The Hawaiian Islands are beautiful and amazing. Visitors often come here for a week or two, only to have it change their lives. (I was one of them.)
When considering Hawaii as a place to call home, people often wonder which island would be the best one to settle on. Here are some reasons why Maui is "No Ka Oi" (the best).
10. The Hawaii Superferry - At this point, Maui and Oahu are the only islands where the Superferry docks. Kauai is still trying its best to keep the Superferry away, even though a lot of the local folks would love to be able to take advantage of this interisland transportation. Plans include another Superferry which will sail between Oahu and the Big Island, but those plans are on hold for now. Maui is connected to Lanai and Molokai by way of a small passenger ferry. I have to admit, it's nice to have an alternative to air travel when considering island hopping.
9. Maui Raceway Park - Not many people know that there is a dragstrip and racetrack on Maui. The track at Maui Raceway Park is one of the five oldest in the country. New racers are welcome, so bring your car or motorcycle down to the old Puunene military airport off the Mokulele Highway and join in the fun.
8. Lahaina - This charming seaside town was once the whaling capital of the Pacific. There's a lot of interesting history here, and some unique old buildings from that era. Front Street is now a tourist attraction which boasts numerous gift shops, art galleries and restaurants. There's something very compelling about Lahaina, and it draws people back year after year. Is it any wonder that this was once the capital of the Hawaiian kingdom?
7. Wailea - It's a world class luxury resort, a planned community with tropical island flavor. Some of the best beaches on Maui are found here, including my all time favorite... Makena Beach. If you like to golf, you will find some incredibly beautiful and challenging courses here. Wailea is a high-end destination that includes many celebrities amongst it's residents. For the best in luxury and relaxation, Wailea offers it all, including the Wailea Film Festival each summer.
6. The Road to Hana - The winding road to Hana is a national treasure, and has been designated as a historical trail, to preserve its character. Whether you start in Paia, or at the Millennium Trail Marker, be sure to bring some water and food, and have plenty of gas in the car. Waterfalls and streams abound, and there are many scenic points for picture taking. Plan on spending a whole day to explore the diverse stops along the way. Hana and the surrounding area is very tropical and lush, with beaches of amazing variety and color.
5. Makawao and Upcountry - Upcountry Maui includes a lot of territory, starting in Haiku and encompassing Makawao, Haliimaile, Pukalani, Kula and Ulupalakua. Some of the other islands here just don't have an upcountry like Maui does. The homes and ranches at the higher elevations enjoy a much cooler climate which is suitable for raising animals and crops. Of course the views are spectacular from this vantage point. Makawao is another Maui town which has retained a lot of the charm from a bygone era. It's not unusual to see horses tied up to a hitching post in downtown Makawao. Renowned private school Seabury Hall is located just above Makawao. You can attend all sorts of fun events upcountry, such as the famous Fourth of July Parade and Rodeo, farmers markets, and fairs. There's a real down home atmosphere in upcountry Maui, and people will make you feel right at home. Did you know there is a Maui winery where they make pineapple wine and grow their own grapes?
4. Haleakala Crater - Haleakala National Park is the crown jewel atop the island of Maui. This dormant volcano is so awe inspiring and spiritual, it was a sacred place for the Hawaiian people. Today, the park welcomes visitors and encourages hiking into the crater. Haleakala is also home to some very important high tech astronomical centers.
3. Paia and the North Shore - For water sports fans, there is no better place than the north shore of Maui. Canoe paddlers, kiteboarders, windsurfers, surfers, and paddle boarders all love to get in the water at beaches that stretch from Kahului to Honomanu. With excellent conditions all year round, there's always something to do in the water. For epic wave action, don't miss Ho'okipa Beach Park, or Jaws in Peahi, which really gets rocking in the winter months. Paia is the historical town that characterizes the north shore, and you can find almost anything you want. Mama's Fish House Restaurant is not to be missed, for a beachside dining experience that you will never forget.
2. The Maui Arts and Cultural Center - Since 1994 we have been blessed with a wonderful venue where the community could gather and celebrate together and the world's most exciting artists can be enjoyed. The MACC is also an excellent educational resourcefor all of us. If you haven't yet been to the MACC, you should make a point to attend an event or film here soon.
1. Best Island in the World - Those folks at Conde Nast Traveler magazine keep on proclaiming that Maui is the best island in the world, according to their reader's poll. Do you think they're on to something?
Whew! I thought this was going to be an easy list to compile, but not so. There are so many more things that could be included here, but I am trying to keep it simple.
Aloha from Maui - Georgina M. Hunter Realtor (S) e-Pro 808 283-0635 EMAIL
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