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.

Alexander & Baldwin

Samuel Alexander and Henry P. Baldwin’s historic 1869 sugar plantation partnership grew into one of Hawai’i’s largest companies.
Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum

The sugar mill in Pu’unēnē is one of the last still operating in Hawai’i. Across the street from the mill stands the awardwinning museum, housed in the plantation superintendent’s residence of the early 20th century. Inside, the museum interestingly and informatively documents the history of Maui’s sugar industry. Photographs, clothing, models, and artifacts illustrate what daily plantation life was like for the owners and the immigrants who worked the fields and mills.
Alexander’s Fish & Chips

Fresh fish, shrimp, chicken, and potatoes are fried in canola oil (or broiled if you prefer). Perfect for a picnic lunch on one of Kīhei’s beaches.
Aloha Festivals

Contemporary Hawai’i is celebrated from mid-September to mid-October every year. The festivities begin on O’ahu and move through the island chain with at least a week-long celebration at every stop. A “royal court” is chosen on each island, and the festivals are marked by floral parades, concerts, and craft fairs.
Aloha Mixed Plate

Exceptional plate lunches served outside, where there’s a grand ocean view.
An Afternoon Away from the Crowds

Early Afternoon

Head west along Route 30 from the Kā’anapali Resort area, and stock up on snacks and beverages at the quaint HonoluaStore in Kapalua (see Honolua Store).

Stop at either D.T. Fleming Beach or Honolua Bay (see Honolua Bay) for an invigorating swim in summer or the thrill of watching experienced surfers in winter. Drive carefully along narrow Route 30 from Kapalua all the way around to Wailuku. The road, barely wide enough for one car at points, twists and turns with the coastline, hugging the mountainside with sheer drop-offs to the ocean below.

Late Afternoon

After you travel through the lush Honokohau Valley,stop at Nākālele Point for a short hike to experience the awesome force of the blowhole. Here the vivid red-hued cliffs drop to the ocean below and trails along the bluffs offer terrific ocean views. The wide expanses of grassy bluffs are great for a picnic.

After another brief stop at Mile Marker 16 to try ringing the Bellstone, continue along the route through the tiny village of Kahakuloa. A few miles farther finds you at Kaukini Gallery (see Kaukini Gallery), which displays and sells the work of local artisans.

From here you will soon return to “civilization,” passing through the communities of Waihe’e and Waiehu. Continue “home” along the main highways.
Asian Star

Simply delectable Vietnamese food at great prices. Try the tangerine beef or sesame chicken.
Aston Kā’anapali Shores

This beachfront resort, part of the local Aston chain, offers the choice of hotel or condo-style accommodations. There are laundry facilities, a sundry store, an activities desk, restaurant, and a children’s program too.
Awalua

At Awalua Beach the gentle offshore waves are a good place for first-time surfers to learn the sport. The bottom descends in a slight incline out to deeper waters.
Azeka Makai & Mauka

The former houses the post office, souvenir shops, fast food joints, and Azeka’s Snack Shop – the only place left to get the old market’s famous ribs. Across the road, Azeka Mauka offers local banks, more souvenirs, and Stella Blues.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes, and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100–$200
- $200–$300
- $300–$400
- over $400
Restaurant price categories

Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
- under $20
- $20–$30
- $30–$45
- $45–$60
- over $60