Maui is the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands and is renowned for its fine beaches and some of the world’s best windsurfing and surfing spots. The scenery is superb and the landscapes diverse. Here, visitors can explore jungles and waterfalls, windsurf with the pros or enjoy a drink at Lahaina’s historic taverns. For getting around, car rental is the best option.
Getting there
Kahului Airport lies in the center of the island and is serviced by Hawaiian Airlines and Aloha Airlines, which hop between the islands of Hawaii. There are also two other smaller airports, east and west, on the island. Honolulu International Airport, on Oahu, is a major international hub and is the point of entry from overseas. There is a ferry service between Maui and Lanai which is cheaper than flying and a lot more scenic, while the QE II makes an annual stopover in Hawaii. Exploring this beautiful island with a rental car can easily be arranged at the airport, using national travel deals to get the best price.
Key attractions
Lahaina, originally a 19th century whalersе town, is the main attraction of the island; the busy streets are lined with quaint shops, boutiques and galleries. Highlights include the 1859 Courthouse, the Baldwin House, Wo Hing Temple, and Hale Paahao Prison Museum.
Maui boasts 50kms of beaches, many of which are easily accessible beach parks with lifeguards, picnic facilities and restrooms. Others are undeveloped, pristine, secret spots off the beaten path. Well known beaches include Black Rock, Maalaea Ba (Pipeline), Kamaole Beach Park and Keawakapu Beach. Scenic drives via car rental are some of the loveliest in the world.
Out and about
The famous Hana Highway, on the northeastern coast of Maui, is the most spectacular coastal drive in Hawaii, winding its way deep into lush valleys and hugging the rugged coastline. Driving up to the Haleakala Crater а the worldеs largest а is simply breathtaking. The crater is about 10kms long and four kilometres wide а large enough to accommodate an entire city. Views of Maui and the other islands are awesome; look out for the Broken Specter, a phenomenon caused when a personеs shadow is cast on to clouds or fog from a high peak. National travel deals save you money as well as time, making sure you have the vacation of a lifetime.
Leisure options
Water sports are part of life in Maui and surfing is extremely popular here. Hookipa Beach, near Paia, is one of the best spots for windsurfers and surfers alike and Maalaea Pipeline, on the southern side of Maalaea Bay, is one of the world’s top 10 breaks. The sunken volcanic crater of nearby Molokini offers unbeatable diving; while hikers, horseback riders, cyclists and those on a self-drive vacation with a rental car should head for Haleakala National Park.
Safety
Water sports are dangerous in normal conditions, but with the rapidly changing weather and rips on Mauiеs beaches, windsurfing and surfing are even more of a risk. The Hana Highway is also particularly hazardous, especially at dawn and dusk and in the busy season, so take extra care. Also beware pickpockets in the larger tourist centres on the island. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance for you and your family when visiting Maui.