Maui is the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago but much less populous than its neighbours. Once the thriving home and port for whaling and sugar mill industries, it had attracted settlers from various part of the world- especially from Asia and South America, which has led to a cultural melting pot. From a bustling port and plantation island, Maui now boasts a varied landscape from farmlands, eroded volcanic craters, lush vegetation and still remains the winter home for humpback whales.

Maui’s regions

Maui has five distinct regions- Central Maui, West Maui, East Maui, South Maui and Upcountry Maui, each uniquely scenic with its own rich history. Central Valley, in Central Maui, is the isthmus of two converging volcanoes which eventually led to the formation of Maui. This valley is also the home to majority of the islanders. Wailuku is the Central Valley town where the largest Maui collections of Hawaiian artifacts are housed in Bailey House Museum. Not to be missed in this valley is the Iao Valley State Park- iconic for its historical significance and the spectacular landmark- Iao Needle, towering at 1200 feet high. This state park also offers excellent hiking trails among the most lush greenery at times masked by willowy clouds.

Moving from nestled Central Valley, which is actually at the foot of West Maui, where the thriving historic town Lahaina, the original capital of the Hawaiian Islands, is located. The former harbor town, once called Lele, is now home to numerous tourist attractions of historic significance. These places include the western-style Baldwin Home with original period furnishings, Pioneer Inn, the oldest hotel and favorite landmark in town, and several others along the town’s historic trail.

Nature and Landscape

East Maui is home to most unique landscape of the Haleakala National Park and the languishing town of Hana, which the destination of a spectacular scenic drive along the top eastern coast. The challenging drive, filled with narrow twists and turns, is an endless visual treat of velvety tropical vegetation, stunning waterfalls, and perfect for swimming, pools and myriad of fascinating seascapes. The varied terrain in Haleakala National Park, where Maui’s highest point is located, includes barren cinder desert to alpine shrub, and the volcanic summit depression. The hiking trails are certainly one of its kind, with vistas at varying altitudes and landscapes.

South Maui is where some of the best beaches can be found, at the entire stretch of the southern coast. Whale watching, surfing, scuba diving and kayaking are perfect for the leeward coast of the southern region. Upcountry Maui, is a fascinating countryside with rolling hills and home to ranches and small upcountry farms.

Maui offers some delightful drive trails to explore its fascinating facets of nature and history that leaves one awe-inspired by the magnificent sights.