Somewhere over the rainbow, Humpback whales can be seen frolicking in water, the sweetest pineapples are grown in mass, and sea turtles slowly make their way to shore. Maui is Hawaii’s second largest island, nicknamed “The Valley Isle” as its home to two dormant volcanoes along with the world’s most beautiful beaches, an opportunity to snorkel over a volcanic crater, unbelievable hiking trails, and a rich history of Polynesian folklore. The island’s sprawling luxury resorts are ideal for families looking to unwind in the sun or couples looking for an endorphin rush in a lush paradise. Whatever type of Hawaiian adventure you are looking for, let VWT craft an amazing journey to one of the U.S.’s most beautiful islands.
Read about Ashley Lancer’s trip to Hawaii featuring Maui here.
What we would do:
Haleakalā National Park.
Haleakalā Crater is one of the most famous sites in all of Maui, located at the top of a massive dormant shield volcano that towers over the island at 10,023 feet above sea level. Haleakalā translates to “house of the sun” and legend has it that the ancient demigod Maui stood on the volcano’s summit to lasso the sun and create the seasons making days shorter in the winter and longer in the summer. Described by Mark Twain as “the most sublime spectacle I have ever witnessed”, many visitors wake up at the break of dawn to watch one of the most spectacular sunrises on earth. The park spans over 30,000 acres of land with scenery ranging from Mars-like red deserts to lush waterfalls in the coastal region offering hiking trails, scenic vistas, guided hikes and horseback riding.
Road to Hana.
The Road to Hana is a fifty-two mile stretch of highway starting in Kahului ending at Kipahulu – often listed as one of the best things to do in Maui. 620 curves and fifty-nine bridges wind though lush, green forests with an abundance of breathtaking stops along the way. Whether you are driving with a private guide or choose to rent a convertible, make sure you stop at the black sand beach at Wai’napanapa State Park and make a detour on the Ke’anae Peninsula (or the Halfway to Hana stand at mile seventeen) for the best banana bread you’ll ever have before you resume chasing waterfalls.
Discover Lahaina.
Once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii and the heart of the whaling industry worldwide, Lahaina is a key stop when visiting Maui as the city tells a story rich in Hawaiian history and culture. Lahaina’s Front Street has been ranked one of the “Top Ten Greatest Streets” by the American Planning Association and today you’ll find restaurants, art galleries, classic t-shirt shops, and a fun, upbeat vibe. The town is on the National Register of Historic Places so history lovers will enjoy seeing the U.S. Seaman’s Hospital, Wo Hing Temple, the Pioneer Inn (the oldest hotel in Hawaii), and more.
Where we would stay:
Andaz Maui at Wailea
Andaz Maui at Wailea is set on fifteen beachfront acres with direct access to the infamous Mokapu Beach. The resort is home to 321 rooms, thirty-five suites and thirty-one luxury villas with private lanai’s to enjoy the picturesque island views. A soothing neutral palette with modern wood furnishings perfectly accompanies the dramatic views and upscale Hawaiian beach house spirit felt throughout the resort. Guests will fully immerse themselves in the island spirit during the resort’s luau experience after a day featuring a helicopter tour and private outrigger canoe excursion.
The property shared above is a part of our Valerie Wilson Travel Suite Access™ portfolio. Learn more about VWT’s Suite Access program here.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Overlooking the golden crescent of Wailea Beach, Four Seasons Resort Maui sits in a central location on the sunny side of the island – a five-minute drive from the island’s finest golf courses and less than a mile from the luxurious boutiques and restaurants of The Shops at Wailea. The open-air beachfront resort is home to 383 modern and spacious rooms, and three restaurants including Wolfgang Puck’s acclaimed Spago, one of Maui’s best eateries. Families and couples are equally catered to here with two family-friendly pools, a game room, free kids’ club, adults-only oasis pool, and world-class spa.
