The Maui Island is the second largest island of the state of Hawaii in the United States. The island spanning an area of 727.2 square miles is a distinct tourist paradise. Tourists from all over the world flock this beautiful island in search of sheer pleasure, and Maui doesn’t let them down at all.
Maui Attractions: Things to do in Maui
The things worth doing in Maui range from hiking to scuba diving for adventure seekers, and shopping to sightseeing for vacationers who look for peace of mind.
Hiking in Maui
Maui Island has one of the most fascinating natural environment in the world, and the best way to experience it is by hiking through the rain forests. The numerous trails present here lead you through these dense forests and deep valleys, echoing with the sound of birds and running water. You don’t have to be a veteran hiker to enjoy hiking on the island of Maui. Here there are trails meant for everyone, according to one’s choice. The hike across the lunar landscape of Haleakala crater is quite famous among the nature lovers visiting Maui. Near the crater you can find one of the most rare plant in the world – the Silversword. Another fascinating trail is the one that takes you along the Waihee Valley ridge. You can end your hike at one of the many magnificent waterfalls which add to the beauty of this place. Don’t forget to pick up a copy of the Maui recreational map available with the Department of Land and Natural Resources. It will make your hike much more easier and safer.
Diving in Maui
The 120 mile long coastline of the island of Maui has more than 80 beaches, each better than the other. The sand here ranges from shimmering white to grayish black. Maui is home to some of the finest diving spots, not just in Hawaii, but the entire world. The most prominent recreational activity experienced by thousands of tourists annually here is scuba diving. The southern and the western shores of Maui have some of the most famous diving spots in the Pacific, while the northern and the eastern shore are comparatively less explored. There are two conservation areas on the island on Maui. The first is located at Honolua Bay on West Maui, while the second is at the partially submerged volcanic crater called Molokini, off the Wailea shore. The beaches here are also ideal for snorkeling, which allows you to enjoy the fascinating world beneath the water surface. Various local tour operators based on the island offer some of the most remarkable diving and snorkeling excursions. Glass bottom boats and pleasure submarines open the realms of underwater for people who cant swim. It is a sheer delight to see the Giant Humpback Whales which close in on the shore during their breeding season between November and April.
Shopping and Sight Seeing in Maui
A renowned tourist destination, Maui Island has several shopping malls, designer boutiques and galleries. Many of these indulge in sale of items unique to Hawaii, ranging from hand-turned bowls to beautiful jewelry and glass items. Weekly markets and craft fairs are common in Maui. Lahaina is considered to be a shopper’s paradise. Incidentally, Lahaina is also a historic preservation district, which makes it one of the most sought after destination on the island. Other places of sightseeing include Hawaiian churches, plantation towns, museums depicting the islands whaling history, etc. Huge aquariums with fish swimming all around the place have become a major attraction for children.
Hawaiian Luau
Lastly, if you want to experience the rich culture of Hawaii, then you shouldn’t miss Luau, the Hawaiian feast featuring traditional food and entertainment. Several hotels in Maui host this feast, wherein Hawaiian dishes such as kalua pig, poi and haupia are served along with other delicacies. Hawaiian music and fire dancing are a part of this Hawaiian extravaganza. The Old Lahaina Luau, held in Lahaina, is one of the best luau in the world.
These were just a few of the various things to do in Maui. The island has something for everyone who comes here. It doesn’t matter whether you seek adventure or peace of mind, you are bound to return happy and content from the island of Maui.