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MAUI
KYLE ELLISON
DISCOVER
Maui
There is a prominent Hawaiian saying about Maui: Maui no ka oi. Maui is the best. Residents and visitors alike can agree that there is something specialeven magicalabout Hawaiis second largest island. Yet its hard to pinpoint exactly one thing that places Maui among the most dreamed-of vacation locations in the world.
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The endless stretches of golden sand are an obvious and noteworthy draw, but sand alone doesnt entice millions of visitors to flock to a 727-square-mile dot in the middle of the Pacific. Perhaps its more than just the image of yourself in a lounge chair on the sand with a mai tai in hand and the soft breeze rustling the palm trees overhead. Maybe its also the way the trade winds blow across a beach of black sand at Waianapanapa State Park, stirring up waves on the sparkling blue waters. Or its the hope of a close encounter with a giant green sea turtle while snorkeling off the coast of Napili Bay. Or maybe its the way the setting sun reflects in the waters off Makena, creating an atmosphere thats both fiery and calm in the same fleeting moment.
Theres a good chance the secret to Mauis allure lies in the many moments that stick with you long after youve left the island behind. Hiking through a bamboo forest so thick it nearly obscures the sun and finding yourself at the base of a 400-foot waterfall cascading down a rocky cliff. Riding your first wave and feeling the thrill of the surf as you glide across a silky blue break. Waking at 3am to drive up a dark mountainside in the freezing cold to see the first rays of light illuminate the rich colors of Haleakala Crater.
These are the moments that make a trip to Maui truly no ka oi.
West Maui
West Maui pulses with a unique coastal vibe. The historic town of Lahaina was once the capital of the Hawaiian kingdom, and it retains a port town atmosphere. Warm weather and mostly dry conditions make this region a spectacular place for outdoor adventure. Snorkel with sea turtles at Napili Bay, lounge on the beach in Kapalua, ride the zipline above Kaanapali, or hike to Nakalele Blowhole.
Nakalele Blowhole
Central Maui
Central Maui is the islands population center and the seat of county government. Most visitors blow through town en route to their beachfront resort, but Central Maui has its own set of sights off the regularly worn trail. The twisting road into Iao Valley is the regions most popular attraction. Kepaniwai Heritage Garden exhibits Mauis multicultural heritage, and down on the shoreline at Kanaha Beach Park, windsurfers and kitesurfers take to the waves along the stretch of Mauis north shore.
South Maui
From the celebrity-laden resorts of Wailea to the condo-dwelling snowbirds of Kihei, South Maui is all about worshipping the sun and enjoying the procession of beaches. Makena remains South Mauis most adventurous venue with snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking trails, kayaking, and some of the islands most photo-worthy beaches. Just offshore, Molokini Crater offers 100-foot visibility and the chance to snorkel with up to 250 species of fish.
Upcountry
Rural, laid-back, and refreshingly cool, Upcountry is Mauis most underrated zone. Agriculture and produce dominate Kula, and everything from vegetables to vineyards, coffee, and goat cheese can be found in this rural and relaxing enclave. Polipoli is the islands little-known adventure zone, where mountain biking, paragliding, and hiking take place in a forest shrouded in mist. Watch the dramatic sunrise from the frosty peak of towering Haleakala, the sacred volcano from which the demigod Maui famously snared the sun.
East Maui: the Road to Hana
The New Age town of Paia is as trendy as it is jovial. Surfers ride waves along undeveloped beaches, patrons shop in locally owned boutiques, and the town is home to some the islands best restaurants. Along the famous, twisting Road to Hana, tumbling waterfalls and rugged hiking trails await. The Pools of Oheo spill down cliffs to the sea. The hike through a bamboo forest to the base of Waimoku Falls is considered the islands best trek.
Lanai
Home to 3,300 residents and two large resorts, this island is a playground of outdoor adventure. Whether you are staying here or making a day trip from Maui, everything from hiking to scuba diving, golfing, and surfing can be enjoyed readily without the crowds. Learn about the islands history at the Lanai Culture and Heritage Center, and make the journey down to Kaunolu to see an ancient village settlement essentially frozen in time.
Molokai
Taking time to explore this island offers a chance to experience the roots of native Hawaiian culture. Take a guided tour into historic
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