There are lifeguards on the beach.
Behind a small hill, a little to the north, is located Little Beach- the most famous and one of the few nudist beaches in the Hawaiian Islands. The beach is especially popular with locals. There are no strong waves, wind or currents here; in general, this part of the coast is more suitable for a comfortable holiday than Big Beach. There are no lifeguards on Little Beach.
Beach Kaanapali- one of the most popular resorts on Maui, located in the northwest of the island. The length of the beach is 1 mile. The coast is surrounded by hotel complexes and resorts with swimming pools, shops, sports fields, play areas and golf courses. Tourists can enjoy surfing, parasailing, and sailing. The beach is especially crowded during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Picturesque beach Wailea- one of the most popular on Maui; It is quite crowded and noisy here from morning to evening. The beach is 450 feet long. The coast has a well-developed infrastructure; there are restaurants and bars, a volleyball court, a play area for children, with water slides and a trampoline. Rent sun loungers and umbrellas at Wailea.
Beach located in the southern part of the island of Maui Keawakapu- an ideal option for lovers of a relaxing holiday. The length of the beach is 1200 yards. Guest houses along the coast offer rooms with views of the Pacific Ocean.
Beach surrounded by palm trees Kapalua is located in a small bay in the northwest of Maui. Calm waters make the beach suitable for children to swim. There is parking near Kapalua. Around the coast there are condominiums, as well as townhouses, where rooms and apartments are rented out for tourists.
Beach Kahekili with fine sand, located south of Kapalua, is located on the territory of the Kaanapali resort. There are not many hotels here; The coast is quite secluded.
At the resort Kihei, in the southwest of the island, there are three beaches of the same name, Kamaole Beach Park, separated by rocky outcrops. All beaches are less than one mile long. There is a fairly busy road running along the beaches, but trees and palm trees planted along the road save you from noise and dust.
Beach Napili, shaped like a crescent, is considered one of the best on Maui due to its azure water and soft golden sand. On the beach there is a children's play area, inflatable slides, restaurants, as well as rental points for umbrellas and sun loungers.
There is a small beach in the north-west of the island D. T. Fleming. The beach is 500 feet long. There is no infrastructure here, but the place is quite popular among boogie boarders for its good waves. The afternoon on the coast is quite windy, so the best time for swimming and sunbathing is early in the morning. There are lifeguards on the beach.
Beach Poolenalena, located in southwest Maui, stretches 730 feet. The beach is divided into two sections; the southern part has excellent conditions for boogie boarding. Poolenalena is one of the best places on the island for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Grand Wailea Resort, a resort hotel on Maui, Hawaii, celebrates its 20th anniversary. In honor of the anniversary, guests and clients of the local Spa Grande are offered a “20-hand massage.”
The procedure, designed for two clients at a time, involves 10 massage therapists. It is a kind of analogue of the Hawaiian hula dance - when many fingers literally dance over the bodies of patients. The massage lasts 2.5 hours and costs $2 thousand per couple, MSNBC reports.
Experts say that the synchronization of massage therapists’ movements provides clients with complete relaxation, which they will never achieve during a regular massage.
Grand Wailea Resort, owned by Waldorf Astoria, is located in Wailea-Makena and offers guests 780 rooms and 70 villas. The cost of living there is from $589 per double room per night.
MAUI Island - "The Magical Island of Valleys"
Hawaiian tradition connects the origin of the name of the island of Maui with the legend of Hawai'iloa. A Polynesian navigator who is credited with the discovery of the Hawaiian Islands. The island of Maui was named after his son, who in turn was named after the demigod Maui. According to legend, long ago the latter got all of the Hawaiian Islands from the ocean, then climbed the Haleakala volcano and lassoed the sun and held it captive until the sun promised to slow down over the Hawaiian Islands.
This is probably why the most beautiful and fragrant flowers in the world grow here, and the most beautiful beaches are located. In general, the flora of the island is extraordinary: there are more than 600 species of palm trees alone! It is not easy to select the best among the endless beaches stretching along the coast of the island for 200 km, but, according to reviews from tourists, this is undoubtedly the beach of Kanalua Bay. Thanks to divine Maui, a walking tour to the top of Haleakala for an exhilarating welcome to the sun at dawn or farewell to it at sunset is one of the most amazing experiences on this “Magic Island”! (Maui is often called the "Magic Isle" - there really is something magical, alluring about it. Another name - "Valley Isle" - appeared due to the wide fertile isthmus between the two volcanoes of the island.)
