One Island; Many Environments

After driving the entire coast of Maui, I have come to the conclusion as to why most of the population is centered in Kahului, Wailea and Lahaina.  You don't need to negotiate a 45 degree, hilly turn around a mountain to access these areas.


Yesterday we drove the Hana Hwy all the way around the island and through the Haleakala National Park (south side).  Let me issue some warnings about this drive.  First - rent a compact car or Jeep.  Driving an SUV around these hilly, very curvy roads will make for some nail biting if you're wheelbase spills over into the other lane.  I've found that locals aren't generally conducive to moving over.  Also, if you get car sick, stick to the beaches and try snorkeling instead.  It will be a miserable day in the car.


With that said, circumnavigating the island of Maui has given me an appreciation for the diverse ecosystems here.  From the marine coasts to tropical forest to dry Haleakala, Maui's environments change quickly.  If you're lucky to see them at the edges of the day, your eyes will be delighted.  It just requires rising early or staying late.


Surfer dudes in the high surf from a wind advisory:  70-200mm with Gitzo Carbon Fiber tripod, circular polarizer.


Rainbow Eucalyptus tree:  24-70mm on same tripod (obeyed private land postings)


Haleakala National Park:  south side - 24-70mm with circular polarizer.  Note how polarizer still can't cut the 'hot' haze @ 4:00 p.m.