Maui captivates the imagination. Picture yourself strolling along colorful beaches. Envision refreshing waterfalls hidden in emerald valleys. Hawaii's second-largest island has much to offer discerning travelers. Experience all this and more in the Aloha spirit that permeates the archipelago.

History

According to tradition, the ancestors of Hawaiians traveled in double-hulled canoes and followed the stars to reach the archipelago during the great Polynesian migrations. Thanks to a bone fishhook discovered on the Big Island and carbon dating, scientists have traced the first human settlements on the islands to around 700 CE.

After centuries of wars between local kingdoms, Hawaii entered a new phase of its history in 1778 with the arrival of British explorer James Cook. It wasn't long before Christian missionaries arrived as well. As elsewhere in the world, European settlers established plantations and quickly became influential politicians, undermining Hawaiian monarchy. In 1898, the Estados Unidos annexed the island of Maui, and later in 1959, they made it a state.

The Legend of Maui

In Hawaiian mythology, Maui was a demigod. While fishing with his brothers in the Pacific Ocean, his magical fishhook caught the ocean floor. As he pulled it up with his brothers, an island emerged from the water. Maui repeated this several times, thus creating the Hawaiian Islands. He then climbed to the summit of Mount Haleakala to capture the sun's rays so that summer days would be long and winter days short. This is why today, the great island enjoys splendid weather, delighting those who love to relax.

Discovering Maui

Maui is rightfully one of the most beautiful destinations in the world for an escape. Moreover, with its well-developed tourism infrastructure, the island has plenty to satisfy its visitors, whether in terms of accommodation or various services. Maui nevertheless remains deeply true to the Aloha spirit. The inhabitants honor the lush nature—visit the summit of Haleakala or travel along the Road to Hana and you'll understand why.

Maui's Beaches Will Enchant You

Spend unforgettable moments with family at Ka'anapali Beach on Maui's west side. Enjoy numerous activities on the golden sand, then head to one of the nearby restaurants to savor fresh seafood platters. On the north side of the island, Ho'okipa Beach is a water sports paradise. Surfers and windsurfers put on a show while boaters watch in amazement. To the south, Makena Beach boasts being Maui's largest beach. It's the perfect spot for leisurely strolls, picnicking, and snorkeling. Don't miss the colorful beaches of the East, starting with Wai'anapanapa, nicknamed Black Sand Beach for its dark sand. Then discover Kaihalulu Beach or Red Sand Beach, which stands out for its reddish sand. As a bonus, add the gray-sand Hamoa Beach to your itinerary.

Spectacular Panoramas Await You

Bring your camera—Maui is filled with photogenic sites. Spend a few days at Haleakala National Park to capture idyllic sunrise and sunset. Trek the Pipiwai Trail, which leads to a giant banyan tree and the splendid Waimoku Falls and Makahiku Falls, passing through a bamboo forest. Refresh yourself in the Oheo pools while photographing the cascading waterfalls. Then change scenes by exploring the Haleakala Crater, a true force of nature. Among other must-see spots, note the emerald peaks of Iao Valley and the Road to Hana on Maui's northeast coast.

Taste Hawaiian Specialties

During your trip to Maui, you'll likely pass through the town of Makawao. Take the opportunity to savor a "doughnut-on-a-stick," a kind of pastry fixed on a stick, in the company of "paniolos" (Hawaiian cowboys). On the north coast, the charming village of Paia is home to bakeries that will delight your palate as well. To the southwest, Kihei and its food trucks will satisfy street food lovers. On the menu: shrimp, coconut rice, and fried squid! Finally, for beer enthusiasts, Lahaina to the west offers a series of friendly bars where you can enjoy a drink in an lively musical atmosphere.

When to Go?

To make the most of Maui's attractions, book your stay between April and May, or between September and November. There are fewer crowds and more affordable rates during spring and autumn's shoulder seasons. However, if you're coming for surfing, conditions are better in winter. Summer is ideal for family vacations, as the ocean is calmest at this time.

The main entry point to Maui is Kahului Airport. Two smaller airports—Kapalua Airport to the west and Hana Airport to the east—are also accessible to travelers. Several airlines serve flights with or without connections to Maui. Additionally, you can reach Maui by ferry from the nearby island of Lanai.

The best way to explore Maui is by car. The island has good road infrastructure, and with a GPS, navigating from one town to another is straightforward. Buses also operate in certain parts of the island.

What to Do in Maui?

• Sunbathe at Ka'anapali Beach
• Visit the black sand beach of Wai'anapanapa
• Explore the forests and waterfalls of Haleakala National Park
• Hike to the summit of Mount Haleakala
• Taste the street food of Kihei, and more