As anyone from Maui will tell you (yes, I admit to resident bias),
Maui
no ka 'oi - Maui's the best, from the white sands of
Kaanapali and the touristy bustle of Lahaina to
paniolo
(cowboy) country halfway up the slopes of Haleakala and the lush
rain forests of Hana. Want nightlife, plenty of sunshine, and a
beautiful
wahine wearing a sarong bringing you cocktails
poolside? Book a hotel on Kaanapali Beach, and spend your days
slathered in SPF 15, trying to decide which great restaurant to try
that evening. For a little cultural entertainment, a west-side must
is the Old Lahaina Luau.
Thousands of windsurfers and kiteboarders flock to Maui each year,
and most head to the funky little town of Paia and world-renowned
Hookipa Beach Park. Sign up for lessons with Hugh and Linda Stott
at Maui Sports Unlimited (808-877-7778,
www.mauisportsunlimited.com)
if you're new to the sport or need a refresher. Kids' windsurfing
courses offer unparalleled learning opportunities (and free time
for their parents) for ages six to twelve.
Near Paia, lodge at one of dozens of hidden B&Bs. Hookipa Hale
(
www.hookipahale.com) is
minutes from Hookipa and Jaws, the famous tow-in surf spot where
master surfers ride waves up to 40 feet during winter swells. If
you're looking for something tamer - white sands and lazing around
- but need to watch your budget, book a furnished condo in Kihei,
buy papayas for breakfast and fresh fish for lunch, and grill out
on your lanai.
No matter which group you're in, splurge on dinner at Mama's Fish
House in Kuau Cove or the Haliimaile General Store - you won't be
disappointed. And if you're game, wake up well before dawn and make
the trek to the summit of Haleakala (pack a jacket) to watch the
sun rise across one of the most dramatic landscapes in the world.
Wind back down the mountain and stop for breakfast at Kula Lodge or
at Casanova's in Makawao and tour the galleries and shops when the
town wakes up.