Maui: Some Interesting Facts About This Amazing Island

By Ella Hemmings


Maui, the second largest island in the archipelago of Hawaii, is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world. With pristine beaches, lush flora and some of the world's best sunsets, it's no wonder why people flock to this gem. Here are a few interesting facts about Maui, which is known as the "Valley Isle."

Hawaii may have only been a state for a little more than 50 years, but it has a rich and interesting history. The first people to inhabit Maui probably were Polynesians and the first boats may have arrived on its shores about 1,500 years ago. While structures from that period no longer exist on the island, there are several buildings that date back to the 1830s including Lahainaluna High School, which has been open for more than 175 years, longer than any other high school west of the Rockies.

If you love whale watching, Maui is the perfect spot for you. Maui is actually the breeding ground for Humpback whales and you can take a look at these amazing creatures from November through May. To put things in perspective, it is believed that there are fewer than 8,000 Humpbacks on Earth and about 3,000 of them visit Maui each year. There are many different whale watching tours and cruises available, and some offer snorkeling as well.

The world's largest dormant volcano is located on the island of Maui in Haleakala National Park. This volcano last erupted sometime between 1480 and 1600 and it now offers a truly unparalleled look at what remains after a massive volcanic explosion. Hike up to the summit just before dawn to watch the sunrise and then spend some time hiking in and around the volcano. If you are really lucky and the weather is perfectly clear, you can actually see six other islands at the top of Haleakala, including Hawaii, Lanai and Oahu.

Generally, the temperature on the shore in Maui doesn't get much higher than 80 degrees, and usually the average temperature hangs out right around a balmy 75 degrees. However, if you head up to the summit at Haleakala, the temperature can drop fairly sharply and the lowest recorded temperature in Hawaii occurred here, registering just 11 degrees. Every once in awhile, it snows on Haleakala, so don't head up the mountain without bringing a jacket or sweater.

More than 20,000 weddings take place in Hawaii each year and many of these ceremonies occur on Maui. If you are considering a wedding, elopement or a vow renewal ceremony on the island of Maui, it is wise to contact a Maui wedding coordinator, such as LoveMauiWeddings.com. For more than 20 years, they have been helping couples plan the perfect Maui destination wedding and they offer an assortment of Maui wedding packages to suit your taste and budget.




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