Q: Why is Maui's nickname the "Valley Isle"?
A: All of the Hawaiian islands have nicknames. Kauai is refered to as the 'Garden Isle,' Hawaii is either called 'The Big Island' or the 'Orchid Isle,' Oahu is 'The Gathering Place,', Molokai is the 'Friendly Isle' and Maui is the 'Valley Isle.' The name is derived from the fact that central Maui sits between two mountains with Haleakala to the east and the West Maui mountains to the west. Nearly all of the central Maui floor is no more than 200 feet above sea level, while Haleakala soares to over 10,000 feet above sea level.

Q: So how big is Maui and how many people live on the island?
A: It's the second largest island in the chain, but don't let that statistic fool you. If you live on the mainland, the county you live in is likely larger than Maui. Maui is approximately 48 miles (76.8km) long and 26 miles (41.6km) wide, totaling 728 square miles. Don't worry it feels much larger than it sounds, add in Maui's  topographic diversity and this island provides a vast playground to explore. Name any other place in the world you can parasail, hike a tropical rain forest to a 400 foot waterfall, explore a lava field, visit a volcano's summit, and relax in a world class hotel all on the same day? Maui's  population is about 140,000. During the peak travel months, visitors often outnumber the local population.  Maui County, named after the island of Maui includes the separate islands of Lanai, most of Molokai, and Kaho'olawe.

Q: Where can I swim under a waterfall on Maui?
A: O'heo Gulch Pools on the road past Hana are the favorite of many Maui visitors, but before head off to find a waterfall, a few words of caution. Beautiful cascading waterfalls look great but there are inherent dangers. Hawaii streams often flash flood, be careful and check weather reports before swimming in and around waterfalls.

Q:I've heard about a big tree in Lahaina; what's that all about?
A: "Big" might be an understatement. The famous Banyon Tree in Lahaina is over 130 years old and shades almost two thirds of an acre.

Q: What is the weather like on Maui and is it really that cold on Haleakala?
A: Maui has a summer average of around 78 degrees, while the Winter months average 71 degrees. The ocean normally remains in the 80 degree range year round. Haleakala towering at over 10,000 feet is  another story. Despite numerous warning signs flock  to the summit in shorts, t-shirts, and sandals. Haleakala is cold and often dips below freezing year around.  To enjoy your visit to this breath taking wonder, bundle up in long pants, long sleeves and shoes.

Q: Are there any active volcanoes on Maui?
A: No, there are no active volcanoes on Maui. However Haleakala is considered dormant, not extinct, which means it will likely erupt again at some point in the future. Haleakala's last eruption has been dated to the late 1700's.

Q: Are there any good beaches on Maui?
A: Yes, Maui has over 30 miles of white, yellow, red, and black sand beaches. In fact, Maui has more miles of accessible beach than any of the other Hawaiian Islands. All beach in Hawaii is public land but not all beach access is.  Please respect private property.

Q: Is the Hana Highway really worth my time?
A: Absolutely! Watch the video the "Road to Hana".