Maui, Hawaii Travel Guide | Things to Do, Places to Eat, and Stay

Maui Hawaii

The island of Maui is often the rejuvenation and healing hotspot of Hawaii-island family. In fact, many celebrities and millionaires frequent the elite spas. However, Maui as an island on its own provides plentiful relaxation. Wind-rustled palms overcast the sparkling ocean, creating an atmosphere some people only see in movies and pictures. Whether you are exploring the underwater sea-life, swimming by waterfalls, watching the sunrise, or hiking through the vibrant green forests Maui remains a place of escape and exploration.

Maui, Hawaii’s second-largest island, offers a lifetime’s worth of unforgettable experiences. The island boasts a pristine coastline and jaw-dropping landscapes, all suited for magnificent sunset and sunrise sights. During the winter months, humpback whales migrate to its shores, turning its awe-inspiring crescent-shaped beachfront a haven for whale-watching hotspots. 

This Hawaiian island is blessed with the brilliant weather, particularly in May and October when the crowds are low as well. Nevertheless, both the summer and winter vacation season is excellent for catamaran trips, surfing, snorkeling, and various other activities. Regardless of when visit, there is always something new to discover in Maui. What’s more, the tropical island is a foodie’s paradise, where the locals offer farm-to-table dishes. Their authentic cuisines are a must-try on a luau buffet, alongside a traditional Hawaiian night. From recreational activities to Hawaii’s unique culture, there are endless things to see and do in the Valley Isle! Here is a list of things to do, places to eat, and where to stay on Maui. 

 

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Things To Do on the Island of Maui in Hawaii

Drive the Road to Hana

This iconic scenic drive weaves through rainforests, waterfalls, and coastal cliffs. Pack snacks, fill the tank, and take your time - key stops include Twin Falls, Wailua Falls, Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa State Park, and the Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe’o Gulch.

It’s the road trip, not the destination, on Hāna Highway that makes it a must-go. In fact, this scenic 65-mile Road to Hāna is one of the undisputed top attractions in Maui. It’s going to be a long drive due to the highway’s restricted speeds around blind corners and treacherous curves. But it’s worth it! As you approach Hana, the island’s pristine seaside cliffs and waterfalls will definitely take your breath away! 

Visit Haleakalā Crater National Park

Haleakala means “house of the sun,” and truly, you’ll be able to witness out-of-this-world sunrises and sunsets at this volcano’s crater. You can also get a bird’s-eye view of Maui central valley, flora, and fauna atop in the daytime, as well as, stargaze at night. The crater is safe to go to and even a popular site in the Summit District of Haleakalā National Park. The other section of the park is the Kīpahulu District, which is one of the main attractions of Road to Hana. 

The dormant Haleakalā Volcano rises over 10,000 feet and offers one of the most surreal sunrises you'll ever witness but be sure to book a permit in advance. If you’d rather skip the 3am wake-up, sunset is just as striking. The temperature drops drastically, so bring layers.

After sunrise, join a guided bike tour down the volcano. It’s a winding 23-mile coast that takes you through pine forests, eucalyptus groves, and small towns like Makawao. Or hike the trails in the park. There are multiple trails depending upon your desired experience. Sliding Sands Trail or Keoneheehee Trail start at 500 feet below the summit. Hike along the black sand and descend 2,500 feet down into the crater.

 

 

Night Out at a Luau

For an ultimate Hawaiian culture experience, enjoy a night at Old Lahaina Luau. A luau is a Hawaiian celebration filled with feasting and entertainment. You’ll surely leave the place feeling full from being treated like ʻohana or family by the locals, savory authentic Hawaiian dishes, vibrant cultural dances and demonstrations, and panoramic ocean views. It’s definitely going to be a night to remember.

For a cultural deep-dive, book a luau in Lahaina or Wailea. Old Lahaina Luau is known for its authenticity and oceanfront views, while Te Au Moana Luu in Wailea offers a theatrical storytelling experience with fire dancing and imu-cooked pork. It's a memorable evening that combines dinner with dance, history, and heritage.

