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.

Wailea Beach

A series of enticing white sand crescents fronting the hotels of the Wailea Resort area. Because the individual areas are bordered by lava rock outcroppings, there’s almost no wave action at the edges of these beaches, making for excellent swimming and often very good snorkeling too.
Wailea Blue

A course that epitomizes the game of golf in Hawai’i. Most of the hazards are natural, and golfers must contend with the wonderful distraction of spectacularly beautiful surroundings. The course measures 6,758 yds (par 72), with an an 18th hole rated one of the best in the U.S.
Wailea Emerald

Designer Robert Trent Jones II refers to the Emerald’s “feminine characteristics” in terms of its soft visual edges. Of course, men certainly enjoy the pleasant, almost laid-back style of this course too. Some consider the 18th hole to be peerless. And the “19th” is the beautiful SeaWatch Restaurant in the Wailea clubhouse.
Wailea Gold

This award-winning course rose to international prominence in 2001, the first year it hosted the Champions Skin Game and the extraordinary foursome of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Hale Irwin. Many consider this championship course hallowed ground, yet it’s 7,078-yd, par 72 layout is manageable, even for weekendonly duffers.
Wailea Grand Champion Villas

These California-style condos are great for sporty types – the sprawling complex of low-rise buildings overlooks Wailea’s golf and tennis facilities, and there are two pools on site. The accommodations are upscale and very comfortable.
Wailea Marriott Resort

This resort is undergoing major renovations until mid-2006, however rooms will still be available during this period. A large foot spa, adult-only infinity pool, and a freestanding oceanfront restaurant will be added.
Wailua

Marked out by its lo’i kalo (taro patches), the village of Wailua is just over halfway along the road to Hāna. Native Hawaiians raise and tend the precious plants in the traditional way of their ancestors. At mile marker 18, you can turn left onto Wailua Road, go past St. Gabriel’s Church and the Miracle of Fatima Shrine, and reach an easily accessible and highly refreshing waterfall.
Wailuku and Kahului

These twin towns are where the majority of Maui’s populace live and work. The area also has fantastic sights, from missionary churches to ancient sites to lush, tropical plantations. (see Wailuku and Kahului)
Waimoku Falls

One of Maui’s tallest, Waimoku Falls cascades more than 400 ft into ’Ohe’o Gulch in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park. Hikers can reach the falls by taking the Waimoku Falls Trail (see Waimoku Falls).
Waimoku Falls Trail

A 4-mile hike that takes about two hours, beginning at the Kīpahulu Visitor Center of Haleakalā National Park (the Ranger’s Station) and climbing through tropical rain forest and a dense bamboo forest to the 400-ft Waimoku Falls. The trail is maintained but can be muddy.

Jump to top

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