By Joshua Duvauchelle
With almost 2 million visitors every year, Maui is one of the hottest tourist destinations in the state of Hawaii. The island has varying climates, ranging from cool upcountry fields on the summit of its active volcano to sunny white sand
beaches. Tourists can find a multitude of activities to amuse them, whether it's Maui's vibrant arts scene and culture or its thriving outdoor recreational options.
Walk in the Footsteps of Maui's Last Chief
Take a tour of the Bailey House Museum. This 170-year old structure was once the home of a missionary family and is built on the property of Maui's last Hawaiian chief. History buffs will find much to fascinate them. The house still has original furniture and artwork from the 1800s and the home is landscaped with native Hawaiian plants found nowhere else in the world.
The Bailey House Museum
2375-A Main Street
Wailuku, Hawaii 96793
(808) 244-3326
Search for the Sun God
"Haleakala" means "House of the Sun God" in Hawaiian. Early risers who take the hours-long trip to the summit of Haleakala National Park can see the sun god himself rising from the Pacific. The park is built on the top of an active volcano, which is thankfully currently dormant. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike into the volcano's crater or bicycle down the road from the volcano. There is also a museum and gift shop.
Haleakala National Park
Visitors center: (808) 572-4400
From Kahului: Take Route 37 to 378
Huff and Puff and Blow Your Glass Away
Hot Island Glass is Maui's oldest hot glass workshop. It specializes in blown glass creations, from vases and jars to intricate jellyfish. Hot Island Glass pieces can be found in gift shops and museums all over the island, but go straight to the source to view some of their unique and original work.
Hot Island Glass
3620 Baldwin Avenue Suite 101-A
Makawao, HI 96768
(808) 572-4527
Spy on a Humuhumunukunukuapua'a
The humuhumunukunukuapua'a is Hawaii's state fish. Rent a snorkel at your hotel and watch dozens of these fish at Kapalua beach. The white sand bottom makes the area safe for waders and the intricate reefs house numerous aquatic creatures. You may even see an endangered Hawaiian monk seal or green sea turtle. The beach is on Honoapliilani Highway (HI-30), adjacent to the Kapalua Golf resort.
Kapalua, Maui 96761
Resources
About the Author:
Joshua Duvauchelle is an editor and journalist who has been writing since 2000. His work has appeared in various national and international magazines, including "Honolulu Magazine." Duvauchelle graduated with honors from Trinity Western University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in professional communications, and earned a certificate in applied leadership and public affairs from the Laurentian Leadership Centre.
