Things To Do
in Maui
Maui, the Valley Isle, offers a rich tapestry of lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches. From the crimson sunrise over Haleakalā to the clear snorkeling around Molokini, the island invites outdoor adventures and slow, island time. Its towns—from historic Lahaina to upcountry Makawao—showcase a vibrant aloha spirit and a thriving local food scene.
Whether you're chasing waves, waterfalls, or starry skies, Maui's beauty and warmth welcome all travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Maui and soak in the beautiful scenery as you drive to your accommodation. Take a moment to relax and settle in, allowing the gentle ocean breeze to wash away the stresses of travel. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the beach, feeling the soft sand under your feet.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the golden sands of Ka'anapali Beach, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun. Treat yourself to a tropical drink from a nearby beach bar while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Don't miss out on the chance to explore the nearby Whalers Village for some shopping and local eats.
As the sun sets, indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant, watching the sky transform into vibrant shades of orange and pink. After dinner, stroll along the beach and listen to the calming sounds of the waves. Cap off your evening with a nightcap as you gaze at the star-studded sky.
Rise early to embark on the iconic Road to Hana, a scenic drive filled with breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, and exotic flora. Stop at the famous Twin Falls for a refreshing swim and a chance to take stunning photographs. As you continue along the winding road, savor the lush landscapes and numerous lookout points.
Reach Hana and explore the quaint town, visiting local art galleries and indulging in fresh banana bread from a roadside stand. Take a detour to the stunning Wai'anapanapa State Park, where you can hike along the coastline and marvel at black sand beaches. Enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by the beauty of nature before heading back.
Return to your hotel and unwind from the day's adventures. Enjoy dinner at a local spot featuring Hawaiian cuisine, sampling foods like poke and loco moco. Spend the evening enjoying a luau, where you can experience traditional Hawaiian music and hula dancing.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-6 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment rent (city centre) | $2,000-2,800 |
| 🧾Groceries for a week for two | $120-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline for a week | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes
- Warm, welcoming local culture and food scene
- High travel costs and accommodation prices
- Some areas can be crowded in peak season
- "Aloha" - Hello / Goodbye / Love
- "Mahalo" - Thank you
- "E ʻoluʻolu" - Please
- "ʻAe" - Yes
- "Aʻole" - No
Places to Visit in Maui
Visit one of these nice places.
Stunning crater vistas and dramatic light, best captured at sunrise or sunset; bring warm layers.
Lush valley with the iconic Iao Needle rock formation; verdant, dramatic greenery year-round.
Long golden sands and a striking volcanic outcrop; ideal for golden hour silhouettes and sunset shots.
Striking black sands, sea caves, and rugged coastline for dramatic coastal photography.
Historic harborfront with colorful storefronts and sunsets over the Pacific; great for street photography and candid portraits.
Food in Maui
Maui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Diced raw fish marinated in soy, sesame, and seaweed; found in markets and poke bowls across the island.
Must-Try!
Rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and rich brown gravy; a classic plate lunch staple.
Meat (often pork) wrapped in taro leaves and slow steamed for tender, savory bites.
Finely shaved ice topped with colorful fruit syrups; a refreshing treat on hot days.
Coconut milk-based dessert, often served in square cuts at luau meals and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and prepared foods from local vendors.
Cluster of food trucks in Lahaina serving a mix of local and fusion dishes.
Saturday market with local produce, crafts, and snacks along with live demonstrations.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be mindful of sacred sites and burial grounds; ask permission before photographing people or cultural performances; dress modestly when visiting rural or sacred areas; practice the spirit of aloha in daily interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Maui
Ensure a smooth experience
15–20% at most restaurants; some venues add a service charge; tip tour guides and hotel staff for good service; many places accept cards, but cash is often appreciated for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very warm and relatively dry on the leeward side; water is comfortable for snorkeling and swimming; popular season means crowds and higher prices, but long days allow extended explorations.
Windward areas receive more rain; north shore swells create great surfing while caution is advised for ocean conditions; humpback whales migrate into Maui waters (Nov–Apr), offering spectacular whale watching.
Maui at Night
Hiking in Maui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, shaded trails with the Iao Needle rock formation.
Steep, scenic ridge hike offering expansive Maui views.
Long rainforest hike with waterfalls in Haleakalā National Park Kipahulu.
Airports
How to reach Maui by plane.
Main Maui gateway located in Kahului; serves inter-island and some international flights; car rental and shuttle services available.
Nearby on Molokai Island; limited schedules; accessible by interisland flights.
Small airport serving Lānaʻi; interisland flights connect to Maui and other islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Native Hawaiian families, long-term residents, and newcomers from the mainland and Asia-Pacific regions.
Visitors drawn to beaches, nature, and cultural experiences from around the world.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class waves visible on the north and west shores during certain seasons.
Maui's reefs host a variety of tropical fish and sea turtles.
Seasonal activity from November through April when humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Maui offers abundant produce and veggie-forward options; seek veggie bowls, tofu or mushroom dishes, salads, and poke labeled as vegetarian when available. When dining out, ask for no fish stock or meat and customize bowls to your preference.