By Hannah Rice Myers
Maui is the second-largest island in the chain of Hawaiian islands. It is best known for its magnificent
beaches and the landmark Haleakala Crater, also known as the House of Sun. Its stunning natural beauty makes this national park a must-see. What makes Maui such a spectacular vacation destination overall is its versatility; its activities are centered around both couples looking for
romance and families searching for good, wholesome fun.
Maui Luaus
Attending a luau is one of the favorite activities among tourists and locals alike. They are held on the beach, which offers an incredible view of the Maui sunset. You will be greeted with either a flower or shell lei before you take in the mouth-watering buffet filled with food like pulled pork, island fish and steak. This is all accompanied by salads and side dishes, and beverages such as soda, tea and an open bar. At night you can enjoy the entertainment, as many forms of Hawaiian dance and song are performed. Three luaus rank among the best. The Feast at Lele is the most romantic, geared toward couples. The Ka'anapali Beach Luau is the best pick for families; it is the least expensive for adults and children 12 and under are admitted free with each paying adult. Finally there is the Old Lahaina Luau, which is authentic Hawaiian.
Maui Princess Sunset Cruise
This romantic dinner cruise is perfect for couples. It brings fine dining to the open water aboard an intimate yacht, as you are served table side by professional waitstaff. As you enjoy your meal, you can take in the breathtaking night lights from the surrounding islands of Molokai and Lanai while the sun sets around you. After dinner, you can enjoy live music and dancing in the main cabin, or take a stroll on the deck and enjoy the view of the Maui coastline.
Whale Watching
Between the months of December and April, the humpback whales leave the waters off Alaska and come to Maui to breed and have their calves. This is an opportunity to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat; an opportunity many people may never get to witness. During two-hour cruise, you have the choice of staying in the main cabin or remaining on the upper observation deck. The company providing the tour guarantees whale sightings, or you get another cruise for free. The boats all come equipped with live underwater cameras that are attached to the vessel along with on-board monitors. This allows you to see what the whales are doing underwater as well as above. There is also expert narration on the latest scientific information about humpback whales. Crew members can answer any questions about whale behavior, explaining what the whales are doing and why.
Resources
About the Author:
Based in Jamestown, Pa., Hannah Rice Myers has more than 10 years of experience as a freelance writer, specializing in the health industry. Many of her articles have appeared in newspapers, as well as "Curing Epilepsy: Hope Through Research." Rice Myers received her master's degree in nursing from Upstate Medical University in 2001.
