While there, you could stay in any of these bed and breakfasts, which are significantly less expensive -- and money can be a concern on Maui, as we found the price of most items to be nearly double what we pay in central Pennsylvania -- than the resort complexes.
In history-rich Lahaina, the first capital of the Hawaiian kingdom, the House of Fountains provides six queen-bed rooms, as well as a pool and Jacuzzi in a tropical garden. Amenities include a guest kitchen, laundry area and computer with e-mail service. The decor of this villa centers on authentic Hawaiian artifacts, handcrafted items and artworks, and the owners offer instruction in traditional Hawaiian crafts and culture and conduct traditional Hawaiian marriage ceremonies. The Web site includes floor plans for every room -- a great touch.
About 3,000 feet up the 10,000-foot high Mount Haleakala sits Moonlight Garden Bed and Breakfast. One of the hosts here, Marvin, has in-depth knowledge of native Hawaiian plant life, which he is happy to share with guests. Not far from Haleakala National Park -- home of the Haleakala Crater, which we would consider to be a must-see for any visitor -- the inn also is a short drive from the beach and airport. Accomodations include a suite adjoining the main home and a separate cottage.
Aloha Pualani is located in Kihei, on Maui's south side, easy driving distance from Wailea, Makena, Lahaina, and the airport. (Although the island is small, there are not very many roads, so it is quite possible for something to not be within easy driving distance.) Four suites and a loft are available for guests here; each of the suites features fully-equipped kitchens and a washer and dryer. Although this inn has a feel more akin to a rental property than a traditional B&B, a continental breakfast is available for an additional fee.
Concluding this brief tour of Maui bed and breakfasts is Hono Hu'aka Tropical Plantation. The 38-acre estate includes seven rooms and suites, along with a pool gazebo which can accomodate two people. Breakfast often includes fruit grown on the premises. Perched on the edge of a 300-foot cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it's hard to imagine a setting more beautiful than the one awaiting visitors to this inn.
More Maui B&Bs can be found using the Maui accommodations directory at About.com's Hawaii for Visitors site, which features the work of John Fischer, a travel writer who makes frequent trips to Hawaii.
There's plenty to do on Maui. Although most of our time was taken up by a conference (we'll just have to go back again to enjoy everything else!), there are ample diving and snorkeling opportunities, not to mention building sandcastles. Land-lovers can enjoy golf, mountain biking and horseback riding.
