Xavier Nation Magazine Feature: What to do in Maui

The surf. The seafood. And oh, the scenery. If you're headed to the Maui Jim Maui Invitational, Nov. 19–21, 2018, at the Lahaina Civic Center, you're in for quite a treat. It's a historic year for the basketball tournament, which will feature eight Division I teams for the first time in its 35-year history: Xavier, Arizona, Auburn, Duke, Gonzaga, Illinois, Iowa State, and San Diego State.

Hoops are just part of the appeal of this trip to paradise. There are plenty of things to see and do while you're 4,367 miles from Cincinnati. Here are three can't-miss side trips.

This 64.4-mile journey from Kahului to Hana features 620 curves and hairpin turns. Dramamine will cure your motion sickness and the views will make your jaw drop, so bring your camera. Lush foliage, spectacular waterfalls, hikes, and black sand beach views abound. Don't miss the Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe'o, which offer a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs. If you drive past Hana and back to Lahaina, you'll see where Haleakala Crater meets the sea and stunning, uninhabited vistas unlike any other place on earth.

This bucket-list activity is a feast for the eyes. An early wake-up is worth it as you travel by tour or on your own to the volcano's peak. Dress warmly for this ascent 10,000 feet above sea level, and then prepare for a majestic show as the sun comes up. The good news is that you'll still have most of your day to watch basketball, snorkel, zip line, sunbathe, eat, or shop.

Sojourn to another world on this 13.5-acre farm situated 4,000 feet above sea level. Trade the sun and heat for the crisp, cool feel of this fragrant nirvana. Whether you take a guided tour or explore on your own, you'll be surrounded by 55,000 lavender plants. Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch or take in the sights of the flora on one of the benches scattered throughout the farm. A gift shop sells all things lavender, but your best mementos will come from photos of the vistas and meticulously-kept gardens.

Enter to win a trip to see the Musketeers play at the Maui Jim Maui Invitational!

Maui Jim is running a "Take Me to Maui Sweepstakes," where one lucky fan will win a trip for two to the 2018 Maui Jim Maui Invitational. Prize includes round-trip coach airfare to Maui, hotel accommodations for six nights, two pairs of Maui Jim sunglasses, rental car, $500 VISA® gift card and a pair of tickets to each day of the Maui Jim Maui Invitational. Fans can visit www.mauijimsweeps.com to enter for a chance to win the sweepstakes.

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