We all know that with the winter months comes cold weather, icy roads, and near constant snowfall. It is no surprise that people who experience the brutality of winter generally feel a need for a getaway, particularly to a tropical destination. Spending time on a beach oasis is the ultimate cure for the wintertime blues, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world can be found on the Hawaiian island of Maui.
Maui is home to dense rainforests, rich Hawaiian culture, and pristine beaches - it is truly an island paradise. The waters here are ideal for diving, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and just about every water sport under the sun. You have the option to kick back and relax or stay experience adventure after adventure. These top 5 reasons to visit Maui are enough to make you put away those bulky winter coats and pack a suitcase full of swimsuits and sunscreen. So book a flight and check out one of the many beachfront Maui rentals before heading to this tropical paradise.
Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park in southern Maui is best known for being home to the largest dormant volcano in the world. The park covers an area of over 30,000 acres, but many visitors just come to see the volcano and look down into its crater. Once at the summit, you can actually follow several trails into the crater, and hang out there for some cool photo ops. Be sure to visit early in the morning - tourists start flocking here later in the day, and the best views happen just after sunrise.
No need to stop exploring the park after you’ve seen the volcano; there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Spend some time walking along the Pipiwai Trail, which is about four miles long along the southeastern coast of the island. Along this trail you’ll find picturesque views and make your way to popular park sites like Waimoku Falls and Pools of Ohe’o’.
Old Lahaina Luau
If you want a true taste of Hawaiian culture, look no further than the Old Lahaina Luau. This event is located just a mile from the popular Banyan Tree Park right on the water. If you spend an evening here, you’ll see what a traditional luau looks like without any modern day twists or alterations. You’ll be wowed by the hula and fire dancers and get some exposure to Hawaiian music of the past. But the show isn’t even the best part...
You’ll be served an authentic Hawaiian meal of roasted pig and grilled mahi mahi, as well as other dishes only Hawaiianers know how to perfect. Dinner is served right away, and the performances last an average of three hours. Although admission tickets are not cheap by any means, Old Lahaina Luau is well worth your time and money, and it is great for the whole family.
Road to Hana
To some, hopping in the car and driving along the Hawaiian coastline may not seem like the most exciting of tourist activities, but these people feel differently as soon as they drive along the famous Road to Hana. Also referred to as Highway 360, this drive offers everything from green forests to clear oceans to cascading waterfalls - you’ll see some of the best views that Maui has to offer.
You can spend the entire day along this highway, stopping at different points to take pictures from the lookouts. You might feel that just a few hours is enough, but chances are you’ll want to take every opportunity to get out of the car for fresh air and breathtaking views. Notable spots to stop along the way are Twin Falls and Hookipa Beach.
Maui Ocean Center
An amazing way to learn about the underwater world of the Hawaiian island is by visiting the Maui Ocean Center. You’ll have the chance to see all of the native fish of Maui, as well as sharks, turtles, and rays.
This is an especially great outing for rainy days in Maui, when your outdoor options are limited but you still wish to learn about the island’s underwater ecosystems. If you have gone on a snorkeling or diving trip on the island, consider heading to the aquarium afterwards to learn more about the fish, corals, and other marine life you saw on your excursion.
If you are travelling with young children, head directly to the touch pools where they can get up close and personal with the all kinds of marine animals in a safe environment. Also be sure to check out the aquarium’s impressive Open Ocean exhibit, which is actually a tunnel through a 750,000 gallon tank filled with a variety of over 2,000 fish.
Kaanapali Beach
Located on the northwest coast of the island, Kaanapali Beach is well-known among locals and tourists alike. This beach is the perfect spot for surfing and sunbathing, and has tons of nearby restaurants, hotels, and even two pristine golf courses. The shallow waters surrounding the beach make snorkelling one of the most popular activities, and during certain times of the year you can take a private charter out for some whale watching.
If you’re hanging out at Kaanapali Beach for the day, be sure to stay for the evening festivities; every day at sunset people pay tribute to the last king of the island - King Kahekili - by plunging into the waters from a cliff at Puu Kekaa. You can easily spend all day here at the beach, and take a break from the sand, sun, and surf by walking to a nearby restaurant or cafe - until you head back to the beach of course.
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