NCL's Pride Of America berthed at Kahului, Maui. Cruise ships dock at Pier 1 in Kahului harbor. There’s little to see in Kahului itself, and most calls at Kahului include an overnight stay, so renting a car is a good option. You can take a complimentary shuttle bus to one of several car rental concessions (it’s wise to book in advance).

Baldwin Beach

Baldwin Beach is a pretty white sand beach on Maui’s North shore, a few miles east of Kahului. Pacific ocean waves pound against the north shore coastline, but Baldwin beach escapes the power of the ocean thanks to a natural breakwater parallel to the east side of the beach (or Baby beach!). Behind the breakwater there’s a huge pool, safe even for kids. Good swimmers will love the boogie-boarding along the main length of the beach. Most days there’s a lifeguard in attendance. Facilities include restrooms, BBQ pits, and picnic tables. It’s just a 6 mile drive along the Hana Highway from Kahului airport to reach HA Baldwin State Park (its full name).

Road To Hana

The celebrated Road To Hana is filled with natural wonders, impressive views, and worthwhile stop-offs. These include Hookipa Beach Park, Waikamoi Ridge Trail, Keanae Arboretum, Puaa Kaa falls, Waianapanapa State Park, and Red Sand beach in Kaihalulu bay (Editor’s note – the swimming at this beach is very exciting if not downright dangerous!). The 52 mile long road usually takes about 3 hours of driving time, and the road winds around a lot, so take motion sickness tablets beforehand if necessary.

Haleakala Volcano

A two hour drive from Kahului by way of Haleakala Hwy and Crater Road takes you up to near the summit of one of the world’s largest dormant volcanoes, Haleakala Volcano. At the top a Visitor Center awaits you, armed with pamphlets and hiking maps to help you make the most of your visit. The masochistic tourist might opt for the popular ’See the sunrise from Haleakala’ outing, which mandates getting out of bed at around 2.30am! Alternatively the visitor can choose a tour that takes you up to the summit in a van, then lets you ride down Crater Road on a bike.

Molokini Island

A 20 minute boat trip from Kihei boat ramp takes you to crescent shaped Molokini Island, one of the best snorkel sites in the world. There are hundreds of species of fish to see - a huge chart on your boat will help you identify the most memorable. In the early part of the year you’re also likely to hear whale sounds, and/or see the leviathans of the ocean from the boat. Kihei is 15 miles south from Kahului.

Makena State Park

Makena State Park comprises two beaches, Big Beach and Little Beach. The two beaches are separated by a lava promontory – a short trail crosses this, making it easy to walk from one to the other. Behind the sands lies Pu'u Ola'i (translated Earthquake Hill), made by the last known volcanic eruption in Maui (in 1790). The cinder cone, the verdant kiawe trees and rolling white sand dunes combine to lend the beaches a spectacular setting, making the beach a favorite for many. Facilities include lifeguards, restrooms and picnic tables. Makena beach is 20 miles south from Kahului, past Kihei and Wailea.