“Maui no ka ‘oi” is a local saying that translates quite simply to “Maui is the best.” I know quite a few who’d concur — and after returning to the island for this past week’s #seeMaui trip, I might just be inclined to join them.

As I sat on my final flight into Kahalui, I listened to three separate conversations between welcoming locals and excited tourists where friendly tips and advice were exchanged, and I remembered what makes Hawaii so special — the sense of aloha. Though I spent two and a half weeks on Maui last year, I was pretty impressed with how these five days showed me completely new aspects of the island — as well as reminded me how much more there is to explore. Within twenty-four hours of landing I was on the phone with my airline trying to extend my stay in Hawaii, and while it didn’t work out, I am already plotting my return. There’s just something about this place for me.

This week’s Photo of the Week candidates are only a small preview of all the Maui goodness that will be coming your way soon! It’s nice to be back in a position where I’m struggling to narrow it down to just five photos — I can’t wait to see what you guys go for this week.

Photo A
Welcome back to the Aloha State!

Photo B
Exploring Upcountry’s farm culture

Photo C
Palm trees and paddling out — what could be more Maui?

Photo D
Dinner at Humuhumunukunukuapua’a — not a typo, it’s the name of the state fish!

Photo E

Scuba diving off the shores of Kihei

Which photo is your favorite?