*This story was originally published on Dec. 24, 2024, and updated in December 2025. With its year-round tropical climate and an endless-summer energy, it’s no surprise snowbirds flock to Maui every winter. But that doesn’t mean the island lacks holiday spirit. Across the Valley Isle, you can enjoy festive celebrations throughout December. From […]
There’s a local saying (at least on the Valley Isle): “Maui nō ka ʻoi,” essentially meaning “Maui is the best.” Of course, I agree—but I’m biased. I’m fortunate to have been born and raised on the island famous for its beautiful beaches, diverse landscapes and rich heritage. Maui is the second-largest island in the Hawaiian
Maui is known for its golden shores, from Mākena to Kāʻanapali. But the beauty of the Valley Isle extends beyond its gorgeous beaches, all the way to its tallest mountain. Upcountry Maui is a peaceful region marked by pastures, rolling hills, a sea of purple jacaranda trees and panoramic views. Among it all, you’ll discover
Ever heard of the phrase, “Leave No Trace”? It’s an accepted set of seven principles—a mantra in national parks and other protected outdoor spaces—that remind visitors to minimize their impact on the environment. One of those principles can directly be applied to national parks in Hawai‘i: Leave what you find. For decades, people have taken
Sometimes it feels like time stands still on Maui. Having been born and raised on the Valley Isle, I look forward to my trips home, when I can stop at Pukalani Superette to pick up a bento or sit outside Tasaka Guri Guri with a Dixie cup filled with the shop’s strawberry guri guri. Not
Hawaiʻi is bracing for a low-pressure system that will bring strong winds and flooding today through Friday. High-wind warnings are already in effect until noon Friday, with southwest winds reaching up to 50 mph with gusts peaking at 90 mph are expected, according to the National Weather Service. There might be snow and ice on
From stargazing on the tallest mountain in Hawaiʻi to staying at an exclusive, adults-only resort, the Islands offer unforgettable experiences. For anyone planning a trip to the Islands in 2025, these activities and excursions are worth adding to your bucket list. 1. Hike in Haleakalā National Park, Maui Venturing to the highest point on the
They say that sunsets in Hawaiʻi are unmatched. And while it’s true, there’s something just as magnificent about rising before dawn to catch the first rays of sunlight as they illuminate the Islands. Stirring before the sun might not be at the top of your list of things to do during your Valley Isle vacation
Maui has it all, from award-winning restaurants to luxe resorts to some of the best beaches and hiking trails in the state. Here are five ways we love to enjoy the outdoors on the Valley Isle. 1. Pīpīwai Trail, Kīpahulu On the rugged eastern side of Maui is the Kīpahulu district of Haleakalā National
It’s a grand sight, watching the sunset in Hawaiʻi. As that blazing orb of fire begins to gently dip below the horizon, the dimming sky is filled with color—from pastel pinks to fiery oranges—one last time before the day ends. It’s a magical moment, and one that you’ll love experiencing day-after-day on your trip to
Maui may be the perfect destination for honeymooners—but the Valley Isle has a lot to offer vacationing families, too. There are kid-friendly hikes, beaches great for snorkeling, farms to visit, even fun playgrounds that will give parents a much-needed break. Here are our picks for the best things to do with kids if you’re planning
While there are over 50 state parks in Hawaiʻi, only nine areas are designated as “national parks” in the Islands. Like state parks, national parks—and national monuments— are vital in protecting scenic, cultural and historic areas, and visitors and local residents alike are sure to learn something new about the Islands with each visit. Below
