15 Reasons You Should Pick Maui For Your First Trip To Hawaii

If it’s your first time visiting Hawaii, you’ll probably want a bit of everything: Instagram-worthy scenery. Volcanoes. Waterfalls. Beach resorts. Maybe even whales. Maui, the second largest Hawaiian island, covers all these bases, plus more. Here are 15 reasons you should go here if you're a Hawaii first-timer.

1. This road’s why convertibles were invented

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The Road to Hana just might be the world's most beautiful road trip.

2. Sunrise looks better from above the clouds

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Head to the top of Haleakala to watch the sun come up over a volcanic crater.

3. There are so many waterfalls you might get sick of them

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Meh.

4. Peahi is one of the world’s biggest waves

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There's a reason they call it "Jaws."

5. Also, goats surf

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Come to Surfing Goat Dairy for the fresh cheese. Stay for the ... well... surfing goats.

6. Whales love it here, too

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They're all over Hawaii from December to May, but the waters off West Maui are one of the best places to see them.

7. These plants aren’t found anywhere else on earth

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Silversword only grows on the high slopes of Haleakala.

8. This golden beach

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Makena Beach means "big beach."

9. This salt and pepper beach

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Hamoa Beach was James Michener's favorite beach. And he literally wrote the book on Hawaii.

10. This black sand beach

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Waianapanapa State Park has volcanic sand and caves you can swim in.

11. This red sand beach

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It's a tricky hike from Hana to this secret beach.

12. The state’s only all inclusive resort

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Leave your wallet in the room. Travaasa Hana even has a "no tipping" policy.

13. Ice cream is made from coconuts

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Chocolate macadamia nut ice cream ... without the dairy.

14. Postcards are also made from coconuts

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Extra postage required.

15. Wine is made from pineapples

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The Maui vineyard makes sparkling wine that tastes like a natural bellini.