There are many reasons why Maui is known as the Magic Isle. Long beaches, big volcanoes, lush tropical drives, and towns like Lahaina, Makawao, Paia, and Hana are just some of the reasons Maui, The Magic Isle, stays with you for years after just one visit. Maui is also a waterman’s dream with snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, wind surfing, and regular surfing abundant on this Island. I have already written about the whales, and how to save a little money on your Seattle to Hawaii vacation packages when heading for this Island, so this week I am going to write about several of the things that I believe will make your trip to Maui unforgettable.
I always like to start any discussion about Maui on the town of Lahaina, one of my favorite small towns in all my travels. Lahaina Town was once the first capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. It is now known primarily as a former fishing village, the former whaling capital of the Pacific, and now a bustling entertainment village. I know it seems as if the whole town is devoted to dining, shopping, and art galleries. I highly suggest you stop and look around to see the influence of it’s past. I am not talking about the art galleries, restaurants and shops. Look closely at the buildings, the old churches, the Pioneer Inn and the old courthouse to name a few.
For those of you interested in delving into the cultural and historical nature of this little seaport, I suggest you walk the Lahaina Historic Tour. This is a self-guided walking tour of 62 historical sites in the town. There are many spots on this tour where you will experience “chicken skin”, the Hawaiians term for goose bumps. By the time you finish this free tour, you will have an idea of how Lahaina came to be what it is today. Then it’s time to stop by Kimo’s, my favorite restaurant in Lahaina with great food and cocktails. As you enjoy your meal, you can stare out on the waterfront and imagine what it was like in that bygone era of Lahaina Town.
I have many things to tell you about Maui The Magic Isle, and this week, I might even write more than 1 post a day. Next, we explore the Maui Ocean Center.
Fergy
