Are you planning the ultimate beach getaway in
Hawaii but not sure where you should base yourself? Maui is regularly voted as the best beach holiday destie in the world, and when you lay your eyes on its gorgeous white, black, red and golden sand beaches, you'll soon understand why. It isn't all just about beaches here, though; you'll discover plenty of other world-class attractions when you stay in one of our Maui hotels.
History
The island of Maui is named after the demigod Maui, who is believed to have stood on the island's highest peak, the volcano of Haleakala, and lassoed the sun so that he could extend the sunlight hours on the island. The word "Haleakala" actually translates to "house of the sun", and you may even end up worshipping the sun after you experience the immense natural beauty of the Haleakala National Park. Even the sunsets here are so spectacular that they're worth writing home about!
Maui is also the site of one of the most significant battles in Hawaiian history. In 1790, King Kamehameha fought the Battle of Kepaniwai in the lush Iao Valley and ended up succeeded in uniting the Hawaiian Islands. While you're here, make sure you visit the iconic Iao Needle (a 365 metre tall foliage-covered rock) which acted as the lookout point during the battle.
Things to Do
All of the beaches in Maui are magical but the most famous ones are found on the western side of the island and include the iconic Kaanapali and Kapalua beaches. On the southern coast, you'll find the Kihei and Wailea beaches, which are great swimming spots too, and if you are there in January you can snorkel our and see the humpback whales or hear them while you are underwater.
Grab some fins and dive down to the depths of the ocean at Kahana Beach Park or grab a surfboard and hang ten at the Hookipa Beach Park. Hookipa also hosts an internationally acclaimed wind-surfing competition in October, so check it out if you're in the area.
If you'd prefer to swim in freshwater, there are stacks of gorgeous waterfalls around Hana, on the east side of the island, but be warned: the hairpin bends along the highway on the way to Hana can be a little frightening, especially if you're driving yourself.
In the winter months, you can set off on a humpback whale-watching tour from the Lahaina Harbour and when you get back to shore, you can watch the world-famous Ulalena production at the Maui Theatre.
Shopping and Dining
Lahaina is home to some great shops, restaurants and art galleries, as well as a number of significant historical sites. It's also a foodie destination with its "Farm to Table" cuisine, where you can chow down on traditional Hawaiian meals and then check out the farms and plantations where the produce was grown.
Getting Here and Around
The Kahului Airport is fairly central on the island of Maui, and the most popular destinations are only between half an hour and two hours away. To get around, you can hire a car or jump aboard a tour bus, plus there are ferries that will take you between some destinations on the island.
Don't delay your unforgettable beach break a moment longer. Book your Maui accommodation with us now and live every lastminute!
