Maui (Hawaii) Cruise Guide

Maui is a stunning combination of soaring volcanoes, dramatic cliffs, steep mountains clothed in lush rainforests and slashed with deep ravines and valleys. White sand beaches lace the western shoreline, and the winding Hana Highway snakes past waterfalls and precipitous cliffs overlooking the blue Pacific Ocean.

It is the second largest island in the Hawaiian chain, and visited by humpback whales and green turtles as well as tourists bewitched under the spell of this tropical paradise.

Sightseeing

Maui was formed thousands of years ago when two volcanoes erupted and over time eroded together. Today the lush island is cloaked in rainforests, fields of sugarcane, tropical fruits, vegetables, flowers, and grazing beef and dairy cattle.

Humpback whales migrate from Alaska in winter to breed in the warmer Hawaiian waters. Maui is one of the world's most popular destinations, with perfect year round climate, beautiful beaches, tropical sunsets, spectacular scenery and a paradise for either relaxing or discovering adventure.

Enjoy kiteboarding, windsurfing and surfing, hike scenic trails through cloud forests or volcanic craters, or go scuba-diving or snorkelling among vibrant marine life.

Highlights

• Green turtles
• Whale watching
• Catch a tropical sunrise atop Haleakala Crater
• Ride a mountain bike downhill Haleakala, from 1980m (6500ft) to the ocean
• Sugar cane train
• Maui Ocean Centre
• Paper Airplane Museum
• Hana (east Maui) (where legendary aviator Charles Lindbergh is buried)

Tourist Information

Hawaii Tourism Authority
1801 Kalakaua Avenue, 1st Floor, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
Tel: +1 (808) 973 2255.
Website: www.hawaiitourismauthority.org

Shopping

Art and craft galleries are found in Lahaina, once the whaling capital of the Pacific. The main towns and resorts have a collection of shops and boutiques, many with souvenirs and Hawaiian products. Leis, proteas and tropical flowers and fruits can be bought in Lahaina, pre-inspected and delivered to the airport for pickup.

Eating Out

Hawaiian food offers the best of ‘Pacific Rim' and ‘New American' cooking styles. Many dishes are based on chicken, pork, seafood and local fruit and vegetables. The traditional Hawaiian feast is the luau, where a puaa kalua (whole pig) is cooked in a fire pit and served with sweet potatoes and plantains. The main resort town of Lahaina is brimming with a large selection of restaurants and bars.

When To Go

Warm throughout the year, with an average temperature of 24 to 29°C (75 to 85°F), and no appreciable difference between ‘summer' and ‘winter'. Heavy rainfall can occur in the mountainous rainforests from December to February, but most areas only receive short showers.

Transfer Times

Nearest Destination

Kahului.

Transfer Distance

2.5km (1.5 miles).

Transfer Time

10 minutes.

Key Facts

Region

Hawaii

Time Zone

GMT - 10.

Currency

US Dollar (USD; symbol $) = 100 cents.

Language

English and Hawaiian.

Location

In Hawaii's island chain, between Honolulu and the Big Island of Hawaii, in the North Pacific.

Population

139,884.

Government

Federal Republic since 1789. Gained independence from the UK in 1776.

Religion

Protestant and Roman Catholic are dominant, with minor Buddhist population.

Social Conventions

Americans are renowned for their openness and friendliness to visitors. Shaking hands is the most common greeting, and a relaxed and informal atmosphere the norm, with casual dress. High-end restaurants, hotels and clubs may require more formal attire. Gifts are appreciated when invited to a private home. Smoking is increasingly unpopular in the US; always ask permission before lighting up. Smoking is banned on public transport, in restaurants, public places and in some bars.

Tipping:
Waiters generally expect 10 to 15% gratuity. It should be noted that a cover charge is for admission to an establishment, not a tip for service.
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