Kihei shares the sunniest, driest end of Maui with Wailea. One of the most remarkable things about Kihei is the 6-mile-long stretch of sandy beach with views of Kaho’olawe, Molokini, Lana’i and West Maui. The island is a microcosm of the world’s climates and terrains. Less than 25 percent of the island’s 729 square miles is inhabited and, because much of the terrain is rugged and remote, it remains pristine.

The island’s beauty is seen on long, sandy beaches, tropical rainforests, rolling green pasture lands, dry land forests, and spectacular rocky cliffs. Maui’s average temperature is between 75 and 85 degrees, but in one day you can huddle at the top of Haleakala Crater watching a sunrise in 40-degree weather, sit on the sand at Kihei enjoying the trade winds at noon, and watch the sun set in the west in the cooler evenings.

The naturalist can hike Maui’s forested trails and view native plant species, watch rare birds in its wetlands, and follow the highways of ancient chiefs. Small shopping malls, a bustling farmer’s market, activity centers, and a host of family restaurants and sundown mai tai spots enliven the scene. Everyone eventually ends up at Azeka’s Market to buy old-fashioned Maui potato chips and Azeka’s famous barbecued ribs. If there is one reason for Maui’s enduring popularity it is its diversity. The island dazzles and soothes almost at the same time.

Reprinted, with permission of the publisher, from 50 FABULOUS GAY-FRIENDLY PLACES TO LIVE (www.FabCities.com) © 2005 Gregory A. Kompes. Published by Career Press, Franklin Lakes, NJ. 800-227-3371. All rights reserved.