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Maui, Molokai, and Lanai
Three Unique Experiences
The Hawaiian islands of Maui, Molokai,and Lanai
and close to each other, but each offers a very
different experience.
The three islands that make up the county of Maui offer the visitor
opportunities to experience the diversity of Hawaii without ever
having to unpack a bag or check in a rental car.
The geographical placement of these islands makes it possible to wake
up on Maui, spend the day sailing and snorkeling off Lana`i, and be back
in time for a sunset lu`au on the beach at Wailea. On another day you
can hop aboard a ferry from Lahaina harbor and enjoy the day exploring
the rainforest on the east end, or touring the remote and mysterious
Kalaupapa peninsula.
Maui county is the only part of Hawaii that allows you to travel, one
to the other, by boat. This special point of view lets you see the
islands as the first discoverers did -- with its magnificent mountains
rising out of the azure sea.
The history of these three islands has been entwined for generations.
Lana`i, once called the "Pineapple Island" for its rolling plantation
fields, is the newest resort star. During its plantation days, even
many Hawaii residents were unfamiliar with its charms. Today, two
luxurious hotels, surrounded by championship golf courses, attract
vacationers.
There are no high rises on Lana`i. The small town of Lana`i City has
no stop lights, and the biggest event of the year could be the senior
prom at the high school. Instead, activity is based around family
life and activities such as hiking, hunting, golfing, fishing and
beachcombing.
One tour operator will rent you a Jeep to explore the island's rugged
terrain on your own, or they'll pack a lunch for you and let you
explore Lana`i's uncluttered shoreline.
If visiting Lana`i's resorts are of interest, plan to enjoy the green
lawns and award-winning restaurant at The Lodge at Koele, or spend a
day at the spa, or on the golf course at the Manele Bay Hotel.
Moloka`i is just 20 minutes from Maui or Oahu, but it is a lifetime
away in other respects. Along Moloka`i's north shore, cliffs rise
from the sea and dip into intensely verdant valleys. On the west
side of the island, Papohaku beach stretches white sand for three
miles, becoming the longest in the islands.
Moloka`i is about outdoor adventure. It is possible to sign up for a
guided hike on the east end into lush Halawa Valley, or experience
the remote world of Kalaupapa National Park.
Returning to Maui is a little like returning to the "mother ship"
after an explorative jaunt. Maui has it all. The historic small
towns of Makawao, Paia, and Wailuku, the enchanted valleys filled
with waterfalls and legends, the winding road to Hana, the grasslands
of cattle and Hawaiian paniolo, the fabulous resort hotels from
which you face the sunset each night with a mai tai in your hand.
Let the crashing surf get to you. Smell the smells -- the scent of
plumeria from a lei or the garden outside, or suntan lotion that
smells of coconut and banana on warm skin. Give in to the magic
of Maui.
Article Courtesy of the Maui Visitors Bureau
See also:
More Maui Articles
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Related Links
Maui Island - Main Menu
The Islands of Hawaii
Forum for Visitors to Hawaii
Hawaii Travel Newsletter
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