The Witch Island enchants at first sight, forcing those who have been here to return here again and again. More than 2 million people come here every year! According to statistics, Maui is the most popular island of the archipelago among tourists. Majestic volcanoes of amazing beauty, waterfalls attract lovers of mountain hikes, clear ocean waters - lovers of diving and snorkeling, foaming waves - surfers, secluded quiet natural lagoons - newlyweds. This piece of paradise will delight tourists with a wide variety of interests! The extraordinary beauty of nature, the gentle sun and sea will calm your nerves and restore strength undermined by the crazy rhythm of life in megacities.
Maui is the second largest island of the Hawaiian archipelago (its area is about 1883 km 2) and the largest in Maui County, which also includes the islands of Lanai, Kahoolawe and Molokai (Lanai, Kahoolawe, Molokai). It was the third most populous island in the archipelago (about 140,000 inhabitants).
Most travelers arrive in Maui through Kahului Airport. The island can also be reached by ferry from Honolulu.
Next door to Kahului is the ancient provincial town of Wailuku. where at the Bailey House Museum. Housed in a former 19th-century mission house, you can see an outstanding collection of Hawaiian art and learn about the history of the island.
A 10-minute drive from Wailuku is the green Iao Valley. Huge monolithic rocks towering above stare sternly at the site where more than 200 years ago a bloody battle took place, as a result of which Maui lost its independence and was annexed to the Kingdom of Hawaii.
On the other side of the island, on the east - idyllic! - The coastline of Maui offers some of the most picturesque Hawaiian landscapes. The famous road to the ancient town of Hana
Road to the ancient town of Hana
Road to Hana
East coast of Maui
- Road to Hana - offers breathtaking vistas, soaring and twisting over black sand beaches, long-solidified lava flows, secluded fishing villages, thundering sparkling waterfalls, dense jungle carpets and lush mango groves. True, sometimes the beauty that opens up to your eyes makes your hair stand on end, and you remember the nickname given to the road - “Highway to Heaven”.
The west coast is known for its long, wide beaches with golden sand and secluded coves. The ocean, unusually clear here, is ideal for snorkeling and snorkeling. From here you can clearly see the islands of Lanai and Molokai, separated from Maui by a strait.
Sailing and deep sea fishing available in Lahaina
Lahaina is an ancient town in the west of Maui, once the capital of Hawaii.
Lahaina (Lahaina) is an ancient town, also located in the west of the island. This charming town with a rich history, once a whaling center and even the capital of Hawaii (from 1820 to 1845), is today one of the favorite tourist destinations. A visit to Maui would be incomplete without visiting Lahaina! Many historical sights have been preserved here. The city has been restored to the same appearance as a hundred years ago, transporting its guests back to the times of local nobility, missionaries and whalers. There are lots of cute shops, restaurants with wonderful panoramic views and a vibrant nightlife.
In addition, Lahaina in winter is the best place to observe the critically endangered humpback whales
Humpback whale
West coast of Maui
. Currently, about 3,000 individuals remain in the North Pacific Ocean. They are protected by US Federal law and Hawaii State law. Each fall, during their seasonal migrations, humpback whales swim about 5,600 km from Alaska to the warm waters off the coast of Maui, where their calves are born in the sheltered Au Au Channel and where the whales spend the winter months.
On the northern coast of the island, it is worth visiting the Garden of the Gods - a mystical place covered with volcanic volcanic islands of Maui Hawaii of bizarre shapes and bright colors.
Activities on Maui
Surfing is good on the windward northern and eastern shores, and Ho'okipa Beach near Paia is considered the best surfing destination along with Maalaea Pipeline and Honolua Bay. Hokipa Beach is suitable for experienced windsurfers, while extreme sports enthusiasts will appreciate the shores near Paia and Kanaha.
