By: Edward Arthur Dalton & The Dream Chasing Family

“Ahhhhhhh... The Hawaiian Dream!” I think it’s safe to say it’s a common dream we all want to chase at some point in our life, if you haven’t already. And if you have, you know why people go back again and again for that Aloha spirit. I know we already miss it! If you know of some jobs there in need of great employees, we might know a couple willing to move there! Wink, wink.

Ever since our amazing 7 Days exploring Puerto Rican Paradise, we have wanted to get back to the tropics!

So, as soon as our favorite airline Southwest released their long awaited flights to the islands, we booked ours to the “Valley Isle” of Maui, which was a hard decision considering each Hawaiian Island has so much to see and do!

We couldn’t possibly list all the great reasons to visit Hawaii. Such a comprehensive list doesn’t exist, and would be too long to read if it did!

But, we learned some helpful tips and tricks you should know before you go to maximize your island experience! Whether you just started brainstorming ideas for your next vacation, Hawaii has made your short list of potential destinations, or your finalizing the details of your upcoming trip there, this travel guide will be beneficial to you.

Below are at least 7 ways to spend 7 adventurous days in Maui! All in all, these were our favorite destinations or experiences. Some we planned for ahead of time, while others we found spontaneously once we were there exploring. They are listed in no particular order of recommendation, but are all “Shaka” worthy adventures to consider!

And if your traveling on a "shoestring" budget like we always are - or should I say "sandal strap" budget since we didn't actually wear shoes - I think you will be happy to learn that just like in life, even the best things in Maui money can't buy.

WATER SPORTS

If you know us well, you know Cody loves any sport with a board, and if you can add wind to the mix, even better! Hawaii, and particularly Maui, is windy. Like really really Wizard of Oz windy.

Because of its location, the chain of Hawaiian Islands all experience trade wind patterns. However, Maui has a low valley between Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains, hence its nickname the “Valley Isle”. This valley between the mountains creates a bottleneck for the wind, causing it to funnel through much faster here, like an hourglass at its narrow neck. This is largely the cause of Maui’s notoriously windy conditions, and why it is a world class wind sport and surfing destination.

The iconic Kanaha Beach Park is a great place to start if your looking for an epic kiting or windsurfing location! If the wind isn’t your thing, then fortunately for you, Maui has something for everyone to enjoy.

The south sides of the island are generally a little more shadowed from the wind, causing the water to be more calm and inviting there. This makes it ideal for activities like rowing, paddle boarding and snorkeling.