Maui

Maui, in Hawaii, packs a remarkable range of experiences into one island. Watch sunrise above the clouds in Haleakala National Park, snorkel among reef fish and sea turtles at Molokini Crater, and watch humpback whales in the Au'au Channel, where mothers nurse calves in the calm shallows. Drive the Road to Hana for waterfalls and black sand beaches, walk the green cliffs of Iao Valley, and finish the day on the beaches of Wailea and Ka'anapali. The whales are here from December through April, with the densest gathering in January through March.