ISLAND OF MAUI
County Offices
200 South High Street
Wailuku, Maui 808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
313 Ano Street
Kahulu, Maui 808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
Visitor’s Bureau
1727 Wili Pa Loop
Wailuku, Maui 808-244-3530
www.gohawaii.com
Millions of years of natural forces at work have changed the face of Maui’s geography. Six volcanoes formed the single landmass of Maui Nui or Great Maui, but rising sea levels eventually separated the islands that are currently under the jurisdiction of the County of Maui into Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe. Maui was formed by two volcanoes and has been called the “Valley Island” for its sweeping canyons. When viewed from above, the island resembles the head and torso of a man. West Maui, as the “head” is the older portion of the island. The volcano that formed this area was probably once as large as Haleakala, the 10,023-foot-tall volcano that forms the whole of East Maui’s “body.” The underwater valleys that once connected Maui with Molokai and Lanai are shallower than the surrounding ocean, providing shelter for an abundance of marine life. Magnificent humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters during winter months to give birth to their calves.
Many consider Maui to be a wonderful balance between the highly urbanized Oahu environment and the more rugged, unspoiled islands of Kauai, Lanai, Molokai, and the Big Island. The major industries on Maui are government, retail, and tourism. Many residents are employed in the adjoining cities of Kahului and Wailuku or in the resort area of Kaanapali, commuting from the more serene outer areas such as Kihei.
Services
First-rate educational experiences are available in the public schools within the Hana-Lahainaluna-Laiai-Molokai and the Baldwin-Kekaulike-Maui Complex Areas, both administered from offices in Wailuku. Maui Community College in Kahului serves as a tri-island institution of higher education, providing comprehensive opportunities, special programs, and a bachelor’s degree program at its UH Center on Maui. The college also operates education centers on Lanai and Molokai, enhancing available programs and coursework with a pioneering television network that reaches rural areas. The Culinary Arts program and the Maui Language Institute are two of many outstanding offerings. The University of Hawaii provides three major four-year campuses: Two on the island of Oahu in Pearl City and Honolulu and one on Hawaii, the Big Island. Oahu is also home to a number of private colleges that include Argosy University Honolulu, Brigham Young University-Hawaii, Chaminade University, Hawaii Pacific University, Heald College-Honolulu, Remington College, TransPacific Hawaii College, the University of Phoenix, and Wayland Baptist University.
The island of Maui is home to two hospitals within the HHSC system: Kula Hospital in Kula and Maui Memorial Medical Center in Wailuku. Constantly growing, upgrading, and expanding to meet changing needs, Maui Memorial employs more than 1000 employees and 200 attending physicians. The latest addition to the complex is the new wing opened in 2007, the four-level Kahului Tower. Throughout the island, skilled professionals in every major specialty and many subspecialties ensure that most healthcare needs can be met close to home. The island of Oahu adds a number of outstanding healthcare hospitals and centers to the list of available resources should the need arise for highly sophisticated care.
Lifestyle
From the picturesque seaside streets of Lahaina and the lovely beaches of Kaanapali to the arts and culture of Kahului and Makawao, Maui is a kaleidoscope of visual and sensory delight. Kapalua Bay on the island’s western side is famous for its snorkeling opportunities, while hikers prefer to explore Haleakala National Park, graced by the 10,000-foot peak of Haleakala—the world’s largest dormant volcano. One of the island’s most famous scenic drives runs along the Hana Highway along Maui’s rugged eastern coastline. The peaceful town of Hana welcomes many visitors to historic charm just 52 miles from Kahului. However, the drive can take up to four hours with its narrow one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and incredible island views. The Hana Highway claims more than 600 curves and 54 bridges that lead through lush landscapes that are brimming over with cascading waterfalls, lush vegetation, rain forests, and dramatic seascapes.
The centralized sister towns of Kahului and Wailuku serves as the island’s major business center, home to commercial development, vibrant shopping, restaurants and entertainment, and thriving businesses. West Maui features sprawling beaches and the upscale hotel industry of Kaanapali as well as the historic whaling town of Lahaina to shine as one of the island’s major resort areas. South Maui and Wailea is also popular with visitors. The tropical northern shore of Maui does not offer major hotel chains, but rental homes and charming bed and breakfasts create a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere. While Maui offers world-class outdoor recreation, the island is a rich center for the arts and cultural attractions. Maui Arts & Cultural Center presents first-rate entertainment and fine-art exhibits in Kahului, anchored by the Harold K.L. Castle Theater and the Alexander & Baldwin Amphitheater. The latter seats up to 5,000 guests, offering a grassy slope for outdoor concerts that are graced by breathtaking views of sculpted peaks. The Lahaina Civic Center in Lahaina provides another multi-purpose venue for sports competition as well as concerts, festivals, and special events. The Maui Academy of Performing Arts has been enriching the community for more than three decades with performances and educational opportunities. Land or sea, town or open countryside, Maui draws newcomers to an enchanting setting and an unrivaled quality of life.
