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Maui Travel Guide Video

Hawaii’s “magic isle” is known for its terrific beaches, blue water, abundant marine life, the volcanic haleakalā national park, quaint towns and scenic drives..

Nature lovers pick Maui for its wildlife, volcanic craters and rolling hills, while active people come here for hiking, golfing and watersports. No matter what your interests are, Hawaii’s “Magic Isle” is a dream destination. The 80 or so beaches are inviting, the water is warm and the countryside is lush.Maui is serviced by the Kahului Airport (OGG). Shortly after landing, you can start exploring Maui’s nearby capital of Wailuku. This quaint commercial center is the gateway to 'Iao Valley. If you visit in winter, travel west to visit historic Lahaina for whale-watching. This time of year, surfers flock to Honolua Bay in the northwest for big barrel waves and professional competitions. Relax in award-winning resorts, such as Kaanapali Beach, to make the most of the ever-pleasant weather in this tropical paradise. In summer, when the water is calmer, enjoy snorkeling and diving off Kapalua Beach, which also has attractions for kids. Head south to Keawakapu to find another family-friendly beach, or continue to the beaches of Maluaka or Wailea to spot green turtles. Nearby Makena State Park has three very distinct beaches and a volcanic crater. Set sail to the crescent-shaped atoll of Molokini for bird-watching or scuba diving.From Makena, travel east and get above the clouds at the Haleakalā Crater (House of the Sun). Visit at dawn for one of the best views in the whole of the U.S. The diverse ecosystem of forest and volcanic rock that unfolds in front of you is where Maui originated. Before heading back to Wailuku, make the epic coastal journey with hairpin turns, waterfalls and bridges all the way east to Hana.A vacation in Maui can be expensive, but many people feel it is a small price to pay for paradise. Whether you are honeymooners seeking romance, families with energetic kids, hard-working couples looking to relax and youthful thrill-seekers, Maui shares its magic with everyone.

Where to stay in Maui

Wailea is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Wailea Beach and Shops at Wailea.

Rolling hills leading to the coast and black volcanic rock shoreline define this district of Lahaina, Maui. Experience the unique landscape and embrace the natural beauty of this coastal area.

Ukumehame Ahupuaa

While visiting Ukumehame Ahupuaa, you might make a stop by sights like West Maui Mountains and Maalaea Bay Beaches.

Halama Street

If you're spending some time in Halama Street, Kihei Town Center Shopping Center and Coast Guard Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Downtown Lahaina

Check out the seaside views, live music, and theaters while spending some time in Downtown Lahaina. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighborhood, you won't need to go far to find top spots like Puamana Beach Park or Kaanapali Beach.

Though Haiku might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Haleakala Bike Company and Haiku Park.

• Maui Hotel Deals
• Vacation Rentals in Maui

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Popular places to visit.

• Kaanapali Beach

As one of the highest-ranking luxury beaches in the U.S., this stunning stretch of sand with crystal-clear water is lined with high-end hotels and shops.

• Wailea Beach

This stretch of powdery sand is part of an upscale resort community and is an ideal place to sunbathe, snorkel, and dive with Hawaiian green turtles and manta rays.

This vacation accommodation hotspot has everything you need. Its protected waters attract swimmers and snorkelers in summer, and surfers and body boarders in winter.

• Whalers Village

You can do some window-shopping at Whalers Village during your stay in Kaanapali. Amble around this romantic area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

• Haleakala National Park

From mountain peaks to forested valleys, from the Pacific coastline to a volcanic crater, this national park encompasses a great diversity of natural habitats.

Maui Ocean Center

Make time to visit the sea animals who live in Maui Ocean Center during your trip to Maalaea. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its seafood restaurants.

Read travel guides and advice on visiting Maui

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• Cities near Maui

• Places of interest
• Kamaole Beach Park
• Haleakala Crater
• Kapalua Beach
• Honolua Bay
• Maalaea Harbor
• Kamaole Beach Park 3
• Makena State Park Beach
• Kapalua Golf Club Plantation Course
• Maluaka Beach
• West Maui Mountains
• Napili Bay Beach
• Kaanapali Kai Course at Kaanapali Golf Resort
• Kapalua Golf Resort Bay Course
• West Maui Parasail
• Shops at Wailea
• Kahekili Beach
• Keawakapu Beach North
• Waianapanapa State Park
• Kapalua Resort
• Maui Arts and Cultural Center
• Honokowai Beach Park
• Kaanapali Golf Courses
• Maui Nui Golf Club
• Little Beach
• Queen Ka’ahumanu Center

Maui   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Mike Andrew Photography | Getty Images

25 Best Things to Do in Maui

As a top destination for everyone from honeymooners to multigenerational families, Maui's diverse landscape and outdoor activities cater to just about every interest. Ocean and animal lovers will enjoy visiting the stunning beaches with green,

• All Things To Do

Haleakala National Park Haleakala National Park

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you're looking for a unique adventure, consider camping inside the crater. There are three wilderness cabins accessible via a minimum 3.7-mile hike from the summit. Advanced reservations are required, and fill up quickly. –  Sharael Kolberg

As a top attraction on Maui, Haleakala National Park is home to a dormant volcano crater with its desert-like landscape, sacred sites and a waterfall-laden tropical oasis near the coastline. Its name means "house of sun" and the entire park occupies 30,000 acres of land on Maui, though most visitors focus on a few specific areas of the park. Of course, there's the volcano: Haleakala's summit stands more than 10,000 feet above sea level (in fact, you can see three different islands from its peak on a clear day). For a once-in-lifetime experience plan your visit to the summit to see the sunrise (keep in mind visitors have to make reservations online in advance and a small fee is required). A winding, sometimes steep road (Route 378) takes visitors to the top. At 10,000 feet the air is thin and chilly, according to park rangers, so layers are advised.  

Road to Hana Road to Hana free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you're driving yourself, there are several downloadable audio guides, such as those offered by Shaka Guide, that will point out sights to see and places to stop along the way. – Sharael Kolberg

Topping many Maui visitor's to-do list is driving the Road to Hana. Sounding like a mythical journey, Hana is an actual town on the scenic highway (Highway 360). Traveling along Maui's beautiful coastline, travelers are met with a road that includes about 600 curves, more than 50 bridges and 60 cascading waterfalls that line the island's lush eastern shore. The Road to Hana might seem short at 52 miles, but the journey will most likely take all day given the number of scenic lookouts and other places to stop. If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, there are several tour companies that offer tours in luxury vans, including Valley Isle Excursions and Temptation Tours . Though pricier than driving yourself, taking a tour allows you to focus on the incredible scenery while someone else navigates the winding curves. Plus, most tours are guided.

Ka'anapali Beach Ka'anapali Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Snorkeling around Black Rock is some of the best on the island. On the other end of the beach, if you're staying at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa , ask about the hidden cave in the pool. –  Sharael Kolberg

As one of Maui's most popular strips of white sand, Ka'anapali Beach stretches across 3 miles of the island's northwest coast, offering plenty of space to surf and sunbathe. The coveted sand is just one of this beach's many highlights: Ka'anapali was Hawaii's first planned resort area, and today it features several notable hotels and restaurants, two golf courses and the lively Whalers Village, an open-air shopping center. Another highlight of a visit to Ka'anapali Beach is the daily sunset cliff dive at Pu'u Keka'a (Black Rock), which pays tribute to King Kahekili, Maui's last independent king who ruled in the 18th century. Additionally, a few whale watching  and snorkeling  excursions depart from this area and some of the best zip lines on Maui are nearby.

Popular Tours

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Maui Snorkeling Tours Maui Snorkeling Tours

It can be easy to become mesmerized by Maui's multicolored beaches, verdant hiking trails and breathtaking sunsets, but don't forget about the world that lives beneath the surrounding Pacific Ocean floor. Located off the western shore of Maui, the top locations for snorkeling are close to beaches, or visitors can take a snorkeling tour. In fact, many of the island's top hotels will offer guests complimentary use of snorkeling equipment; some, such as The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua , will even arrange boat tours for their guests. With equipment in hand, visitors can explore well-known spots, such as Ka'anapali Beach , Kapalua Bay and Honolua Bay, from the shore. Many of the top tours visit crescent-shaped Molokini , which is located off Maui's southwestern coast and is home to 250 species of fish. Lana'i is another top snorkeling tour destination as it's home to the Hulopo'e Marine Preserve.

According to travelers, setting aside a morning or afternoon to explore Maui's underwater creatures is an unforgettable experience. And most enjoyed their day on the water, including the boat ride to the snorkeling spots, saying the scenery added to their experience. Most tour operators offered efficient services and the amenities onboard were well received.

Maui Helicopter Tours Maui Helicopter Tours

After seeing Maui through the eyes of a fish on a snorkeling tour , many consider getting a bird's perspective on a helicopter tour. While flying over destinations like Haleakala National Park , along the Road to Hana or a complete circumnavigational tour of Maui, passengers will see all the top sights in about an hour (and without the land-based traffic). No matter which route you choose, you'll be rewarded with stunning vistas of Maui's waterfalls, craters, cliffs and valleys.

Recent travelers describe this experience as a "splurge" (most tour prices start at around $300 per person), though they also concede that seeing Maui from the air is an incredible sight. Most described the experience as exciting and the pilots as accommodating and professional. Even first-time helicopter passengers felt safe and enjoyed their excursion.

'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) 'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools)

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Tent camping is available at Kipahulu campground, located on the bluffs overlooking the ocean and a short walk to 'Ohe'o Gulch. –  Sharael Kolberg

Within the Kipahulu District of the Haleakala National Park , hikers will find the Seven Sacred Pools, or the Pools of 'Ohe'o in 'Ohe'o Gulch. Though often mislabeled, the area boasts more than seven pools; each is fed by a small waterfall flowing down the gulch. To reach the area, visitors need to take a half-mile hike on the Kuloa Point Trail from the visitor center. Hikers will enjoy sightings of the pools, along with ocean views and archeological sites. Keep in mind that you'll only be able to view the pools from the trail; swimming in the pools is not allowed.

'Iao Valley State Monument 'Iao Valley State Monument

Like Haleakala National Park , 'Iao Valley State Park offers visitors the chance to admire something other than the beach. This 4,000-acre, 10-mile-long park in Central Maui boasts a verdant landscape and striking rock features – the most famous of which is the 'Iao Needle. Rising roughly 1,200 feet into the air, the 'Iao Needle was formed by erosion and is now dressed in the island's tropical foliage. The most popular hiking trail is the 0.6-mile 'Iao Needle Lookout Trail and Ethnobotanical Loop, a paved walkway that leads straight to the iconic rock formation and through a botanical garden.

In addition to the stunning landscape, 'Iao Valley visitors will learn about the park's legendary history. It was here that Maui's tribal army lost to the forces of King Kamehameha I during the Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790. It was the victory at this battle that helped pave the way for King Kamehameha to eventually unite the entire Hawaiian archipelago under his rule.

Napili Bay Beach Napili Bay Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  It's worth waiting in line at The Gazebo restaurant (which sits within walking distance of the beach) for the best macadamia nut pancakes, coconut syrup and spectacular ocean views. –  Sharael Kolberg

Though not nearly as expansive as Wailea or Ka'anapali , crescent-shaped Napili Bay Beach is particularly popular with families. Napili's waters are much calmer than those at other Maui beaches, so kids and adults alike can take to the seas for swimming, paddleboarding and boogie boarding. Plus, Napili Bay Beach provides a quiet, laid-back atmosphere that sunbathers love with views of Molokai and Lana'i .

Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town

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Molokini Snorkeling Adventure Aboard Calypso From Ma'alaea Harbor

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Maui Luau: Gilligans' Island Luau in Kihei

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Wailea Beach Wailea Beach free

You visit Ho'okipa to see Maui's daredevils hang 10, and you head to Kaihalulu or Wai'anapanapa for multicolored sands. So, which beach do you go to just to swim and relax? This crescent-shaped beach caters to the sun-seeking guests from several of the nearby luxury resorts , including the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea . Wailea feels much less rugged than some of Maui's other beaches: The sand is lined by palm trees and visitors will find a paved walkway connecting the shoreline to the area's hotels, shops and restaurants. What's more, visitors to this beach will have access to water sports equipment rentals and an umbrella service. And because the waters here are relatively calm, Wailea Beach is great for those looking to swim or snorkel . During the winter, whales can be spotted.

Recent visitors said the surrounding resorts do a great job keeping the Wailea Beach clean. Other visitors appreciated the services offered by the resorts like rentals and restaurant access. Families enjoyed the calm waters of the area that allowed for swimming and snorkeling.

Makena Beach State Park Makena Beach State Park

Located about 5 miles south of Wailea, Makena Beach State Park is billed as "one of the largest, undeveloped beaches" on the island by Hawaii's tourism board. This beach is perfect for travelers in search of the more untouched shorelines of Maui. Upon arriving, beachgoers will see white sand and not much else, with a notable absence of hotels, shops and restaurants nearby.

Within its 165 acres, Makena Beach State Park offers two beaches along with a dormant cinder cone known as Pu'u Olai. Big Beach (or Oneloa Beach) stretches for 1.5 miles and is 100 feet wide. Aptly named Little Beach features 660 feet of sand. Though nudity is prohibited on state park beaches, the rules tend to be lax at Little Beach, so you may see topless sunbathers. Little Beach also doesn't offer the lifeguards or amenities that Big Beach does. To travel from one beach to the other, beachgoers traverse a small trail located on the volcanic land mass that separates the shorelines from each other; it takes about five minutes, according to recent visitors. Aside from their size, both beaches are backed by lush tropical vegetation and feature views of Molokini and Kaho'olawe.

Maui Golf Courses Maui Golf Courses

Travelers who prefer greens to beaches will find plenty of places to put their clubs to good use. Maui is home to 14 highly acclaimed golf courses, some of them conceived by such pro designers as Arnold Palmer and Ben Crenshaw. Some of the more popular courses include the Gold, Emerald and Old Blue courses at Wailea Golf Club and the Bay and Plantation courses at Kapalua Resort. Architecture buffs might want to the check out the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed clubhouse at King Kamehameha Golf Club. No matter the course, golfers will find fantastic views of Maui's coastline or volcanic formations.

Kapalua's Plantation Course is a favorite among reviewers for its spectacular setting and excellent amenities, though serious golfers complain that it's slow to play. Other infrequent golfers complained of the wind and the price tag. The top-ranked Wailea Golf Club earned more consistently high marks, with golfers enjoying everything from rented clubs to the golf carts to the pros.

Wai'anapanapa State Park Wai'anapanapa State Park

In Hawaiian, "Wai'anapanapa" means "glistening waters." But it's not the ocean that draws travelers to Wai'anapanapa State Park – it's the jet black sands . The shoreline here is composed of volcanic sediment, which acts as a stark contrast to the bright blue waves and verdant jungle.

For those with reservations, this is a highlight near the end of the Road to Hana , but there's more to see than the beach. Those who hike along the park's primary trail (which traces the coast past the black sand beach) will discover Wai'anapanapa's two freshwater caves. According to Hawaiian legend, these caves were the site of the grisly murder of princess Popo'alaea who, along with her attendant, was murdered by her cruel husband, Chief Ka'akea. Today, visitors can enter the caves and even swim in the pools. Those who prefer to stay dry can visit the wealth of sites that line the coastal hiking trail, including a religious temple, natural blow holes, sea stacks and more.

Maui Ocean Center Maui Ocean Center

For visitors in love with the ocean, or those dealt a rainy day on the island, consider spending some time at the Maui Ocean Center. This facility helps visitors learn about Hawaii's underwater ecosystems and offers a variety of ways to get up close and personal with the island's marine life. The 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit houses hundreds of fish, rays and sharks, and features a 53-foot-long acrylic tunnel that allows you to observe the animals swimming overhead. Visitors can learn about the popular green sea turtles at the Turtle Lagoon for an above and below water look. Meanwhile, the Humpbacks of Hawai'i Exhibit and Sphere, which debuted in 2019, penetrates the deep ocean and allows visitors to virtually experience the underwater world of humpback whales with a 3D showing every half-hour. For those visitors wanting to get closer to the marine life, the Maui Ocean Center offers a cage-free shark dive in its Open Ocean exhibit, which is home to more than 20 sharks (note that a SCUBA certification is required and additional fees starting at $350 per person apply).

Recent visitors described the aquarium as small, but charming. Several mentioned it was a great indoor activity. Many travelers were especially impressed with the Open Ocean tunnel and the 3D humpback whale virtual experience. And for reviewers who had snorkeled around the island, the aquarium provided a more in-depth education into the animals they had spotted underneath the water's surface. However, more than a few reviewers warned of high prices for the on-site restaurant and cafe and suggest eating elsewhere.

West Maui and Molokai Special 45-Minute Helicopter Tour

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Road to Hana Adventure Tour with Pickup, Small Group

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Lahaina ATV Adventure, Maui

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Kapalua Coastal Trail Kapalua Coastal Trail free

Those who want to explore Maui by foot, but don't want to tackle the difficult hiking trails of Haleakala National Park will love the Kapalua Coastal Trail. This trail encompasses the larger Kapalua resort community, which includes Montage Kapalua Bay and The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua , both of which are some of the best hotels in Hawaii . The 1.76-mile one-way trail is mostly paved and almost completely flat, snaking along Maui's northwestern coast. Along the way, visitors will get an eyeful of the glistening waters of the Pacific. Walkable in either direction, entry points are found at Kapalua Bay, Namalu Bay, Oneloa Bay and Honokahua Bay, the latter of which contains D.T. Fleming Beach Park. For those interested in going farther, hikers can continue following the trail to the more strenuous 20-mile Mahana Ridge Trail, which detours inland and features spectacular views of neighboring Molokai from its ridge. 

Recent visitors loved the Kapalua Coastal Trail for its scenery and easy terrain (parents say the path is very kid-friendly). In addition to the beautiful ocean views, travelers also enjoyed exploring the rock formations that live in between the bays. For visitors hiking during whale watching season (December to March), they may be able to spot whales from the shore. Visitors also noted that because of this trail's popularity, it's best to start your walk early, especially since the parking lots are small. Others advised planning a visit at sunset. And while the trail is largely flat and mostly paved, some travelers said sturdy shoes are beneficial for the parts that aren't. 

Turtle Town Turtle Town

For snorkelers who don't want to stray too far from Maui, Turtle Town is a great spot. You'll find this area near Maluaka Beach, which sits between Nahuna Point and Black Sand Beach in southwestern Maui. The area earned its name from the large population of Hawaiian green sea turtles that call it home. This reef area is protected from the island's trade winds by Haleakala, making for relatively calm waters. Turtle Town is a popular add-on destination to many Molokini Crater snorkeling and diving excursions, but it's also known as an ideal sea kayaking spot.

According to recent visitors who opted for kayak and snorkel tours, they thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Many commented that they saw and swam with the green sea turtles and felt confident with their guides.

Pipiwai Trail Pipiwai Trail

One of Maui's most popular hiking trails is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Located along the Road to Hana , the Pipiwai Trail is part of the exceptionally scenic Kipahulu District in Haleakala National Park . Along the approximately 4-mile round-trip trail, hikers pass over footbridges and across boardwalks through lush tropical vegetation, a bamboo forest and past two waterfalls, including Makahiku Falls, 400-foot Waimoku Falls and 'Ohe'o Stream Gulch , also known as the "Seven Scared Pools." The Pipiwai Trail is considered moderately difficult, features an 800-foot elevation gain and can take up to three hours to complete.

Recent travelers described the trail as beautiful. Many loved the waterfalls, but visitors were also keen to point out the tranquility of the bamboo forest. Reviewers warned that while the scenery was outstanding, the hike was not easy. A few travelers said they were warned by National Park Service rangers that the NPS locks the parking gate at the end of the day, regardless if cars are still inside. Reviewers also recommend wearing sturdy shoes as parts of the trail can get slippery depending on how much it has rained.

