Thursday, December 24, 2009

The Island of Maui - A Great Location for Your Next Family Reunion

By Stephen Daniels

One of the most popular Hawaiian islands for travelers and tourists, Maui is a tropical paradise. The next time you plan a family reunion and are need something a little more exciting and relaxing than a picnic at the nearby park, family reunions on Maui could very well be just what you are looking for.

There is plenty to see and do while on the island. Of all the islands, Maui, in particular, is home to small town charm and has been rated as the "best island" in the World by Conde Nast Traveler for the 15th time.

Maui is an excellent tourist destination. It features Haleakala, the world's largest dormant volcano. Sunrise over the edge of this volcano is a stunning sight for anyone traveling to the island of Maui. When you explore the 9,400 foot rim of the volcano, you will love being in one of the most gorgeous settings that you've ever seen. Once the sunrise is over, you can take a hike, horseback tour or even a bicycle ride down into the crater of the volcano, making a fabulous day of the entire experience.

Whale watching is another popular tourist attraction on Maui, and tours leave daily from Lahaina, which is one of the most charming and popular cities on the island. You can also see and learn more about the whales of Hawaii by exploring Whaler's Village, where you can enjoy shopping, restaurants, and a good time.

The Maui Ocean Center, which is also known as the Hawaiian Aquarium, is another must-see on Maui. Outstanding snorkeling and diving is also available at Molokini, which is a volcano crater. Its rim just barely is visible over the ocean waves, but the crater itself plunges hundreds of feet under the water, creating a snorkelers' and divers' paradise of sorts.

Nature lovers will delight in a hiking tour of Maui's rainforests and secluded waterfalls, going where no car or truck could venture. An experienced guide can teach you about various plants and animals of the region as well as local culture and history, and you can choose between half or full day hikes.

If your family has any wine enthusiasts, they might enjoy the Tedeschi Winery in Maui's "upcountry," 2000 feet above sea level. A popular activity is enjoying a picnic on the beautiful winery grounds. The winery also features samples of many different kinds of wine, including a uniquely delicious pineapple wine.

If you choose to go island hopping, you can usually plan 1-2 days to travel to and from each island, which can be done by charter boat or by small aircraft, depending on which you prefer.

Luxurious beachfront mega-resorts, smaller inns or bed and breakfasts, or private vacation rental homes all offer excellent accommodations on Maui. Whether you want your family reunions on Maui to have a luxurious feel or a more private experience with condos and rental homes, you can choose from many great lodgings to suit your family's tastes and budget. Affordable Hawaii vacations are a possibility, so long as you take the time to see what's out there.

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