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Reef, and the Molokini Crater. Don't worry about gear; everything you'll need can be rented from the company. But if you go off on your own, try Snorkel Bob's and rent your equipment by the day or the week.

VOLCANO VISITS:

For a truly unique experience on land, visitors should go to Haleakala National Park, built inside a dormant volcanic crater. The park boasts a population of more endangered species than any other national park.

If you are up for an adventure, try the Haleakala Bike Company; it's been offering downhill bike tours for over 30 years. The company caters to both the most extreme biker, and the Sunday coaster. All equipment including safety gear and the van ride to the top of the crater is included. Hikers should plan for a couple of days to truly experience the park's rich wilderness area.

EXPLORING THE ISLAND'S HISTORY:

History buffs should try the Bailey House Museum in Wailuku, the Alexander and Baldwin Sugar Museum in Pu'unene, the Hana Cultural Center and Museum, or the Whalers Village Museum in Ka'anapali.

SHOPPING:

Those who love to shop will find quaint boutiques like those that populate Old Lahaina Town, and more upscale stores like the Shops at Wailea, the Whalers Village Shops, or the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center in Kahului. Jewelery is found everywhere from very expensive precious gems and metals to the less costly handcrafted items found at local farmers markets. And don't forget Hilo Hattie on Front Street, in Lahaina, for your locally made Hawaiian aloha clothing.

GOLFING:

Golf enthusiasts will not be disappointed with the wide range of courses on the island, including 10 award-winning courses like the King Kamehameha, Dunes at Maui Lani, Kaanapali Kai, Kahili, Makena, Wailea Old Blue, and the Royal Kaanapali golf courses.

WHALE WATCHING:

Whale and dolphin lovers must go on a whale watch trip with the Pacific Whale Foundation located in Lahaina, Maui's old whaling port. The company offers 19 daily trips to see dolphins and whales from aboard a catamaran, as well as dinner cruises.

LUAU FEASTS:

After a tough day of sunbathing or exploring, an authentic Hawaiian luau might be in order. You simply must taste poi (a pasty mush made from taro root) at least once in your life. A luau is the best place to do that.

Luaus tend to be very similar: a welcome mai tai and lei greeting; a full buffet meal featuring slow-cooked kalua pig, poi, huli huli chicken, salads, and desserts; and musical entertainment featuring a variety of Hawaiian and Polynesian dancers, and fire jugglers. Well-respected Maui shows include "Drums of the Pacific," the "Royal Lahaina," and the "Kaanapali Sunset" luaus.

TRAVELER TIP:

Talk to the locals when traveling the Maui coast; they will tell you where to find the best non-commercial beaches and snorkeling spots. They'll indicate a mile marker. Find the mile marker, take a short hike, and find one of the prettiest hideaways in the world. If that doesn't cement Maui on your list of favorite places to vacation, then you had better check your pulse - you might not be alive.

Speaking of being alive, a word of caution for those who love the water; swimmers must be aware of the possibility of sharks. Maui is home to several species of sharks, including the reef white tip, the hammerhead, and the tiger. Some of them bite humans. Ask around before going into the water. You won't want your first trip to this world class tropical paradise to be your last.

Learn more about this author, Sheree Zielke.
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