The best place to dive is the underwater volcanic crater of nearby Molokini Island or the waters of Lanai Island, where the fish are almost tame and the water is clear. The underwater volcanic crater of Molokini Island is located halfway between Maui and Kahoolawe. Half of the crater ring collapsed many thousands of years ago, leaving a crescent-shaped lagoon, and the island itself rises just 49 meters above the ocean's surface. The islet boasts many excellent snorkeling spots, clear waters and an abundance of marine life inhabiting the generally shallow lagoon. However, the local ecocenosis is under powerful pressure from tourism, so the local reefs are largely damaged by the anchors of numerous boats and pleasure boats. Black Rock in Kaanapali and Kapalua Bay are good spots for snorkeling.
Humpback whales come to the waters around Maui between December and March, and their pods are easily visible from shore.
Beaches of Maui
The beaches of Maui are perfect for windsurfers.
Big Beach is the largest beach on the island. Length - 1100 feet, width - 65 feet. The beach, located within Makena State Park, feels secluded and wild compared to most Maui beaches. There is no developed infrastructure on the coast, so everything you need for a vacation must be taken with you. Big Beach is popular with boogie boarders, but beginners and inexperienced swimmers should not swim too far from shore due to strong undercurrents. There are lifeguards on the beach.
Behind a small hill, just to the north, is Little Beach - the most famous and one of the few nudist beaches in the Hawaiian Islands. The beach is especially popular with locals. There are no strong waves, winds or currents here; in general, this part of the coast is more suitable for a comfortable holiday than Big Beach. There are no lifeguards on Little Beach.
At an altitude of more than 914 m, you can notice that the air has become drier and the temperature has dropped significantly. Due to intermittent terrain, weather data such as cloud level, precipitation, temperature and wind speed can vary significantly even over short distances. For example, in Haleakala National Park alone you can find 7 different climate zones.
Haleakala Crater
Haleakala Crater, the pinnacle of the eastern volcano, is located at an impressive 3,055 m above sea level. This peak is famous for its amazing sunset views, which may seem nothing less than a miracle to some. If you're visiting the island, set aside at least one day to explore the largest dormant volcano in the world.
Kaanapali
A 4.8 km stretch of beach on Maui's west coast is called Ka'anapali, a historically and culturally significant site. Here you can visit Black Mountain (Puu Kekaa), a sacred place in Hawaiian mythology - according to legend, here the souls of the dead pass from the world of people to the world of spirits. In the southern part of Kaanapali is the picturesque village of Whalers Village with an open-air market and a dozen different shops and restaurants. Enjoy an unforgettable ride on the Sugar Cain Train from Aanapali to Lahaina and back.
Road to Hana
Drive along the stunning 88km road to truly appreciate the island's varied landscapes, across bridges and along bamboo groves, up hillsides, past fruit trees and fabulous native flowers. The city of Hana is a good reward for such a long journey. Spend the rest of your time lounging on one of Hana's beaches, go to the Hana Cultural Center or visit Rachno Hana - or you can choose any other entertainment that the city has to offer.
Molokini Island
Molokini Island is located near Maui and is shaped like a crescent moon. By its origin, it is an underwater volcano that has been inactive for several decades. The island is well known to lovers of underwater recreation because of the bright and colorful inhabitants of the underwater world, the status of the island as a national reserve and whales.
Ocean Center Maui
The Maui Ocean Center is a great place for those interested in the underwater life of Maui and other islands of the Hawaiian archipelago. Here you can see more than a thousand ea (fish species) in a huge aquarium with a capacity of about 3 million liters! Children are simply delighted to watch their favorite animals: turtles, stingrays and starfish.
Whale watching
Not many people know that the waters around Hawaii are home to thousands of humpback whales between December and April. These huge mammals migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to the warmer waters of this region of the Pacific Ocean to breed. The whales prefer the secluded space of the Auau Channel between the islands of Maui and Lanai. Kaanapali Park is the most popular place to observe these amazing 40-ton creatures.
Why is Maui a unique place?
The island of Maui is ideal for those who seek maximum variety in their vacation, who love the opportunities of a huge city, but value privacy and enjoy exploring the unique and diverse nature. For example, you can enjoy a massage in the morning at one of Maui's beautiful resorts, head to the mountains for an unforgettable hike in the afternoon, and end the day with delicious Hawaiian cuisine.
