The Best Hawaiian Island for Vacation

Maui, at about 729 square miles, is the second-largest Hawaiian island. The island has about 120 miles of shoreline, and the average temperature is between 75 and 85 degrees. Its coast is surrounded by grassy and forested uplands. The island has a variety of lodging options, from campgrounds to high-priced resorts. Tourism is a key part of the island's economy; more than 2 million people visit the island each year.

It is difficult to go far on Maui without running into a golf course. The island has 17 courses. Some courses are right along the ocean, while others are inland. But all are subject to high winds, so it is advisable to get a tee time early in the morning, then spend the remainder of the day doing something else. Prices for a round range from about $50 in 2009 at the Waiehu Municipal golf course to more than $200 at courses at resorts like Wailea and Kapalua.

Biking is a popular activity on many of the islands, since they all offer warm weather that makes pedaling a pleasure. The same is true on Maui. But the island also offers one of the best biking experiences available--the ride down the Haleakala volcano. The bike ride begins high on the volcano before the sun rises. Bikers descend 10,000 feet down the volcano as they take in the sights of the island and ocean as the sun begins to bathe them.

Maui has a number of charter boats that take fishermen out for a day or half day of deep-sea fishing. These boats often head to the deep waters 30 to 60 minutes off the island, then begin trolling until they hook up with sport fish like marlin, tuna, wahoo, and billfish. Some of the charter boats that fish off Maui are Ho'okela, Action, and Bottom Fishing. Boats leave from either Ma'alaea Harbor or Lahaina Harbor.

Maui features a wide variety of dining options. Maui has many options for those seeking a quick meal. For visitors who prefer a more cultural experience, there are Leilani's on the Beach, Lahaina Store Grille and Oyster Bar and Mala. Food also is served at some of the luaus in Maui--the Old Lahaina Luau is one of the most popular ones--and dinner cruises can be good, provided the water is calm. The Maui Princess and the Pacific Whale Foundation are two of the most popular dinner cruises.

Maui features some stunning sights. Among those not to be missed: The road to Hana. This is one of the most popular and well-known drives in Hawaii. The road meanders along the north side of the island. While it can be treacherous at times, some of the lushest vegetation--on an island that's already lush--grows in the area along the road. Waterfalls are abundant. Keep in mind that there's not much to do in Hana, so the experience is primarily in getting there.