Planning the Perfect Maui Getaway

• (Photo : Planning the Perfect Maui Getaway)

Looking for the perfect summer getaway to escape the winter blues? Look no further than the pristine beaches of Maui, Hawaii. With more than 30 miles of white, black, and red sand beaches, Maui is home to the most accessible beaches in all of Hawaii. With more than  2.5 million tourists traveling to Maui each year, it's been deemed the second most popular island in the state. If you're sold on a trip to this ideal location, there are a few things to consider before hopping on a plane. Here are just a few tips for planning your perfect Maui getaway.

Book, book, book!

While it may seem ideal to fly by the seat of your pants on vacation, it's important to be prepared. Many excursions require reservations, so it's key to decide on these plans in advance. Maui offers a wide array of adventures both on land and at sea. Volcanic rock trails, tropical lagoons, and cliffside waterfalls await the adventurer looking to hike through the breathtaking landscape. Fishing, surfing, kayaking, and sailing are available for seafarers to take in the beauty of the island and its surroundings.

Feel like taking a dive in the Pacific? Sign up for SNUBA lessons-a combination of SCUBA and snorkeling that provides its participants with extended time in the depths of the sea. This unique excursion calls for less resurfacing time, allowing you to explore with more freedom than traditional snorkeling. Countless adventures like these are affordable and available to you, but it's best to sign up in advance so you can fit as many in your schedule as possible. You wouldn't want to miss out on more memory-making due to a simple scheduling error.

Soak up the culture.

Most people plan their vacations around activity and pleasure. While this is a key part of relaxation and escape from the norm, taking in a new place starts with its history. Understanding the purpose behind the activities you're partaking in adds a level of authenticity. Every city, island, country, and continent in the world has a unique backstory that makes it the way it is today.

Once you've explored the physical attributes of Maui, find time to take in its culture. For almost five decades, the center of the Hawaiian monarchy was located in the town of Lahaina. As you hike along the historic Lahaina trail, you'll come across over sixty historical landmarks to read and discover Maui's rich history. Looking to kick back and take in some history without the exertion of physical exercise? Maui luaus are a rich part of Hawaiian culture celebrating anything from victory in war to personal life achievements. Dine on local cuisine as you take in the beauty of traditional luau dances and performances for the perfect Maui night.

Pack smarter, not harder. 

Ensuring a smooth vacation starts before stepping foot outside your home. Creating an account with a photo manager like ibi ensures that your photos and videos are stored in a safe space to share with family and friends upon your return. If you're planning on partaking in various activities around the island, be sure to pack the right gear. While swimsuits and flip flops are a given for an island adventure, having long pants and sweatshirts to avoid sun damage and insect bites is key. Most gear is provided by the island for excursions and adventures, so you can leave your snorkel at home. It's also important to bring cash as several establishments don't accept credit cards.

From packing smart to planning ahead, your island adventure is just a few steps away. As the rain and snow make their way to your home town, grab those suitcases, get online, and set your sights on Maui!