DK Travel : Maui

Maui is known as the “valley isle”, and most of its population nestles in the low-lying isthmus between the lush western mountains and the dustier slopes of Haleakalā to the east. Skirting the coast are some of the world’s finest beaches, from the popular resorts on the southwestern fringe to the wilder surfing beaches on the north and eastern shores. Maui’s administrative group also includes the islands of Moloka’i and Lana’i with more magnificent scenery and even greater remoteness.

Haleakalā National Park

The park encompasses everything from the summit of Haleakalā at 10,023 ft down to ’Ohe’o Gulch. Its massive crater was formed by water erosion. Crisscrossed by trails, dotted with cinder cones, and inhabited by rare and endangered plants and animals, this dormant volcano provides an awesome natural experience. (see Haleakalā National Park)
Haleakalā National Park

The amazingly diverse terrain of this national park – from rain forest to desert – culminates in the moon-like landscape of Haleakalā’s enormous crater. (see Haleakalā National Park)
Haleakalā National Park

No fee and no permit required to camp at Hosmer’s Grove or Kīpahulu. But permits are required at Hōlua and Palikū. They’re free and available at park headquarters on the day of your trip. Three cabins within the park are available only by lottery – apply at least two months in advance.
Haleakalā National Park

Atop Haleakalā, the 10,023-ft mountain that IS East Maui, lies the massive basin of a dormant volcano. The summit is an awesome landscape of cinder cones, rare plants and animals, amazing vistas, and trails (see Haleakalā National Park).

Haleakalā National Park
Haleakalā National Park

There are two trails that begin in the summit area. Sliding Sands takes about half a day, descending to the valley floor before returning to the peak. Halemau’u Trail is a more difficult hike: the first mile gradually descends through shrub land to the valley rim, then 2 miles of switchbacks descend 1,400 ft to the valley floor. Both trails join up after about 9 miles.
Haleki’i Pihana Heiau

One of Maui’s most accessible archaeological sites, the remains of precontact Hawaiian structures here have both religious and historical importance. Haleki’i Pihana was a chiefly compound, with thatched houses built atop a stone platform, and a luakini (humansacrificial temple). Signs explain the layout of the walls and terraces. The site is still used for traditional Hawaiian practices.
Hāli’imaile General Store

Upcountry Maui’s best restaurant is housed in a marvelously refurbished 1925 plantation store. Chef/Owner Beverly Gannon’s signature creations like Hunan Lamb, Szechuan Salmon, and Ahi Napoleon have garnered national acclaim. Save room for dessert. (see Hāli’imaile General Store).
Hāli’imaile General Store

Smack in the middle of a pineapple plantation 1,200 ft up Haleakalā, Beverly Gannon’s superb Hawai’i regional cooking with international influences ensures that this is a trek well worth making.
Hāmoa

Once described by Mark Twain as the most beautiful beach on earth, this is the Hawai’i of the travel posters. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for swimming, for this is Maui’s windward coast and the water is often rough, the waves big. So, if it looks a little wild, spread out your blanket and watch the local kids surf, bodysurf, and boogie board.
Hāna Beach County Park

Just south of Hāna town, this 700-ft-long brown sand beach is protected by a lava point, the ruins of a landing, and a pier. The bay’s waters are calm, making it safe and extremely enjoyable for swimming.

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