Kama'ole Beach Parks Kama'ole Beach Parks free

Kama'ole Beach Parks are a series of three beaches that offer a great option for vacationing families thanks to their consistently calm waters and plentiful amenities – two things that aren't always guaranteed at other Maui beaches. The first two beaches (known as Kama'ole 1 and Kama'ole 2) offer the largest beach areas, and are considered to be some of the best beaches in Maui for swimming. The third (Kama'ole 3) is the smallest beach and features regular shore breaks, perfect for bodyboarding. While that may not be suitable for the little ones, the third beach boasts a large grassy park that's perfect for a picnic. Other amenities in this area include restrooms, showers, lifeguards, parking, picnic tables, volleyball courts, an accessible sand chair and playgrounds.

Recent visitors appreciated all the available amenities, as well as the safe swimming conditions. Travelers enjoyed all the activities available here, from taking a stroll along the water to snorkeling. Others reported being able to spot whales off the coast, along with sea turtles. A handful of travelers were delighted that, despite these beaches' popularity, they weren't overcrowded. Another visitor commented the parking was plentiful on the street.

Ho'okipa Beach Park Ho'okipa Beach Park free

The wintertime waves at Ho'okipa Beach are so white and frothy that hardcore surfers and windsurfers can't stay away (waves can reach as high as 30 feet). The water is definitely too rough for swimming, but visitors flock here to see the locals surf. Those on the Road to Hana can stop at Mile 9 to take in the action at this stretch coastline near Pa'ia in Upcountry Maui. For those who consider themselves professional surfers, it's best to have a local guide.

Recent travelers advised it was worth a stop even if you're not one for water sports, saying that the photo opportunities alone are worth it. What's more, the beach is also home to sea turtles, who come ashore and blend in with the lava rocks. Others commented that swimming wasn't suggested, though wading is fun, especially near the tidepools. Travelers suggested buying some food from nearby eateries and parking yourself at one of these benches to watch the action.

Original Sunset Cruise with Open Bar from Ka’anapali Beach

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Haleakala Sunrise Maui Tour with Breakfast

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Molokini Crater Molokini Crater

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The boat ride back from Molokini tends to get very windy and bumpy, which might not be suitable for those prone to seasickness. If you can't handle the boat trip, you'll find there are plenty of amazing snorkeling options closer to shore. –  Sharael Kolberg

Situated about 3 miles off of Maui's southwestern coast, Molokini is a tiny island known as one of the top snorkeling and diving spots in the Hawaiian Islands. A crescent-shaped volcano crater that is partially submerged, Molokini doesn't feature sandbars, meaning the water clarity is superior to some of the other snorkeling spots around the island. The crater is home to 250 varieties of tropical fish, along with 38 types of hard coral. Because it's protected by the Molokini Shoal Marine Life Conservation District, the island is only accessible by boat on a snorkeling tour . On a tour, visitors can explore the underwater area by snorkel, SCUBA and even SNUBA (a hybrid between snorkeling and SCUBA that doesn't require certification). Most tours pair a visit to Molokini with a stop at Turtle Town , another coral reef that's best known for its population of turtles.

Old Lahaina Lu'au Old Lahaina Lu'au

The Old Lahaina Lu'au is one of the most popular things to do for first-time Maui visitors. Guests are greeted with a fresh orchid lei, then escorted to private tables, either low mat style seating or standard. The musicians at Old Lahaina Lu'au serenade their guests while the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean. While diners admire the performers' hula skills, servers share Hawaiian specialties, such as pua'a kalua  (pork roasted in an underground oven), fresh ahi poke (raw yellowfin tuna with green and Maui onions) and poi (mashed taro plant). The drinks are free-flowing at the Old Lahaina Lu'au for those 21 and older, and the meal is topped off with a selection of desserts featuring mango and coconut. Aside from the food and drinks, the Old Lahaina Lu'au is also a great place to learn about the culture of Hawaii. Stories about Hawiian legends, gods and royalty are told through dance and chants.

Though some reviewers described the experience as overpriced, others praised the attentive service, plentiful food and the talented performers. Reviewers also said this a valuable educational experience that helps visitors understand Hawaiian culture.

Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden

While on the long and winding Road to Hana , consider stopping for a break at the Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden, home to 26 acres of trails. Located near mile marker 10.5, this tropical oasis features several picturesque overlooks, a waterfall, a banana patch, a duck pond, expansive ocean views and an art gallery. Along the paths, you'll encounter exotic plants and trees, including Hawaii native and indigenous species. "Jurassic Park" fans may recognize the garden from the opening scene of the film.

Previous visitors praised the gardens as a scenic place to take photos. Reviewers also said it's a wonderful place to stop for a picnic lunch and reported spending about an hour here. Others remarked on the colorful peacocks that roam the property. Some felt the entrance fee was too steep, given that you can enjoy the same views along the Road to Hana for free.

Maui Pineapple Tour Maui Pineapple Tour

Fresh pineapple is so sweet, you could eat it for dessert. At the Maui Gold Pineapple Farm, visitors learn how pineapples grow (in the ground, not on palm trees, as some tourists think) and how they're harvested. Along the approximately 1 1/2-hour tour, you'll travel via an air-conditioned bus into the fields. You'll also get a chance to get off the bus for a look at the packing plant. The best part is that you get to take a fresh pineapple home with you.

Tourgoers praised the informative and entertaining guides and the tasty pineapple samples. The tour is an especially fun outing for kids, according to reviewers.

O'o Farm O'o Farm

More than 20 years ago, a pair of surf buddies decided to branch into farming. They bought a parcel of land with some fruit trees and coffee plants and it expanded from there. Now the 8.5-acre O'o Farm provides produce to several farm-to-table restaurants in the area. Visitors interested in agritourism, coffee enthusiasts or those wanting to understand more about Maui, can arrange a tour of the farm.

The first tour of the day starts with a cup of locally grown and roasted coffee, followed by a tour of the growing operations that focuses on the bean-to-cup coffee process. Following the morning tour, the lunch tour walks the growing fields to learn about the unique climate of the Upcountry region of Maui. Visitors will experience bicoastal views on a clear day from the farm's elevation, about 3,500 feet above sea level. They will see a variety of vegetables, leafy greens, herbs, as well as some fruit, coffee and even edible flowers. Menu items are seasonal, though breakfast can include dishes like a farm egg frittata flavored with local produce along with coffee cherry flavored honey buns. For lunch, the farm offers a fresh catch of the day with Maui onions, along with chicken dressed with a coffee and allspice rub.

West Maui Half Day Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach

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(851 reviews)

from $ 155.00

From Ma'alaea Harbor: Sunset Dinner Cruise Aboard the Quicksilver

(642 reviews)

from $ 119.95

Hana Lava Tube (Ka'eleku Caverns) Hana Lava Tube (Ka'eleku Caverns)

For a unique adventure along the Road to Hana , stop for a self-guided tour of the Hana Lava Tube, which can be found near mile marker 31. It takes no more than 40 minutes to explore about 1/3-mile of the accessible underground landscape with stalagmites and stalactites. The cave was supposedly formed about 960 years ago, from hot lava that cooled to form a top layer, and then once the lava stopped flowing it created a tube. Don't worry, there are no bats or mosquitos.

Many past visitors raved about this one-of-a-kind experience, saying that the stairs and uneven ground were relatively easy to navigate.

Nakalele Blowhole Nakalele Blowhole free

For visitors looking for the perfect photo of a whitecapped ocean lapping over the rocky shoreline while a geyser of misty water pops in the foreground, northwestern Maui's Nakalele Blowhole is the destination. The blowhole, which is a natural geyser formed from an underwater lava tube, can spray water up to 100 feet in the air, depending on the strength of the wind and surf.

Recent visitors admitted the blowhole is located a bit off the beaten path, though most said it was worth the effort to get to the tip of Maui. More than one reviewer said the scenery was dramatic and beautiful. Most enjoyed climbing around the rock formations watching for the blast of seawater. One recent visitor urged caution when parking after their rental was broken into. Several others reminded visitors to stay mindful of the ocean and to wear appropriate hiking footwear as the path is not smooth and requires walking over uneven rocks.

Explore More of Maui

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Maui Travel Guide

Visitor information on where to stay, best maui things to do, and more....

Maui Vacation Guide

Visitor info & top things to do on maui, essential tips for the ultimate maui vacation experience.

Maui has been a favorite tourist destination for decades because it represents the quintessential tropical getaway. With its beautiful coastal views, eclectic volcanoes, wildlife sanctuaries nearby, and a wide majority of the island left wild and free from rampant development, there are countless things to do in Maui that will leave you authentically charmed!

Maui has a lot going for it, especially for such a small island. It combines some of the best food, shopping, and entertainment choices from several of the other Hawaiian islands while emphasizing outdoor fun rather than a late-night party scene, like Oahu, which makes plenty of regular visitors happy.

Maui has several small towns, especially along the coast, giving much of the island a small but not rural vibe. Maui is not as large or varied in terrain as the Big Island or as weathered and verdant as Kauai. Still, its 10,000+ foot volcano Haleakala, combined with the incredible coastline views along the Road to Hana, and unique places like the 'Iao Valley and Wai'anapanapa Black Sand Beach make Maui a unique and special place to visit all on its own

— article continued below —

Wailua Falls beyond Hana town

FREE Maui Summary Guidesheet

Updated with a new summary map of Maui  with estimated driving times from popular starting points.

Includes the top  must-see & do  Maui attractions,  best times to visit ,  where to stay  briefing, Maui  airports detail , a monthly  weather summary , and where to find the most  noteworthy local ono 'grindz'  (best eats) on Maui.

Download Guidesheet Now

Often called the " Playground of the Wealthy ," Maui definitely caters to those looking for more expensive accommodations yet is spared the crowds of Oahu. But don't fret if top-notch accommodations aren't in your plans - Maui caters to all types, including the budget-conscious. The island has a reputation for being a playground for all tourists, not just the super-rich. Whether you're looking for the best Maui beach, a great bed & breakfast, or even a bamboo forest hike, we've assembled all the Maui essentials here.

Everything you need to know about Maui is here in one convenient place:

• Maui travel tips & information - everything you need to know about Maui
• Determine when to travel to Maui - which time of year is the best?
• Discover the perfect Maui hotels & accommodations or our excellent selection of Maui tours & activities
• Explore Maui's landmarks & attractions

Pipiwai Trail at the Oheo Gulch

Summary of Maui topics covered on this page.

• Maui Blog, Recent News, and current Maui Events
• Maui Weather, Climate, & Current Forecast
• When to Visit Maui - which month is the best?
• Maui Map Packet
• Where to Stay on Maui - our accommodations guide
• Maui Regions & Destinations Guide
• Top 10 Maui Attractions to See & Do
• Maui Trip Itineraries for Planning 1-7 Day Trips
• Top Maui Sights
• Top Maui Beaches
• Top Maui Hiking Trails

Geologic History of 'Maui Nui'

• Maui Popular Tours & Activities
• Maui Visitor Information & Articles

When to Visit Maui?

The best months to visit.

Wondering when is the best time to visit Maui? If you've already narrowed down your choices of islands and Maui is the winner, you're probably wondering what time of year to visit the island.

The  best time  to visit Maui, taking into consideration the weather, demand for accommodations, and how crowded, or not, the island is, are the month(s) of April, May, August, September, and early October.  Some call these Maui's 'off-season periods' or the 'shoulder months.' If you're coming specifically to see the whales, a popular attraction on Maui in particular, try to visit in January near their peak migration period.

There's more to cover on this topic before you make a final decision. In this article we cover visitor arrivals, Maui's weather and climate, accommodations, rates, and what to expect on a visit during each season on Maui.

Maui Estimated Visitor Arrivals (click to enlarge)

Upper Waikani Falls

Where to Stay on Maui

Whether you consider yourself the luxury seeker, beach bum, shoestring backpacker, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family, look no further than Maui for the perfect lodging for your vacation. As you review each location of Maui, pay attention to the pros and cons.

Overview of Staying in Maui 

Beginning with the basics - Maui isn’t a vast island. The Island spans about 48 miles long and 26 miles wide. If you decide to visit the whole Island in a day, it will take a solid half day. Maui divides into several significant regions across its 728 square miles: West Maui, South Maui, East Maui (Hana Highway), Central Maui, and Upcountry Maui.

Maui is a destination that attracts a unique mix of tourists from all over the world. There are resorts and hotels all over the island, but there are also many free-standing hotels and vacation rentals, which give you the option to choose from a wide range of accommodations. In this article, we provide a list of these favorable destinations according to popularity.

Maui Weather 

Weather & climate on maui.

Maui weather patterns change dramatically depending on where you are on the island, as Maui hosts a large number of microclimates. Within a few miles, the average rainfall on Maui can change by several inches very quickly. In this article, we take a closer look at what areas of Maui are the driest and wettest, as this will help you decide where to stay during your Maui vacation or trip.

"Great weather" is often defined as sunny and warm - and if so, Maui is definitely  the  place for great weather. As a bonus, the majority of the accommodations on Maui are located in very dry and sunny areas. Other locations, especially along the northeast coastline, are very wet and lush. Depending on your personal preferences, one location should be easy to select over another.

First, we should point out that even in the wettest locations on Maui, rain is hit and miss. One minute it may be raining, and the next the sun is back out - usually with a beautiful rainbow to boot! It's hard to say the wet areas are less desirable than the drier ones because, in our opinion, the lushness is something we WANT to be around; so we tend to select wetter locations on purpose. However, other visitors may prefer sunny and dry weather.

Maui Weather

*Climate Notes: Weather and Climate numbers are aggregated from trusted weather sources providing the monthly temperature and precipitation figures for Maui's primary airport in Kahului. These climate summaries, specific to the airport location, should therefore not be taken as a "whole-island" forecast. Weather conditions can change dramatically on Maui due to the diverse topography, changes in elevation, the trade winds, and other unique island conditions. Temperatures are provided in Fahrenheit and Precipitation in Inches.

Maui Average Monthly Temperatures

Maui Average Precipitation

Maui Weather Forecast

Maui transportation.

Transportation on Maui is diverse, allowing visitors to choose based on their preferences and the nature of their itinerary.

• Car Rentals : Renting a car is a popular choice (we recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental ), allowing you to explore the island at your own pace. Maui's attractions are spread out, making a car a convenient choice.
• Public Buses : Maui Bus operates a public transit system that covers various parts of the island. It's an economical choice, though it may be less convenient due to its schedule and route limitations.
• Shuttle Services : Some resorts offer shuttle services to popular destinations, providing a hassle-free option for guests.
• Bicycling : Maui's picturesque landscapes make biking a delightful experience, and bike rentals are available in several areas.
• Taxis and Ride-Shares : Taxis and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft operate on Maui, offering a convenient option for short distances or if you prefer not to drive.
• Walking : In more compact areas like Ka'anapali and Wailea, walking is a feasible way to get around, enjoy the scenery, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

Considering the transportation options in advance can help visitors make the most of their Maui experience, whether they prefer the flexibility of a rental car, the eco-friendliness of biking, or the convenience of public transit.

Haleakala National Park - Sliding Sands Trail

2024 Maui Visitor Guides

Download your copy of one of our Maui Visitor Guides today  and take advantage of our  destination expert's Maui insights . We've just updated and released our latest Maui Highlights & Essentials Guides for 2024.

These updated Maui packets contain nearly  20 visual pages (in the Intro/Highlights Guide) and almost 40 visual pages (in the Essentials Guide) of pertinent Hawaii travel information to assist in planning your perfect Hawaii trip. There's lots of good Maui information + maps, weather charts, hotel pricing graphics, and more - ideal for those who are just getting started planning their trip to Maui.

There are also  NO advertisements  or paid product placements within these packets.

Maui Regions

Popular destinations on the valley isle.

With its resorts along the coastline, picturesque beaches, majestic palm trees, and rich agriculture, it's no wonder that people from all over the world flock to this verdant island to get a taste of what Hawaii is really all about.

Maui is renowned worldwide for many things: its beauty, its atmosphere, its history, and its never-ending supply of pristine beaches , waterfalls , and gardens - to name a few.

Wondering which parts of the island to visit? Maui comprises two major volcanic areas , the older and extinct West Maui Mountains and a very expansive volcano named  Haleakala  on the eastern side of the island. In between the two is a valley filled with deposits. The center of the island is where Maui earns its nickname, the " Valley Isle ." The isthmus stretching from Haleakala to the West Maui mountains is likely where you'll begin your journey- at the Kahului airport. No region is quite like another on the Valley Isle. Explore each of Maui's regions below to learn about the many things to do, the sights, and the diverse attractions you'll find in each area.

Ka'anapali | West Maui | Hana Highway | Upcountry & Haleakala | Kihei & Wailea | Central Maui

West Maui Destinations

Ka'anapali Region

Ka'anapali Beach, Whaler's Village, and more

The resort areas of  Ka'anapali , famous for three-mile-long Ka'anapali Beach , grace the shores of the western-most coastline. While technically inside our  West Maui  region, we've dedicated a unique section here, for each of the major attractions located within this popular area.

With plenty of sunshine and great weather year-round, this stretch of coastline has become the playground of visitors from around the world and is a popular location for taking a snorkel cruise, and doing some window shopping.

West Maui Region

Napili, kapalua, nakalele, waihee valley, and more.

With plenty of sunshine and an abundance of rainfall (as much as 390 inches a year), West Maui was once a major Hawaiian population center and the proverbial playground of royalty (the ali'i) in old Hawaii. Today, West Maui has become the playground of visitors from around the world.

Along the shores of this region, you'll find the resort area of  Kapalua  (northwest),  Kahana  and  Honokowai  (mid-way), visitor community of  Napili , and while technically located within this area, our  Kaanapali  region (located in the southwest of this region) has been devoted a section unto itself.

Ultimately, this region is one of the more developed portions of the island, with several resorts and small towns. The most north-western portion of this region is almost completely undeveloped and is raw and somewhat barren terrain.

East Maui Destinations

Hana highway region, featuring the road to hana.

Hana Highway (northeast and parts of southeast Maui), ranges from  Pa'ia town  to the community of  Hana  (Haa-na) on the northeastern tip of the island and is renowned for great windsurfing, lush rural scenery, and, of course, the famous  Road To Hana  (Hana Hwy - 360) drive that curves along the coastline toward Hana town. 

Known often as the windward side, it is largely undeveloped, and much of the narrow Hana Highway winds along the island's beautiful northern coastline.

Upcountry Maui & Haleakala Region

Haleakala National Park, Kula, Polipoli area, and more

The term  Upcountry Maui  refers to the towns, ranches, vineyards, parks, farmlands, and visitor attractions on the upper slopes of  Haleakala  volcano, including  Haleakala National Park . Enchanting and rural, Maui's Upcountry is the heart of the island's agricultural industry, as well as a thriving artists' community.

Many compare the beautiful landscape of Upcountry Maui to the countryside in Scotland. You'll also be sure to discover several unique floral gardens in this part of the island. Plus, some of the best views of the South Pacific anywhere on the island can be found from the high elevations of the upcountry.

Kihei & Wailea Region

South Maui Shoreline, La Perouse Bay, and more

South Maui is best known for its miles of white sandy  beaches , spectacular coastal areas, snorkeling on its reefs, and expansive lava fields like  La Perouse Bay .

Sheltered on the leeward side of Haleakala volcano, this side of the island is quite drier and sunnier than the rest of the island. South Maui includes the coastal communities of  Ma'alaea  and  Kihei  and the growing resort communities of  Wailea  and  Makena . There's also a good deal of Wailea real estate and Wailea condos available on this part of the island.

Central & North Maui Destinations

Central maui region, kahului, 'iao valley access, and more.

The proverbial 'heart' of the island, Central Maui, is the isthmus that connects the island's two volcanoes. Your visit to the 'Valley Isle' likely began here at the airport in  Kahului . 

Today, Central Maui includes residential communities, sugar and pineapple plantations, county and state government offices, and various visitor attractions including the  Kahului Airport  (OGG), the Maui Tropical Plantation , golf courses, parks, shopping areas, and more.

We've also included the  'Iao Valley State Park  in this area since it's accessible only through the central region.

Garden of Eden - Road to Hana

Maui Travel Map Packet

Updated to include maui beaches + road to hana.

Updated with a new printable high-resolution map of Maui. Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times.

