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Sun kissed, magical Maui. Named for a Hawaiian god who lassoed the sun so it would take longer to cross the sky, this island paradise is just the right mix of civilization and Mother Nature's beauty. Warm ocean waters tempt snorkelers with the promise of colorful reef fish. Humpback whales, annual visitors from November to April, can be seen from the shoreline as they dance in the waves. Stretches of white sand invite strolls in the moonlight.

Consider strolling back to an exquisitely furnished oceanfront condo. Condo rentals offer more personal space and privacy than a hotel stay. Units come in a wide variety of sizes, from compact studios ideal for singles and couples to units with one, two, three or more bedrooms suitable for families or friends traveling together. Some condos offer two or more bathrooms. Private balconies or patios are the norm. Kick off your slippers, mix a blender full of mai tai's in your fully equipped kitchen and stretch out on lounge chairs under a million stars.

Fully equipped kitchens give you the option of exploring the local grocery stores and having a quiet meal in rather than dining out. Kids are always hungry and having a refrigerator stocked with drinks and treats is big plus for families. There is also the luxury of being able to pad into the kitchen in the middle of the night for a midnight snack, still in your pajamas.

Amenities vary between condo rental properties. Most offer a swimming pool and deck area, usually with a hot tub. Some offer beach equipment rentals, a concierge desk for arranging tours and car rentals, onsite bars and/or restaurants. Luxury condos not only offer top of the line furnishings but can offer hotel like front desk and business services.

Condo rentals on your Maui vacation also offer a choice of locations. Properties in Ka'anapali Beach, on the southwestern end of the island offer easy access to the beach, golfing at the Ka'anapali golf courses, world class restaurants, nightclubs and a host of shops. The Sugar Cane Train, a hit with the kids, runs between Ka'anapali and the old whaling town of Lahaina for even more shopping, dining and sightseeing. Lahaina is also the departure point for many whale watching and snorkeling tours as well as the ferry to the island of Lanai.

Wailea and Makena, still on the south part of the island but farther east were developed after Ka'anapali. This area is famous for lots of sun, beautiful beaches and of course, golf. Wailea Golf Club itself has three courses. Choose from a condo near the water or one overlooking palm lined fairways. Honeymooners and anniversary couples tend to enjoy this area because it is just as deluxe as Ka'anapali, but quieter and less crowded.

In between these two resort areas is Kihei, a laid back family friendly residential area that offers a large number of condos, many of which are moderately priced. It is known for its beaches and for having more sunny days than either Ka'anapali or Wailea. Recent development has added new shopping malls and restaurants. Oceanfront Kamala Beach Park offers a place for kids to play baseball, basketball, in line hockey and to skateboard.

Regardless of which part of Maui you choose for your home away from home, for any type of extended stay, condos offer the best of the island and allow you to relax as you should on your dream vacation.