Explore Maui - Top 5 Ways Off The Beaten Path

HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK
http://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm

Stretching across east Maui, Haleakala National Park is home to Haleakala Crater, the largest dormant volcano on earth. Rising over 10,000 feet above sea level, Haleakala's graceful slopes can be seen from just about any point on the island. Haleakala means "House of the sun" in Hawaiian, and legend has it that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun itself from its summit to slow the sun's journey across the skies.

The park itself covers a range of natural environments. You can travel atop the highest peaks of Haleakala Crater and walk above the clouds or you can hike across richly colored landscapes, desolate deserts, and untamed wilderness. As the park stretches out to the coast nearer to sea level, you can even visit lush tropical areas full of waterfalls and streams.

Many visitors and locals wake up early to drive up to Haleakala Crater to watch the sunrise. On a clear morning, seeing the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala is an unforgettable experience. Perhaps just as spectacular are Haleakala's sunsets and the bright, starry skies revealed at night.

You can explore Haleakala at your own pace by car, bike, or by foot. The long, winding road to Haleakala National Park takes some time to drive up, but is well worth the effort. There are numerous hiking trails that offer solitude and scenic vistas, while guided hikes provide an expert's guidance and insight. This is one of Maui's most popular visitor attractions.

WAIMOKU FALLS
From Hana, follow the Hana road (Highway 360) south to Oheo Gulch and Haleakala National Park in Kipahulu

Waimoku Falls is the dramatic reward at the end of the Pipiwai Trail, one of Maui's best hikes. About nine miles beyond Hana, the Haleakala National Park is the starting point for the Pipiwai Trail.  The trail follows the stream that feeds Oheo Gulch and ends overlooking Waimoku Falls, which cascade down 400 feet of sheer rock.

The trek requires 3 to 5 hours so it's best to start early. To get there, follow the Hana road south from Hana along the coast. The trail is in the Haleakala National Park, and starts near the Oheo Gulch. Visitors should expect it to get muddy, so wear good hiking shoes.

TEDESCHI WINERY
From Central Maui, take Hana Highway (Route 36) to Haleakala Highway (Route 37). Heading up the mountain, stay on 37 all the way to the little community of Keokea. Pass Henry Fong Store on the right, and continue on the narrow road 5.1 miles to Ulupalakua. The winery is just past ranch headquarters and the Ulupalakua Ranch Store.
www.mauiwine.com/tasting.html

Spend a day wine tasting at Tedeschi Winery and try the pineapple wine.

Located in one of the most historic buildings on the island of Maui. The King's Cottage dates to 1874, when it was built specifically for the visit of Hawaii's monarch David Kalakaua and queen Kapi'olani. During his turbulent reign, which began that year and lasted until his death 1891, Hawai'i's last king often came to Ulupalakua find peace of mind.

The centerpiece of the Tasting Room is an eighteen-foot-long bar cut from the trunk of a single mango tree.  Shelves are stocked with Hawaiian-made products and specialty foods and gifts.

KULA BOTANICAL GARDEN
638 Kekaulike Ave., Kula, HI 96790

Opened in 1971, Kula Botanical Garden was developed by Warren and Helen McCord. The garden is located on a unique 8 acre site featuring proteas, orchids, bromelaids and native plants. The natural setting provides unusual rock formations, waterfalls, ponds and a panoramic view of the valley and west Maui mountains. You will enjoy an aviary, koi pond, bird sanctuary with the Hawaiian Nene goose, and picnic areas. The gift shop offers beverages, snacks and a variety of made-in-Hawaii products.

LAHAINA TOWN EVENTS
www.visitlahaina.com

Lahaina Town Action Committee produces ten major events annually in addition to ongoing promotions and festivals, which showcase the diverse cultural aspects of the town of Lahaina.

Please contact us at 808.667.9175 or email us at web.request@visitlahaina.com if you have any questions. Call the Lahaina Event Hotline at 1-888-310-1117 (toll-free) or 667-9194 (on Maui) for monthly updated information about LahainaTown events.