PDF packet now additionally includes both a Beaches Map + our Road to Hana Map .

-File is a print-ready PDF document

Maui Blog & Travel News

Timely maui headlines, events, and announcements.

We are your go-to Maui source for all the latest news, local events, and announcements from the Valley Isle. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, you can find all the information you need to make the most of your time on Maui.

We'll be covering everything from the best places to visit, to the most exciting festivals and events, to the most interesting attractions and landmarks. We'll also be providing updates on any major news stories or developments that impact visitors, so you can stay informed on the go.

Waimoku Falls at end of Pipiwai Trail

Maui Top Attractions

Top 10 maui things to see & do.

All of Maui is incredible. However, some attractions are wildly popular because they offer an experience that embodies the essence of the island. Breathtaking, Must-See, Best of... no matter what you call them, you entirely must witness these attractions first-hand. From the West Maui Mountains to the beautiful remote town of Hana, you'll enjoy the many options of  things to do  on the Valley Isle. Below we've covered some of the top attractions on the island of Maui, click any tile to learn more.

The island of Maui additionally features an abundance of  beaches , especially along the West Coast. Sun is abundant here, too, as the volcanoes in the center of the island block the majority of precipitation from ever reaching the leeward sides of the island where the bulk of lodging is located. While portions of Maui's west coast are often dry and barren, the eastern portions of the island are a lush and green paradise boasting waterfalls in numerous valleys. Many visitors enjoy the Road to Hana (aka the Hana Highway) as is winds its way along the cost to the sleepy town of Hana in the bay.

Top 10 Attractions on Maui

• Road to Hana - Hana Highway

Haleakala National Park

Oheo Gulch at Kipahulu

• Big Beach in South Maui

Ka'anapali Beach

• 'Iao Valley Monument & Needle

Napili Bay Beach

Hamoa Beach

Wailua Falls

• Wai'anapanapa State Park & Black Sand Beach

Hana Highway - 'Road to Hana'

#1 rated in sights to see on maui.

The scenic Road to Hana is the undisputed top attraction on the island. When it comes to driving the Hana Highway on Maui,  it's the journey, not the destination , that is the main attraction.

There are few words that can describe the beauty of this drive with its cliffs cloaked in green and lush valleys bursting with waterfalls. Curves hug the coast and gaze over an ocean that stretches uninterrupted all the way to the Alaskan coastline.

Couple that with black, red, and white sand beaches, a multitude of trails, and beautiful gardens and you've discovered the highway to heaven itself.

Road to Hana

Upcountry & Haleakala Region

#2 rated in sights to see on maui.

To say Haleakala National Park is impressive would do it a great injustice. Spanning a huge swath of land across Maui’s southeastern region, Haleakala is home to the highest peak on Maui, at 10,023 feet. If that weren’t enough, it also holds the world record for climbing to the highest elevation in the shortest distance- a mere 38 miles!

And not only is it one of the most popular sights in Hawaii, but it’s also home to five distinctly different climate zones, breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, stunning views, otherworldly landscapes, and flora and fauna that are found nowhere else in the world.

#3 Rated in Sights to See on Maui

The Oheo Gulch, technically part of Haleakala National Park, is located about 15 minutes past Hana town, near mile marker 42 on the Hana Highway (Road to Hana) after it turns into Hwy. 31.

We've split this attraction off from Haleakala National Park because of its geographic location and separation from the Summit portion of the park; what visitors typically think of when they hear 'Haleakala NP.' The Oheo Gulch side, also known as the Kipahulu Area, and can be accessed via Hwy. 360, the Hana Highway or Road to Hana.

The Oheo Gulch region is home to lush green landscapes, waterfalls, pools, and more - it's well worth a visit.

Oheo Gulch Kipahulu

Makena 'Big' Beach

Kihei & wailea (south maui) region, #1 rated beach on maui.

Also known as Oneloa Beach (its true Hawaiian name) or Makena Beach*, Big Beach is probably one of the prettiest beaches on the island, and certainly within the south region. It is nearly 2/3 miles long and over 100 feet wide. The gorgeous sand and pristine waters attract snorkelers, swimmers, and sunbathers.

This beach, like many, closes in the evenings and the gate is locked. Makena Beach is accessible via a short road at mile marker 4 on Makena Alanui Road and another access just past mile marker 4 in South Maui. Big Beach is connected on the right by a small path over the hill and lava to  Little Beach , which is a favorite spot for 'clothing optional' sunbathers.

Big Beach (Oneloa or Makena)

Kaanapali Region

#2 rated beach on maui.

Nearly all of the seaside resorts in the Kaanapali area back up to Ka'anapali Beach, a three-mile stretch of sand suitable for frolicking with a sidewalk that runs the entire length by the hotels to Black Rock.

Black Rock  slices across the beach and is a popular spot for snorkelers and scuba divers. Those in search of their scuba certification on this part of the island will likely do your first dive at Black Rock.

There are also plenty more opportunities to whet your appetite for water sports such as parasailing, windsurfing, and jet skis.

Kaanapali Beach

Iao Valley & Needle

#4 rated in sights to see on maui.

Nestled in the lush greenery of the 'Iao Valley is the natural rock formation called the 'Iao Needle. The green-covered stone protruding from the valley floor is actually an old basaltic core (volcano remnant). The 'Iao Needle is 2,250 feet above sea level, or 1200 feet tall from the valley floor.

The name 'Iao is pronounced "EE-ow." The 'Iao Needle is surrounded by a very lovely walkway and a garden of lush tropical plants.

Surrounded on all sides by the Pu'u Kukui Crater, it was the site of one of the most famous battles in Hawaiian history. In 1790 King Kamehameha I defeated the Maui army here in his quest to unite the Hawaiian Islands.

As of May 1, 2023, a  new  reservation system  is now being implemented  to reduce congestion and diffuse parking and crowding issues.

Iao Valley State Park

#3 Rated Beach on Maui

Located in the northwest tip of the island, between the towns of Kapalua and Honokowai is Napili Bay and Beach, a beautiful, scenic, and popular beach along this stretch of coastline on Maui. The white sloping sand and turquoise waters of Napili Bay and Beach make it one of the most popular beaches on the island and for good reason.

Typically, Napili Bay has crowded parking along the road, but the beach itself is typically less frequented by beachgoers than some other popular beaches on the Northwest coastline of the island. Napili is regarded as a less crowded and quieter resort-front beach that's suitable for families. The beach and bay can be accessed from the Honoapiilani Highway (Hwy 30). Visiting early in the day is recommended for the best opportunities for good parking.

#4 Rated Beach on Maui

Hamoa Beach is located about 2.5 miles outside of  Hana town  traveling south. The access road is located just south of a large cinder cone. There is a small white sign pointing the way to the beaches along this section of the road.

There are several beaches in the area, Hamoa being the safest and most beautiful. Turn down the access road and follow it around until you reach the beaches about 1.5 miles down the road. There's a bus pull off on the seaward side of the road, the beach is just below the overlook.

There is no parking next to the beach, park on the road above and take the stairs down to the shore. Proceed down the walkway steps to the beach.

#6 Rated in Sights to See on Maui

Technically this stop, like a few others, is also on the Hana Highway (which is later on this list). But, in our opinion, it's too good not to include on its own. Just beyond mile marker 45 on the Hana Highway after it turns into Highway 31 you'll reach one of the most gorgeous falls in all of Hawai'i, Wailua Falls.

Wailua Falls gracefully cascades 80 feet through a lush setting in the surrounding vegetation just feet from the road. There is a short path to the base of the falls, but it can be tricky so use caution.

The water flow varies but is usually pretty at any rate throughout the year.

Waianapanapa State Park & Beach

#5 rated beach on maui.

A visitors draw ever closer to Hana Town there is one last major stop at mile marker 32 on the  Road to Hana . On the makai side of the highway, you should see a gravel road leading down to Wai'anapanapa (Why-Ah-naa-paa-naa-paa) State Park. There should also be a road sign informing you of the location.

Head down the road and look for the main parking area (to the left), near the cabins. From here a trail will lead you down to  Honokalani black sand beach , located in Pa'iloa Bay. The black sand beach isn't the only attraction at Wai'anapanapa though. Wai'anapanapa also features sculpted lava rocks, wind twisted foliage, a sea arch, lava caves and tubes, and even a blowhole in the lava rocks near the shoreline.

As of March 1, 2021,  reservations  (up to two weeks in advance) for  all visiting tourists  and commercial vehicles will be required for entry to Maui’s Waianapanapa State Park. No same-day reservations will be accepted. Parking for out-of-state visitors will be $10.

Waianapanapa State Park

Maui Itinerary Suggestions

Valley isle itineraries.

As the second-largest island in Hawaii, Maui is home to many beautiful splendors. Its natural beauties, warm and inviting beaches, and endless activities make it the place to be. Maui is the perfect island to explore if you enjoy snorkeling, hiking, basking in the sun, and observing nature’s handiwork.

Ultimately, we’ve designed our itineraries around a set number of on-island days: offering  one ,  two ,  three ,  four ,  five ,  six , and  seven-day  itineraries for exploring the island, soaking in the best sights, and ensuring your precious time (and potentially money) on Maui are used wisely. We’ve tried to balance our itineraries between those who seek adventure and those looking to find a good beach and relax. Overall, we want your experience to be exactly what you’ve dreamed of when planning your trip.

For each island we’ve attempted to split up the itinerary days by sorting attractions according to their geographic proximity; i.e., on West Maui day, you’d explore the best of the island's western region attractions, beaches, and activities. Our itineraries are not meant to be followed consecutively necessarily, which would probably be exhausting, but instead as a  grab-and-go resource  for ‘mapping’ your trip - think of us as a  Wayfinder’s guide to Maui .

For nearly 20 years now, we've been visiting the 'Valley Isle' and making detailed notes about what Maui's highlights are and what visitors like yourself simply must-see based on the limited time you've allocated for each Hawaiian Island.

It isn't easy and can even be overwhelming to start planning a trip to Hawaii. One quick look on our website, and you'll soon discover there are hundreds of possibilities; a variety of sights to see, a plethora of beautiful beaches to choose from, and a diverse set of incredible trails that criss-cross each of the islands. Honestly, you could spend months on the island and not see and do it all. Having a reliable guide, that's key. We'd genuinely love to be your guide to the island of Maui during your stay, and we hope you find our itineraries resourceful while planning your trip.

View Our Maui Itineraries

Maui tours & activities, popular tours & activities on maui.

For many visitors, a Maui tour may be the perfect way to experience parts of Maui that you'd otherwise never get to see. We've hand-selected these top-4 Maui tours below due to their popularity and high ratings with visitors like yourself!

Haleakala Sunrise Tour

Starting at $219.00/person **Get $10 off when you book online

Experience perhaps the most beautiful sunrise on earth with our professional, local guides on Valley Isle Excursions' Haleakalā Sunrise Tour.

• Island-style full breakfast (after sunrise)
• We provide all-weather hooded volcano blankets for use at the summit (please dress for winter weather).
• USB seat ports, Overhead storage, 3 Point seat-belts, ADA options (wheelchair lift)
• Professionally trained, knowledgeable, safe (and fun) guides/drivers)
• Clean & well-maintained bathroom stops

Molokini Snorkel Tour

Starting at $199.00/person **Get $10 off when you book online

On this tour, you'll snorkel in the extinct volcanic crater of Molokini on a thrilling adventure in Maui.

• Be one of the  first boats in the morning to snorkel Molokini Crater,  where visibility often exceeds 180ft.
• Snorkel the back wall of Molokini , a place very few visitors see.
• Stop at La Perouse Bay to search for the Hawaiian spinner dolphins that call the bay home.
• We conclude our tour with an up close and personal encounter in the water with the  protected Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle.
• World famous Maui cinnamon rolls and fresh fruit for breakfast.
• Delicious deli sandwiches and pasta salad for lunch.
• Be Prepared for Fun!

Maui Whale Watching Tour

Starting at $99.99/person

Get the Royal treatment on our Ali'i VIP Whale Tour! We limit this tour to a maximum of 12 guests, so you have more opportunities to view the Humpback whales, and other sea life, in the most comfort possible. Our vessels are USCG rated to carry 27 guests, but this tour is all about you and your experience and is limited to 12 guests.

• Our Whale tours average 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• This tour is for ages 4 and older.
• Please arrive 20 minutes before the departure time. Look for crew members with bright blue or red shirts.

Road to Hana Tour

Starting at $180.00-$210.00/person

If driving the Road to Hana doesn't sound like something you'd like to try on your own, but you don't want to miss out on the many amazing sights along the Hana Highway, then this tour is for you. Experience the tropical rainforests, fantastic vistas, and cascading waterfalls of Maui's east coast on a guided sightseeing tour.

• Learn about the history and legends of Hawaii from your local guide
• Go for a swim at a beach or waterfall
• Drive along the winding road to Hana
• See lush rainforests, winding roads, and breathtaking beaches

Best Beaches on Maui

Valley isle beach guide.

Maui has some of the best beaches in all of Hawaii, as well as some of the most diverse. In this section, we'll cover each of the island's best beaches.

Whether you're looking for a romantic stroll for two, a family-friendly day in the sun, or the ideal snorkeling location, the 'Valley Isle' has the spot for you.

Snorkeling, swimming, and other water activities are always popular at Maui's top beaches. Check out our Maui Beach Guide for more information about all of the island's top beaches.

Maui Beaches

Best Things to See on Maui

Valley isle sights guide.

The island has some of the most diverse scenery and attractions in the world. Our Maui Things to See Guide will help you identify which attractions to visit and which to skip.

It's also home to the most scenic road in all of Hawaii- the Hana Highway. Beyond Hana, there is the gorgeous Oheo Gulch (also known as the 7 Sacred Pools).

Upcountry, Haleakala awaits you as one of the largest dormant volcanoes in the world.  In the western & central region, there is the mysterious Iao Valley nestled among the rugged West Maui Mountains.

Things to See on Maui

Best Hikes on Maui

Valley isle hiking trails guide.

Maui hiking is a popular activity when visiting the island.

In fact hiking on the island is a great family activity plus an excellent way to spend the day regardless of whether you're hiking with a group or by yourself.

The 'Valley Isle' has some absolutely fantastic trails - hikers surely won't be disappointed. In our Maui Hiking Guide , we'll cover some of the best hikes you can find on the island.

Maui Nui (Credit: Wikipedia)

Maui Nui or ' Greater Maui ' is the geologic name given to a prehistoric Hawaiian Island built from seven shield volcanoes. Nui means "great/large" in the Hawaiian language.

A little over a million years ago, the island was significantly large than the island we think of as Maui today. They didn't separate until around 200,000 years ago, partially due to sea levels rising due to glacial melting. Once encompassing the islands of modern-day Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i, Kaho'olawe the ancient shield volcanoes slowly settled into the Pacific Ocean seafloor by subsidence, and the volcanoes were additionally weathered by erosion to slowly separate into the distinctly different islands as they appear today.

At their largest, the islands of Maui Nui were a combined 5,600 square miles in size (14,600 sq km) - giving them a land area over 40% larger than the Big Island today.

On the corresponding graphic, 'Ma' is an abbreviation for mega-anna, millions of years ago. The light and dark shading show the extent of land during low and high sea stands of glacial cycles.

Maui Visitor Information

Our top valley isle travel tips.

Maui is the second-most-visited island in Hawaii with around 2.7 to 2.9 million visitors each year . Tourism greatly affects the character of the island and it boasts a very wide assortment of accommodation & activity choices available across the island.

Maui is also the second-largest landmass in the Hawaiian island chain, which consists of eight major islands and 124 islets. The archipelago is made up of numerous volcanic islands in the central Pacific Ocean stretching in a 1,500-mile crescent from Kure Island in the northwest to the Big Island of Hawaii in the east, encompassing an area of 6,459 square miles. The eight major islands at the eastern end of the chain are, from west to east, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe,  Maui , and the Big Island of Hawaii.

Popular Maui Travel Articles

Maui vacation guide, explore the valley isle by topic.

The ' Valley Isle ,' is an incredible place for a Hawaiian vacation. There aren't a whole lot of places in the world you can go and experience all you can on the small island of Maui.

Here we'll cover the best beaches, things to do, the top trails, and offer plenty of local insider information and advice to make your Hawaiian vacation wonderful- from first-time vacationers to Valley Isle veterans. 

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The Ultimate 7 Day Maui Itinerary | Plan the Perfect Maui Vacation

Planning a trip to Maui, Hawaii and looking for a solid Maui 7 day itinerary …!? Well, look no further, because I’ve put together the ultimate guide to a Maui trip. You’ll find the best things to do, where to stay, food recommendations, the best day trips, and so much more! 

With its scenic coastal roads, dozens of beautiful beaches, wondrous luxury resorts, gorgeous national parks, and pristine marine biodiversity – there truly is a little something for everybody on the island! 

I just recently returned from an amazing weeklong stay, and it really was an unbelievable vacation that I’ll never forget. I’m completely hooked on Hawaii travel now, and can’t wait to return to paradise in the near future!

While it may be difficult at first to decide which island to visit in Hawaii, I’d say you’ll be more than happy with your decision to make it down to Maui! It’s a paradise for sun-seekers, road trippers, aquatic lovers, food fanatics, and lots of family fun. I’m sure you’ll find this “7 days in Maui itinerary” helpful. Feel free to reach out to me with any questions you’ve got!

The Best Time to Plan a Trip to Maui

One of the best parts about a Hawaii vacation is that you can pretty much go any time of the year! For Maui weather, you can simply expect the beautifully warm tropical climate, and it’s pretty consistent all year long with daytime highs around 75-85°F (23-29°C). Bear in mind that Maui does receive a lot of rainfall especially during the winter months of December, January and February. This can bring some cloudy days and heavy showers in certain areas…

“Rain showers are typically short and are quickly followed by more sunshine, and, if you’re lucky, rainbows. Rainbows are always said to be a sign of good luck in the islands, meaning you’ll return one day if you spot one.” – Hawaii Travel Guide

Do you need a Rental Car in Maui?

To get the full Maui experience, you’ll 100% want to rent your own vehicle! I found the rates to be surprisingly affordable for Hawaii (I was expecting much worse), and it’ll provide for a lot more freedom. Besides, if you add up the costs of taxis and shuttle costs to the island’s main highlights, it’ll honestly be more than the entire car rental fee. 

While gas prices on the island are expensive (it’s an island in the pacific ocean after all), it’s such an amazing feeling to drive along around these gorgeous highways at your own pace. Maui is the second biggest island in Hawaii, so there’s definitely a lot to explore, and some fun roads to drive along! 

While it can be easy to just sit back and chill at the resort pool the entire trip (which I’ll admit I did quite a bit during my recent Maui vacation), I’d strongly recommend getting out and exploring everything the island has to offer!  

Where To Stay on Maui Island

There really are dozens of incredible accommodation options to choose from on Maui Island, and it really just depends on where you want to be located, the price you’re willing to spend, and what you want to be close to. 

I’d personally recommend staying on the west coast of Maui , which consists of the major hotel/ resort hubs of Kapalua , Kaanapali , and Lahaina. This is easily the most scenic region on the island and is packed with tons of pristine beaches, coves, restaurants, and resorts. While it’s about a forty-minute drive from the airport, it’s the most lively and beautiful area and should be included in any Hawaii trip planner!  

There are a lot of different resorts and condos down from Kihei all the way down to Wailea, but I wasn’t impressed by the beaches that much. While they are a bit more centrally located, I’d definitely recommend staying up in Kapalua or in the Lahaina area.  While you’ll need to do some research and find the best place for you, here are a couple of solid options that would provide for comfortable and enjoyable stays!

My main recommendation for accommodation in Maui is by booking a VRBO, as there are tons of incredible options available and can be more affordable than the expensive hotels. Here are are a few of my personal favorites:

• Luxury OCEAN FRONT Condo Truly 5 Star
• Stunning Views From Only Double Lanai Penthouse Unit
• Direct Beachfront Spectacular Ocean Views Newly Renovated!!  

