Maui

Maui is certainly known for water sports, but it's also a great place to take a mountain bike. With just over 10,000 feet of elevation relief, there's plenty of opportunities to pedal.

The island has a handful of good rides that can keep you busy for a few days. Start with the Kahakapao Loop in Makawao Forest Reserve to get a sampling of the red dirt and dense forest on the north shore. If you like to catch air, you can also find the Makawao Flow Trail here.

For a little more adventure, head up to the top of Haleakala. At just over 10,000 feet this dormant volcano is the starting point for the Skyline Downhill, a thrilling adventure that takes you down from Maui's highest elevations to the ocean.

• Crater Cycles: cratercycleshawaii.com/
• Krank Cycles: krankmaui.com
• Maui Cyclery: gocyclingmaui.com/
• West Maui Cycles: westmauicycles.com/

Maui is known as a 'foodie' paradise with plenty of fresh local fare and a plethora of amazing restaurants. From fresh baked banana bread at roadside stands to the freshest seafood served right from the ocean, it's hard not to eat well here.

Coffee: mauicoffeeroasters.com/
Localvore: marketfreshbistro.com/
Pizza: flatbreadcompany.com/
Grocery/Provisions: manafoodsmaui.com/grocery/

As part of the chain in the Hawaiian Islands, Maui experiences the typical two-season year. Winters are generally cooler and rainier while summer is usually hotter and drier.

Maui also has plenty of micro-climates with its rugged and diverse terrain. One part of the island can be bathing in sun, while another can be shrouded in misty clouds.

The Polipolio Springs area, with cinder-based soil, is better riding after some moisture and very dusty when dry.

The trails in Makawao Forest Reserve are optimal when dry and best avoided when wet.

Water sports and tourism are king throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Surfing, paddling and kite boarding are very popular water sports with plenty of rental equipment available.

Haleakala National Park is also a big draw and worth the drive to look inside the crater rim at 10,000+ feet.

If you just want to experience the beauty and laid back lifestyle of Maui then a drive to Hana might just do the trick. It's a long, winding and scenic road.