Volcanoes, black sand beaches, beautiful sunsets, friendly people, surfing…
are just a few words that come to mind when one thinks of the Hawaiian Islands. A tropical paradise for many, our 50th state is a dream travel destination for people all over the world. And a great place to visit for my husband’s big Hawaii 5-0 birthday celebration! My famiily’s adventure included visits to Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii, book ended with stops in San Diego and San Francisco. But this post focuses on the “Valley Isle,” which has so much to see. (Keep checking back for my posts on the Big Island, San Francisco and San Diego!) So come and join my family on our Maui adventure.
For discussion purposes, I have broken up our visit by region: South Maui, Upcountry Maui, Central Maui, East Maui and Haleakala (which is seen from all over Maui!).
First stop …
SOUTH MAUI
The South Region of Maui includes the towns of Kihei and Wailea and is not as famous or touristy as the West side of the island. But believe me, it offers great accommodation and beach options for visitors. We chose to stay here and couldn’t have been happier.
Our condo was located in Kihei and suited our needs perfectly. Hawaiian resorts are beautiful but very expensive. As a family of four, renting a condo was the not only the most economical choice but you really get so much more for your money. Ample living space, a pool, barbecue area directly across the street from Kamaole Beach Park III . Not too shabby!
After settling in and picking up some supplies for the week, we spent the rest of our first day hanging at the beach and pool.
After a restful first day, it was time for us to fill our days with exploring this island. First stop…
UPCOUNTRY MAUI
is located on the higher elevations surrounding Haleakala. This is the land of the paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboys—a culture that arose in the 19th century when King Kamehameha III invited vaqueros from California to teach islanders to wrangle cattle.
Rolling hills and mountains greet you as you ascend into Upcountry. The volcanic soil of the fields here are perfect for growing taro and sweet potato. It is a perfect place to visit some farms, dairies and wineries which is what we did.
Highlights included visits to the…
Surfing Goat Dairy
Perfect! 
Feeding these cuties!
is located on the slopes of the Haleakala crater in Kula. It produces more than two dozen goat cheeses from the cute goats who live on the farm. Tour the farm, feed the friendly goats and make sure to buy some of their yummy cheeses.
Read more of my favorite animal encounters in our travels by reading “My 10 Favorite Travel Experiences with Animals” by clicking here: posthttps://followmyyellowbrickroad.com/?cat=28
Kula Lavender Farm
is a beautiful place to visit, also located in Kula. Although lavender is not native to Maui, it thrives in Upcountry’s climate.
A Walk Among the Lavender 
Made a friend!
This beautiful botanical garden was started by architectural artist Ali’i Chang when he was given lavender in 2001. Visitors can immerse themselves in lavender plants, olive trees, hydrangea flowers, and succulents on its property. Make sure to stop in their gift shop where everything, of course, is made using the farm’s lavender. We ordered some “lavender” croissants and ate them while viewing the beautiful property.
EAST MAUI
The Road to Hana…
is a famous 64.4-mile-long stretch of Hawaii Routes 36 and 360 connecting Kahului to the town of Hana in East Maui. And trust me, this road is not for the faint of heart or those prone to car sickness, like yours truly. It is nicknamed “Divorce Highway” because its slow driving causes many arguments among couples . If you’re the driver, it’s difficult to enjoy the sights because of the incredible focus you’ll need to drive it. So if you’re not up to it, take a tour.
There are so many photo stops along this route that it’s hard to narrow them down. But these were our favorites.
Twin Falls..
is an easy, 1.8 mile hike short walk that takes you to some beautiful waterfalls. Take a refreshing dip like we did!
Wai’anapanapa State Park
is absolutely stunning. Meaning glistening water, this park offers a little something for everyone — black sand beaches, freshwater caves, trails, lava tubes and just amazing views of the East Maui coastline.
Ohe’o Gulch aka “Seven Sacred Pools”
is located about 10 miles from Hana Town. Famous for its gorgeous cascading waterfalls and beautiful freshwater pools, it’s a sight to see..if you get this far on the Hana highway.
Ho’okipa Beach Park…
has been the mecca for surfers since the 1930 and is known as the windsurfing capital of the world. Located in the town of Paia , this breath-taking white sand beach boasts some of the best waves on the Maui coastline.
After a day at the beach, make sure to grab a fish burger at the popular Paia Fishmarket.
CENTRAL MAUI
Iao Needle State Park
is home to one of Maui’s most recognizable landmarks, the 1,200-foot Iao Needle. This iconic green-mantled rock outcropping overlooks Iao stream and is an ideal attraction for easy hiking and sightseeing.
Sacred Iao Valley has great historical significance. It was here in 1790 at the Battle of Kepaniwai that King Kamehameha I defeated Maui’s forces.
WEST MAUI
is home to Lahaina. The abundance of visitors here will make this part of the island feel busier and more crowded than other parts of the island. We came here for some shopping and of course, a luau!
And last but certainly not least..
HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK
is known as the “house of the sun.” Haleakala Crater is visible from just about any region and vantage point in Maui. Haleakala is the largest dormant volcano in the world, rising 10,023 feet above sea level. The summit depression is 21 miles across and 4,000 feet deep, big enough to hold the entire island of Manhattan.
Legend has it that the the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from its journey across the sky as he stood on the volcano’s summit. Supposedly, this slowed the sun’s descent making the day last longer.
A big draw to the Visitor Center is its sunrise. Many visitors wake up early to drive here to watch what may be the most spectacular sunrise on earth. Described by Mark Twain as “the most sublime spectacle I have ever witnessed,” this is a sight to see. I’d suggest checking the National Park Service website for requirements to come here. And keep in mind that drive times from Kaanapali and Wailea to reach the summit average 2 hours. But don’t just come here for the sunrises and sunsets.
The stunning landscapes range from Mars-like red deserts and rock gardens near the summit to lush waterfalls and streams in the park’s coastal Kipahulu section, near Hana. There are more endangered species here than any other park in the National Park Service including nene (Hawaiian goose), the state bird.
Sliding Sands
is a 11 mile trail that provides access to Haleakalā crater. Departing from near the summit of the volcano, the trail descends to the crater floor. This tour is rated to be very difficult but is truly one of the best we ever experienced. And you can hike as much or little to get an overview of this amazing place. The colors and changing light are stunning and a photographer’s dream. At one point, we stood still while the clouds literally passed over us.
Some packing tips. Make sure to bring the following:
- Sun protection (sunblock, hat, sunglasses)
- Cold/wet weather clothing (the weather changes rapidly)
- Food (no food for sale in the park)
- Water bottles (drinking water available at all visitor centers)
- Sturdy shoes (hiking boots or athletic shoes)
I hope you enjoyed our journey. But one more thing before you leave. How about this fun fact about this beautiful place…
Hawaii has the highest life expectancy in the United States at 81.5 years. Paradise… it does a body good! https://www.mauiinformationguide.com/blog/ten-things-you-didnt-know-about-maui/
ALOHA!
.