 |
|
|
Looking for more
Beachcomber Pete
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui, Hawaii is the second largest, and covers an area of over 700 square miles. Maui is an island of diversity in terrain and climate. Volcanoes formed the landscape and are the reason for the lovely black sand beaches. Western mountains rise almost 6,000 feet, but Haleakala, a newer volcano system ascends to a height of over 10,000 feet. While it has a fascinating history, today it is a spectacular tropical, agricultural island where tourists come to see the volcanoes, watch the whales, enjoy the beach, participate in water sports and much more.
Now, Polynesians from Marquesas and Tahiti were the first to settle Maui. In 1778, Captain Cook, famed for his great exploration expeditions, was the first European to see the island, and Jean-Francois de La Perouse, an Admiral from France, was the first to visit Maui, in 1786. After his visit, loggers of sandalwood and whalers were frequent visitors. In 1923, Christian Missionaries came from New England. Teaching the natives European culture and helping them read and write in their own language.
There are three main attractions that draw visitors to Maui: Lahaina, Haleakala National Park, and Hana Highway. Still, the island offers much more as visitors staying for any length of time soon see.
Lahaina
Lahaina, on the western side of the island, used to be the capitol city of the Hawaiian Islands. Today, people come for whale watching, to appreciate the history and historical sites and more. For great golf courses, water sports and beaches there are the two nearby resorts of Kapalua and Kaanapali.
Haleakala National Park
This park covers over 30,000 acres of land and has both a coastline and a huge crater to explore. At the summit of the volcano is the famed, Haleakala Crater that measures nearly seven miles across. Visitors can hike two trails into the crater and enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets from the rim.
Hana Highway
The scenic Hana Highway from Kahului to Hana on the eastern side of Maui is perfect for a road trip. All beaches in Hawaii are free for the public to use, but there are some places along the highway with privacy signs because visitors must cross private property to reach the beaches. Still, visitors may legally enjoy any beach they choose. Many waterfalls are along the route. An area of seven pools and waterfalls is just past Hana. |
|
|
|
Not what you were looking for? Search Beachcomber Pete
|
|
|
Periodic issues- Free advice and suggestions for making your next travel adventure more enjoyable.