Ritz Carlton Kapalua: The Best Luxury Resort

During our most recent trip to Maui, we stayed at the Ritz Carlton Kapalua for five nights on Maui, and it was absolutely spectacular! Staying at the Ritz really turned our trip to Maui into an “ultimate vacation” experience, and I was blown away by everything the resort has to offer. 

From its unbeatable customer service (seriously, all the staff are super friendly), luxuriously comfortable rooms, an award-winning full-service spa, relaxing multi-tiered pool, fantastic dining options, beach access, helpful concierge desk, and lots more – it’s essentially got everything you look for in a 5* Resort in paradise! 

While it may be one of the more expensive options in the area, the Ritz Carlton will provide an unforgettable stay for your Maui vacation, and is absolutely worth every penny!

Read Reviews & Check Availability

Ritz Carlton Kapalua Pool

Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort: Best Budget Resort 

If you’re looking for a more affordable option in the area, then book yourself into one of the beautiful apartments at the Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort . 

The units are clean and kitted out with everything you may need. Fully equipped kitchens, free wi-fi, an outdoor pool, and quick access to some of the best sandy beaches in the Kapalua area – this place would be a fantastic budget option! 

You are just a few steps away from the Napili Bay beach, you can’t find a better location at a better price. Enjoy long days on the beach or get active with the water sports and snorkeling activities offered by the hotel. 

The service is exceptional and it’s a top-pick for Maui,  also rated for the best value in Lahaina, so ideal for couples, families & solo travelers who are looking to save a bit of money!  

Maui Vacation Planner & Travel Accommodation Tips

One important thing to note about staying on the west side of Maui is that it is a considerable distance away from the starting point from the Road To Hana (one of the island’s major tourist attractions). 

Some people recommend to split up the entire journey into two days and actually stay out there at the Travaasa Hana Resort (which you’ll want to book well in advance as it sells out frequently). While it’s definitely possible to do the Road to Hana in one day, it’ll be a LONG day on the windy roads if you do the self-drive option, and it’s just something to keep in mind. 

Depending on how long you have on Maui, it could be nice to break up where you stay. For example, if you’re following this 7-day Maui itinerary, you could choose to do 4 Days in Maui in one area, and 3 days in another. 

But without further ado, let’s get started…

Maui Itinerary Day 1: Helicopter Views & Iao Valley State Park

There really is no better way to start your Maui vacation than getting a bird’s eye view of the island. Prepare yourself for a magical experience as you soar over this pristine and unspoiled Hawaiin landscape on a helicopter tour!  

It was one of the highlights of my trip, and I loved how it’ll give you a much better understanding of the sheer size of the island, all the different areas there are to explore, and a full appreciation for the rugged coastlines. 

Several different companies offer scenic helicopter tours and lots of different routes. I thoroughly enjoyed my trip with Maverick Helicopters, and doing the Molokai Voyage tour! 

I loved flying over TWO islands, and the waterfalls along the tall coastlines of Molokai were incredible to see in person! As well, you’ll get to fly over the resorts on the west coast of Maui, and fly across the channel which I really enjoyed.  

Two Island Hawaii Helicopter Experience Over Maui and Molokai : “This Hawaiian helicopter tour lets you explore the beauty and scenery of two Hawaiian Islands on this multi-island expedition. Begin your adventure departing the Kahului Heliport on your way to the world’s largest sea cliffs, located on Molokai, also known as the Friendly Isle. 

Molokai’s waterfalls, including Kahiwa Falls are the tallest among all the Hawaiian Islands . Get bird’s-eye views of the remote north shore, Halawa Valley and the vast Molokai fish ponds.  Fly over the Pailolo channel featuring some of the most scenic waters between the islands including Elephant Rock. 

Over Maui, get intimate views of the western portion of the island including the famous lao Valley State Park, a vegetation-covered lava rainforest.”  

Iao Valley State Park

Once you’ve landed back on the ground, it’s only a short drive from the airport to the Iao Valley State Park ! You will have just flown over this stunning green landscape, and now it’s your chance to walk (and swim) through it!  

With a short scenic lookout trail, several swimming holes, and being surrounded by tropical gardens – it’s the perfect place to spend a couple of hours escaping from the Maui heat!  

It’s also home to one of Maui’s most recognizable landmarks, the 1,200-foot Iao Needle. “This iconic green-mantled rock outcropping overlooks Iao stream and is an ideal attraction for easy hiking and sightseeing.”

After taking a dip in the streams, and learning all about the historical significance, head back to your resort for the rest of the day, as you’ll probably be ready for some rest if you’re experiencing any jet lag!

Maui Itinerary Day 2: Haleakala National Park [Sunrise or Sunset]

While it may require a rather long drive to reach the summit, it’s absolutely worth it! The Haleakala National Park is home to Maui’s highest peak, and no visitor to Maui should leave without being mesmerized by the views from up there!

“This special place vibrates with stories of ancient and modern Hawaiian culture and protects the bond between the land and its people. The park also cares for endangered species, some of which exist nowhere else. Come visit this special place – renew your spirit amid stark volcanic landscapes and sub-tropical rain forest with an unforgettable hike through the backcountry”

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Maui island is watching the sunrise from Haleakala National Park, but if you decide to do that you’ll need to wake up and be ready to go by around 2-3 A.M!  

It’s quite the experience, and comes highly recommended! There are plenty of companies that offer sunrise tours, but I’d just recommend making your own Haleakala Sunrise Reservation, and saving the money for other day tours on the island!  

If you decide to sleep in every day of your vacation (which is perfectly acceptable, lol), make sure you still get up there for a visit. 

You can take a read through this article the “ Top 10 Things to Do on Haleakala ” for some more information, but I’d definitely recommend taking a hike through the park!  You’ll be amazed at the views, but just bring plenty of SPF as you’ll be in lots of direct sunlight!

While you won’t need ALL day at the national park, I won’t include anything else as I’m sure the drive and hike will take lots of your energy!  

Haleakala Crater

Maui Itinerary Day 3: Pool Day & Kaanapali Resort

After two pretty eventful days so far in Maui, spend some time in “vacation mode” and soak up your resort or accommodation amenities! 

I’d also recommend taking a drive over to Kaanapali Resort and taking a stroll through there! When I visited I really enjoyed my time down there, but I was also pretty happy that I wasn’t staying at one of the resorts there (as it’s quite busy)!  

There are tons of amazing shops, restaurants, and beach bars though, and you also find plenty of beach chairs to rent (if you’re staying at an Airbnb that doesn’t have beach access)!  

Just try and take it easy today and relax, because what’s next on the itinerary is going to be a long but amazing day!!

Maui Itinerary Day 4: The Road To Hana

“it’s not the destination, it’s the journey.”  ―  ralph waldo emerson,.

The “ Road To Hana ” is a world-famous highway that is carved into the coastlines of Maui, and provides some of Hawaii’s most jaw-dropping oceanfront views! When it comes to scenic coastal road trips, it really doesn’t get much better than the Road to Hana, and it’s become one of the biggest tourist draws to this lush green Hawaiin island!

While the distance traveled on this legendary road is only 52 miles, don’t let that fool you ― this is an all-day adventure, and will require an early start! The journey can take anywhere between two to five hours one-way (depending on how many stops you make), and is filled with narrow one-lane bridges and hairpin turns!

“The Hana Highway (HI-360) has 620 curves and 59 bridges. The road leads you through flourishing rainforests, flowing waterfalls, plunging pools, and dramatic seascapes. Please keep in mind that you’ll encounter challenging turns and narrow bridges along the way, so it’s important to exercise caution and take your time. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the lovely views, so get an early start and take your time on your drive. While it’s all about the journey, once you reach the beautiful and quiet town of Hana, you’ll see why it’s worth the trip.”

Check out this article by Matador Network titled, “ The ultimate guide to the Road to Hana, Maui ” for some more information and how to plan for the adventure! 

The Road to Hana is seriously a MUST-DO while you’re in Maui Hawaii, because you’ll love the journey to Hana, which is considered one of the last unspoiled Hawaiian frontiers!

Maui Itinerary Day 5: Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour

While there are tons of places around Maui that are great for a quick snorkeling session, there’s no better snorkeling in the area than Molokini Crater! Located just a quick boat ride away in between the islands of Maui and Kahoʻolawe, the Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped volcanic crater that has unbelievably crystal clear water and fantastic marine life!

If you’re a certified Scuba diver, I’d definitely recommend looking into booking a fun dive here as well! 

“It’s world-famous due to the wall and drift dives available. The backside of Molokini drops nearly straight down to 360 feet. The inside reef of Molokini also offers great diving opportunities. We suggest only advanced divers dive the backside of  Molokini , where you’ll likely see many different types of shark, moray eels, many species of tropical fish, manta rays, dolphins, and vibrant reef. Within the crater, search for octopus, moray eels, sharks, and hundreds of exotic fish.” 

Check out this Instagram video below to see what I mean about the water!  It’s truly spectacular and definitely worth the snorkeling day-trip! 

View this post on Instagram The devil is in the details ? (swipe to see dem, and don’t forget to follow @shangerdanger for more epic underwater imagery) on this day we got to this popular dive site in the afternoon and had to wait for the tour boats to clear out so that we could tie off to a mooring ball. From above and below the blue of the water was the most amazing I had ever seen. I would guess the visibility was over 200ft, but what’s funny is that it’s almost always like that at Molokini Crater. It’s located far from the south coast of Maui and is a protected nature preserve. #hawaii #underwater #boomerang #freediving #molokinicrater #makena #kihei #maui #southshore A post shared by Shangerdanger (shane) (@shangerdanger) on Jul 20, 2019 at 10:07am PDT

Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tours 

• Price : $79.95

• Price : $121.13

Maui Itinerary Day 6: The Aquarium of Hawaii, Maui Brewing Company & Lahaina

Selected as one of the Top 10 Aquariums in the world, no visit would be complete without a visit to Maui Ocean Center!  Head over here in the morning after breakfast, and spend a few hours learning all about Hawaiin marine life! With over 60 different interactive exhibits, shows, naturalist presentations, and cultural activities – there really is a little something for everyone!  It’s open daily from 9 am – 5 pm.

Tickets can be purchased there, but you can save $5 per ADULT ticket if you book in advance online.  

• Price: $29.11 

Maui Brewing Co

After you’ve had your fix at the aquarium, make the quick 20-minute drive around Maalaea Bay and arrive at the Maui Brewing Co in Kihei for Lunch.  This is Hawaii’s Largest Craft Brewery, and has become a hotspot among tourists and locals! 

There’s a full-service restaurant and tasting room where you can take a 45-minute guided  Brewery Tour  for $15, which I personally loved! You’ll get to learn all about the history of the company, sample lots of beer, and learn about the brewing process (and what makes MBC unique).   

The burgers at the restaurant are delicious, but the main reason to come here would be to try out a beer flight or two (as the beer is incredible).  

If you’re making decent time, you could also drive along the Kihei Road down towards The Shops at Wailea! It’s a nice cruise along the beach, and it’s the other main touristy area filled with vacation condos and luxury resorts.     

Exploring & Sunset Dining in Lahaina

Once you’re done with your time in Kihei, make the short drive back to the west coast and stop in Lahaina! It’s my favorite major city on Maui, and a fantastic place to just walk around, watch surfers, enjoy a sunset, and have some dinner/ nightlife.  

I’d strongly recommend enjoying a meal at the rooftop bar at  Fleetwoods on Front Street !  We had dinner there one night (which was incredible), and the vibe really was awesome up there. Beautiful ocean breeze, sounds of waves hitting the beach, and beautiful sunset views of Lanai in the distance! 

“Owned by Mick Fleetwood of the popular band Fleetwood Mac, this Front Street staple offers some of the best views possible from its stunning rooftop deck. Not only did they win the 2014 Aipono Gold Award for Best Cocktails on Maui, but they won our vote as well! Grab an ocean-view seat on the roof for happy hour, daily from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, and enjoy live entertainment while sipping a specialty cocktail. We recommend the Fleetwood’s Pimm’s Cup with muddled strawberries, mint, and cucumber, Pimm’s No. 1, Grand Marnier, Lemon, Orange Juice and Ginger Beer, or the Starshine with Ocean Vodka, Local Starfruit, Housemade Vanilla & Mint Simple Syrup, Fresno Chile and Li Hing Mui salted rim.” – Lahaina Own

Maui Itinerary Day 7: Relaxing Spa Day & Hawaiin Luau Dinner Show

So it’s the last day of the week your in Maui itinerary, and I personally think you can’t end your vacation without a bit of pampering! Whether you’re looking for just a basic 60-minute massage or a full-day spa package, check out this article for the Top Spas on Maui and find something you think sounds good to you.

During our stay at the Ritz Carlton, I thoroughly enjoyed their 80-minute “Man’s Massage”, and it really set the tone for the rest of the day!

Hawaiin Luau Dinner Show

For your last night in Hawaii, I’d recommend soaking up the culture at an iconic “Hawaiin luau”.  There are tons of different options available, but I’d recommend this one:

Old Lahaina Luau Maui : “Soak up Hawaiian history and culture at the 3-hour Old Lahaina Luau in Maui. Enjoy hula dancing, an oceanfront setting, and fresh island fillets, as well as other traditional dishes. You’ll be greeted with a Hawaiian lei and tropical drink from the bar before settling in for a lively performance against the Maui sunset. Traditional Lahaina Luau on Maui Enjoy local cuisine, cultural dancing and island crafts Learn about the rich history of Maui Take in fabulous ocean views Watch traditional and contemporary hula performances!” 

OR – if it’s not your first in Hawaii or you just aren’t interested in a Luau, you could always reserve a spot at the award-winning restaurant Banyan Tree , because they’ve got a fire show every night which was super fun to watch.  

More Things to Do & Places to Visit on Maui 

While I do think I outlined a pretty amazing Maui itinerary, there really is a lot more to explore on this island! Here are few more epic things you should get up to while on the island! 

This is one of the last major towns located towards the beginning of the Road to Hana, and is definitely worth a visit!  It’s got some really great shopping, fun restaurants, a few lively bars, and a top-notch health food store! It’s got a great relaxing surfer vibe, and this is probably where I would lIve if I moved to Maui. I ended up eating at several of the shops in town, and everything was delicious, and this is the perfect place to stop for a classic Hawaiin shaved Ice!

Waihee Ridge Trail

If you’re feeling extra adventurous and looking for a good hike, the Waihee Ridge Trail is particularly awesome!  It starts off with a pretty intense climb, but the views you’ll get of the Maui mountains, as well as the coastline, are well worth it.  I only hiked this for the first mile or so (and then had to circle back since I had forgotten to bring a water bottle and it was super hot), but will definitely be completing the circuit when I make it back to Maui!  You’ll definitely need your own car to get to the start of it though!

Kapalua Coastal Trails

This flat and breezy 1.76-mile walk along the various beaches of Kapalua is an absolute must for people staying in the area! It’ll only take about 30+ minutes or so, but you’ll get some really stunning viewpoints, and might even be able to spot some turtles and dolphins out in the water!  The trail leads from the Ritz Carlton all the way to the scenic Kapalua Bay, a famous place for snorkeling with turtles, and also the location of  Merriman’s Maui – which regularly wins awards for having the best Mai Tai!  If you’re a big fan of hiking though, you could also check out the other hiking trails in Kapalua !  I’ve heard great things about the Mahana Ridge trail, but it just sounded a bit too intense for me on a hot day!

Am I Missing Anything From This Maui Itinerary…?

There really are so many awesome things to do, places to eat, places to visit, fun bars, and epic day trips on Maui, and I love hearing from people who have recently visited places I’ve written about and recommend I update my articles with new information!  I like making sure my itineraries are filled with fun and helpful information, so please do reach out to me if you think I need to add anything to this list! 

Planning a Trip To Hawaii…?

You won’t be disappointed by a trip to Maui Hawaii, especially if you use my 7 day guide to plan your trip. Make sure to check my article “17 Best Hawaii Cultural & Music Festivals to Experience Before You Die” to see if your trip overlaps with any of the amazing events on the list! 

That would be a great way to add a bit of fun to your vacation! Also, I didn’t get up to too much nightlife, but I’d recommend you read up on this article The 10 Best Nightlife spots for Maui if you’re looking to drink and dance a bit more.  

Also, I’d definitely recommend picking up a guide book before your trip! While I do hope I’ve helped you tremendously with your trip planning, having a guidebook while you’re in Hawaii can be a really great resource! Here are a couple solid options to pick up:

• Fodor’s Essential Hawaii (Full-color Travel Guide)
• Fodor’s Maui: with Molokai & Lanai (Full-color Travel Guide)

Thanks so much for reading my Maui Itinerary! 

Share this maui itinerary with your hawaii travel squad.

Hi Dave, Super article. This is the first time I’ve heard about Maui. The photo’s you’ve uploaded are just making me wanting to travel now! But unfortunately we cannot travel due to the current travel restrictions. But surely I’ll be travelling in April 2021 ;), And i would like to know about the helicopter tour cost which is there on the 1st day? Because I haven’t yet travelled in the helicopter. Please Provide me the details. TIA

I loved reading this 7-day itinerary. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!

Thanks for sharing your Maui itinerary! It looks amazing and I’m sure I’ll have a great time exploring the island. I especially like the idea of driving the Road to Hana and then spending the day at Haleakala National Park. I’ve never been to Maui before, so this itinerary will be a big help as I plan my trip.

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Hawaii Vacation Packages

We are proud to offer exclusive vacation packages, most with rates under $1,000. These packages include airfare, car rental, and hotel stay for six to eight days. Visiting different islands, or "island-hopping" as we call it, is highly recommended because each island has its own distinct "personality."

• Rental Cars

Tips on Finding Hawaii Vacation Deals

Save time and money by booking your rental car, hotel room, and airfare together and make planning your vacation easier.

How to Find the Cheapest Vacation Packages

Understanding Hawaii’s travel seasons will make it easy for you to book an affordable trip to the Rainbow State. With summer and winter being peak travel times for the islands, you can find vacation deals by booking during the “shoulder” seasons—spring and fall. Fortunately, Hawaii is just as beautiful and magnificent during fall and spring as it is in summer and winter, so aside from the cost of travel, nothing will change about your trip to Hawaii.

Should You Book an All-Inclusive Package?

Planning a trip is, what we call in Hawaii slang “humbug.” It’s a bother, a nuisance—even stressful. But it doesn’t have to be. By booking an all-inclusive vacation package, the hard work is done for you. Cars are rented, hotel rooms are booked and it can be cheaper to book a package versus booking everything ala carte.

Best Areas to Stay on Each Island

While there are no bad choices for places to stay in the islands—you are in Hawaii after all—there are some areas that are very well suited for travelers. Waikiki on Oahu has a variety of accommodations, malls and restaurants all dotting the golden shores of Waikiki Beach. On Kauai, Hanalei and Poipu are perfect for visitors who want to be close to the beach during their island stay—and in a similar vein, Kaanapali on Maui is a perfect blend of resort luxury and island living that will truly make visitors feel like they’re in paradise. On Hawaii Island, also referred to as the Big Island, both Kona and Hilo will provide travelers with convenient accommodations, activities and dining options.

The Top 3 Hotels and Resorts on Each Island

• Hilton Hawaiian Village
• Turtle Bay Resort
• Grand Wailea
• Kaanapali Beach Hotel
• Fairmont Kea Lani
• 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
• Fairmont Orchid
• Hilton Waikoloa Village

On Oahu, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, Turtle Bay Resort and the Halekulani reign supreme. Maui’s Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, Kaanapali Beach Hotel and Fairmont Kea Lani are popular choices amongst travelers. For Kauai, the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, The ISO and the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa are stunning accommodations that will make it hard to even leave your room—while on the Big Island you can’t go wrong staying at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection, Fairmont Orchid and Hilton Waikoloa Village.

Which Hawaii Island is Best for You?

Kauai’s picturesque Na Pali Coast.

For nature lovers and those who seek adventure, Kauai is a primordial playground full of epic hikes, stunning beaches and botanical gardens—it is the Garden Isle after all.

Sunrise over Na Mokulua islands from Lanikai Beach on Oahu.

Oahu has a great mix of everything a visitor could want and is perfect for families with young children as there are more keiki (kid) friendly activities on the island.

