Maui: Quick Guide + Photo Journal, Wailuku, Hawaii

If there's one thing I have in common with the Japanese, it's an affinity for Hawaii. The Aloha State is my happy place, but more specifically: the Valley Isle. As you'll hear the locals say, Maui no ka 'oi (Maui is the best). 

For the past three years, David and I have made annual trips to Maui - most recently for our honeymoon. Hawaii is the first place we ever vacationed to celebrate an anniversary, and we were yearning for the familiar after being abroad for six months. My requirements for the honeymoon were: 1) an English-speaking destination, and 2) minimal time zones from California (our wedding location). Hawaii seemed like a no-brainer. Admittedly I struggled a bit with my choice of a "cliche" honeymoon destination, but it was such a relief to not have to plan anything. And let's not forget that Hawaii's business is hospitality - go there on your honeymoon and you will be treated like kings.

While we kept it low-key on this trip and spent the majority of our time at the beach and hotel pool, our past stays on Maui were packed with activities that covered the entire island. Here I am sharing my collective favorites across our three visits: the best of the best in paradise.  ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).