Week One in Review - A Picture Paints a Thousand Words

I had good intentions when I came to Maui … intentions that I would blog regularly, but the fact is, this island, for me, has been about 'doing' and sitting at my computer to write has definitely taken a back seat.  Despite the relatively small size of the island, there is no shortage of things to be ‘doing’.  We’ve been on the ‘Valley Isle’ now for 34 days and in that time, we have been snorkeling (on several occasions), kayaking, whale watching, wine tasting, visiting volcanoes, art galleries, and funky towns.  We’ve driven crazy, curvy roads, hiked to waterfalls through bamboo forests, and I still have a long list of “want to do’s.”

Since a picture paints a thousand words, here is the first week – in photos:

November 13 - arrived late the night before, so on our first day, the priority was stocking up on supplies.

On November 14th, we visited Lahaina, home to one of the largest banyan trees in the United States. It was imported from India and planted in front of the Lahaina Courthouse and Lahaina Harbor on 1873, this sprawling tree along Front Street is the size of an entire city block and stands more than 60-feet high. (Source: GoHawaii.com)

November 15 - Adding to our grocery supply with local produce at the Kihei Farmer's Market

On November 16th, we took a trip upcountry to Surfing Goat Dairy. Then we carried on to the rustic Paniolo town of Makawao, and then on to Maui's Winery at Ulupalakua Ranch

Makawao

Maui's Winery at Ulupalakua Ranch

A change of scenery. Upcountry Road to Winery

Coming from the Okanagan, one of Canada's premiere wine destinations, we had to check out Maui's only commercial winery. The drive up offers wonderful views, and a complete change of landscape. Wines here include sparkling, pineapple, grape and a unique raspberry dessert wine.  

On November 18th, we headed out to the resort community and beautiful beaches of Wailea. In front of the five star resorts, there is beautiful boardwalk (actually, it's a sidewalk) that meanders along the coast line. Start at Ulau Beach Park and walk 1.6 miles to the Fairmont Kea Lani.  On your right is the ocean, and on your left multi-million dollar view properties.  Along the way are beautiful sandy beaches, a beachfront view into some of the island's high end hotel/resorts, and a kiosk to treat yourself to an icecream or lemonade! It's an easy 3.2 mile round trip walk. You will be stopping lots to take photographs!

 The beaches in front of the hotels are accessible to the public, with lots of free parking.

Aloha! Tomorrow's post - Week Two in Pics!