Hawaiian Experience
Traveling to Maui evokes thoughts of swaying palm trees and ocean breezes. Images of hula dancers and sandy, slippered feet also come to mind. Plan some time to explore and experience moments that can only happen in Hawaii.
Road to Hana
| The Road to Hana in and of itself is an adventure and not for the faint of heart (or stomach). The road is windy, narrow, and spectacular. There is potential to stop every few miles to take pictures, but then you might be driving out in the dark. The most popular destinations when driving to Hana are the Seven Sacred Pools in `Ohe`o Gulch and the Pipiwai Trail. Both of these are in the Haleakala National Park, so do expect to pay an entrance fee. If you want to avoid the inevitable crowds, plan to be there as early as possible. Most folks tend to show up around lunchtime. There are spots to swim and to jump and while cliff jumping at the pools is not forbidden, please be cautious and check the conditions before you leap! The pools are dependent on rainfall, not enough and they dry out, too much and they close, so if that is your destination when you begin your adventure, be sure to check first. |
| Location: |
Hana |
Lanai and Molokai
| There are several islands around Maui, most notably Lanai and Molokai. There is a ferry that departs from the Lahaina harbor daily bound for Lanai. The ferry docks at Manaele Bay and from there you can walk to enjoy a quiet day at the nearly empty beach, Hulopoe Bay (and maybe snorkel with some dolphins) or take the shuttle up to Lanai City. Jeeps are also available to rent for the day if you would like to explore the island on your own. Shipwreck beach and Garden of the Gods are two popular tourist destinations.
Molokai no longer has a ferry, but if you are want to cross all the Hawaiian islands off the bucket list, there are several flights there every day. If you are interested in the mule tours to Kalaupapa (historic Leprosy settlement) you will have to make arrangements in advance. |
| Haleakala translated means House of the Sun and if you brave the early morning hours (and the chilly temperature) you will have first hand knowledge as to why. Reservations must be made in advance to view the sunrise, but there is still beauty to be found in the middle of the day or at sunset (and you don`t have to get up so early!). There are a myriad of hiking trails throughout the park as well, day hikes and multi-day hikes alike, and if you stop in at the visitor`s center they will give you a map detailing the locations. This is a National Park, so if you already have a pass be sure to pack it. |
| Location: |
Haleakala |
Cultural Activities
| If you want to learn more about the Hawaiian culture, several venues provide opportunities to do that through free lessons and activities. The Outlets of Maui have Tahitian Dance shows, ukulele shows, hula and ukulele lessons, and coconut husking. The Lahaina Cannery Mall has hula shows, hula and ukulele lessons and Whaler`s Village has hula shows, hula and ukulele lessons, and lei making classes. The times are subject to change, so be sure to check their websites for updated information. |
| Location: |
Lahaina |
