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.

Hilo Hattie

Once regarded as nothing more than a tacky tourist dive, Hilo Hattie has branched outward and upward, and now even locals browse the racks of better quality aloha wear.
Hoapili Trail

This 7-mile hike over rugged and barren terrain moves uphill from the ocean then meanders back toward the coastline. Along the seaside road, stone walls and raised platforms of heiau (temples) and hale (houses) are still visible. The hike requires sturdy shoes. (see Hoapili Trail (King's Trail); also see Hikes and Trails)
Hoapili Trail (King’s Trail)

A rather difficult hike that follows Maui’s southern coastline through rugged lava fields for 6 miles, passing archaeological sites. Be sure to bring plenty of water and plan to spend about six hours if you want to hike the entire trail.
Holy Ghost Church

Affectionately referred to as the “wedding cake” church, this octagonal white building glistens in the sun above Lower Kula Highway. It was built in 1895 by Portuguese immigrants, who, having fulfilled their contracts with the sugar plantations, settled Upcountry as farmers and ranchers. Austrian master woodcarver Ferdinand Stuflesser created the ornate altar and stations of the cross, both extremely fine examples of 19th-century ecclesiastical art. Today, Holy Ghost’s “bread ladies” bake equally fine examples of Portuguese sweet bread.
Home Maid Bakery

Amazing assortment of pastries and wonderful hot malasadas (Portuguese donuts) early morning and late at night.
Honokahua Preservation Site

This important historical site was uncovered during the construction of a hotel. The area contains more than 900 ancient Hawaiian burials dating from 610 to 1800 A.D. So significant and sacred is this place that the hotel had to shift site slightly to accommodate it. Now carpeted with lush grass and bordered by native plants, it is recognized as a sacred Hawaiian site.
Honokōhau Valley

Traveling north from Honolua Bay will take you on a scenic coastal drive. Part of this is through the fecund Honokohau Valley, which positively bursts with fruit trees and lush vegetation. Wind down your window and breath in the scented air.
Honokōwai

Located across the road from the condos and mini-strip malls, Honokōwai Beach Park is good for snorkeling and excellent for small children who like to play at the water’s edge. Lots of food and other services are only seconds away.
Honolua Bay

Just past Mile Marker 32 is Honolua Bay – park as soon as you come to the dirt road. This is another good spot for experienced surfers, and during the summer months, there’s good swimming and snorkeling too.
Honolua Store

Pineapple plantation carpenters built the Honolua Store in 1929, and it looks much the same today as it did when it first opened. Now the merchandise is a bit more upscale, and clothing here sports the Kapalua Resort butterfly logo. Breakfast, sandwiches, and local foods such as Spam musubi (see Spam) and a variety of plate lunches are available at the deli counter.