Island of Maui

Maui is the most beautiful island of all the major island in Hawaii. It's strikingly blue waters and lush green rainforests are like a dream. After staying in Maui once, you feel like moving there.

Road to Hana: It is a very scenic drive with 500+ blind turns and 62 one lane bridges. There are so many waterfalls along the way. Unfortunately, Maui has been going through a drought so we did not get to see as many, but we have heard from friends about its beauty. The drive has various stops along the way starting with the town of Paia and ending in town of Hana. Beyond the Paia town, stop to watch some amazing windsurfing action going on. Hana town is quaint and has some nice beaches. Beyond Hana town, you can visit Oheo Gulch pools. Again, they were dry when we visited, but the pictures say it all.

If you don't plan to stay in Hana overnight, leave early morning so you can stop and go and hike to the pools and return before nightfall.

Beaches: Makena beach was one of the most beautiful ones especially to just sit and watch the waves that break shore. Ka'anapali beach is a good spot swimming and people watching. You can also go snorkeling from the beaches or take a organized trip to Molokini crater.

Gear Rental: Snorkel Bob has best deals for snorkel and beach equipment rentals. You can even return snorkel gear on another island location. Their one week pricing is really good.

Haleakala Crater: This is a half day trip if you don't plan on hiking much. If you have already hiked a lot in Volcano park or been up Mauna Kea, you won't find much to do. But still going to the top is recommended. Haleakala also has stargazing after sunset in case you missed Mauna Kea summit.

Lu'au: We attended the Old Lahaina Luau in Lahaina town. It was a great authentic hawaiian experience to have. The food isn't great but watching the dancers and just spending the evening doing something different is definitely a must.

Lodging: Most of the high-end resorts are located in West Maui in Ka'anapali. Napili beach area has lots of condos. Kihei which is located little south is a good middle ground with respect to pricing as well as location. There are good beaches in Kihei as well.

Oh I wish I could move to Maui!