But these popular sites and activities are only a part of Maui's story. Sitting high to the west, far above such festivities is a peaceful, green place few tourists or even local residents get to visit. Above the cane fields but below the crater of Haleakala volcano, is an area called "Upcountry Maui".

Looking down from up here, the island and the sea are even more spectacular. Upcountry's rain, light, cool winds and rich soil creates the perfect home for one of the world's most exotic flowers: the legendary protea.

From the same general family as the Silver Oak tree, proteas are giant, solid, almost unnaturally beautiful flowers that originated in South Africa. Today, their unique appearance and robust character have made protea a popular gift flower.