The Island of Maui

Sugar cane was once a huge Maui industry, but there is only one sugar mill still in operation. It seems the dairies, egg farms, ranch lands, and the sugar mills are all giving way to golf courses, resorts, and pavement. Sand in your toes, a waterfall at your back, the magnificent sight of a whale breaching, the eerie view of a cinder cone rising from the Haleakala crater, and a sea turtle munching on seaweed or sunning itself on a lava rock are all a part of the magic of Maui. Its gorgeous sunrises, sunsets, and cool, tropical breezes are irresistible.

We are loving our stay at the historic Pioneer Inn in Lahaina, Hawaii's first capital. The early Polynesians settled in this area 2000 years ago because of the marvelous harbor. The U.S. Pacific Fleet was once harbored here. Katherine and Spencer had their own love nest at the Pioneer Inn. Jack London, Sigmund-Rhee, and many other famous luminaries have spent time here. Lahaina at night is full of beach-clad shoppers, but the city is unbelievably clean.

Beside the hotel is the world's largest Banyan Tree planted in 1873. This is the whale watching season off the shores of Maui.