Maui, Hawaii
One benefit of Maui’s abundant rainfall, especially on the west side of the island, is its beautiful rainbows. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and the lifestyle of locals have been in the news lately with a crackdown on unlicensed B&Bs and vacation rentals. Maui officials appear to be worried that some neighborhoods, particularly in traditional communities, are being disrupted by the growing number of home-based accommodations. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
Quaint streets full of small shops in the town of Paia on Maui are representative of old Hawaii, an atmosphere that locals want to maintain. Some don’t want to see the spread of rental properties and B&Bs in their neighborhoods. Visitors to three Hawaiian islands -- Maui, Lanai and Molokai -- will have far fewer lodging choices beginning Jan. 1, when county officials say nearly all of the estimated 1,000 bed-and-breakfasts and vacation rentals must shut down for failing to hold the appropriate licenses. (Richard Derk / Los Angeles Times)
The Wo Hing Museum in the town of Lahaina on Maui is part of the island’s multicultural history. (Richard Derk / Los Angeles Times)
Tourists browse in a shop in Lahaina on Maui. In the island’s Upcountry and North Shore areas, inspectors have been focusing on closing down unlicensed home-based accommodations. (Richard Derk / Los Angeles Times)
Not far from Maui’s Hana Highway are several natural waterfalls and swimming holes such as “Pavillions,” a short walk from the paved road. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
Snorkelers and divers near Makena can swim among green sea turtles just offshore. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
Horseback riders canter past volcanic cliffs on Maui’s remote and spectacular northern coastline. The tour ends at a waterfall and swimming hole. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
Visitors watch the sunset atop a volcano in Maui’s Haleakala National Park. (Richard Derk / Los Angeles Times)
Kaupo Gap is in Haleakala park on the island of Maui. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times)
Above Kaupo Gap, visitors can view the scenery safely from behind a railing. (Susan Spano / Los Angeles Times)