The island of Maui is suitable for romantics, adventure tourists - anyone who wants to experience the advantages of the big and small islands: Maui combines the vibrancy and tranquility of both. For many, Maui may be “just right.”
Lying between Hawaii and Molokai, the island of Maui (1883 sq. km - the second largest in the archipelago) is the only Polynesian island that received its name in honor of a deity (usually such a technique is taboo, but here the case is special - the great sailor Hawailoa first named his son in honor of God, and then an island in honor of his son). Formed by two huge extinct volcanoes - Haleakala (literally "House of the Sun", 3055 m) in the east and Maui (1720 m) in the west, from above it resembles a giant figure eight, since the volcanic cones are connected by a vast valley (hence the second name of Maui - "Island valleys"). West Maui is quite deserted and full of barren lava fields, but the lush rainforests and swamps of the eastern slopes are the most beautiful area of the island.
Maui Attractions
The main historical attraction of the island is the streets of the old town Lahaina, once the capital of the Hawaiian Islands, and today famous for its Old Court (1859, now there is a gallery of works by local artists), Baldwin House (the oldest building in the city - 1834), Hing Temple (1912 , now the Chinese Community Museum), the old Paahao Prison (1852, today the Historical Museum) and the old Hale-Pai Printing House, which is still in operation.
The best places to relax are considered wild Kiheli coast, famous Kaeleku Maui Caves at the foot of the tropical Hana forests, a fashionable resort town Kaanapali with the Whaling Museum north of Lahaina; rocky lava black rock cape and excellent diving spots around it; long sandy coastline around Kihei(southwest coast of Maui); Maalaea Bay- a great place for all types of surfing; botanical gardens and the Church of the Holy Spirit (1897) in Kula; rest zone Spring-Polipoli and the Kula Forest Preserve on the western slope of Haleakala; shores Maipoina Oe Lau Beach And Kamaole Beach; lava tubes and forest fields Ahihi-Kinau Nature Reserve in the bay of the same name; as well as an artificial reef beach Keawakapu Beach with good conditions for snorkeling.
The crater is also noteworthy Haleakala- the largest inactive volcano in the world (12 km long and 4 km wide), whose surface more closely resembles a lunar landscape. There is a national park of the same name that protects the entire mountain from the crater to the Oheo reservoirs located at the foot of the lake. In addition to the amazing life forms and massive lava formations found throughout the park, you can see the so-called “Brocken spectrum” - a rare optical phenomenon that manifests itself in the projection of an observer’s shadow, enlarged and colored with all the colors of the rainbow, onto the clouds.
There are many beautiful places to visit Hana Highway, running along the northeast coast of Maui between Kahului and Hana. Built in 1927, the road makes more than 600 turns along its route and crosses 54 valleys on bridges, passing through such picturesque places that it is often considered an independent landmark of the island. Here you can see Jaipuaena waterfalls with a deep pond, a small village Keanae with a 19th century church built from lava and coral blocks, roadside Puaa Kaa Park with a small waterfall and also magnificent Kainalimu Bay with Hawaiian temple ruins and many amazing landscape shapes.
Haleakala National Park offers the best walking tours through the craters of ancient volcanoes and about 60 km of cycling and horse riding routes throughout the surrounding area. State Waianapanapa Park Famous for its impressive lava caves, black beach, and many picturesque sea arches and caves. IN Kealia Pond National Forest An ancient salt marsh remains, inhabited by a variety of rare birds, from the endangered Hawaiian stilt and coots to herons.
Most of the modern tourist infrastructure is concentrated around Lahaina, Kaanapali and Kihei, as well as around Haiku, Kula or Hana (here they are slightly lower in level, but do not suffer from an influx of tourists).
Activities on Maui
Surfing is good on the windward northern and eastern shores, and Ho'okipa Beach near Paia is considered the best surfing destination along with Maalaea Pipeline and Honolua Bay. Hokipa Beach is suitable for experienced windsurfers, while extreme sports enthusiasts will appreciate the shores near Paia and Kanaha.