Hana
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
Often called Maui County’s other “island,” Hana is a legendary, remote resort community located on the northeastern tip of Maui. The “road to Hana” may be even more legendary than the town itself, an unforgettable multi-sensory experience of hairpin turns that showcase breathtaking beauty. Residents of Hana enjoy the recreational paradise of Hana Bay with its picnic areas and gentle waters. Scenic hiking trails, horseback riding paths, Hana’s Cultural Center & Museum, and the famous landmark of Hasegawa’s General Store are just a few of the other highlights. Picturesque ranch lands contrast with views of the dramatic Hana coastline below, and pasture land seems to roll right up to the street of Hana. Recently refurbished with a multi-million-dollar facelift, the gracious Hotel Hana-Maui is the picture of hospitality, surrounded by lush trees and broad lawns. Nearby, the Kipahulu section of Haleakala National Park is home to the famous Pools of Oheo, where rangers offer nature walks and advice about local hiking trails. Famed aviator Charles Lindbergh is buried near Kipahulum, one of many who have fallen under the spell of enchanting Hana.
Kaanapali
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
One of the major tourism centers on Maui, the Kaanapali resort area offers sun-kissed golden beaches as far as the eye can see. From a distance past the imposing waters of the Pacific Ocean, the small islands of Lanai and Molokai are visible. Many who are employed in the tourism industry in Kaanapali commute from the island’s quiet outlying areas. Several world-class luxury resorts and a number of condominium developments and vacation club resorts offer a kaleidoscope of settings and amenities to appeal to a wide cross-section of visitors. Catering to visitors from all over the world, Kaanapali features a paved beach walk that connects tourists to some of Hawaii’s finest snorkeling places as well as a beachfront complex, a local museum, and open-air restaurants. Championship golf on premier fairways is another major draw to Kaanapali. Other activities include massage and spa services, rides on an historic train, and water sports from body surfing to kayaking or sailing.
Kahului, Wailuku
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
Kapalua
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
With a name that means “arms embracing the sea,” Kapalua claims a colorful plantation history. In fact, the Kapalua Resort stretches over 1,650 acres that are set among a privately owned 23,000-acre working pineapple plantation. The resort is a world-renowned destination along Maui’s northwestern coastline, featuring soaring skylines that are feathered by stately Cook pine trees planted in the early 1900s. Offering the flavor of an historic estate, the resort features the charming Kumulani Chapel, the Honolua Store, the Art School at Kapalua, the 23-acre Kapalua Golf Academy, and the Puu Kukui Preserve. This conservation area protects some of the rarest plants in the world. In the lower areas of the resort, Honolua and Mokuleia bays serves as a marine life conservation district. The golf courses are actually certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries and Kapalua was the first resort in the world to be accepted into the Audubon Heritage Program. Millions of viewers enjoy Kapalua golf on the television screen during the PGA Tour. Tennis complexes, three white-sand beaches and five bays, boutiques and galleries, restaurants, and cultural activities are all a part of resort community life.
Kihei, Maalaea
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
Located on the southern end of Maui’s central isthmus, Maalaea Bay serves as a hub of oceanfront activity. Condominiums share the shoreline with a bustling harbor, home to picturesque boats that transport whale watchers, snorkelers, divers, anglers, sailors, and swimmers. The Maui Ocean Center located just above the harbor welcomes guests to a fascinating aquarium and marine displays. Next to the center, Maalaea Harbor Village offers restaurants, boutiques, and the Pacific Whale Foundation. Further south, the Kihei coastline is a six-mile stretch of sandy beach that commands views of Kahoolawe, Molokini, Lanai, and West Maui. The north end shelters Kealia Pond, a salt-water marsh and National Wildlife Conservation District that serves as a refuge for the endangered Hawaiian stilt and other sea-faring birds. Kihei is a large and vibrant beach town community that combines condominiums and hotels with restaurants, shops, services, entertainment centers, and lush parks. The largest of the spacious beach parks is Kalama Beach Park, 36 acres of shady lawns, playgrounds, pavilions, coconut trees, and sandy shoreline.
