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Maui

Description:

WHEN TO GO

Maui, like all of the islands of Hawaii, has year-round air and ocean temperatures in the mid-70s to 80s (though higher elevations like the summit of Haleakala can be as cool as 45 degrees). Even more than the other islands, Maui should be avoided during the Christmas holiday and around New Year's—prices soar, rental cars are impossible to secure, and traffic becomes unbearable. You'll even have to have to wait in line to patronize normally accessible restaurants and bars. Mid-September to mid-November is a great time to travel and beat the crowds; the best windows for deals are after January 10 and before spring break (excluding President's Day weekend), and right after spring break through mid-May.

Current conditions:
70° F, CLEAR
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HOW TO GET THERE

Direct flights are available to Maui's main Kahului airport from at least ten mainland cities. You can probably find a better deal on a direct flight to Honolulu, but then you'd have to take a 30-minute flight to Maui—which can turn into three extra hours of travel time. Another good if pricey option is to hop from one island to another by helicopter. It's the ideal way to check out the stunning scenery (several companies have counters at the airport—including well-known Blue Hawaiian and Sunshine). There is also a smaller airport in Kapalua that is primarily used for private charters.

Beginning in July 2007, the new Hawaii Superferry will offer passengers (and their cars) water transport between Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. The 350-foot ferry makes one daily round trip between Honolulu and Kahului (three hours each way), and one round trip between Honolulu and Nawiliwili (also three hours) every day of the week except Saturday. Ticket prices for passengers on the day of the trip are between $50 and $60 (buying them online in advance is a little cheaper); passengers who want to bring cars pay an extra $60 to $70. For more information, check out www.hawaiisuperferry.com

GETTING AROUND
Though sophisticated in some ways, Maui has no public transport—everyone drives. All the usual rental car outfits are at the airport, but be warned: Maui has the most expensive rates in the state (a good reason to use frequent-flier miles for the rental car). Luckily, there are some budget options if you don't mind driving a junker (try Kihei Rent-a-Car 808-879-7257, www.kiheirentacar.com). A GPS device isn't necessary (this is a small island), but a detailed map and guidebook that gives specific landmarks and mile markers is a good idea. The most confusing part of Maui is the main town of Kahului. But once on the right highway, it's pretty straightforward driving.

TOURIST INFO

Maui Visitors Bureau
1727 Wili Pa Loop
Wailuku
Tel: 808 244 3530
Fax: 808 244 1337
www.visitmaui.com

Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
2270 Kalakaua Avenue
Suite 801
Honolulu
Tel: 800 464 2924
www.gohawaii.com/maui

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