Maui The Valley Isle
Those of you who have previously flipped through the pages of one of our many 101 Things to Do magazines (we print for O‘ahu, Big Island, Kaua‘i and Maui) may notice a few subtle changes in this issue. Freshly designed island maps—both with geographic points of interest and a selection of choice “Things” easily notated—were something that readers had asked for, and we obliged.
Next, we tackled the daunting task of adding a few dozen new “Things” for you to do which, you may presume, wasn’t easy since the compilation of a 101 originals. Yet our creative team, through multiple tours of the island and a league of contributors on the ground in Maui, managed to dig up some real gems.
Among them, find our updated list of Maui’s fantastic Farmers Markets (#91), each one bustling with locally harvested produce (and more), some replete with crafts, entertainment and a cast of local characters. We “burdened” one writer with the task of tracking down a number of Maui’s coveted spas, for those who wish to experience the ultimate in a pampered getaway (#88). It was high-time we gave some suggestions to those who may be scouting the Valley Isle for their upcoming nuptials, be it looking for an ideal location or a wedding planner (#96).
On that note, the more sensitive members of the 101 team compiled a hefty list of their favorite places to “Snag a Kiss” from your loved one (#98). Adventurous golf enthusiasts can try the once-in-a-lifetime experience of lifting off in a private helicopter for a personalized tour of the islands’ best courses, complete with a professional guide (#94).
Finally, we are thrilled to include the first “Things to Do” on Maui’s sister islands of Moloka‘i and Lana‘i, which you might already know, are considered a part of Maui County. Hunt for fallen (albeit fresh!) coconut at a beachfront park (#58), take a mule ride to Kalaupapa (#57) or snorkel with the dolphins off Lana‘i’s azure waters (#34).
Of course, for those reading this magazine for the first time, welcome to our little rag. Within these pages you will find a well-researched list of 101 ideas for mini-adventures for you to experience around the isle of Maui. These adventures range from tasting signature dishes at one of the island’s great eateries, to soaring above the waves in a parasail; from teeing off on a pristine, ocean-hugging golf course to hiking to hidden waterfalls.
We wouldn’t skimp on the water activities, especially here on Maui. Learning to catch a wave on a surfboard, snorkeling within eye-shot of our majestic (yet endangered) green sea turtles or sailing with a knowledgeable guide from the Pacific Whale Foundation—each will have a lasting impression on your jaunt to Maui.
Finally, one recommendation: Take this magazine home with you. In a few months, dig it out of your bag of memorabilia. Then, take a gander at all the activities you didn’t quite get around to. Maui will still be here, waiting for your imminent return—as will our growing list of 101 Things to Do.
Brian Berusch
Editorial Director
Haleakala, a massive shield volcano that rises 10,023 feet above Maui’s coastal areas, is an enormously popular and easily accessible visitor destination. It has become almost a ritual, in fact, for visitors to rise before dawn and trek to the mountaintop to watch the sun come up. Standing at the summit in the chilly darkness… Continue »
Though famous for its scenery, climate and cerulean blue sea, Maui harbors another little gem—shopping. Some of the best browsing comes in the form of walking up and down the streets of towns like Makawao, Pa‘ia, Kihei and Lahaina. Not only do you get to soak up the sunshine between stops, but you also get… Continue »
If you’re itching to try out your underwater gear in a place teeming with marine life, Molokini is a hot-ticket stop. A half-sunken cinder cone appearing low on the horizon three miles off Maui’s south shore, Molokini is a world-class snorkel and dive location that can be reached only by boat. Tours depart daily from… Continue »
It would be a mistake to rely on words to describe a helicopter tour of Maui. Call it a mythical ride on a magic carpet. Call it a page from a fairytale. It’s like watching a movie, hitching a ride on a butterfly, or drifting along in a dream. It’s a multi-sensory experience that cannot… Continue »
Hawaiians use the word mana to describe all manner of divine power. There are places on Maui where a sense of mana is almost tangible. ‘Iao Valley is one of them. This 10-acre park, four miles west of Wailuku, is crowned by an ancient 2,250-foot rock pinnacle and defined by the events of its storied… Continue »
The road to Hana is a long, arduous drive on a route not for the faint-of-heart that zigzags over 56 one-lane bridges and snakes around more than 617 hairpin curves. Among the unwritten rules for Hana are: Don’t be in a hurry, or you’ll miss the panoramic beauty that distracts and delights from both sides… Continue »
Day or night, exploring Lahaina on foot is a unique experience. You’ll find historic sites and modern hangouts dotting the landscape of this famous port city. Hale Pa‘ahao, an old stone jail that stands at the corner of Waine‘e and Prison streets, has a colorful past. Built in 1852, it was once the site where… Continue »
A trip to Maui wouldn’t be complete without a hike through the lush greenery of the island, taking in views of volcano-formed mountains, ocean swells, and towering trees along the way. One great trail to take in Maui’s natural beauty and learn about the Hawaiian culture, try the 3-mile Wai‘anapanapa Coastal Trail (listed as the… Continue »
From private clubs to municipal courses, Central and South Maui have a range of golf options. Maui Country Club in Spreckelsville is an exclusive course that allows public play only on Mondays. Opened in 1925, this nine-hole course is the oldest golf facility on Maui and one of only two private clubs on the island…. Continue »