Maui is the ultimate island getaway that allows you to hike a volcanic crater, wander through historic towns, and unwind on a serene beach, all in the same place. Maui is well known for its tasty food scene, grand beaches, and the Hana Highway. We spent the second half of our Hawaiian Island honeymoon here in 2019 and were amazed at the uniqueness of each part of the island. Whether you’re looking for luxury, adventure, or simply relaxation, Maui truly has it all!
5+ days
Best Time to Visit: June to September is high season, but there’s truly no bad time to visit Hawaii
Getting Around: Rental Car
Currency: US Dollars
Where to Stay
Paia Inn $$$ – a gorgeous boutique property centrally located on the island. We loved the relaxed vibe of Paia as it feels less commercial than many other parts of the island. Paia has a lot to offer: close proximity to some amazing restaurants such as Mama’s Fish House, the unofficial starting point for the Road to Hana, and you can drive to pretty much anywhere else on the island in about an hour or less!
Travaasa $$$$ – a luxurious, remote oasis on the east side of the island in Hana. If you want more of a secluded island experience, stay here! Or splurge on one night here after spending the day enjoying the Road to Hana.
Hotel Wailea $$$$ – this adults-only resort was recognized as one of the most romantic hotels in the world by Conde Nast in 2019. Guests enjoy many perks and privileges such as yoga, fitness classes, mixology classes, and cocktail receptions. The perfect place for couples and honeymooners!
The Sheraton $$$ – located in the resort area of Kaanapali, just north of Lahaina. Stay here if you want to be near the action with great restaurants, lots of activities, and some of the best beaches at your fingertips!
Where to Eat
Mamas Fish House – a true dining experience with a rotating menu. Although it is expensive, this restaurant is not to be missed. Reservations fill up weeks in advance so book early. I’m still dreaming about the macadamia nut crab cakes and the stuffed mahi-mahi!
Aloha Mixed Plate – serves up delicious local fare at reasonable prices with amazing sunset views and one of the best happy hours on the island. Come early if you want a seat closer to the water.
Star Noodle – Pan-Asian cuisine located off the beaten path in Lahaina. The steamed pork buns are not to be missed!
Gazebo – a bustling breakfast spot known for their macadamia nut pancakes and fried rice.
Monkeypod – known for serving up arguably the best Mai Thai on the island. Go here for a pre-dinner drink!
Belle Surf Cafe – this Lahaina coffee shop and creperie is the perfect light, bright, and airy spot to start your morning. The menu is full of healthy, delightful options and some indulgent ones too!
Ululani’s Shave Ice – the most extensive list of flavors with endless combinations. They also have a location on the Big Island.
Leoda’s – chic comfort food with seemingly endless types of pies. I would recommend getting a few different ones to share!
Paia Bay Coffee – fresh coffee and delicious eats served in a cozy outdoor garden. This makes a great starting point for the road to Hana.
The Mill House – serves fresh, local fare on a tropical plantation with the Waikapū Valley as the backdrop. The Mill House feels upscale but also welcoming and friendly. I recommend sitting outside on the lanai to maximize your experience!
Where to Swim
Black Rock Beach – a beautiful stretch of sand in front of the Sheraton with a popular spot for cliff jumping! This beach is also a great place to snorkel when conditions are good.
Baby Beach – a pristine, protected lagoon on Maui’s north shore. This is one of the best places for children to enjoy the ocean with its shallow, calm waters.
Makena Beach – also known as Big Beach, Makena Beach is one of the largest, undeveloped beaches on Maui.
Wai’anapanapa State Park – Maui’s most famous black sand beach which is also a popular stop on the famous Road to Hana.
Kaihalulu Beach – a red sand beach in the heart of Hana.
Napili Bay – often less crowded than other Maui beaches. Go in the morning for great snorkeling conditions.
Kamaole Beach Park III – located off the main road in Kihei, this beach is a great spot to snorkel or watch the sunset.
Where to Go
Haleakalā Crater – while many people opt to venture to the summit of Haleakalā to watch the sunrise, I recommend visiting at sunset. It is often just as mesmerizing, if not better (and comes without the 3AM wake up call). Dress warmly, as the temperature drops quickly in the high elevation, and come early in the day if you plan to enjoy a hike along one of the many trails near the summit. Tip: if you do plan on visiting at sunrise, you must obtain a reservation here.
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm – The views from Kula Lavender Farm are breathtaking. You can view both of central Maui’s bays from here! They offer tours to view their 45 different varieties of lavender or you can explore the property on your own. Don’t forget to step into the gift shop to pick up a lavender tea or try a lavender scone! Note: this is a convenient stop to pair with Haleakalā Crater, either on your way up to view the sunset or on your way down after taking in the sunrise.
Ho’okipa Beach – a surf mecca near Paia on the north shore. Ho’okipa is a world-renowned destination to witness surfers and windsurfers hone their skills. However, swimming here is not advised unless you are an experienced local. You can often find seals and turtles laying out here too! But remember, do not approach them, disturb them, or touch them.
What to Do
Catch a Luau. Old Lahaina seems to be a unanimous favorite for its traditional demonstrations and Maui Nui is a great option if you’d love to see fire knife dancing. Note: these tend to fill up months in advance so I highly recommend booking as soon as possible.
Drive the Famous Road to Hana. The Road to Hana is one of the most highly recommended things to do on Maui and is a great way to spend a day exploring the east side of the island. Check out my complete guide to driving the Road to Hana here.
Snorkel Molokini Crater. Molokini Crater is a partially submerged volcanic crater located off Maui’s south coast. In the mornings, it offers pristine snorkeling, snuba, and dive conditions with extensive visibility. We went with the crew of Calypso, one of the biggest and best boats for a Molokini excursion, complete with a water slide, a platform to jump from the top deck, and a satisfying lunch at sea. If you prefer smaller groups, try Sail Maui.
Go on a Hike. There are many incredible hikes on Maui, at varying degrees of difficulty, and you should make time to enjoy at least one. The Waihee Ridge Trail in west Maui, Kapalua Coastal Trail near Lahaina, or Sliding Sands Trail in Haleakalā National Park are some of my favorites.
Learn to Surf or Stand Up Paddle Board – Maui is a great place to learn! I’ve heard great things about Hawaiian Paddle Sports; a local company that provides incredible ocean experiences, minus the large groups and oversized, motorized boats. They also offer whale watching experiences!
