Scenic Views
Some of Maui’s best views take you on a scenic journey of gardens, lava rocks, jagged coastlines, red soil, waterfalls and craters. Whether you drive, hike or fly over some of these views, you’ll take time to take plenty of photos, which is important. Maui’s most treasured views will make you stop and appreciate the moment, the location and the rare beauty of everything in your line of sight, from blade of glass to ripple of water.
The road to Hana is on every must-see list in Maui guidebooks. The views are continuously incredible. Around the bend, you’ll see forest areas, cliffs, bridges, waterfalls and seemingly remote sacred spots. While you hear a good bit about the curvy paths and winding turns, on the road to Hana, you’ll find a special view of your own that will differ from just about every person you talk with and accompany that day. Travel back from Hana on the Piilani Highway (State Highway 31) between Ulupalakua and Kipahulu, for more pathways filled with scenic adventures of moss, cliffs and coastline.
Oheo Gulch is a land and sea lover’s top pick, for its multiple pools (not advised for swimming), waterfalls and the paths you’ll take to find each one. Large streams, waterfalls and the bridge in one frame provide a perfect image. Known as the Seven Sacred Pools, but many more than that amount in reality, it’s the Pipiwai and Palikea Streams that intersect and form the surreal picture worth taking. Take an adventurous hike and find Waimoku Falls at the end.
While it looks like a live National Geographic-worthy shot, you’ll be amazed that you’re standing in it when you make the trek to Haleakala. Both sunrises and sunsets are each idyllic and a chance to see multiple islands, mountains and landscapes including Kaho’olawe and nearby Maui’s Molokini. A departure from the craters are the whales at Ma’alaea Bay. Signage calls it the scenic point but it’s actually Paawai Point to which you want to venture, between mile markers eight and nine.
Places To Stay
Some of Maui’s best scenic views are in Maui’s Upcountry and The Emperor Estate in Kula offers dreamy views of the mountains and ocean on its 15 acres. The home is spacious for eight guests and has plenty of luxury amenities, including a gourmet kitchen, balcony and huge bathroom tub. You will have plenty of great views but the nearby sights will draw you so make the most of the location near the golf course, Haleakala National Park, Baldwin Beach and Tedeschi Vineyard and Winery.
Maui’s West Side has its share of scenic views and Kai Hoku is an enviable vacation rental in Launiupoko for 10 guests. The features inside the home are alone scene-setting, notably the light-colored hardwood floors and sweeping staircase. A home that embraces the outdoors and fits into it, the outdoor areas offer unobstructed views and space for hours of stargazing.
The Lele Penthouse on Maui’s South Side in Kihei is a lovely place for 12 guests, likely an extended family or even a small group of friends who want plenty of space. Plenty of indoor entertainment, plus the gourmet kitchen, hot tub, jetted tub, sauna and outdoor grill add up to great vacation living. The plentiful sports on sand and surf are additionally appealing. A welcome basket adds a special touch upon arrival and having a beach within a five-minute walk will give you reason to see sunrises and sunset views each day of your visit.