The best place to dive is the underwater volcanic crater of nearby Molokini Island or the waters of Lanai Island, where the fish are almost tame and the water is clear. The underwater volcanic crater of Molokini Island is located halfway between Maui and Kahoolawe. Half of the crater ring collapsed many thousands of years ago, leaving a crescent-shaped lagoon, and the island itself rises just 49 meters above the ocean's surface. The islet boasts many excellent snorkeling spots, clear waters and an abundance of marine life inhabiting the generally shallow lagoon. However, the local ecocenosis is under powerful pressure from tourism, so the local reefs are largely damaged by the anchors of numerous boats and pleasure boats. Black Rock in Kaanapali and Kapalua Bay are good spots for snorkeling.
Humpback whales enter the waters around Maui between December and March, and their pods are easily visible from shore.
Beaches of Maui
The beaches of Maui are perfect for windsurfers.
Big Beach– the largest beach on the island. Length - 1100 feet, width - 65 feet. The beach, located within Makena State Park, feels secluded and wild compared to most Maui beaches. There is no developed infrastructure on the coast, so you need to take everything you need for your vacation with you. Big Beach is popular with boogie boarders, but beginners and inexperienced swimmers should not swim too far from shore due to strong undercurrents. There are lifeguards on the beach.
Behind a small hill, a little to the north, is located Little Beach- the most famous and one of the few nudist beaches in the Hawaiian Islands. The beach is especially popular with locals. There are no strong waves, wind or currents here; in general, this part of the coast is more suitable for a comfortable holiday than Big Beach. There are no lifeguards on Little Beach.
Beach Kaanapali is one of the most popular resorts on Maui, located in the northwest of the island. The length of the beach is 1 mile. The coast is surrounded by hotel complexes and resorts with swimming pools, shops, sports fields, play areas and golf courses. Tourists can enjoy surfing, parasailing, and sailing. The beach is especially crowded during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
Picturesque beach Wailea- one of the most popular on Maui; It is quite crowded and noisy here from morning to evening. The length of the beach is 450 feet. The coast has a well-developed infrastructure; there are restaurants and bars, a volleyball court, a play area for children, with water slides and a trampoline. Rent sun loungers and umbrellas at Wailea.
Beach located in the southern part of the island of Maui Keawakapu– an ideal option for lovers of a relaxing holiday. The length of the beach is 1200 yards. Guest houses along the coast offer rooms with views of the Pacific Ocean.
Beach surrounded by palm trees Kapalua is located in a small bay in the northwest of Maui. Calm waters make the beach suitable for children to swim. There is parking near Kapalua. Around the coast there are condominiums, as well as townhouses, where rooms and apartments are rented out for tourists.
Beach Kahekili with fine sand, located south of Kapalua, is located on the territory of the Kaanapali resort. There are not many hotels here; The coast is quite secluded.
At the resort Kihei, in the southwest of the island, there are three beaches of the same name, Kamaole Beach Park, separated by rocky outcrops. All beaches are less than one mile long. There is a fairly busy road running along the beaches, but trees and palm trees planted along the road save you from noise and dust.
Beach Napili, shaped like a crescent, is considered one of the best on Maui due to its azure water and soft golden sand. On the beach there is a children's play area, inflatable slides, restaurants, as well as rental points for umbrellas and sun loungers.
There is a small beach in the north-west of the island D. T. Fleming. The length of the beach is 500 feet. There is no infrastructure here, but the place is quite popular among boogie boarders for its good waves. The afternoon on the coast is quite windy, so the best time for swimming and sunbathing is early in the morning. There are lifeguards on the beach.
Beach Poolenalena, located in southwest Maui, stretches 730 feet. The beach is divided into two sections; the southern part has excellent conditions for boogie boarding. Poolenalena is one of the best places on the island for snorkeling and scuba diving. Northern
The island of Maui is in second place out of the four Hawaiian islands visited - it has incredibly beautiful Martian landscapes, beaches with black and red sand, waterfalls and unique flowers.
But Maui in general is not as nice as , because it is not as compact and there was a lot of driving.
