Consistently voted the ‘World’s Best Island’, Maui is widely regarded as one of the most romantic and enchanting destinations on earth.
It is known as the ‘Valley Isle’ and was the ancient playground for Hawaiian Royalty. The island is largely rural with a small and wonderfully hospitable population and a host of attractions and natural wonders, including 42 miles of beautiful beaches and the largest dormant volcano crater in the world.
There's so much to see and do on Maui that you really do need to start early.....early enough to see the sunrise.....a very special sunrise, in fact, the most glorious sunrise you'll ever see, atop Haleakala Crater. The drive from Kaanapali is approximately two hours but it really is well worth it.
On the way down from Haleakala, enjoy breakfast then take in the glories of this special area of Maui. Visit a flower farm in Kula, shops and galleries in the old cowboy town of Makawao and the award-winning Tedeschi Winery.
Head north then east to Hana. The world-renowned 'Road to Hana' is a destination in itself! Passing through fun and funky Pa'ia Town, the windsurfer capital of the universe, this spectacular drive soon leaves the known world behind and transports you through rain forests, past waterfalls and black sand beaches to the 'emerald' village that everyone calls Heavenly Hana. Some of the most unforgettable scenery in the world can be found in Hana, including Seven Pools.
The road from Hana is markedly different with starkly etched lava streams from Mt Haleakala's last eruption some 200 years ago creating a landscape of barren beauty flowing in natural stone sculptures to the sea.
Now it's time to head west along the southern route to what was historically the capital of the Hawaiian Islands, the old whaling town of Lahaina. Although designated a National Historic Landmark, Lahaina has a great mix of many historic treasures and the up-to-date fun and excitement visitors are looking for from art galleries, every kind of restaurant imaginable and a thriving nightlife. Every Friday night is art Night when you can get 'up close and personal' with some of the thousands of extraordinary creative people who choose Maui as the ideal place to inspire their artistic vision.
Kaanapali is a fabulous region of this island where you will find beautiful resort hotels, shopping and spectacular golf courses, all offering magnificent views across the warm Pacific waters. From December to April it is a common sight to spot humpback whales frolicking.