Waianapanapa State Park, Maui.

Maui & the Big Island

Both Maui and the Big Island are great places for travelers looking to escape from their worldly distractions. Instead of waking up to traffic and city noise, on these islands, the soft sounds of birdsong and crashing waves will serve as your natural alarm clock.

Hawaii Travel Tips

You’ll want to hit the ground running—presumably to the beach!—once you’ve landed. Also be sure to pack a few jackets or hoodies along with your beachwear, as the islands typically has “passing showers” from time to time due to its tropical climate. Another major travel tip to remember is that, unless you’re staying on Oahu, you will absolutely need to rent a car to fully enjoy the best of each island, as public transportation options are limited on the out islands.

36 Hours on Maui

By Shannon Wianecki April 25, 2024

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By Shannon Wianecki Photographs by Michelle Mishina Kunz

Shannon Wianecki grew up in Hawaii and writes about the islands regularly.

Maui is the Goldilocks island: It is neither too big nor too small, and for its three million annual visitors, its perfect year-round temperature, rainbow-splashed volcanic summits and sugary beaches are just right. But last August, Maui’s equilibrium met disaster. Catastrophic wildfires reduced the historic town of Lahaina to ash, claiming more than 100 lives . Conflicting messages urged visitors to stay away and let the island heal, but also to come and help sustain the economy. Eight months later, the message is more unified that Maui is ready to greet tourists again. Housing remains a critical need for displaced residents. Lahaina will take years to rebuild. But Maui’s inherent beauty and hospitality remain as vibrant as ever. It’s a great time to explore Central and South Maui, where new cocktail bars, outrigger canoe tours and Indigenous art exhibits reveal the community’s creativity and resilience.

Recommendations

• The 10,000-foot summit of Haleakalā National Park (pronounced with an emphasis on “la”) has a view of the rising sun, volcanic vistas and some of the planet’s rarest plants and birds.
• The Hale Hō‘ike‘ike museum showcases Hawaiian artwork, carved deities and a redwood plank surfboard owned by the legendary swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku.
• Balai Pata is a new restaurant that celebrates Filipino flavors with savory soups, desserts big enough for two and monthly karaoke nights.
• The Wailea Beach Path meanders along South Maui’s photogenic coast between posh resorts and the deep blue Pacific.
• The hiking trails at ‘Īao Valley State Monument (pronounced EE-ow) penetrate the lush West Maui Mountains, winding past waterfalls and taro patches.
• Enormous murals by Small Town Big Art , a public art project, in colorful and historic Wailuku town, are worth taking a stroll to see, and they’re navigable by an online map.
• Blue Water Rafting ’s exhilarating tours of the Kanaio Coast explore hidden coves, sea caves and charismatic marine life.
• Ho‘okipa Beach Park , one of the world’s top surf spots, is also a great place to spy on napping sea turtles.
• Oao Sushi Bar & Grill offers beautifully prepared Japanese fare, such as inventive sushi rolls and purple-yam pot de crème, in a Wailea shopping center.
• Tikehau Lounge serves seasonal craft cocktails made with local spirits and garnished with tiny katana swords and surfboards.
• Kaohu Store is a mom-and-pop grocery that produces the island’s best poke, raw fish mixed with traditional seasonings such as ground kukui nuts and seaweed.
• Tails Up Maui , a partnership between a local chef and a fisherman, serves excellent fish sandwiches and chicken plates.
• Wailuku Coffee Co. is the place to stop for Maui-grown coffee or espresso while exploring Wailuku.
• Esters Fair Prospect , a charming tropical bar on Wailuku’s Main Street, serves daiquiris made with a choice of three dozen rums and appetizers featuring fresh marlin.
• Mama’s Fish House , a celebrated restaurant on a secluded lagoon, lists the names of the fishermen who caught the snapper and octopus on its menu.
• On Saturday mornings, the Upcountry Farmers Market is a miniature street fair with live music and vendors offering a bounty of Maui-grown produce and prepared foods.
• ‘Oko‘a Farm Store sells a cornucopia of organic tropical fruits and vegetables in fresh, dried and powdered form.
• T. Komoda Store and Bakery , which has served the Maui community for more than a century, sells out of its cream puffs and butter rolls daily.
• Sabado Art Gallery is where the local artist Philip Sabado paints, teaches workshops and sells his color-saturated impressions of Maui landscapes and hula dancers.
• Native Intelligence offers a wealth of Hawaiian art and fashion: Locals come here for Aloha shirts and sarongs, fine jewelry and fresh flower leis.
• Four Seasons Resort Maui sets the standard for service with poolside spritzes, immaculate housekeeping and a terrific complimentary kids’ camp. Guests can book spa treatments in oceanfront huts and outrigger canoe excursions that launch from the resort’s adjoining beach. Rooms start at $1,095 a night.
• Hotel Wailea is an adults-only boutique hotel on a hill overlooking South Maui. While not directly on the beach, it’s only a short shuttle ride away. Elegant suites are spacious (750 square feet with kitchenettes) and the Birdcage lounge is a prime spot for toasting the sunset. Rooms start at $799.
• Maui Kamaole is a condo complex across the street from Kama‘ole Beach Park III, between Wailea and Kihei on Maui’s south shore. One- and two-bedroom units feature full kitchens, laundry facilities and lush landscaping. Rooms start at $500.
• Since the recent fire intensified the housing shortage, visitors should avoid short-term rentals in residential areas. Instead, book hotels that offer in-room kitchens, such as Fairmont Kea Lani or Mana Kai Maui .
• The best way to explore the island is by car . The major rental companies each have kiosks at Kahului Airport. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available, but long distances between destinations make this an expensive option. Maui’s public transit is limited. The Maui Bus operates 12 routes, including two that stop at the airport. One-way fares cost $2; day passes are $4.

Wailea Beach Path

The Wailea Beach Path , which meanders along the island’s southern coast, reflects Maui’s almost contradictory personas: On one side, opulent resorts flaunt swim-up bars and nightly torch-lighting ceremonies. A subtler drama unfolds on the opposite side, where native flora like honey-scented naio bushes, spiky hala trees and hibiscus blossoms flourish along the rocky shoreline. Sit and listen to the sea rush through the lava rocks as the sun drops between three islands: Lanai, Kahoolawe and tiny Molokini. In the 1970s, nine Native Hawaiians occupied Kahoolawe in defiance of the U.S. military, which had been using the island as a bombing range for decades. Their daring protest sparked what is now known as the Hawaiian Renaissance — a revival of Indigenous culture that continues today.

Head to Oao Sushi Bar & Grill in the Wailea area for beautifully prepared Japanese fare. The owner and head chef, J.R. Oao, sharpened his knife at Maui’s best sushi bars (including a stint at Nobu Lana‘i) before opening his first brick-and-mortar restaurant last year (he also has a food truck in Kihei, a few miles north). His signature rolls are balanced and inventive: Try the baked California roll ($22), served hot and loaded with shrimp and scallops. Juicy seared lamb chops rest on a smear of umami-rich red miso ($42). Even the salads impress — bright cilantro vinaigrette with a hint of horseradish enlivens a simple mix of Maui-grown greens, roasted corn and goat cheese ($16). For dessert, the ube pot de crème ($14), made from purple yam, is luscious, light and almost cartoonishly bright.

The name of Tikehau , a new lounge in Wailea, means “peaceful landing.” The bar, which opened in November and is quietly raising the standard for craft cocktails statewide, was true to its name for Mari Howe, its manager, and other staff who came to work here after losing jobs or homes to the Lahaina fire. Everything is thoughtfully selected, from the gold-leaf wallpaper to the crystal stemware. Garnishes are coveted souvenirs; a tiny surfboard floats atop the Thousand Peaks ($19) — a lagoon-blue Paloma topped with jasmine-tea “sea foam.” The Hawaiian Samurai ($50), a top-shelf-whiskey libation, comes with a miniature katana sword. Ms. Howe’s seasonal menu incorporates local spirits and mixers: fresh pineapple juice, Kō Hana rum and okolehao, a moonshine made from Hawaiian ti plants. Upscale snacks include poisson cru, a raw-fish dish ($25), and smoked taro hummus ($15).

Explore the rugged Kanaio Coast’s hidden coves and sea caves with a rafting tour.

This morning mission requires preparation. First, book a sunrise reservation at Haleakalā National Park well in advance ($1 permit, $30 park entrance). Then pack really warm clothes. In the darkness, drive slowly up the 10,000-foot volcano; fog often obscures cattle and native geese loitering in hairpin turns. Your efforts will be rewarded at the peak — first by the velvet sky awash with stars, then by the sun’s rays spilling across the fire-forged mountain. Notice how the silverswords (hedgehog-like plants that grow only here) sparkle in the golden light. As you descend, stop at Hosmer Grove , where a short hike leads to a forest full of Hawaiian honeycreepers , birds that are among some of the planet’s rarest.

Midway down Haleakalā, stop at the Upcountry Farmers Market . Every Saturday morning, the Kulamalu Town Center parking lot turns into a miniature street fair with live music and vendors offering a dizzying array of Maui-grown produce and prepared foods. You’ll find things to eat immediately — fresh coconut, vegan sweet-potato cheesecake and Venezuelan arepas — as well as things to stash in your suitcase, like passion-fruit butter and macadamia nuts. Don’t miss the ‘Oko‘a Farm Store , which migrated from the market into an adjacent storefront. The store’s 46-acre farm supplies a cornucopia of tropical fruits and vegetables; its shelves teem with jars of pickled, powdered, and freeze-dried treats and tonics.

Baldwin Avenue

Take the scenic drive back to sea level through historic Makawao and Paia towns. Bordered by a rodeo arena and a polo field , Makawao is the charming headquarters of the paniolo, Hawaiian cowboys who continue to rope and ride across the island’s lush ranchlands. On the corner of Makawao and Baldwin Avenues you’ll see T. Komoda Store and Bakery ; this beloved family-run business, which has served the community since 1916, sells out of its cream puffs and butter rolls daily. Follow Baldwin past the defunct sugar mill to Paia. Once a busy sugar plantation hub surrounded by green cane fields, it’s now home to surfers and artists. As you pass Baldwin Beach, admire the view of the rain-carved West Maui Mountains. The morning light often reveals the hidden interior of ‘Īao Valley, your next destination.

Wailuku River

Head to Kaohu Store in Wailuku for lunch to go. This mom-and-pop grocery offers the island’s best poke — raw fish mixed with traditional seasonings such as ground kukui nuts and seaweed (from $18 a pound). Add two scoops of rice and crunchy fern salad for a truly local meal. If you prefer a cooked lunch, visit Tails Up Maui for a classy fish sandwich ($19) or mochiko (rice flour) fried chicken ($17). Take your picnic to Kepaniwai Park , where model houses commemorate the diverse cultures of Hawaii’s sugar plantation era, and dip your feet into the Wailuku River. Continue to ‘ Īao Valley State Monument (out-of-state visitors need reservations; $5 entrance fee, $10 parking). Paved walkways wind through a traditional lo‘i kalo (taro patch), past multiple waterfalls and up to a stunning lookout.

Peruse the art and artifacts at Hale Hō‘ike‘ike , a captivating repository of Hawaiian culture in the former home of the missionary-artist Edward Bailey. Exhibits showcase Hawaiian feather work and quilts, carved deities, and paintings depicting 19th-century Maui. Imagine trying to paddle the legendary swimmer and surfer Duke Kahanamoku’s redwood plank surfboard into the waves (entry, $10). From there, stroll through Wailuku, Maui’s somewhat sleepy seat of local government. Narrow side streets yield many treasures: See enormous street murals (use the online map by Small Town Big Art , a public art project), admire the color-saturated paintings at Sabado Art Gallery and find refreshment at Wailuku Coffee Co. or Esters Fair Prospect , a cocktail bar. After shopping for Hawaiian books and clothing at Native Intelligence , buy yourself a fragrant flower lei to wear for the duration of your trip.

At Balai Pata , a new Filipino restaurant in Kahului, a celebration of the flavors that the chef and owner Joey Macadangdang grew up with is a welcome addition to Maui’s restaurant scene. Plump Kauai prawns sauteed in garlicky fish sauce ($17) set the stage for savory sinigang ($30) — tamarind broth loaded with long beans, okra and fish. For dessert, two can share the halo-halo ($18) — crushed ice topped with avocado, ube ice cream, coconut cream and fruit jellies, served in a coconut shell. The décor reflects a bright, homespun aesthetic, and once a month, local families fill the restaurant for late-night happy hour and karaoke battles — check Instagram for dates.

Jumping into a pool in Kepaniwai Park.

Blue Water Rafting

A trip to Maui isn’t complete without ducking underwater to spy on clouds of striped manini fish, eagle rays and turtles. While most snorkel tours start at Mā‘alaea Harbor, Blue Water Rafting boards at the Kihei boat ramp — offering easier access and one of the only tours of Kanaio Coast’s hidden coves and sea caves ($179, four hours). Climb into the rigid-hulled raft beside two dozen other passengers (fewer than the big tour boats) and watch for dolphins. In winter, close encounters with whales are common. As you peer into the pristine bay formed by Maui’s youngest lava flow, imagine the Polynesian wayfinders sailing here centuries ago, followed by the French explorer La Pérouse in 1786. The ride is exhilarating but bumpy.

Don’t be shy: Wear your flower lei to lunch at Mama’s Fish House . Old-style hospitality reigns at this celebrated restaurant on a sheltered lagoon. Servers greet you in vintage Aloha wear and offer complimentary bowls of poi (pounded taro — a staple of the traditional Hawaiian diet). The menu is pricey but worthy; long before it was fashionable, Mama’s listed who caught each fish and where. A recent menu featured sea bass hooked by Ivan Ventura in Hana ($68). If you ordered only dessert, you’d still leave happy; the Polynesian Black Pearl ($24) is an edible version of “The Birth of Venus”: chocolate mousse and passion fruit ensconced in a cookie seashell. Tables can book up a year out. After lunch, drive two minutes east to Ho‘okipa Beach Park , where surfers carve waves and sea turtles bask on the sand.

More From 36 Hours

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Paris: A different side of the French capital reveals smaller museums, under-the-radar spots in Montmartre and a diverse performance scene .

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Chicago:   ​​ Cycle miles of urban trails, tour a restored Frank Lloyd Wright masterwork and catch golden hour  along Lake Michigan.

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We Tested: The 9 Best Snorkeling Tours on Maui (+ discount!)

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Maui is home to the best snorkeling in Hawaii, which makes it a huge draw for visitors. While we enjoy snorkeling from the beach, we love treating ourselves to a good snorkeling tour. Snorkeling tours offer trips to difficult-to-access spots, a better chance at spotting a wide variety of marine life, and guides that can help you navigate the process.

But with an abundance of tours offered, it can be difficult to figure out which are the best snorkeling tours on Maui.

After going on many snorkeling tours, we have a list of our favorite snorkeling tours on Maui and we’ve included something for everyone. 

In a hurry and just want the quick details on the best snorkeling tours on Maui? We’ve got you covered: 1. The best Molokini snorkeling tour 2. We love this Lanai Coast snorkel sail 3. Enjoy a whale watch/snorkeling combo 4. Get out to Molokini’s back wall on this power raft tour 5. Kayak and snorkel from Olowalu 6. Beach load right from Ka’anapali on this great and convenient tour 7. Enjoy a private snorkeling experience (5% off with code HVG5) 8. This is an awesome Molokini snorkel tour for families 9. Go out from shore with a guide on a private or small group tour

Best Snorkeling Tours on Maui

As I’ve said, we love snorkeling tours. And getting to live on Maui, we’ve been so lucky to experience many different tours. While we have generally liked most of our snorkeling tour experiences, these are the ones that really stand out in terms of the quality of the boat, the crew, and the snorkel locations. 

Add these to your shortlist of snorkeling tours to experience on Maui .

1. Kai Kanani Maui Adventure Sunrise Snorkel to Molokini Crater

This is hands-down our favorite Molokini snorkel experience because it is a trip that everyone can enjoy. The biggest pro is that Kai Kanani does a beach loading directly from Wailea/Makena, while most other boats depart from Ma’alaea Harbor, which is much further away. That means two things: 

• You’re not spending half of your trip getting to and from the crater. You get more snorkel time!
• You are the first boat to arrive at Molokini Crater.

Being the first snorkeling group in the water is a huge perk. Since it is very popular, Molokini can get crowded. It is a real treat to see it empty! By the time the bigger boats show up, you’re on your way to the second snorkeling location , which is usually turtle town.

Book the sunrise Molokini snorkeling tour with Kai Kanani. If sunrise is a bit too early for you, they also offer a later, deluxe Molokini snorkeling tour. The capacity on their catamaran is 80 people, but they keep their total less (40-60 people) to make sure everyone has a bit more room. 

And want to experience it before you go? Here’s a video of our sunrise tour experience:

If you’re looking for the BEST trip to Molokini crater, be sure to check out our list of the best Molokini snorkeling tours.

2. Trilogy Discover Lana’i Snorkel

A day trip to Lana’i is a real treat and Trilogy makes this day out even more special. Depart from either Ma’alaea Harbor or Ka’anapali Beach and enjoy breakfast on your way to Lana’i. Depart the boat and head to Hulopo’e Bay, a protected marine reserve, for some snorkeling, hiking, and a bbq lunch.

Honestly, we love snorkeling in Hulopo’e Bay and it is such a beautiful place with plenty of tropical fish and a vibrant coral reef. An absolute treat to be able to experience the beach and water out there.

On the return home enjoy a snack and beverages from the premium bar.

3. Ultimate Lana’i Coast Snorkel

Head out on a snorkeling adventure on a high speed raft. This 3.5 hour tour takes you to the Lana’i coast (conditions dependent) on a small group tour. On our tour (video below) we were lucky enough to see both Hawaiian green sea turtles and spinner dolphins.

If you are visiting Maui during whale season and you can’t decide if you should go whale watching or snorkeling, you don’t have to choose. Ultimate Whale Watch & Snorkel runs a combo trip so you can do both at the same time.

A quick note: while you can sometimes spot humpback whales on snorkeling trips during the whale watching months on Maui, snorkeling tours are not going out of their way to find whales.

4. Redline Rafting to Molokini Crater Back Wall

This tour isn’t the classic Molokini Crater snorkeling trip and it isn’t for everyone. But for the right (adventurous person), this is an amazing tour option. Nearly every boat company offers tours of Molokini Crater. But Redline Rafting will not only take you to the crater but to the back wall of the crater on their 5-hour snorkel tour.

This tour is perfect for those visitors who are staying in South Maui. The tour leaves from Kihei Boat Ramp which is between Kihei and Wailea, super convenient.

The back wall is deep  — 300+ feet — but your visibility of it will be less, so it looks like it’s falling off into the ocean. It’s also more thrilling than the partially enclosed crater as you’re open to the ocean.

We went out on Redline’s 2-hour snorkel tour to Molokini Crater. We loved how fast of a trip it was to the crater, 15 minutes, and that we got 1 hour 45 minutes to snorkel. The captain had time for us to do the back wall which is usually reserved for the 5-hour tour. See our experience below!

You’ll then continue your snorkel to La Perouse Bay, a spot where you can often find spinner dolphins.

The power raft tour leaves from the Kihei small boat ramp, which is another perk. You don’t need to drive to Maalaea Harbor to start your journey. 

5. Kayak Snorkeling with Maui Adventure Tours

Looking for something a little different? Skip the big boat experience (and crowds) and head out with a guide on a kayak. Maui Adventure Tours leaves from Olowalu Beach in West Maui (10-minutes south of Lahaina) to take you out snorkeling the pristine reef and clear water of Olowalu reef. No kayaking experience is required.

While you won’t be paddling to Molokini Crater or Lana’i, you’ll stop at different snorkeling locations and look for turtles, octopus, fish, and more. During whale season, you might even get to see some whales up close. 

If you’re planning a trip to Maui, we have a full guide dedicated to planning the best vacation. From where to stay, what to do, and where to eat, we have you covered. Check out our Maui Guide for everything you need to know for a great vacation . 

