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More and more couples have discovered the rewards of having their wedding and honeymoon together in one place. The island of Maui is one of the most popular honeymoon locations in the world, and has coordinators who specialize in destination weddings (you can get a list at www.visitmaui.com). Known for it's laid-back air and spectacular beauty, the island has the added attraction of on-site coordinators at many of its hotels. Starwoods' Hawaii properties all have "Directors of Romance" who will help plan everything, and the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, is also a very popular resort for weddings with planners onsite. Best of all, the island of Maui offers a slew of romantic temptations and exciting adventures to keep honeymooners happy and wedding guests busy.
Beach Walking
The gorgeous stretches of sand on Maui's 80+ beaches aren't just for sunbathing; you won't find a more beautiful setting for a moonlit stroll. Ka'anapali Beach in West Maui is lined with multiple resorts, and features a rare, undeveloped expanse north of Black Rock. Oneloa (a.k.a. Ironwood) Beach is out of walking-distance from West Maui resorts, making it secluded and extremely romantic. Featuring stunning views and 20-foot lava cliffs, Oneloa is the perfect setting for a dreamy walk on the beach. Sugar Beach in South Maui has sand so loose that strolling is the only option - cars get stuck. Low visibility in the area makes the beach blacklisted by snorkelers and divers, so privacy reigns.
Horseback Riding
Maui's 700+ square miles offer a variety of climates and landscapes, and you can surround yourself with the clear mountain views and magnificent cliffs along Haiku Falls. The relaxed journey on horseback winds through stunning tropical scenery, including a cascading waterfall. A rocky knoll is perfect for picnicking, and the breathtaking vistas make a lovely backdrop for photographs.
Swim Beneath Waterfalls
No trip to Maui is complete without a visit to one of its glorious falls. The Hana Highway twists (literally) through a lush rainforest dotted with most of the easily-accessible waterfalls on the island. Tour guides are best able to maneuver the tricky drive (Hana Highway is also known as "divorce highway" thanks to its hairpin turns and one-way bridges) and take you to the most picturesque sites. Many tourists are determined to visit the Seven Sacred Pools in Oheao Gulch, but nearby Alelele stream is much more private and equally beautiful. For true adventure lovers, the breathtaking two-tiered Honokohau Falls in West Maui is well worth the helicopter ride into the West Maui mountains required to see it - locals claim there's not a more stunning falls on the island.
Take a Hike
Maui is known for fantastic hiking trails designed for every level of expertise. For beginners, it's worth a trip to North Maui's Ke'anae Arboretum. The dirt path (about two-miles long) takes hearty hikers through sections designated Cultivated Hawaiian Plants, Introduced Tropical Trees, and Native Forest Trees. The Iao Valley in West Maui is dotted with natural pools and is home to Heritage Gardens. The gardens feature examples of Hawaii's diverse natural culture, and the popular site combined with several great hiking trails make the valley a busy place. Advanced hikers can take on Waihee Ridge Trail, a path snaking 2.5 miles up the ridge to approximately 3000 feet above sea level.
Diving
Gliding through the clear blue waters off of the island's 120-miles of shoreline is tempting to honeymooners and vacationers alike. If you want to boat dive in Maui, the Molokini reserve is your best bet. The no-fishing rule means that schools are huge and varied, and there's a chance you may come across humpback whales during whale season. Molokini Crater is alive with moray eels, coral caves, and an occasional sighting of reef sharks. The "Backside" of Molokini, a less-crowded area, has waters hovering above 70 degrees that teem with exotic fish. Shore diving (as well as snorkeling) can be enjoyed in Holoa Point in South Maui, where the maximum dive depth is approximately 40 feet. Palauea Beach features underwater caves and lava arches that make for fascinating topography and house octopus, turtles, and a variety of exotic fish.
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