Lahaina
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
The picturesque harbor town of Lahaina is steeped in historical significance, preserving its proud heritage at the Lahaina Heritage Museum. Located on the second floor of the Old Lahaina Courthouse in the heart of town, the museum features an interactive showcase and exhibits like Lahaina’s Whaling Days & Whales Today. The exhibit begins with the whaling days of the 1850s, moving on through the 20th century “save the whales” era, and culminating with a photographic tour of the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Although Lahaina Town offers accommodations for visitors, it serves as a hub for surrounding resort communities as well. Water-oriented sports and activities, strolling along the picturesque harbor, or taking advantage of local shopping and nightlife are common pastimes.
Makena
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
The largest in size and yet smallest of Maui’s resort destinations, Makena sprawls over 1,800 acres of prime coastal land just south of Wailea. However, most of its area remains in a natural, unspoiled state. The resort consists of one luxury hotel with 36 holes of championship golf and a full range of amenities and services including four restaurants. The resort overlooks Makena Beach, which is not a private property but certainly serves as a secluded ocean playground for guests and nearby residents. Some of the high points in this area is the hotel courtyard, a lush one-acre oasis that opens to the Hawaiian skies. Another landmark is the paved King’s Trail, part of an ancient path that was built centuries ago by the King of Maui and partially restored when the hotel was built. The hotel features four restaurants, and recently completed a soft renovation of its rooms, suites and lobby area. Makena in Hawaiian means “bountiful,” an apt description of this secluded and lovely resort community with a sweeping beach area, tennis, croquet, volleyball, shuffleboard, badminton, a fitness center, children’s programs, and ocean sports.
Napili, Kahana, Honokowai
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
Nestled between the two major resort destinations of Kapalua and Kaanapali, a five-mile stretch of coastline is marked by a series of lava headlands that extend into the sea. Sheltered beach-lined crescent coves are cradled within this dramatic landscape, along with the small communities of Napili, Kahana, and Honokowai. Welcoming visitors to the area, these quiet towns feature a selection of moderately priced condominiums and hotels that offer comfortable accommodations. Private vacation homes also dot this area, located within an easy drive of West Maui’s resort communities and the historic town of Lahaina. Newcomers will find a number of restaurants, eateries, grocery and convenience stores, banks and other services, and some of the finest beaches on Maui. Napili Bay is especially popular for swimming, snorkeling, and beginning surfing.
Paia, Haiku, Kuau, Spreckelsville
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
Reflecting its history as a booming sugar cane plantation, Paia preserves many of its vintage plantation-style wooden buildings. This quaint beach town along Maui’s North Shore offers an array of specialty shops, boutiques, surf shops, antique dealers, bakeries, and award-winning restaurants. Picturesque and charming Paia and neighboring Haiku offer a tranquil contrast from the hotel-bordered Lahaina area and Kihei with its condominium clusters. Kuau is another small community with access to world-class wave sports and the closest town to the world-famous Hookipa Beach Park. During the winter months, gigantic waves roll into the North Shore area, making Hookipa a world-class windsurfing and kite-surfing destination. Several professional competitions are held each year at Hookipa, drawing competitors from around the globe. Baldwin Beach Park features one of the most beautiful white-sand beaches on Maui. Spreckelsville shares the North Shore’s international reputation for windsurfing, although Spreckelsville’s Baby Beach is one of the few in this area that attracts families with children and not windsurfers. Spreckelsville is also home to the Maui Golf and Country Club.
Wailea
County Offices
808-270-7838
www.mauicounty.gov
Chamber of Commerce
808-871-7711
www.mauichamber.com
Named after a goddess, Wailea is home to a medley of amenities that include several luxury hotels and condominium complexes, handsome custom homes, a tennis club, eateries, wonderful spas, more than 150,000 square feet of retail space, and famous golf courses. Wailea Resort alone welcomes visitors to a 1,500-acre master-planned vacation community that has earned an international reputation. The beach areas are connected by a 1.5 mile paved pedestrian path that meanders along the coastline for easy access to world-class recreational activities. Located along a scenic, sunny coastline that is acclaimed for its spectacular views of Kahoolawe, Molokini, Mauna Kahalawai, and Lanai, this area is home to five white-sand crescent beaches that have been ranked among the America’s finest. The award-winning Wailea Golf Club also enjoys a national ranking, offering three celebrated golf courses. In addition to major golfing events, the resort sponsors the annual Maui Film Festival at Wailea and other events. Protected by Mount Haleakala, Wailea receives an annual rainfall of only 11 inches. Winter months bring whale sightings to vantage points above the shoreline.