6. Beach Loading Snorkeling Tours with Sea Maui

If you’re staying in Ka’anapali, there’s nothing more convenient than a beach loading snorkeling tour. No driving or parking needed, just head out to Ka’anapali Beach for a great beach loading experience.

Sea Maui offers different snorkeling tours , ranging from 2.5 to 4.5 hours. They stick to snorkeling locations on West Maui, picking the best location that day based on ocean conditions and visibility. All ages are welcome on the tour and kids under 2 get to join for free.

We have a ton of great resources for planning the rest of your trip: Find an amazing place to stay on Maui . Plan your trip during the best time to visit Maui . Visit the best beaches the island has to offer. Chow down on affordable and delicious grindz at Maui food trucks .

7. Maui Custom Charters to Coral Gardens and Olowalu Reef

Are you looking to ditch the crowds on your snorkel trip? Try a private charter with Maui Custom Charters. Up to 6 passengers can enjoy sailing to the famous and pristine Olowalu reef or under the Lahaina cliffs in Coral Gardens, two snorkel spots that are only accessible by boat.

Whether you want to snorkel, watch the sunset, enjoy some cocktails, learn to sail, celebrate a special occasion, or just lay back and relax then a private charter is your best option. They can customize the perfect trip as the boat and crew are at your service! Their most popular chartered tours are the morning or afternoon 4 -hour snorkel and sail.

Save 5% on all their charter tours with promo code HVG5!

Best Maui Snorkeling Tour for Families

Finding a good snorkeling tour can be tricky when you’re traveling with kids. Some boats don’t allow very young children and babies on board. And if they do, coaxing your child into the ocean so you can all snorkel together can sometimes be a challenge. 

While we’ve taken our preschooler on both Kai Kanani and Sail Maui tours, there are two other tours that we think are exceptional for kids.

Traveling with kids? Here are our favorite kid-friendly beaches on Maui . 

8. Four Winds II Molokini Snorkel

Family fun is the focus on the Four Winds Molokini Crater tour . It’s a larger boat tour than you’ll find in our previous recommendations, but they have some specific amenities that can make going with a larger group totally worth it. Note: their boat capacity is 149 people but they advertise that they keep their tours smaller than that to ensure comfortability.  

On their Molokini snorkeling tour, you’ll get to snorkel Molokini Crater but kids are front and center on the tour. There is a waterslide (that even adults enjoy), a glass-bottom viewing, cookies, temporary tattoos, and more. In the glass bottom room, a few kids or adults can take a peek at what’s underwater, without actually having to get into the water. 

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the maui itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Maui.

9. Maui Snorkel Tours

This is a unique guided snorkeling tour. They offer shore-based tours , meaning no boats are involved at all. You’ll head out in a very small group with a guide (or a private tour) after a briefing on land about marine biology and how to snorkel. 

Why is this great for the family? On a tour boat, there’s no one available to teach you how to properly snorkel. With a guide, they are taking you step by step through how to snorkel, where to snorkel, and equipping you with the knowledge that you can use on future shore snorkeling trips. Whether it’s kids or adults learning, everyone in your family can have a great time underwater and walk away with knowledge about snorkeling and the ocean. 

If you want to look for even more tours, head to our Tours & Activities page for Maui for a full list of our recommended snorkeling, whale watching , ziplining, and more tours. 

Maui Snorkeling Tour FAQs:

If you’re heading out on your first snorkeling trip or trying to decide if paying for a trip is worth it, we have you covered with some FAQs. 

Are snorkeling tours on Maui worth it?

I used to find myself squarely on one side of this debate: snorkeling tours were not worth the money. However, as I’ve done more of them (and gone on great tours), I’ve come to really appreciate that a good snorkeling tour is definitely worth the time money for a number of reasons: 

• You can snorkel in hard-to-access areas: Some tours will take you to spots that are easily accessible from the shore. But others treat you to spots that would be challenging (or impossible) to reach without a boat, like Molokini, spots off the coast of Lana’i, Coral Garden, and Namalu Bay.  
• Access to a naturalist: You’re there to snorkel and have fun, but there’s also something to be said about actually learning more about Hawaii, the ocean, and sea file while you’re on your tour. The best boats come with fantastic naturalists who can educate you on what you’re seeing and answer any questions that you have.
• A crew dedicated to keeping you safe: Snorkeling is a fun activity but there are times when it isn’t so safe. When you head out on a quality boat tour, you have a crew that is dedicated to making sure their passengers stay safe. That means providing you with good gear, having people in the water to help anyone in distress, and making sure to take you to places that are safe. 
• Excellent gear: We own our own snorkeling gear but we almost always leave that at home and use what our tour provides. Why? The quality of the equipment is great, they take away any hassle of cleaning it, and we get to try out new brands. 

• Easy and all-inclusive: Beach days require some planning — bringing the gear, finding a spot, packing enough food and water. A snorkeling tour requires a lot less planning. They take care of the food and drink for you. Just bring your towel and your favorite reef-friendly sunscreen!
• Better reef and environmental protection: Protecting the reef and the sea life in Hawaii is very important. When you travel on a guided snorkeling tour, there is little chance that you’ll find yourself stepping on and damaging coral or violating any of the animal protection laws that are in place. 

While there are a lot of benefits of snorkeling with a tour, that’s not to say that you should skip snorkeling from the shore. If you are an experienced snorkeler and want to visit some of Maui’s best snorkeling spots , you will have a great time. 

But we think that doing one good, quality snorkeling tour on Maui is worth it for just about everyone. 

Is snorkeling at Molokini Crater worth it?

Molokini Crater is one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Hawaii. It’s a crescent shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater located just a few miles off Maui’s south shore. It’s also a marine life sanctuary and a Hawaii state seabird sanctuary. 

Molokini is a very popular spot, but is it worth it? We think that with the right tour, a trip to Molokini is absolutely worth it. The water is incredibly clear, you’ll see a wider variety of fish than you would snorkeling on the beach, and most tours include additional snorkeling stops, which means you’re not just snorkeling the crater. 

That said, not every Molokini Crater snorkeling tour is equally as good. We’ve listed our favorites (and why we picked them) to help you find the right tour for you. 

Is a snorkeling trip to Lana’i worth it?

I have to be honest: we love snorkeling on Lana’i. So we are firmly in the camp that thinks a snorkeling trip to Lana’i is worth it . And there are a few reasons why. 

First, it’s another island which is just a fun adventure in itself. Second, there are fewer people who make the trip out there compared to other snorkeling spots. Third, you will often see spinner dolphins along the coast and finding your boat in a pod of dolphins is a memorable experience. 

Check out our video of our trip to Lana’i with Ultimate Whale Watch & Snorkel. It was an adventure on a small power raft and one that we can’t wait to go on again soon. 

What can you expect on a snorkeling tour?

While all snorkeling tours are a little bit different, there are some things that you can generally expect to find on your tour

• A naturalist or experienced guide: These guides can educate you on what you’re seeing as well as how best to keep you and the marine life safe. They are extremely knowledgeable, so when they talk be sure to listen!
• Snorkeling gear: If you don’t have snorkeling gear (maks, snorkel, fins) your trip will usually provide you with a high-quality set. And they’ll make sure it fits you well so you can have the best experience possible. 
• Food and drinks : It can be a long day out on the water and the tour will usually provide everything you need to stay happy and hydrated. There’s a range as to what you’ll find on board — some tour operators focus on food and drinks as a selling feature while others provide good food, but the meal and bar isn’t their focus. 

Prefer to get out on the water without snorkeling? Check out our list of the best sunset cruises on Maui . We have a range of options, including a lively luau cruise, a champagne toast sail, or a full dinner cruise.

Before you head to Maui, read our Maui Guide. It’ll make your trip planning so much easier. From where to stay, what to do, and where to eat, we have you covered. Check out our Maui Guide for everything you need to know for a great vacation . 

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“This is not a question but simply a “thank you”.  Our original European vacation plans fell through last minute.  So we had 2 weeks to plan something else…your Vacation Guide was a LIFE SAVER.  We had no idea how to begin planning, which island, where to stay, what to do.  Your honest reviews of the islands led us to Maui for 8 days….Mahalo!!.  You guys are awesome!!” – Eva M.

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Best Unique Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii

V isiting Maui is a bucket list trip for a lot of people, and then there are those that have been visiting and returning to Maui continually since they were kids. We enjoy Maui too, but differently than most people we know and have talked to. We’ve picked our favorite things to do on Maui, considering what you can do that is accessible without trespassing on private land, what is safe to do with kids, and what visitors are welcome to enjoy.

Some may call Maui “The Valley Island”, others may call it “The Island of Love”, but we call it the hiking island. Hiking is our favorite thing to do on Maui, and you’ll see why. As you plan a trip to Maui, consider what you want to experience while you’re there, and not just chillin’ at a resort. Maui, like the Big Island or Kauai , is full of unique sights and fascinating things to learn.

If you have any questions about things to do on Maui, about how to visit with responsibility and consideration in mind, or if you have something specific you’re wondering about our experiences on Maui, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to share openly!

Need to Know About Maui

While Maui is a tropical island overall, averaging about 70 degrees year-round, its geography and climates vary wildly from one area of the island to the next. From lush, cool rainforests along the Hana Highway to arid lava rocks down south in Makena, from its sunny, sandy beaches on the West Side, to the frigid peaks of the Haleakala Volcano, you’ll never tire of what Maui’s landscapes have to offer. And yes, it’s FRIGID atop Haleakala (but amazing and one of the best things to do!).

Due to Maui’s many microclimates, it is best to stay up to date on the most recent weather forecasts across the island, as they can change at a moment’s notice. One of the best weather resources is the Maui Snorkel Report which offers visitors and locals alike a daily in-depth description of the island’s North, South and West Sides. While primarily used by snorkelers wanting to know the underwater visibility conditions, possible ocean hazards, and marine life activity, this report also provides an excellent summary of weather patterns above the waves too. Sign up for their mailing list and receive daily updates to make sure that you stay in the loop for your Maui trip.

Getting Around: the Layout of Maui

Unlike Kauai , you can drive all the way around Maui, but it’ll take you a long time and you’ll have to drive some pretty crazy roads. For us, we like to look at visiting Maui as exploring five different island parts, and this is a very helpful way to plan your time and things to do on Maui.

• East Side – Road to Hana
• Northwest Loop – includes Lahaina and the northern road (we are not encouraging trying to visit Lahaina)
• North Shore – from Wailuku to the Road to Hana
• South Side – from Maalaea to Wailea, including Kihei (these are the beaches)
• Upcountry and Haleakala National Park

There are lots of hiking spots all around Maui, so as you plan your time, you can always count on having a good climb to get some fresh air and great views. I know, not everyone visits Maui or any of the Hawaiian Islands specifically for hiking, but that’s what we really enjoy. Four or five days exploring Maui will take you to all parts of the island and get you lots of different experiences.

Before Visiting Hawaii, Understand It

As you consider visiting Maui, or even just visiting the islands in general, know that it’s a complicated place. Just like how ALL OF THE USA was taken from the indigenous people (including our direct recent ancestors) Hawaii is the same, and most of it much more recent than many mainland Americans relate to. There are a lot of native Hawaiians who have stories and memories from their grandparents and great grandparents around the colonization of the Kingdom of Hawaii. With this comes a lot of hard feelings against tourism, but that is balanced with most people being exceptionally welcoming and ready to share their homeland. The Hawaiian people are gracious stewards who are willing and able to both educate visitors and work to preserve their homeland. If anything about any of this doesn’t sit right with you, stop considering a Hawaii trip now.

Visiting Hawaii is a privilege and should be treated as such. We return to Hawaii because we have friends there and we want to share more about how to be a responsible visitor. Hawaii isn’t our go-to vacation destination, but a place we can learn and have new experiences, and do it with efforts of not having a negative impact or plundering the culture and resources of the islands.

Note : yes, Hawaii is a state in the USA and yes, it’s become very reliant on tourism, but that doesn’t mean it’s a land for tourists to run rampant. As you plan a visit to the islands, consider the choices you make and what you can give back to the Hawaiian communities you visit, and not just “sipping mai tais on a beach.” (Tips for making travel decisions that positively give back to Hawaii below).

Things to Do on Maui’s East Side (The Road to Hana)

The Road to Hana is a famous 64-mile stretch of road that spans Maui’s East Side through a tropical rainforest full of jungle plants, flowers and swimming holes. Spend the day along this rugged coastline exploring its many roadside waterfalls, botanical gardens, and beaches. Be sure to devote a full day (or more) to this adventure as the drive to Hana can take up to 2+ hours (without stops), goes across 50+ one-lane bridges, and you should head back well before sunset as there are no streetlights.

While there is so much to see, keep your eyes on the road as it twists and turns dramatically, often along the cliffside! But don’t let that discourage you – this is a very safe byway that is heavily trafficked by both tourists and locals.

NOTE : you’ll see signs that remind you to give the right of way to locals. DO IT. They are very well versed on the Road to Hana and will ride your tail and pass at the first opportunity. If you have a pull-out, take it and let the locals pass you.

Start your journey at the Jaws Country Store

As one of the last prominent restaurants before the major drive towards Hana, the Jaws Store is an excellent way to start your adventure with a freshly prepared coffee and breakfast, as well as a lunch to bring along for the ride (you can also find foo in Hana). This cool spot is also an excellent place to shop for an assortment of souvenirs (if you like shopping), and don’t forget to snap a photo-op by their colorful assortment of surfboards. 

DO Go Chasing Waterfalls

Looking for waterfalls is one of the best things to do on Maui, especially on the Road to Hana, aka the Hana Highway. There are roughly 15 waterfalls to explore on the way to Hana, each with their own spectacular wonder, including Twin Falls, Hanawi Falls, Waikani Falls and many more. Some waterfalls are equipped with ropes or ladders that enable you to climb from one waterfall to the next – at your own risk. Choose a handful of your favorites to stop at for a short swim or a lovely picnic, and enjoy the rest as you slowly swing past on your drive.

On such a narrow road, parking can be limited at each location, so an available parking spot might be as good a reason as any to give it a thorough exploration. Be advised that flash floods can occur during the rainy season (November to March) and can cause waterfalls to flow out into the open ocean, so always check weather reports, travel in groups and always stay safe.

• As I noted above, the people of Maui are very protective of the island. On the Road to Hana you’ll find that a lot of the stops people may recommend or show on Instagram are actually on private property or have signs that say “LOCALS ONLY” or “Kamaʻāina Only!). Respect this.
• If you want to swim in a waterfall on the Road to Hana, the best option is Pua’a Ka’a Falls which requires you to show that you have a reservation for visiting Waiʻānapanapa State Park (black sand beach). You can park and cross the street and safely access the waterfall splash pool.

Get Lost in the Bamboo Forest

While there are a couple of these forests scattered along the Road to Hana, you’ll hit one early on at about the 23 mile marker, where you’ll usually see a number of cars pulled off of the road next to, you guessed it, a whole lotta bamboo. It is a pretty magical experience, to be surrounded in this wonderfully tall bamboo forest, something straight out of a fantasy film. And if you follow the right path, you’ll end up at a series of waterfalls that you can hike and climb alongside.

Note: parking can be tricky, so be safe and only park where there is space and it’s clearly allowed. You’ll see some trailheads, but be sure to download trail maps (I like AllTrails) beforehand. Pay attention to public land vs private property boundaries.

Garden of Eden Botanical Gardens

We visit botanical gardens all over the place, and so visiting the Garden of Eden on Maui was a must. We’ve visited the Waimea Valley gardens on Oahu and the Limahuli Garden on the North Shore of Kauai , and they’re both beautiful and different, but Garden of Eden is my favorite. It turns out that this garden is one of the best things to do when you’re driving the Road to Hana, as it’s both beautiful and gives you a much needed break from the winding road.

Bamboo, giant hibiscus, waterfall views, and peacocks running around make it a great stop for anybody of any age. If you’re not up for doing the hike through the complete botanical garden complex, you can drive to the different parts of the gardens, making it more accessible for non-hikers.

Note: on the Road to Hana there aren’t a lot of activities that have a cost, so the admission cost for the Garden of Eden was worth it for us. It’s $20/adult and $10/child (5-16).

Black Sand Beach (Wai’anapanapa State Park) 

Wai’anapanapa, which translates to “glistening water”, is home to one of Maui’s most breathtaking spots: the Black Sand Beach. I think Wai’anapanapa State Park is one of the best things to do on Maui, and is a wonderful break after driving the Road to Hana. Watch the seabirds ride the ocean breeze, traverse the many lava caves and natural rock arches, listen to the blowholes as the sea ebbs and flows through them, and best of all, swim at the awesome black sand beach. There are more black sand beaches on the Big Island , so if you’re island hopping, be sure to visit Punaluu or Kahaluu beaches.

Note: a bit farther up the road gets you to Kaihalalu – the Red Sand beach – and you’ll see it all over the internet, but this is not easy to access. You can hike around the point from Hana Bay Beach Park, but you need to pay attention to Area Closed signs due to the bird refuge, and then Private Property signs for certain trails to the beach.

Brave Bonus: Sky Dive in Hana

Once you’ve thoroughly explored the Road to Hana, there is always the added opportunity to take to the skies for an out-of-this-world view of the island. With Maui Skydiving , located in Hana, you can soar through the clouds in a small plane, and hop out in tandem with a trained skydiving professional to feel the adrenaline of the Aloha State. Focus on the fall of a lifetime while Maui Skydiving covers photo and video of the experience so that you can relive it once you’ve touched down.

Note: skydiving is NOT for me, but we get lots of questions about it, particularly on the different Hawaiian islands. Here in Hana and then on Oahu’s North Shore are two of the most popular places for skydiving in Hawaii.

Maui’s North Shore Thing to Do

This part of Maui feels very much like a normal place to live. There are chill towns and neighborhoods, and it’s very much the center of non-tourist life on Maui. There are also some beautiful, unique things to do on this part of the island, including hiking, town activities and surfing. The North Shore area from Kahalui to the start of the Road to Hana is a great spot to plan a mellow day for beach time, watching surfers and visiting Paia.

Stroll the Streets of Paia

Paia is the chic hippie haven of Maui, home to those that prioritize health and surf. The quaint downtown provides all kinds of attractions for Hawaiian dining, shopping and entertainment. If you’re having a chill day on the North Shore, you can take a yoga class at Maui Yoga Shala , try the catch of the day at Paia Fish Market , and catch the sunset from Baldwin Beach.

Paia is really cute and easy to visit. You can pop in for a full day or just grab a bite. That’s one of the great things about the small towns on any island, but particularly on Maui.

Beach Day at Kaulahao Beach Park

There aren’t a ton of beaches on the north shore of Maui, but Kaulahao Beach is a good one to stop at. There’s a nice long stretch of sand here and a good parking area, so it’s easy to enjoy an afternoon here with swimming and digging in the sand (that’s our kids’ favorite part about the beaches of Maui, the sand).

Watch the Surfers at Ho’okipa

Ho’okipa Beach Park is a short drive up from Paia, and is the perfect place to spend the evening watching the multitude of surfers tackle the waves that make Maui a worldwide surfing phenomenon. Or better yet – rent a board and catch the waves yourself! If you venture farther up the road toward the Jaws (Pe’ahi) big wave surf break beach, you might get lucky and witness the bravest of the brave take on waves that can reach up to 70 feet high!

Things to Do on Maui’s South Side

This part of Maui is full of mellow things to do, like beach going and strolling through Wailea and Kihei. The south side is also where you’ll find the best beaches on Maui. Becuase this part of the island is sheltered from the big waves of the Pacific Ocean by both Lanai and Kaho’olawe, you can actual swim safely, kayak and SUP very easily. We really enjoyed seeing lots of honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) on these beaches too!

Visit La Perouse Bay

Drive south until you can’t drive any longer! La Perouse is the end of the road at the southernmost point of the island through Wailea and Makena. Deemed the “forbidden coast”, La Perouse is covered in what’s called a’a lava, the last recorded lava flow from the Haleakala Volcano around the 16th Century that drenched the area in very sharp black lava rock.

