THE BEST OF EVERYTHING IN MAUI

The “Valley Island” of Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian Island and has a surprisingly sparse population of about 144,000 inhabitants. At all times of the year, the population is swelled with visitors from around the world who come to see the “Best Island,” the award consistently conferred on Maui by readers of Conde Nast Traveler magazine. People come to watch migrating humpback whales, to feel the warmth of the sun on a sandy beach, or to watch the sunrise from the peak of a volcano. Here are some of the best reasons for visiting Maui.

Best Hike: Pipiwai Trail, Haleakala National Park

Best Drive: The Hana Highway, from Kahului to Kipahulu

The trail through the Bamboo Forest to the 400-foot high Waimoku Falls is as unforgettable as the drive to the trailhead along the Hana Highway. Both deserve a spot in “The Best of Maui.” The Hana Highway is 60 miles of curves, switchbacks and spectacular ocean-cliff scenery. Single-lane bridges enhance the driving experience and the adrenaline rush of this winding coastal highway.

It is hard to say where the Hana Highway begins, but you won’t be sorry if you drive the route from Kahului to the entrance of Haleakala National Park, a drive of about three hours. At the end of the Hana Highway, you’ll find the entrance to the national park. The Pipiwai Trail is well marked and easy to follow. It will lead you into the Bamboo Forest along a boardwalk as it climbs around 800-900 feet in elevation.

You’ll love the dark creepiness of the dense bamboo forest. It’s like being ant-small and hiking through a gigantic lawn. There are several waterfalls along the way, but be very careful if you decide to take a swim. People have lost their lives being swept away by a flash flood or unexpected current along the slippery rocks. About a half mile in, you’ll come across a 200-foot high thundering waterfall crashing down a vine-covered cliff. You may be satisfied to stop here. It’s a worthy destination.

The trail ends at the amazing sight of the 400-foot high Waimoku Falls. It takes at least two and a half hours to hike the four miles round trip, and it is not recommended for a rainy day. Wear sturdy, non-skid shoes that can get wet in stream crossings. Bring plenty of drinking water, and don’t be tempted to drink from the streams.

Best Sandy Beach: Kapalua Beach

Maui’s coastline includes some thirty miles of beautiful, sun-baked beaches where the roar of the Pacific and the rush of wind in the palms make beautiful music for sun worshippers. It’s difficult to argue that there is a “best” beach, because some provide perfect curls for surfing and some offer calm pools of swimmable, clear waters made for snorkeling.

Kapalua Beach, on the northwest coast of the island, is the home of Kapalua Resort, but there is plenty of beach space for public and guest use. This was the first beach ever to be named “America’s Best Beach (1991).” It’s a small beach with clear, aqua waters perfect for snorkeling. You’ll see puffer fish, eels, angel fish, sea urchins and coral under the gentle waves. A grassy area with shade trees, adjacent to the beach, provides a pleasant way to get out of the direct sunlight and enjoy a tropical breeze.