Welcome to Maui, Hawaii

From its heavenly beaches to its scenic natural wonders, there are plenty of reasons why Maui has been voted "Best Island" by readers of Conde Nast Traveler for more than a dozen years.

Check out http://www.aaccessmaps.com/images/maps/us/hi/maui/maui.gif for a detailed Maui driving map.

Information Guide: http://www.mauiinformationguide.com/

Maui Quick Facts

Airports: Maui's main airport is Kahului Airport (OGG). There are smaller commuter airports in Kapalua (JHM) and Hana (HNM).

http://hawaii.gov/ogg/

Transportation: Rent a car at Kahului Airport (OGG) or Kapalua Airport (JHM). Other options include tour buses, shuttles, trolleys, taxis or city buses.

Time Zone: Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), 5 hours behind the US East Coast, 6 hours behind during Daylight Saving Time (Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time).

Languages: English, Hawaiian

Currency: US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted. Traveler's checks are accepted at many businesses.

Climate: Average temperature: 75˚-85˚ F. It is generally drier on the western, or leeward side, of the island, wetter on the eastern or windward side. Temperatures in Upcountry Maui are typically 8-10 degrees cooler than the coast. On the summit of Haleakala, Maui's highest point, you can expect temperatures in the 40s or lower.

Accommodations: Luxury resorts, hotels, bed and breakfasts, rental cottages and condos are located throughout the island.

Clothing: Dress casually. Bring a light jacket for nights, heavier if you plan to visit Haleakala. Semi-casual dress clothes for restaurants and nightlife. Suits and ties are rarely worn.

Tipping: U.S. standards apply: 15-20% on meals, at least $1 per bag for porters and at least $1 per night for housekeeping

Maui Weather

Maui contains a number of microclimates. It is generally drier on Maui's leeward side where you'll find the spectacular beaches and resorts of Kapalua, Kaanapali, Lahaina, Kihei and Wailea along the western coast. On the wetter windward side you'll find lush Iao Valley and the scenic road to Hana. It's warmer along the coast than Upcountry Maui where temperatures are typically 8-10 degrees cooler. If you're driving up to the 9,740-foot Haleakala Visitor Center atop Haleakala National Park, expect temperatures in the 40s or lower, so bring warm clothes.

There are generally two seasons in Maui. Winter (November through April), when temperatures typically range in the low-70s to mid-80s, and summer when the high can run into the low-90s. The trade winds keep you comfortable year-round so any time of year is a good time to visit Maui.

Maui Weather Forecast: http://www.hawaiiweathertoday.com/maui.php

Maui highlights:

Maui beaches: Maui has more than 80 incredible beaches with a combined shoreline that spans 120 miles

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Road to Hana: With 600 curves and 54 bridges, this is one of the world's most scenic drives.

Haleakala National Park: Watch a memorable sunrise from 9,740 feet atop Haleakala Crater.

http://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm

Lahaina: Once a thriving whaling port in the mid-1800s, Lahaina is now a lively gathering place for dining, shopping, art and entertainment.

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Whale watching: In the winter months, the Auau channel between Maui, Lanai and Molokai is one of the best places to whale watch in the world.

http://www.pacificwhale.org/