Bring some solid hiking shoes and be careful how you park your car. Hike along the beautiful black rock through its many winding coves, take in the remnants of ancient Hawaiian sites, and snorkel at your own risk through the turbulent surf.

Watch the Whales at Maalaea

Join a whale watch or snorkel tour out of Maalaea Harbor, the second windiest harbor in the world! From here you can venture with PacWhale Eco Adventure s to see whales, dolphins, rays, and more. The humpback migration spans from November to May, when you’re bound to see some humpbacks breaching off of the side of the boat. 

We had great luck seeing a mother and brand new baby humpback whale on a trip with the Pacific Whale Foundation. They asked us and other passengers to send them our photos of the mama and baby so they could start documenting this new pair and tracking their activity in the future. I love being a part of science!

Book this EXACT tour here! (highly recommend)

Maui Ocean Center (Rainy Day Activity)

Because it’s Hawaii, no doubt you’ll face some rain while you’re looking for things to do on Maui. There are endless activities outside, but if you need a good indoor plan, the Maui Ocean Center is actually one of the few aquariums that we’ve been to and actively recommend. It’s the most education focused aquarium we’ve been to (even more than our favorite, the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga ).

With detailed reef exhibits, films, interactive areas, the whole 3D humpback whale experience… We actually spent three full hours exploring the Maui Ocean Center and then had lunch at their restaurant too (great food and surprising value!). While you can for sure visit the Maui Ocean Center any day you like, I do think that it’s best to save it for your rainy plan.

Beach Day at Big & Little Beach

If you’re staying on the South Side in Kihei or Wailea, you have a number of beaches to choose from, but Big Beach provides Maui’s classic white (beige) sand and soft surf, and is a larger swath of beach than most on the island to ensure some of your own space while overlooking the West Maui Mountains. Stretching over half a mile, this is a lovely beach for groups to spread out in the sun, and head over to Little Beach for a short hike through the dunes and into a quainter cove where nude bathing is permitted, but maybe not with kids.

More Kihei Beaches to Visit

The main thing to do in Kihei is go to the beach, and that’s totally fine. Kihei has quite a few beach parks, all with parking, so it’s easy to add a little beach time to any day. I like the Lipoa Street beach because it’s got dunes separating it from the many condos, so it feels more secluded, but it’s just right in town. Other easy beach access spots in Kihei include:

• Keawakapu Beach
• Kamaole Beach Parks (there are three of them)
• Cove Beach Park
• Kalama Park

Whenever you’re on any island in Hawaii, always obey the posted signage about property lines and trespassing. There are enough public beach access points that you don’t need to march through people’s yards to get to the beach.

South Maui Food Truck Garden

Located at the south end of Kihei, I love this spot! At the south end of the garden s are actual garden shops and you can buy plants and stuff, but from there all the way to the north end you’ll find all kinds of food trucks. Ramen, BBQ, sushi, poutine and so much more can be found here. And our kids LOVED all the yard games. This is a great place to find a little bit of community while you’re visiting Kihei. Having dinner at the South Maui Gardens is one of the best things to do on the island.

Maui’s Northwest Loop

Maui is basically an island of mini-road trips, and they’re each a different sort of adventure. The Northwest Loop is similar to the Road to Hana in that a large portion of it is actually a sketchy one-lane highway. The sights are very different and the weather is a stark contrast to the east side (Hana), so if you’re down to drive one, you might as well drive the other too. It’s a wild ride.

Snorkel at Olowalu Beach

At first glace, Olowalu Beach doesn’t look amazing. You park and walk past old sugar mill ruins, and then you’re at a really rocky beach… but there’s a ramp into the water and then it’s incredible! Colorful coral, urchins, tropical fish, honu and much more are just below the surface in this shallow bay. I was so surprised at how shallow this whole area is. It was perfect for snorkeling with kids, as there are plenty of places amidst the reefs where you can stand (NOT on the reef).

Explore Historic Lahaina Town – NOT CURRENTLY RECOMMENDED

Note: nearly all of Lahaina burned down during the wildfires of 2023. Recovery efforts are strong but slow. Until the town is ready for tourists again do not plan to visit Lahaina as a tourist, BUT we recommend supporting the surrounding community as close to the affected area as possible to help keep tourism dollars with the locals directly impacted by the fires.

Once the prominent capital of Hawai’i, Lahaina is full of history, beauty and attractions including the Bailey Museum , the Sugar Cane Train , and the Brick Palace of King Kamehameha. Overlooking the West Maui Mountains, stroll Lahaina’s popular Front Street, full of food and shopping goods. Afterwards, cool off under Lahaina’s famous banyan tree that spans a full city block and is a bustling square of activity.

Hike Honolua Bay aka the Magical Enchanted Forest

This is one of my favorite things to do on Maui. To reach Honolua Bay, you must first hike through one of Maui’s most breathtaking landscapes – an old-growth forest full of monkeypod and banyan trees. This is also called the Magical Enchanted Forest. These are no ordinary trees; they’re covered in pathos vines and flowers. This forest is straight out of a fairytale. Pack a picnic and watch the light dance off of these tremendous trees, and when you’re finished, go for a snorkel / dive in the bay at the end of the trail for views of coral, fish, turtles, and octopus.

This is also a great place to watch surfers. The break at the mouth of the bay makes for really cool waves, and there are plenty of places to sit to watch. While this area, and the Magical Enchanted Forest in general, are open to the public, it’s a spot that has seen an influx of visitors, prompting locals to make lots of warning signs about being respectful to the land and the locals. Be kind and be smart when you visit.

Tip: there are two parking areas, the easternmost is the best spot to park with more spots, while the western access area closer to Lahaina is street parking. The latter parking spot has the more magical entrance to the forest though, so…

Experience an Authentic Hawaiian Lu’au

It’s here on Maui’s West Side that many of the local Lu’aus are performed. At Old Lahaina Lu’au , you can experience the native dances, music, foods and customs that are central to the Hawaiian spirit of Aloha. Witness authentic traditional hula dances while wrapped in a lei, and enjoy Hawaiian cuisine including taro, laulau and poke. 

Note: attending a luau isn’t for everyone, and it’s a complex event to consider. Firstly, a luau is quite costly for a family (we’ve only done it once) and second, it’s a bit of the comodification of culture that I mentioned at the start of this article. There’s a fine line between wanting to learn about and experience a culture, and then there’s wanting a performance by an “exotic other”. I think a luau can be wonderful if you’re doing it as a way to appreciate the Hawaiian culture and support those working to keep this tradition alive.

Central Maui aka Upcountry

Getting up and away from the beach might not seem like why a person would visit Maui, but I think some of the best things to do here include hiking in the hills and mountains. The Upcountry area of Maui, from the buckle between the west Maui Mountains and Haleakela to the foothills around the National Park, it’s full of beautiful trails through state parks, preserves and more. Here, the towns of Wailuku (west) and Kula (east) make for great afternoon strolls and dining between hikes.

Hike Waihe’e Ridge

Northwest of Kahului, you’ll find one of the most notable and popular hikes through the outskirts of the Iao Valley, which boasts panoramic views of the North Shore and its surrounding scenery. There are two large parking lots for this 4-mile hike, and spots are still hard to come by! So beat the crowds and show up early to this peaceful, middle-grade hike through temperate forests. Download the trail map in advance (I like AllTrails for accurate trail maps).

On the way to the Waihe’e Ridge trail, make a stop at the Kukuipuka Heiau. This is one of the few remaining cultural sites on Maui. If you’ve explored the Big Island or Kauai, you’ve probably seen a lot more Hawaiian history sites, so when on Maui, you need to visit the few that remain as they’re fewer and further between here.

Iao Valley State Park

To the west of Kahului is Iao Valley State Park (starts with “i”), a cultural Hawaiian site where King Kamehameha trekked with his army to reach Lahaina where he would reign supreme. With its famous “Iao Needle” overlooking the park, you can explore its lush rainforest routes, and its Ethnobotanical Garden Loop to learn about native Hawaiian plants and crops including taro, plumeria and bird of paradise.

We really like the swimming holes in the stream, which are pretty mellow and if you enter safely, can be great for a dip. I think Iao Valley State Park really captures the spirit and vibe of the mountains of Maui. It’s worth making time for.

Note: there is a park entrance reservation system for Iao Valley State Park, just like Wai’anapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana or Haena State Park on Kauai .

Hike at Haleakala National Park

It isn’t a trip to Maui without taking in the 360 view from the top of the island at Haleakala National Park . Pay the entry fee of $30 and enjoy the astounding landscape of this dormant volcano that rises up to 10,023 feet above sea level. There’s more to visiting Haleakala National Park than just the view from the summit. There are lots of hikes and unique sights to see from the park boundary to the top.

As you head up to the volcano’s crater, be sure to check out the eucalyptus forest and a few of the pullouts. One of the most unique things you’ll see at Haleakala is the rare silversword plant (it’s really shiny silver!), but don’t touch it. Watch in the silversword areas for the really plump chukar birds and the Hawaiian state bird, the “nene”.

Coming soon: Visiting Haleakala National Park with Kids!

But the real showstopper is to watch the changing clouds and landscape during either sunrise or sunset. A lot of people like to head up to the summit of Haleakala in the middle of the night to watch sunrise, so that’s actually when the park is the busiest. If you’re heading up for sunrise, you actually need to get a park entrance reservation for entry from 3:00 am until 7:00 am or so (check to confirm restrictions).

Note: keep in mind that Haleakala can get cold – bring a jacket and warm pants with you on your trip to Maui for any time at the summit. Even when it’s 80 degrees down in Kihei, it’s cold and windy at the summit.

There is never a bad time to visit Maui. Even the rainy season from November to March there is plenty of sun if you know where to look. And sun isn’t the only thing to find here on Maui; with the wind and rain comes plenty of rainbows, whales, and waves. So many rainbows! Maui’s natural landscape is unmatched, drawing close to two million visitors a year, and for good reason. But while Maui may seem like a paradise playground, please be a mindful guest when you visit, and do your best to preserve the natural beauty of the island and its treasures – this means respecting and protecting local wildlife, leaving no trace with trash that you bring with you, and honoring the Hawaiian community that thrives throughout Maui.

If you have any other questions about things to do on Maui, where to stay, or need advice for planning your trip, please leave a comment or send us a note . We’re happy to help other plan and direct to resources that support the Hawaiian community.

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Hawaii lawmakers target vacation rentals after maui wildfire heightens housing crisis: ‘it is bulls–t’.

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HONOLULU — A single mother of two, Amy Chadwick spent years scrimping and saving to buy a house in the town of Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui.

But after a devastating fire leveled Lahaina in August  and reduced Chadwick’s home to white dust, the cheapest rental she could find for her family and dogs cost $10,000 a month.

Chadwick, a fine-dining server, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars.

She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, driven in part by vacation rentals that hog a limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town.

Most people in Lahaina work for hotels, restaurants and tour companies and can’t afford $5,000 to $10,000 a month in rent, she said.

“You’re pushing out an entire community of service industry people. So no one’s going to be able to support the tourism that you’re putting ahead of your community,” Chadwick said by phone from her new home in Satellite Beach on Florida’s Space Coast. “Nothing good is going to come of it unless they take a serious stance, putting their foot down and really regulating these short-term rentals.”

The  Aug. 8 wildfire  killed 101 people and destroyed housing for 6,200 families, amplifying Maui’s already acute housing shortage and laying bare the enormous presence of vacation rentals in Lahaina.

It reminded lawmakers that short-term rentals are an issue across Hawaii, prompting them to consider bills that would give counties the authority to phase them out.

Gov. Josh Green got so frustrated he blurted an expletive during a recent news conference.

“This fire uncovered a clear truth, which is we have too many short-term rentals owned by too many individuals on the mainland and it is bulls–t,” Green said. “And our people deserve housing, here.”

Vacation rentals are a popular alternative to hotels for those seeking kitchens, lower costs and opportunities to sample everyday island life.

Supporters say they boost tourism, the state’s biggest employer. Critics revile them for inflating housing costs, upending neighborhoods and contributing to the forces pushing locals and Native Hawaiians to leave Hawaii for less expensive states.

This migration has become a major concern in Lahaina. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, a nonprofit, estimates at least 1,500 households — or a quarter of those who lost their homes — have left since the August wildfire.

The blaze burned single family homes and apartments in and around downtown, which is the core of Lahaina’s residential housing.

An analysis by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization found a relatively low 7.5% of units there were vacation rentals as of February 2023.

Lahaina neighborhoods spared by the fire have a much higher ratio of vacation rentals: About half the housing in Napili, about 7 miles north of the burn zone, is short-term rentals.

Napili is where Chadwick thought she found a place to buy when she first went house hunting in 2016. But a Canadian woman secured it with a cash offer and turned it into a vacation rental.

Also outside the burn zone are dozens of short-term rental condominium buildings erected decades ago on land zoned for apartments.

In 1992, Maui County explicitly allowed owners in these buildings to rent units for less than 180 days at a time even without short-term rental permits.

Since November, activists have occupied the beach in front of Lahaina’s biggest hotels to push the mayor or governor to use their emergency powers to revoke this exemption.

Money is a powerful incentive for owners to rent to travelers: a  2016 report  prepared for the state found a Honolulu vacation rental generates 3.5 times the revenue of a long-term rental.

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State Rep. Luke Evslin, the Housing Committee chair, said Maui and Kauai counties have suffered net losses of residential housing in recent years thanks to a paucity of new construction and the conversion of so many homes to short-term rentals.

“Every alarm bell we have should be ringing when we’re literally going backwards in our goal to provide more housing in Hawaii,” he said.

In his own Kauai district, Evslin sees people leaving, becoming homeless or working three jobs to stay afloat.

The Democrat was one of 47 House members who co-sponsored  one version of legislation that would allow short-term rentals to be phased out. One objective is to give counties more power after a U.S. judge in 2022 ruled Honolulu violated state law when it attempted to prohibit rentals for less than 90 days. Evslin said that decision left Hawaii’s counties with limited tools, such as property taxes, to control vacation rentals.

Lawmakers also considered trying to boost Hawaii’s housing supply by forcing counties to allow more houses to be built on individual lots. But they watered down  the measure  after local officials said they were already exploring the idea.

Short-term rental owners said a phase-out would violate their property rights and take their property without compensation, potentially pushing them into foreclosure. Some predicted legal challenges.

Alicia Humiston, president of the Rentals by Owner Awareness Association, said some areas in West Maui were designed for travelers and therefore lack schools and other infrastructure families need.

“This area in West Maui that is sort of like this resort apartment zone — that’s all north of Lahaina — it was never built to be local living,” Humiston said.

One housing advocate argues that just because a community allowed vacation rentals decades ago doesn’t mean it still needs to now.

“We are not living in the 1990s or in the 1970s,” said Sterling Higa, executive director of Housing Hawaii’s Future. Counties “should have the authority to look at existing laws and reform them as necessary to provide for the public good.”

Courtney Lazo, a real estate agent who is part of Lahaina Strong, the group occupying Kaanapali Beach, said tourists can stay in her hometown now but many locals can’t.

“How do you expect a community to recover and heal and move forward when the people who make Lahaina, Lahaina, aren’t even there anymore?” she said at a recent news conference as her voice quivered. “They’re moving away.”

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National news | hawaii lawmakers take aim at vacation rentals after lahaina wildfire amplifies maui housing crisis.

This 2023 image provided by Amy Chadwick shows where her home used to stand after a wildfire in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

Amy Chadwick, stands by map of Hawaii at her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

This July 2023 image provided by Amy Chadwick shows the backyard of her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The home was destroyed in the Lahaina wildfire. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

Amy Chadwick poses at her current home with her pets, Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Amy Chadwick poses outside her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Amy Chadwick poses her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

This 2021 image provided by Amy Chadwick shows her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The home was destroyed in the Lahaina wildfire. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

This image provided by Amy Chadwick shows her neighborhood after a wildfire destroyed her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

FILE – Burned cars and propane tanks with markings on them sit outside a house destroyed by wildfire, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE -A man sets up an umbrella in front of a Lahaina Strong informational sign, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

By AUDREY McAVOY (Associated Press)

HONOLULU — A single mother of two, Amy Chadwick spent years scrimping and saving to buy a house in the town of Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui. But after a devastating fire leveled Lahaina in August and reduced Chadwick’s home to white dust, the cheapest rental she could find for her family and dogs cost $10,000 a month.

Chadwick, a fine-dining server, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, driven in part by vacation rentals that hog a limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town.

Most people in Lahaina work for hotels, restaurants and tour companies and can’t afford $5,000 to $10,000 a month in rent, she said.

“You’re pushing out an entire community of service industry people. So no one’s going to be able to support the tourism that you’re putting ahead of your community,” Chadwick said by phone from her new home in Satellite Beach on Florida’s Space Coast. “Nothing good is going to come of it unless they take a serious stance, putting their foot down and really regulating these short-term rentals.”

The Aug. 8 wildfire killed 101 people and destroyed housing for 6,200 families, amplifying Maui’s already acute housing shortage and laying bare the enormous presence of vacation rentals in Lahaina. It reminded lawmakers that short-term rentals are an issue across Hawaii, prompting them to consider bills that would give counties the authority to phase them out.

Gov. Josh Green got so frustrated he blurted an expletive during a recent news conference.

“This fire uncovered a clear truth, which is we have too many short-term rentals owned by too many individuals on the mainland and it is b–——t,” Green said. “And our people deserve housing, here.”

Vacation rentals are a popular alternative to hotels for those seeking kitchens, lower costs and opportunities to sample everyday island life. Supporters say they boost tourism, the state’s biggest employer. Critics revile them for inflating housing costs, upending neighborhoods and contributing to the forces pushing locals and Native Hawaiians to leave Hawaii for less expensive states.

This migration has become a major concern in Lahaina. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, a nonprofit, estimates at least 1,500 households — or a quarter of those who lost their homes — have left since the August wildfire.

The blaze burned single family homes and apartments in and around downtown, which is the core of Lahaina’s residential housing. An analysis by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization found a relatively low 7.5% of units there were vacation rentals as of February 2023.

Lahaina neighborhoods spared by the fire have a much higher ratio of vacation rentals: About half the housing in Napili, about 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of the burn zone, is short-term rentals.

Napili is where Chadwick thought she found a place to buy when she first went house hunting in 2016. But a Canadian woman secured it with a cash offer and turned it into a vacation rental.

Also outside the burn zone are dozens of short-term rental condominium buildings erected decades ago on land zoned for apartments.

In 1992, Maui County explicitly allowed owners in these buildings to rent units for less than 180 days at a time even without short-term rental permits. Since November, activists have occupied the beach in front of Lahaina’s biggest hotels to push the mayor or governor to use their emergency powers to revoke this exemption.

Money is a powerful incentive for owners to rent to travelers: a 2016 report prepared for the state found a Honolulu vacation rental generates 3.5 times the revenue of a long-term rental.

State Rep. Luke Evslin, the Housing Committee chair, said Maui and Kauai counties have suffered net losses of residential housing in recent years thanks to a paucity of new construction and the conversion of so many homes to short-term rentals.

“Every alarm bell we have should be ringing when we’re literally going backwards in our goal to provide more housing in Hawaii,” he said.

In his own Kauai district, Evslin sees people leaving, becoming homeless or working three jobs to stay afloat.

The Democrat was one of 47 House members who co-sponsored one version of legislation that would allow short-term rentals to be phased out. One objective is to give counties more power after a U.S. judge in 2022 ruled Honolulu violated state law when it attempted to prohibit rentals for less than 90 days. Evslin said that decision left Hawaii’s counties with limited tools, such as property taxes, to control vacation rentals.

Lawmakers also considered trying to boost Hawaii’s housing supply by forcing counties to allow more houses to be built on individual lots. But they watered down the measure after local officials said they were already exploring the idea.

Short-term rental owners said a phase-out would violate their property rights and take their property without compensation, potentially pushing them into foreclosure. Some predicted legal challenges.

Alicia Humiston, president of the Rentals by Owner Awareness Association, said some areas in West Maui were designed for travelers and therefore lack schools and other infrastructure families need.

