Mahalo, Maui

 

Memories of tropical breezes, colorful sunrises. Experiencing sunny beaches in the morning and chilly mountain breezes in the afternoon.  These are things I remember most about Maui, Hawaii. I have been blessed to travel to so many wonderful destinations over the years. Our trip to Maui was one where literally, if you didn't like the temperature or weather, you could just drive to the other side of the island and experience a different climate!

 

 

The tropical rain that falls on the Northeast side of the island helps fuel the abundant waterfalls and beautiful flora.

 

 

The Hana Highway covers most of this area, even with the spotty showers, I have to say this was my favorite part of the island!

Visit my "H"ana Highway Post

 

 

 

 

Interior Maui also has its share of beauty. Iao Valley State Park showcases green mountain peaks with numerous streams running through the valleys.

 

 

 

 The beaches on the Southern side of the island beaches sparkle and are ideal for a morning of snorkeling.

 

 

 

While the Northwest beaches are excellent for sitting and washing waves crashing against the rocky terrain.

 

 

 

 Sitting on top of it all is Haleakala National Park. At 10,000 feet above sea level, Haleakala boasts beautiful sunrises (if you are willing to rise very, very early). We opted for an afternoon drive up the mountain to escape the heat of the day. The temperatures drop

 quickly and the vegetation thins as you make the drive up the ever twisting mountain road leading to the park.

 

 

 

What a different view you see as you reach Haleakala Crater.  It almost as if you are transported to Mars or the Moon. Gone is the thick tropical vegetation, not to mention the warm tropical air. It is replaced by lava, ash and scrub, not to mention the temperatures fall about 30 degrees. Traveling up to Haleakala National Park is almost like visiting an island within an island.

 

 Mahalo, Maui, for showing us your magical climates and magnificent scenery. From the rainy to the sunny, the sunrises to the sunsets, you are one of the most magical places we have visited.