Our favorite ways to spend Christmas on Maui

The holidays aren't just about the decorations, but all the lights and life-sized gingerbread houses certainly make Maui a little more magical this time of year.

With just five days until Christmas, you may have noticed the neighborhoods aglow with strings of lights and life-size reindeer, while soaring Christmas trees tower in the lobbies of Maui's finest resorts. If you’re planning to spend this next week on Maui, it’s definitely worth making the time to visit some of the island’s most decked out businesses, neighborhoods and Christmasy attractions.

To make it easier on you, we made a list of our favorite places to enjoy the holidays with cheer and Aloha.

THE LAHAINA BANYAN TREE

Nothing quite compares to the sight of one of Maui’s most historic trees wrapped in thousands of Christmas lights. Nearly a century and a half old, the magnificent tree spans nearly one-quarter mile in circumference, with thousands of roots and branches stretching toward the earth.

The massive tree is located off Front Street and lit up nightly. Enjoy a stroll through Lahaina Town and catch a meal with family and friends at one of dozens of restaurants.

WHERE’S SANTA?

Maui isn't home to many chimneys, which means Santa must get to the island another way. This year, Mr. Claus will be making appearances at multiple beaches via canoe before Christmas morning festivities begin.

On Christmas Eve, Santa will be traveling via outrigger canoe to Wailea Beach, just in front of the Grand Wailea around 9 a.m.. He’ll also be making an appearance on Polo Beach in front of the Fairmont Kea Lani at noon.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the life-sized gingerbread house at the Grand Wailea.

HOLIDAY CHEER

It’s that time of year for families and friends to swap stories and gifts while sipping on a glass of holiday cheer. At Maui’s winery in Ulupalakua, you can enjoy trees decorated with hundreds of Christmas lights as you celebrate the festivities with family and friends.

Book a private tour or expand your palette with a wine tasting, all set at one of Maui’s most stunning Upcountry estates. MauiWine is open Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m to 5:30 p.m.