When you think Hawaii vacation, and crave for a little privacy, Maui is the place to be. It is less crowded than Honolulu and more exclusive retreat. Rent a car and enjoy at your own pace. You can book all kinds of tours- Whale watching tours, Zip line tours, Sunrise tours, Sunset tours, Scuba and snorkeling tours, submarine tours and many more.
There is an amazing place in Maui, the kind you see in dreams. Ever want to see the sun rising above the clouds? Come to Maui, this volcanic crater at the top of the mountain, Haleakala National Park gives you this spectacular view. It is beautiful anytime, but if you go at sunrise or sunset it will make your experience once in a lifetime. You can book a tour for sunset or sunrise. Avoid going on a cloudy day, you will miss out on the view. It usually takes around 1 and half hour to get to the top of the mountain, so plan accordingly.
Haleakala Observatory at top of the crater conducts astrophysical experiments. It can track satellites and debris from space because of its location on such height.
Hana highway is an eye-popping scenic road. The waterfalls, the panoramic views, the natural untouched beauty of rain forests and the curvy mountain road, everything combined makes it so surreal. Few things to keep in mind – start early around 7-8 am and get your car gas tank full. It’s a mountain road full of twists and turns so brace yourself for it. Lot of photo ops with views of waterfalls on the way. Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanical Garden on Hana highwayhas painted eucalyptus treesand many other such rare varieties of trees and bushes.
Twin Falls at Maui is a must visit place, with a short hike and gorgeous waterfalls. Best part you can swim, if you want at these falls. Waianapanapa State Park gives youblack sand and crystal blue waters beach. Variation and striking contrast in scenery provides such an electrifying sight.
Ka’anapali Beach in Lahaina is one of the most popular beaches here. Clear blue waters and gorgeous beaches with palm trees and greenery all around, makes it a great place to relax. You can find the restaurants and shops at a walkable distance at this beach.
Honolua Bay is a very good place for snorkeling. You can see the awesome marine life under water. Wide varieties of fishes can be spotted easily here. Nakalele Blowhole is another unique thing here in Maui. It is a natural geological formation. It is very powerful, so maintain a safe distance. There is also a heart shaped opening in the rock, where you can take pictures.
Black Rock at Kaanapali has an enchanting beach. It is known for the dives at the cliff specially around sunsets. Big Beach is truly like its name a big sandy beach. The sand is soft, but waves sometimes gets rough. Usually because of its size, you will not find it jam-packed. Good way to spend time if you love beaches.
West Maui Circle drive has stunning landscapes and seascapes. There are lots of other beaches and hidden gems to be explored in Maui. If you have more time on hand, you can also visit Banyan Tree Park and Maui Ocean Center. We used an app called “Maui GyPSy Guide Driving Tour”. Apart from explaining the points, it has humor and tells a lot about history of the island. Worth having on this trip.