What to see on the island of Maui
Road to Hana (Hana Road), waterfalls and beaches
Hana Road(Hana Road) is an 80 km long road that is considered one of the main attractions of the island of Maui. I don't know why... there are sooo many turns and narrow spots and single lane bridges, but almost no beautiful views.
There is one popular beach where surfers, windsurfers and even paddle boarders ride the waves.
On the way we stopped near Wailua Falls(Wailua Falls, 24 meters).
In the parking lot next to him, the grandfather weaves cool things.
Khana itself is an ordinary village and there is nothing to do there.
There is a red sand beach(Red Sand Beach). There is more likely not sand there, but very small pebbles, half brick-red, half black. Interesting place.
There are warnings everywhere that the owner of the land is not responsible for anything.
This beach is suitable for swimming because it is protected from waves by rocks.
Near the Kipahulu campsite there is black sand beach.
Outside Hanoi there is a hiking trail to Kipahulu Falls - about 3 km one way. The path is very easy. There are several smaller waterfalls along the way.
We passed by a huge banyan tree (for scale)
Beautiful bamboo forest (photo taken in the rain on a phone, that’s why the quality is so good..)
And at the end it's huge Kipahulu Falls(Kipahulu) - its height is 122 meters!
- flights over the island,
- snorkeling, kayaking, rafting, surfing, yachting,
- hiking, riding horses, jeeps and bicycles and other types of active recreation,
- zipline, yoga, photo shoots.
Where to stay on the island of Maui
Hotels, inns and apartments
The island is small. If you live in its center, you will be close to any beaches, Haleakala and Hana.
Considering restaurant food prices in the US, look for catered options.
The best hotels on the island of Maui according to tourist reviews:
Camping on Maui
We have detailed information about Hawaiian campsites from the places where we spent the night, prices, where to book, etc. and so on.
The main thing is not to camp at Kanaha Beach Park - there are a lot of homeless people there who have set up permanent tents in those places that they “accidentally” sell to tourists.
How to get there
There is one airport on the island - Kahului (IATA code: OGG). Airplanes fly here from other Hawaiian islands and some cities on the US mainland.
If you are planning to visit all four islands in Hawaii, then .
How to Find the Cheapest Tickets to Maui from Any Country
To find cheap flights, I usually compare prices using several aggregators. They all have the same principle - they search for tickets in the databases of hundreds of airlines, but their databases may differ, so the price will be better in one or the other - check everything at once.
- - incredibly flexible search, and there is a guarantee of a connection, even if you are flying low-cost airlines and the first flight is delayed!
- - the best prices for tickets from Russia and Kazakhstan, a convenient calendar of low prices.
- - there are good prices for tickets from Ukraine.
By the way, KIWI gives 20 euro coupons for air tickets to new users, but they can only be received by email. If anyone needs it, I can send you an invitation.
Get 20€ on kiwi.com ➜Calendar of low prices for air tickets:
Life hack: how we saved $80 on Hawaiian flights
On most Hawaiian flights, you can carry 2 hand luggage of 8 kg each, plus the so-called personal item, which can be a laptop bag or a small backpack (the size depends on the arrogance of the passenger). Thus, we checked only a large backpack as luggage, and carried everything else in hand luggage. We also took advantage of this rule on other Hawaiian flights and saved a total of $80!
Car rental on Maui
The most convenient way is to book a car and drive it around the island.
We usually compare prices and conditions on aggregator sites that collect offers from different rentals, and choose the most profitable option:
We also liked booking cars in the States from - they provide free CDW insurance for those who are not US residents. With them you can choose a car from offers in the same class; they don’t really consider all sorts of scuffs and scratches.
Public Transportation - Maui Buses
Maui Buses operate around the island, but do not go to Hana or Haleakala.
The movement interval is once every 1-3 hours. Ticket price is $2, day pass is $4.
Tours to Maui
There are no package tours to Maui. But you can safely book your flight, hotel and rent a car yourself, using my tips above.
Maui island on the world map
Maui is part of the state of Hawaii in the United States and is located in the North Pacific Ocean. There is a red dot in the screenshot.
See all the attractions of Maui and other Hawaiian Islands on an interactive map. You can move it, increase it, decrease it, and also download points to your smartphone.