Taste of Maui Wines at Ulupalakua Ranch

Wine tasting is probably the last thing you’ve expected on a tropical island like Maui. But the island’s unique pineapple wines, alongside clay shooting and horseback riding activities, are something you shouldn’t miss! While having a sip of this tropical wine, experience the 200-year history of ‘Ulupalakua Ranch located in Kula, Hawaii on the Island of Maui. It was once the favorite spot of Hawaiian royals and among Hawaii’s major producers of sugarcane. 

Explore the Beaches on Maui

Kaanapali Beach

Wide, golden, and bordered by resorts and walking trails. Snorkel near Black Rock, a popular cliff-jumping spot.

Kamaole Beaches

Located in Kihei, these are great for picnics, swimming, and sunsets.

Maluaka Beach

South Maui Beach that is family-friendly and great for boogie boarding, snorkeling, splashing in the waves, or just building a sand castle in the shade.

 

 

Makena Beach (known as Big Beach)

Raw, undeveloped, and massive. Ideal for photos and solitude.

Kapalua Bay

Kapalua Bay Beach is a beautiful family friendly crescent shaped beach. It has everything a beachgoer could ask for with its protective reef and typically calm waters

Napili Bay

Located just a few minute’s walk south of Kapalua, a crescent-shaped beach with calm waters that’s great for swimming, snorkeling, and playing in the sand.

Wailea Beaches

One of the most defining features of Wailea is its stunning beaches. Wailea Beach, Ulua Beach, Mokapu Beach, and Polo Beach are just a few of the gorgeous stretches of sand that line the coast. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, swim in the ocean, or try your hand at surfing or snorkeling, Wailea's beaches are a true paradise.

 

 

Daily Cliff Dive Ceremony at Pu’u Kekaa 

If you’re into diving, you should head over to Pu’u Kekaa (now commonly called Black Rock) and witness a grand leap of a professional cliff diver atop the lava rock cliffs there for free. It’s a tradition inspired by the legend of Kahekili, the last chief of Maui. According to the legends, he jumped from the sacred Pu’u Kekaa into the ocean below to prove his spiritual strength. You can snorkel the beach’s clear waters or try the cliff dive yourself if you’re brave enough! 

Snorkel in Molokini Crater

You shouldn’t miss out on Molokini Crater, the only island marine sanctuary in Hawaii. This iconic moon-shaped, partially submerged crater is popular for its abundant ocean and bird life. Also, Molokini has no soil to wash down into the water because it’s purely a rock! Hence, its high visibility underwater is consistently excellent. Due to its crystal clear sheltered waters and stunning marine life, it’s a unique and safe spot to snorkel, as well as, scuba. 

To snorkel and scuba at Molokini Crater, take a boat from Maalaea Harbor to Molokini, this crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater. The water here is crystal clear, and the marine life is world-class. Turtles, reef sharks, and hundreds of tropical fish await.

 

 

Hang out with Honu at Turtle Town

The Honu, the green sea turtles of Hawaii, is the only remaining indigenous reptile in the archipelago and is inextricably entwined with Hawaiian culture. Hawaiians considered them as a symbol of longevity and an ‘aumakua or ancestral spirit that offers lifelong protection, wisdom, and guidance. You’ll be able to meet a high population of Honu at Turtle Town in Maluaka Beach, which is a hidden gem for snorkeling. But remember, just look, don’t touch. 

Kapalua Coastal Trail

A scenic 3-mile trail that winds along the coast, ocean views, access to several beaches, and unique geological formations like Dragon's Teeth, a volcanic rock formation with jagged spires. 

Whale Watching (Winter Season)

From December to April, Maui is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. They migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters to give birth and nurse their calves. Book a whale-watching tour from Lahaina Harbor or spot them from shore at McGregor Point Lookout or Kaanapali Beach, binoculars recommended!

 

 

Explore Historic Lahaina Town 

Beachfront Yoga or Wellness Retreats

Day Trip to Iao Valley

Short-Term Vacation Rentals

Map of Maui Hawaii

Additional Maui Hawaii Articles

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