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The waters inside the crescent of this underwater volcanic crater have visibility to 100 ft and are teeming with tropical fish of all shapes, sizes, and hues. There’s lots of reef life, too, such as coral, pencil urchins, and sea cucumbers. The water becomes shallow near the walls of the submerged crater, and schools of triggerfish, parrot fish, and tangs swim happily around snorkelers. A sheer dropoff outside the crater walls is excellent for scuba exploration.

With desks all over the island, this organization can arrange all manner of water activities (main number: 879 4485).

Although it’s not wide, this beach offers easy shoreline access to good snorkeling around coral heads in shallow water. There are lots of turtles and plenty of colorful reef fish. The surf is normally gentle, but it is consistent. There is no sign or parking lot; just pull off the highway where you see all the other cars. Be sure not to sit on or touch the coral.

High up in the cool mist of the Kula Forest Reserve on the western slope of Haleakalā is this serene area. Best known for its redwood forest, a network of trails winds through the tall trees at Polipoli.

The only course in Upcountry Maui, the 6,962-yd, par 72 was opened in 1978 and provides a cooler experience than Maui’s other courses. Set 1200 ft up the slopes of Mt. Haleakalā, the course winds through a lovely residential community. Golfers here can see the isthmus between East and West Maui, the ’Īao Needle, and both the north and south shores.

Atop the summit of Pu’u Kukui (Hill of Light) is one of Hawai’i’s richest biological regions and the site of some of the state’s last stands of pristine native rain forest. Access to the preserve here is so limited that each year a lottery is held to select just 12 lucky visitors. (see Pu’u Kukui)

The trail meanders from Polipoli Springs State Park through stands of redwood trees. About 2 miles long, this moderately difficult trail begins at the 6,200-ft elevation and is a part of a network of three trails: Haleakalā Ridge, Plum Trail, and Redwood Trail.