When to go to Maui - weather and climate
All Hawaiian Islands are good all year round :)
High season: December-April and June-August. Many people. Housing prices rise by 50-100%, especially between Catholic Christmas and New Year. Winter is wetter, but is the best time to see whales and surf. Summer is hotter.
Transition season: from May to September. The air and sea temperatures are pleasant, mostly sunny. Crowds and prices decrease except during school holidays.
Low season: October and November. There are the fewest people, flights and hotels are the cheapest. The weather is dry and hot - it's bad to go hiking.
Bottom line: our review of holidays in Maui
Maui is definitely worth a visit, especially Haleakala National Park, but as for the road to Hana... there is something to see near Hana, but the road itself is very difficult, and if you do not have a four-wheel drive car with good ground clearance, you will have to return along it. But hiking in Haleakala is pretty pointless because everything can be seen from the viewpoints.
Maui Island, Hawaii, USA. Photo: Ollie O/TripAdvisor
The popular online travel resource TripAdvisor calls the island of Maui, which is one of Hawaii, the best in the world in 2016, according to travelers themselves.
In the compiled ranking, Maui is ahead of Santorini in the Aegean Sea, which is in second place, Jamaica, Providenciales and Bali, which closes the top five.
However, this is not surprising, since Hawaii has been considered one of the most popular resort destinations among Americans since the 60s of the last century.
With its beaches, excursions and endless activities, Maui can be called the jewel in the crown of the entire archipelago.
1. Molokini Crater
The crescent-shaped crater of Molokini is one of the most popular spots for snorkeling and diving: magical corals, beautiful fish, turtles, Hawaiian monk seals and even sharks. The crater rocks provide good protection in case of unexpected wave activity.
2. Road to Hana
The amazingly scenic Hana Highway follows the entire northeast coast of Maui. Around almost every turn of the road there are beautiful waterfalls, as well as wonderful views of the ocean and forest on the other side.
3. Sunrises over Haleakala
The sunrise over Haleakala Crater is something you definitely haven't seen anywhere else. The shield volcano, whose name means "House of the Sun", and nearby Haleakala National Park are considered Maui's most popular attractions.
4. Black Beach
The black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park is located near Hana Highway. In Hawaii you can also find beaches with red sand.
5. Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls is like a movie theater where you can watch movies from your car. These waterfalls are located right next to the road, so you can actually see something from your car, or better yet, park your car and walk a few meters to get a wonderful view of the waterfalls.
6. Abundance of fauna
The photo appears to show the happiest paddle boarders in history, but encounters with various ocean creatures in Hawaiian waters are not uncommon. The channel between Maui and Molokai is known for being home to humpback whales during the winter months. You can book a special tour to watch whales.
7. Island ruins
The coast of Maui is amazingly beautiful, but the island still contains historical ruins left by the ancient population of Hawaii. The road along the ruins is called “royal”.
8. Surfer's paradise
Wave surfers from all over the world have chosen the northern shore of Maui. It is sometimes more interesting - and safer - to observe this magnificence from the outside, while relaxing on the beach. Adrenaline goes off scale in any case.
9. Bamboo forest
The Pipiwei Trail, which runs through a bamboo forest, is ideal for walking or cycling. A well-maintained trail will lead you to Waimoku Falls.
10. “Secret” beaches
The beaches of Paako Cove and Paia Beach were considered “secret” for the time being, but this is no longer the case. These popular beaches attract tourists with their amazing landscape - towering palm trees and soft sands.
11. Lavender fields
Visitors to Maui are always surprised that fields of lavender can be found on a tropical island. In fact, entire lavender farms can be found on the mountain slopes of Haleakala. And although lavenders are not a native plant, they have successfully adapted to the climate of the mountainous part of Maui.
12. Spirit of Aloha
As popular as Maui is among tourists, it is still a small island. “This is a very calm place, there are no traffic jams or people rushing somewhere. The true spirit of Aloha can be found here, writes HuffPost blogger Kimanzi Constable, who moved to Maui. “Aloha,” as we know, is the traditional greeting of the people of Hawaii, as well as a method of expressing love and attitude towards nature.
