Maui- the Land of the Sun. The demi-god’s name is known throughout the Polynesian Islands from Tonga to the Society Islands, from Marquesas to Hawaii. Known as the trickster of the gods, Maui is said to have a place in his heart for humans. He is credited for giving fire to mortals (after stealing it from its guardians) and fishing the Pacific islands from their watery depths. The Island of Maui is the only island in Polynesia currently named after a god. Seen from the air, Maui even looks remarkably like the head and torso of a man!

Maui was formed by two giant volcanoes. West Maui, resembling a head, is the oldest portion of the island. It is believed that the volcano that formed it was as high as Haleakala, the 10,023 foot tall volcano flanking the entire east side or “body”. Today, this old volcano has been whittled away by the forces of nature to where the highest point in the West Maui Mountains (Pu’u Kukui) stands at 5,788 feet. These mountains are home to a network of trails through the lush rainforests and bogs, cultural spots, and spectacular points of interest.

Upon visiting East Maui’s Haleakala Crater, you will find a desolate landscape that you would never expect to be the home of a beautiful daisy flower called a silverwood- a flower that, due to its isolation, has evolved into a plant like none other in the world.

Never short on history and culture; be sure to visit the historic churches and art culture of Kahului, Wailuku and Paia. Take a trip to Tedeschi Winery and sample the pineapple wine. Explore the rich Hawaiian history of Hana and the cultural shows and art galleries of Lahaina.

There are a multitude of tours to keep you busy exploring Maui for days on end. Maui is reported by its locals to have the “best snorkeling in the world”. The Four Winds II Afternoon Adventure Cruise will take you to Molokini or the Coral Gardens while you enjoy the sights from the glass bottom catamaran. Slide down the waterslide or work on your tan as the crew caters to your every need. All snorkel gear and an open bar are included in the price of about $ 45 ($ 35 for a child) for 3.5 hours.

If a dinner cruise is on your list, try the Maui Princess Sunset Dining and Dancing Cruise. Sail along Maui’s stunning coastline as the tropical air wraps you in its warmth. You can dine and dance the night away on their luxury yacht. Cost is between $ 80- $ 90 for a 2.5 hour cruise.

If morning is your thing-, you can start your day “On Top of the World”. Travel by minicoach 38 miles to the top of Haleakala- meaning “House of the Sun”- and enjoy a continental breakfast. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime chance to touch the sky! The $ 50- $ 70 includes admission to the Haleakala National Park and an hour-long stay at the House of the Sun Visitors Center.

If you are a horse lover, or just up for something different, you can experience Maui on horseback. For about $ 115, your expedition will begin at the Mendes Ranch Corral, where you are greeted by real Paniolos (Hawaiian cowboys) and embark on the two-hour guided trail ride! Gallop through rolling pastures into the lush Hawaiian rainforest, and gaze down into Eki Crater to view some of Maui's largest waterfalls. Your narrated tour then continues on down the mountain, where you will see Hawaiian taro (a root used to make poi) patches and plantation homes. The trail continues down through Waihe'e Valley to the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, where you can have your picture taken against the backdrop of the beautiful scenery.

Experience a real Hawaiian luau! The captivating Wailea Sunset Luau comes complete with a lei greeting, an Imu Ceremony, and a bountiful all-you-can-eat feast buffet. An open bar and the “Best Polynesian Revue on the Island” round out your evening. Cost is about $ 75 per adult and $ 35 per child.

There are so many amazing tours to experience from whale watching on submarines and luxury yachts, to cave exploration, helicopter tours of Haleakala or deep valley rain forests and waterfalls. Spend a morning parasailing (about $ 50) or take surfing lessons (two-hour lessons start at about $ 50 each for groups or less than $ 100 for two hours of individual instruction. The options are endless!

Like the tours, Maui has an abundance of accommodations to fit any price range and budget. South Maui and West Maui have the majority of the hotels, but bed-and-breakfasts, private houses and cottages or rental condos are available across the island. To the south, the Wailea Marriott Resort, Aston Maui Lu Resort, Maui Coast Hotel, or the Wailea Beach Resort are all great choices. To the West, the Embassy Vacation Resort and Kaanapali Beach, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, the Kaanapali Beach Hotel (described as the “most Hawaiian hotel”), Lahaina Shores, or many others will fit the bill.

Maui has everything for your vacation experience. Anytime of year, the temperature is a perfect 70- 80 degrees. So grab your shorts, tanning oil, and sunglasses and experience all that Maui has to offer!

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