Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery is an eco-friendly distillery that produces premium quality vodka. The sugarcane comes from its onsite farm which blends with mineral water from the deep sea to create this popular brand. It is touted to be the only vodka that is made from organic sugarcane. The drink is gluten-free and as close to nature as possible. Tour the facility and relax in the martini garden where you can sip a few strong cocktails amidst strawberries, pineapple and local flora.
This dive company has been a part of the Maui diving community for more than ten years and, during that time, has consistently made customer satisfaction a priority. The goal is that every dive lives up to customers' expectations. To that end, divemasters are prepared to meet every reasonable request. More than 20 dive sites are available through Ed Robinson's, so customers do not have repeat experiences (unless they so choose, of course). Certification courses and private charters are also offered.
One of the most prominent nature preserves, Haleakala National Park was established to protect the unique craggy wilderness of Maui in the year 1961. Home to a virtually never-ending variety of natural wonders, the national park's uneven 33,265 acre-lands (13,462 hectares) shelter intricate networks of craters that pass through the mystical Kipahulu Valley, much of which is closed to tourists. The Kipahulu region is one of the park's most ecologically-rich areas that are home to more than 31 different species of Tardigrade colonies that populate most of Haleakala's eastern shores. The Haleakala Observatory offers the best views of the park's serene surroundings through an advanced electro-optical lens.
Owned and operated by cattle ranchers from the Azores, this ranch offers tours of the scenic, isolated West Maui Mountains. The tour guides lead small groups through taro fields and rain forests, straight down to the Pacific Ocean. A few different tour options are available. Two "Aloha Rides" depart daily; each lasts two hours. A longer ride is also offered, and you have the option of adding a full barbecue lunch if you pay a little more. A deluxe helicopter-horseback combination tour is offered in conjunction with Sunshine Helicopters. Call for more information.
Kaumahina State Wayside offers a perfect place to pause, take in breathtaking coastal views, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the island of Maui. The vistas here are nothing short of spectacular, making it a prime spot for photography and taking in the beauty of the Hawaiian landscape. The wayside is enveloped in vibrant tropical vegetation, including lush rainforest foliage and vibrant flowers, making it a nature lover's oasis. You can explore the well-maintained trails that wind through this botanical wonderland, providing an opportunity to get up close and personal with Hawaii's rich plant life.
Operating from the more centrally located Maalaea Boat Harbor, Lani Kai offers morning snorkeling trips to Molokini and other special spots. In addition to trips around wonderful Maui and Kahoolawe, the cruise offers a sandwich buffet along with cold drinks, beer and Mai Tais. All snorkeling equipment, masks, boogie boards and ski belts are included. For those who are uncertain about the water, there are patient and encouraging staff members who will provide lessons to the water-shy. In addition, there are wet suits, Snuba gear and underwater cameras available for rent. Advance reservations are highly recommended for this popular snorkeling trip. -Lottie Tagupa