Black Rock Beach in Lahaina in West Maui is one of the island’s most popular spots. At sunset every evening, cliff divers illuminate the lava outcrop with torches, then jump off Black Rock. Photo by Sandi Barrett

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Maui or Mars? Haleakala National Park’s Sliding Sands Trail leads intrepid hikers through an otherworldly, volcanic landscape. Photo by Sandi Barrett

The laid-back vibe on Maui might be the perfect antidote to the frantic hustle of our everyday world: sunshine, beaches, lush tropical plants and exotic flowers.

My husband, Chris, and I spent some time on Maui last winter, our first visit since the Lahaina fire. While downtown Lahaina is open only to local residents, there are reassuring signs of a slow recovery. Most places in West Maui have reopened to tourists.

Tourists can venture out and explore the island on a drive, stopping to take in the views, or go for a hike. In one day, you can see humpback whales breaching and then snorkel with brightly colored fish in undulating hues of blues and yellow.

Whether you simply relax at the beach, enjoy some on-the-water adventures, golf or hit the hiking trails, Maui should be your next bucket-list vacation spot.

Haleakala National Park

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of a place, and Haleakala National Park offers intrepid hikers otherworldly views. From deep valleys to rocky outcrops, winding trails lead you through a panorama of shapeshifting colors and textures.

We hired a guide for our Haleakala exploration. An in-the-know local dedicated to ensuring that your adventure is enjoyable and safe lets you focus on the experience. Plus, a great guide knows all the best spots, so you won’t waste time and energy getting lost.

The most spectacular trail is the Keonehe’ehe’e (Sliding Sands) Trail. The 11-mile trek is a wonder of changing landscapes, from tropical to desert. Of course you need not hike the entire length; you can park at various spots and hike small, manageable sections. Near the summit, the alpine desert is breathtaking and worth the short, strenuous stroll.

Whale watching

It’s always rewarding when you can help the environment and have fun at the same time. A sail with PacWhale Eco-Adventures supports the nonprofit Pacific Whale Foundation and contributes to saving Hawaii’s humpback whales. The company’s Adult Sunset Sail is a relaxing, enjoyable evening on the water. It’s BYOB but includes a delicious selection of pūpū (appetizers).

Of course, the stars of the evening are the whales. In the winter months they show off their best mating moves — like a dance club pick-up scene with males vying for attention.

Nakalele Blowhole

The fascinating rugged coastline on the northern tip of Maui is home to the Nakalele Blowhole. Powerful crashing waves move through an underwater lava tube, creating a geyser that shoots water high into the air.

Beware of getting too close; people have been washed away by the powerful water spout. The AllTrails app lists the Nakalele Blowhole Trail as a moderate, out-and-back 1.2-mile trek. The trail is rough and rocky, requiring confident footfalls. You can, however, get a great view of the blowhole by meandering down even 200 yards, thereby avoiding any rock-scrambling.

Take a drive

The infamous Road to Hana is an adventure in mountain driving. A lesser-known traverse is through the Mauna Kahālāwai, the West Maui Mountains. Switchbacks, hairpin turns and one-lane roads add a sense of adventure to your sightseeing.

Many say the white-knuckling West Maui Mountains drive is more unnerving than the Road to Hana. No matter whether you decide to drive east or west, plan to go early, as there are limited streetlights and guardrails. You don’t want to be driving on these roads in the dark.

Snorkeling and golf

Snorkeling near Molokini Crater was an exciting excursion. Darting fish in an array of vibrant colors keep your head on a swivel because you don’t want to miss a thing.

Many companies offer snorkeling tours, but we went with PacWhale Eco-Adventures again because I liked that they are a nonprofit working to keep the ocean clean.

Hitting the links on Maui makes for a peaceful early morning. I suggest booking tee times that avoid the scorching midday sun so you can enjoy verdant fairways, fast greens, sneaky traps and stunning vistas.

Kā’anapali Golf Courses include two 18-hole courses: the Royal Kā’anapali and the Kā’anapali Kai. As you approach Kai’s ninth green, the course view gently slopes into a panoramic water view that just may distract your putting.

At Kapalua Golf you can choose from the Bay or Plantation Course. Kapalua is home to the Sentry Tournament of Champions in January, so the course is in pristine shape in February. The Plantation Course is your opportunity to play where the pros swing — it is a bucket list course for every golf aficionado.

If you go

Round-trip flights to Maui start at $440. Maui’s average year-round temperature bounces between the mid-50s and mid-70s. For fewer crowds, visit in April, May, September, October or November.

There are so many wonderful places to visit on Maui, and the island is fairly compact, making every corner of the island accessible.

My favorite spot on Maui is the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa on Kā’anapali Beach in Lahaina — it’s the essence of Hawaii. Cozy cabanas encircle a lagoon-style pool with views of the beach. Each evening, the cliff diving ritual off Black Rock closes out the day in spectacular fashion. For the ultimate getaway, stay in the Moana Oceanfront rooms, clifftop suites with panoramic views.

When it comes time for sustenance, Duke’s Beach House on North Beach in Kā’anapali delivers reasonably priced grub with a premier on-the-beach view. Split an order of Kimo’s Original Hula Pie with your favorite dinner date; it is sublime.

Celebrity and James Beard Award-winning Chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiian fusion restaurant, Roy’s, is the spot for a celebratory dinner. Located in the clubhouse of Kā’anapali Golf Course, the casual-chic establishment plates the best local ingredients with an upscale flair.