“This area in West Maui that is sort of like this resort apartment zone — that’s all north of Lahaina — it was never built to be local living,” Humiston said.

One housing advocate argues that just because a community allowed vacation rentals decades ago doesn’t mean it still needs to now.

“We are not living in the 1990s or in the 1970s,” said Sterling Higa, executive director of Housing Hawaii’s Future. Counties “should have the authority to look at existing laws and reform them as necessary to provide for the public good.”

Courtney Lazo, a real estate agent who is part of Lahaina Strong, the group occupying Kaanapali Beach, said tourists can stay in her hometown now but many locals can’t.

“How do you expect a community to recover and heal and move forward when the people who make Lahaina, Lahaina, aren’t even there anymore?” she said at a recent news conference as her voice quivered. “They’re moving away.”

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Hawaii lawmakers take aim at vacation rentals after Lahaina wildfire amplifies Maui housing crisis

FILE - Naldo Valentine, who lost his home to the Lahaina wildfire, puts up a light as darkness falls at a housing protest on Kaanapali Beach Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. A group of survivors were camping on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE - Carlos Lamas looks out to the sea from his spot at the “Fish-in” protest on, Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Lahaina Strong has set up a “Fish-in” to protest living accommodations for those displaced by the Aug. 8, 2023 wildfire, the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century. (AP Photo/Ty O’Neil, File)

This 2023 image provided by Amy Chadwick shows where her home used to stand after a wildfire in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

Amy Chadwick, stands by map of Hawaii at her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

This July 2023 image provided by Amy Chadwick shows the backyard of her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The home was destroyed in the Lahaina wildfire. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

Amy Chadwick poses at her current home with her pets, Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Amy Chadwick poses outside her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Amy Chadwick poses her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

This 2021 image provided by Amy Chadwick shows her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The home was destroyed in the Lahaina wildfire. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

This image provided by Amy Chadwick shows her neighborhood after a wildfire destroyed her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Chadwick moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, which she blames in part on vacation rentals hogging up limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town by similarly forcing others to leave. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

FILE - Burned cars and propane tanks with markings on them sit outside a house destroyed by wildfire, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE -A man sets up an umbrella in front of a Lahaina Strong informational sign, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE - Signs asking people to respect locals and that “Lahaina is not for sale” are seen on the side of the Lahaina Bypass, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE - People walk by a tent with a “Lahaina Strong” flag, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, at Whalers Village on Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii, as a group of wildfire survivors camps on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

FILE - Hawaii Gov. Josh Green, center, points to damage as he speaks with Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell during a tour of wildfire damage, Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer, File)

FILE - The Rev. Ai Hironaka, resident minister of the Lahaina Hongwanji Mission, walks in the parking lot as he visits his temple and residence destroyed by wildfire, Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

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HONOLULU (AP) — Amy Chadwick spent years scrimping and saving as a single mother of two to buy a house in the town of Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui. But after a devastating fire leveled Lahaina in August and reduced Chadwick’s home to white dust, the cheapest rental she and her now-husband could find for their family and dogs cost $10,000 a month.

Chadwick, a fine-dining server, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, driven in part by vacation rentals that hog a limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town.

Most people in Lahaina work for hotels, restaurants and tour companies and can’t afford $5,000 to $10,000 a month in rent, she said.

“You’re pushing out an entire community of service industry people. So no one’s going to be able to support the tourism that you’re putting ahead of your community,” Chadwick said by phone from her new home in Satellite Beach on Florida’s Space Coast. “Nothing good is going to come of it unless they take a serious stance, putting their foot down and really regulating these short-term rentals.”

The Aug. 8 wildfire killed 101 people and destroyed housing for 6,200 families, amplifying Maui’s already acute housing shortage and laying bare the enormous presence of vacation rentals in Lahaina. It reminded lawmakers that short-term rentals are an issue across Hawaii, prompting them to consider bills that would give counties the authority to phase them out.

Gov. Josh Green got so frustrated he blurted out an expletive during a recent news conference.

“This fire uncovered a clear truth, which is we have too many short-term rentals owned by too many individuals on the mainland and it is b———t,” Green said. “And our people deserve housing, here.”

Burned cars and propane tanks with markings on them sit outside a house destroyed by wildfire, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

Vacation rentals are a popular alternative to hotels for those seeking kitchens, lower costs and opportunities to sample everyday island life. Supporters say they boost tourism, the state’s biggest employer. Critics revile them for inflating housing costs, upending neighborhoods and contributing to the forces pushing locals and Native Hawaiians to leave Hawaii for less expensive states.

This migration has become a major concern in Lahaina. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, a nonprofit, estimates at least 1,500 households — or a quarter of those who lost their homes — have left since the August wildfire.

This image provided by Amy Chadwick shows her neighborhood after a wildfire destroyed her home in Lahaina, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. (Amy Chadwick via AP)

The blaze burned single family homes and apartments in and around downtown, which is the core of Lahaina’s residential housing. An analysis by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization found a relatively low 7.5% of units there were vacation rentals as of February 2023.

Lahaina neighborhoods spared by the fire have a much higher ratio of vacation rentals: About half the housing in Napili, about 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of the burn zone, is short-term rentals.

Napili is where Chadwick thought she found a place to buy when she first went house hunting in 2016. But a Canadian woman secured it with a cash offer and turned it into a vacation rental.

Also outside the burn zone are dozens of short-term rental condominium buildings erected decades ago on land zoned for apartments.

In 1992, Maui County explicitly allowed owners in these buildings to rent units for less than 180 days at a time even without short-term rental permits. Since November, activists have occupied the beach in front of Lahaina’s biggest hotels to push the mayor or governor to use their emergency powers to revoke this exemption.

Money is a powerful incentive for owners to rent to travelers: a 2016 report prepared for the state found a Honolulu vacation rental generates 3.5 times the revenue of a long-term rental.

People walk by a tent with a “Lahaina Strong” flag, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, at Whalers Village on Kaanapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii, as a group of wildfire survivors camps on the resort beach to protest and raise awareness for better long-term housing options for those displaced. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

State Rep. Luke Evslin, the Housing Committee chair, said Maui and Kauai counties have suffered net losses of residential housing in recent years thanks to a paucity of new construction and the conversion of so many homes to short-term rentals.

“Every alarm bell we have should be ringing when we’re literally going backwards in our goal to provide more housing in Hawaii,” he said.

In his own Kauai district, Evslin sees people leaving, becoming homeless or working three jobs to stay afloat.

The Democrat was one of 47 House members who co-sponsored one version of legislation that would allow short-term rentals to be phased out. One objective is to give counties more power after a U.S. judge ruled in 2022 that Honolulu violated state law when it attempted to prohibit rentals for less than 90 days. Evslin said that decision left Hawaii’s counties with limited tools, such as property taxes, to control vacation rentals.

Lawmakers also considered trying to boost Hawaii’s housing supply by forcing counties to allow more houses to be built on individual lots. But they watered down the measure after local officials said they were already exploring the idea.

Short-term rental owners said a phase-out would violate their property rights and take their property without compensation, potentially pushing them into foreclosure. Some predicted legal challenges.

Alicia Humiston, president of the Rentals by Owner Awareness Association, said some areas in West Maui were designed for travelers and therefore lack schools and other infrastructure families need.

“This area in West Maui that is sort of like this resort apartment zone — that’s all north of Lahaina — it was never built to be local living,” Humiston said.

One housing advocate argues that just because a community allowed vacation rentals decades ago doesn’t mean it still needs to now.

“We are not living in the 1990s or in the 1970s,” said Sterling Higa, executive director of Housing Hawaii’s Future. Counties “should have the authority to look at existing laws and reform them as necessary to provide for the public good.”

Courtney Lazo, a real estate agent who is part of Lahaina Strong, the group occupying Kaanapali Beach, said tourists can stay in her hometown now but many locals can’t.

“How do you expect a community to recover and heal and move forward when the people who make Lahaina, Lahaina, aren’t even there anymore?” she said at a recent news conference as her voice quivered. “They’re moving away.”

Friday, April 26, 2024 73° Today's Paper

Hawaii lawmakers advance vacation rental bill to final votes

By Dan Nakaso

April 24, 2024

Editors' Picks Maui Maui Wildfires Politics

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JAMM AQUINO / [email protected]

State Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole speaks during a news conference on Tuesday at the State Capitol.

A bill that gives counties the clear authority to regulate short-term vacation rentals, including the power to ban them, unanimously passed out of a joint House-Senate conference committee today ahead of a vote by the full House and Senate next week.

Gov. Josh Green has promised to sign the latest version of Senate Bill 2919 if it gets to his desk.

SB 2919 also attempts to clarify a 1957 law adopted two years before Hawaii became a state that was used to successfully challenge Honolulu’s efforts to clamp down on vacation rentals by prohibiting rentals between 30 and 189 days.

State Sen. Jarrett Keohokalole (D, Kaneohe-­Kailua), a lawyer who introduced SB 2919 and chaired today’s conference committee, said he wanted new language help protect against future legal challenges to efforts to regulate short-term rentals.

At the state Capitol on Tuesday , Green told a cheering crowd of Lahaina Strong members that he will sign SB 2919 if it gets to him.

Green sees converting short-term rentals into longer-term housing for residents as the fastest way to fill a shortfall of 50,000 affordable homes across the state.

The gap between affordable housing and vacation rentals was exacerbated by the Aug. 8 Maui wildfires that continues to see survivors staying in hotels while waiting to move into longer-term housing — especially in West Maui.

Green told the Lahaina Strong members Tuesday that SB 2919 “will have a positive, profound impact on our people. People will be able to get housing again.”

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Hawaii lawmakers take aim at vacation rentals after wildfire amplifies housing crisis

An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community

HONOLULU -- Amy Chadwick spent years scrimping and saving as a single mother of two to buy a house in the town of Lahaina on the Hawaii an island of Maui. But after a devastating fire leveled Lahaina in August and reduced Chadwick's home to white dust, the cheapest rental she and her now-husband could find for their family and dogs cost $10,000 a month.

Chadwick, a fine-dining server, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, driven in part by vacation rentals that hog a limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town.

Most people in Lahaina work for hotels, restaurants and tour companies and can’t afford $5,000 to $10,000 a month in rent, she said.

“You’re pushing out an entire community of service industry people. So no one’s going to be able to support the tourism that you’re putting ahead of your community,” Chadwick said by phone from her new home in Satellite Beach on Florida’s Space Coast. “Nothing good is going to come of it unless they take a serious stance, putting their foot down and really regulating these short-term rentals.”

The Aug. 8 wildfire killed 101 people and destroyed housing for 6,200 families, amplifying Maui's already acute housing shortage and laying bare the enormous presence of vacation rentals in Lahaina. It reminded lawmakers that short-term rentals are an issue across Hawaii , prompting them to consider bills that would give counties the authority to phase them out.

Gov. Josh Green got so frustrated he blurted out an expletive during a recent news conference.

“This fire uncovered a clear truth, which is we have too many short-term rentals owned by too many individuals on the mainland and it is b———t,” Green said. “And our people deserve housing, here.”

Vacation rentals are a popular alternative to hotels for those seeking kitchens, lower costs and opportunities to sample everyday island life. Supporters say they boost tourism, the state's biggest employer. Critics revile them for inflating housing costs, upending neighborhoods and contributing to the forces pushing locals and Native Hawaiians to leave Hawaii for less expensive states.

This migration has become a major concern in Lahaina. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, a nonprofit, estimates at least 1,500 households — or a quarter of those who lost their homes — have left since the August wildfire.

The blaze burned single family homes and apartments in and around downtown, which is the core of Lahaina's residential housing. An analysis by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization found a relatively low 7.5% of units there were vacation rentals as of February 2023.

Lahaina neighborhoods spared by the fire have a much higher ratio of vacation rentals: About half the housing in Napili, about 7 miles (11 kilometers) north of the burn zone, is short-term rentals.

Napili is where Chadwick thought she found a place to buy when she first went house hunting in 2016. But a Canadian woman secured it with a cash offer and turned it into a vacation rental.

Also outside the burn zone are dozens of short-term rental condominium buildings erected decades ago on land zoned for apartments.

In 1992, Maui County explicitly allowed owners in these buildings to rent units for less than 180 days at a time even without short-term rental permits. Since November, activists have occupied the beach in front of Lahaina's biggest hotels to push the mayor or governor to use their emergency powers to revoke this exemption.

Money is a powerful incentive for owners to rent to travelers: a 2016 report prepared for the state found a Honolulu vacation rental generates 3.5 times the revenue of a long-term rental.

State Rep. Luke Evslin, the Housing Committee chair, said Maui and Kauai counties have suffered net losses of residential housing in recent years thanks to a paucity of new construction and the conversion of so many homes to short-term rentals.

“Every alarm bell we have should be ringing when we’re literally going backwards in our goal to provide more housing in Hawaii,” he said.

In his own Kauai district, Evslin sees people leaving, becoming homeless or working three jobs to stay afloat.

The Democrat was one of 47 House members who co-sponsored one version of legislation that would allow short-term rentals to be phased out. One objective is to give counties more power after a U.S. judge ruled in 2022 that Honolulu violated state law when it attempted to prohibit rentals for less than 90 days. Evslin said that decision left Hawaii's counties with limited tools, such as property taxes, to control vacation rentals.

Lawmakers also considered trying to boost Hawaii's housing supply by forcing counties to allow more houses to be built on individual lots. But they watered down the measure after local officials said they were already exploring the idea.

Short-term rental owners said a phase-out would violate their property rights and take their property without compensation, potentially pushing them into foreclosure. Some predicted legal challenges.

Alicia Humiston, president of the Rentals by Owner Awareness Association, said some areas in West Maui were designed for travelers and therefore lack schools and other infrastructure families need.

“This area in West Maui that is sort of like this resort apartment zone — that’s all north of Lahaina — it was never built to be local living,” Humiston said.

One housing advocate argues that just because a community allowed vacation rentals decades ago doesn't mean it still needs to now.

"We are not living in the 1990s or in the 1970s,” said Sterling Higa, executive director of Housing Hawaii's Future. Counties “should have the authority to look at existing laws and reform them as necessary to provide for the public good.”

Courtney Lazo, a real estate agent who is part of Lahaina Strong, the group occupying Kaanapali Beach, said tourists can stay in her hometown now but many locals can't.

“How do you expect a community to recover and heal and move forward when the people who make Lahaina, Lahaina, aren’t even there anymore?” she said at a recent news conference as her voice quivered. “They’re moving away.”

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Hawaii lawmakers take aim at vacation rentals after Lahaina wildfire amplifies Maui housing crisis

Burned cars and propane tanks with markings on them sit outside a house destroyed by wildfire, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

HONOLULU — A single mother of two, Amy Chadwick spent years scrimping and saving to buy a house in the town of Lahaina on the Hawaiian island of Maui. But after a devastating fire leveled Lahaina in August and reduced Chadwick’s home to white dust, the cheapest rental she could find for her family and dogs cost $10,000 a month.

Chadwick, a fine-dining server, moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars. She’s worried Maui’s exorbitant rental prices, driven in part by vacation rentals that hog a limited housing supply, will hollow out her tight-knit town.

Most people in Lahaina work for hotels, restaurants and tour companies and can’t afford $5,000 to $10,000 a month in rent, she said.

“You’re pushing out an entire community of service industry people. So no one’s going to be able to support the tourism that you’re putting ahead of your community,” Chadwick said by phone from her new home in Satellite Beach on Florida’s Space Coast. “Nothing good is going to come of it unless they take a serious stance, putting their foot down and really regulating these short-term rentals.”

The Aug. 8 wildfire killed 101 people and destroyed housing for 6,200 families, amplifying Maui’s already acute housing shortage and laying bare the enormous presence of vacation rentals in Lahaina. It reminded lawmakers that short-term rentals are an issue across Hawaii, prompting them to consider bills that would give counties the authority to phase them out.

Gov. Josh Green got so frustrated he blurted an expletive during a recent news conference.

“This fire uncovered a clear truth, which is we have too many short-term rentals owned by too many individuals on the mainland and it is b———t,” Green said. “And our people deserve housing, here.”

FILE - Signs asking people to respect locals and that "Lahaina is not for sale" are seen on the side of the Lahaina Bypass, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. An acute housing shortage hitting fire survivors on the Hawaiian island of Maui is squeezing out residents even as they try to overcome the loss of loved ones, their homes and their community. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

Vacation rentals are a popular alternative to hotels for those seeking kitchens, lower costs and opportunities to sample everyday island life. Supporters say they boost tourism, the state’s biggest employer. Critics revile them for inflating housing costs, upending neighborhoods and contributing to the forces pushing locals and Native Hawaiians to leave Hawaii for less expensive states.

This migration has become a major concern in Lahaina. The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, a nonprofit, estimates at least 1,500 households — or a quarter of those who lost their homes — have left since the August wildfire.

The blaze burned single family homes and apartments in and around downtown, which is the core of Lahaina’s residential housing. An analysis by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization found a relatively low 7.5% of units there were vacation rentals as of February 2023.

Lahaina neighborhoods spared by the fire have a much higher ratio of vacation rentals: About half the housing in Napili, about 7 miles north of the burn zone, is short-term rentals.

Napili is where Chadwick thought she found a place to buy when she first went house hunting in 2016. But a Canadian woman secured it with a cash offer and turned it into a vacation rental.

Amy Chadwick, stands by map of Hawaii at her current home Monday, April 8, 2024, in Satellite Beach, Fla. Chadwick, a victim of the fires in Hawaii moved to Florida where she could stretch her homeowners insurance dollars while she waits for her lot to be cleared and for permission to rebuild. (AP Photo/John Raoux)

Also outside the burn zone are dozens of short-term rental condominium buildings erected decades ago on land zoned for apartments.

In 1992, Maui County explicitly allowed owners in these buildings to rent units for less than 180 days at a time even without short-term rental permits. Since November, activists have occupied the beach in front of Lahaina’s biggest hotels to push the mayor or governor to use their emergency powers to revoke this exemption.

Money is a powerful incentive for owners to rent to travelers: a 2016 report prepared for the state found a Honolulu vacation rental generates 3.5 times the revenue of a long-term rental.

State Rep. Luke Evslin, the Housing Committee chair, said Maui and Kauai counties have suffered net losses of residential housing in recent years thanks to a paucity of new construction and the conversion of so many homes to short-term rentals.

“Every alarm bell we have should be ringing when we’re literally going backwards in our goal to provide more housing in Hawaii,” he said.

In his own Kauai district, Evslin sees people leaving, becoming homeless or working three jobs to stay afloat.

The Democrat was one of 47 House members who co-sponsored one version of legislation that would allow short-term rentals to be phased out. One objective is to give counties more power after a U.S. judge in 2022 ruled Honolulu violated state law when it attempted to prohibit rentals for less than 90 days. Evslin said that decision left Hawaii’s counties with limited tools, such as property taxes, to control vacation rentals.

Lawmakers also considered trying to boost Hawaii’s housing supply by forcing counties to allow more houses to be built on individual lots. But they watered down the measure after local officials said they were already exploring the idea.

Short-term rental owners said a phase-out would violate their property rights and take their property without compensation, potentially pushing them into foreclosure. Some predicted legal challenges.

Alicia Humiston, president of the Rentals by Owner Awareness Association, said some areas in West Maui were designed for travelers and therefore lack schools and other infrastructure families need.

“This area in West Maui that is sort of like this resort apartment zone — that’s all north of Lahaina — it was never built to be local living,” Humiston said.

One housing advocate argues that just because a community allowed vacation rentals decades ago doesn’t mean it still needs to now.

“We are not living in the 1990s or in the 1970s,” said Sterling Higa, executive director of Housing Hawaii’s Future. Counties “should have the authority to look at existing laws and reform them as necessary to provide for the public good.”

Courtney Lazo, a real estate agent who is part of Lahaina Strong, the group occupying Kaanapali Beach, said tourists can stay in her hometown now but many locals can’t.

“How do you expect a community to recover and heal and move forward when the people who make Lahaina, Lahaina, aren’t even there anymore?” she said at a recent news conference as her voice quivered. “They’re moving away.”