Maui wowie
Take an insider’s tour of Hawaii’s sexiest island for an inexpensive, authentic experience. You’ll get more from Maui – or less.
Wailuku
This sleepy town’s eclectic, local vibe provides a welcome contrast to neighboring Kaluhi, the island’s chain-store-heavy commercial center. Stay at the Wailuku Inn, a cozy B&B with plantation style-decor and family-style hospitality. Rooms from $140/night. (2199 Kahookele Street; oldwailukuinn.com)
Kihei
A beach town that is the youngest ‘hood on Maui, Kihei has restaurants, shops and nightlife targeted to residents, not tourists. For a local-style “plate lunch,” try Hawaiian foods like Kalua port, at Da Kitchen (2439 S. Kihei Road No. 107A; 808-875-7782.) It is one of the few places outside of a $70 luau.
Haleakala/Upcountry
Cooler temperatures, green rolling hills and small farms are lovely, but the main draw is the raw, awesome beauty of Haleakala, a dormant volcano that soars to more than 10,000 feet. Stock up on hiking supplies at the Ching Store (9212 Kula Highway; 808-878-1556). Founded in 1939, it’s one of the last remaining family-owned plantation general stores, a throwback to when the local economy was based on farming.
Paia/Haiku
Surfers from around the world flock here for Jaws, the 40-foot-plus wave made famous by surf king Laird Hamilton and movies like “Step into Liquid.” Luckily, there are also smaller, friendlier waves at Hookipa Park, and those wanting to simply take a dip can head to Baldwin Beach.
Hana
The difficult two-hour drive that separates lush Hana from the rest of the island has protected it from rapid development. Instead of high-rises and name-brand stores, you get the sense that time stands still. Boogie board or sunbathe at beautiful, white-sand Hamoa Beach, then enjoy free live Hawaiian music in the Hotel Hana-Maui bar from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. (hotelhanamaui.com)