Things To Do
in Maui
Maui, the second-largest island in Hawaii, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests and volcanic craters to pristine beaches. The island boasts the famous Road to Hana, a scenic drive featuring waterfalls, picturesque vistas, and charming coastal towns. Maui is also home to Haleakalā National Park, which showcases the dormant Haleakalā volcano and offers breathtaking sunrise views from its summit.
Known for its rich Hawaiian culture, vibrant resorts, and diverse outdoor activities, Maui attracts visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
- "Aloha" - Hello or Love
- "Mahalo" - Thank you
- "E komo mai" - Welcome
- "No ka 'oi" - The best
- "Kākou" - All of us
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $250 - $600
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $75 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk along Kaanapali Beach, taking in the sun and ocean breeze. Enjoy breakfast at a beachfront café with a stunning view.
Spend your afternoon sunbathing or swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Don't forget to grab some fish tacos from a local food truck for lunch.
Watch the sunset from Lahaina Harbor, a picturesque spot perfect for romantic moments. Dine at a local seafood restaurant for a taste of the island's fresh catches.
Embark early on the famous Road to Hana, stopping at breathtaking waterfalls along the way. Bring snacks and drinks for the journey, as it can take a while.
Explore Hana town and visit the black sand beaches of Wai'anapanapa State Park. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty.
Make your way back, stopping at scenic viewpoints as the sun sets. End the day with dinner at a local restaurant in Paia to reflect on your adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with beaches, volcanoes, and lush landscapes.
- Pleasant tropical climate year-round.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including Hawaiian traditions and arts.
- Outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and surfing.
- Relaxed island lifestyle and friendly community.
- High cost of living and expensive housing.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Potential for natural disasters such as hurricanes and volcanic activity.
- Tourism can lead to crowded areas and environmental stress.
- Isolation from the mainland can make travel and shipping more expensive.
Best Activities in Maui
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and unique ecosystems of Haleakalā National Park, home to the largest dormant volcano in the world. Enjoy scenic hikes with breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.
Experience exceptional snorkeling at Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic caldera known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. It's a perfect spot to see colorful fish and coral.
Take a scenic drive along the famous Road to Hana, featuring lush rainforest, waterfalls, and stunning coastal views. Stop at various points of interest along the way for hikes, picnics, and photographs.
Try surfing or take a lesson in the laid-back town of Paia, known for its beautiful beaches and reliable waves. It's a great place for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
From December to April, join a whale watching tour to see humpback whales during their migration to Maui. Witness these majestic creatures breaching and swimming in the open ocean.
Experience the thrill of ziplining through the lush landscapes of Upcountry Maui. Enjoy panoramic views of the island as you soar through treetops and across valleys.
Kite Beach in Kanaha is a popular spot for kitesurfing, offering great wind conditions and scenic surroundings. It's ideal for both beginners and experienced kitesurfers.
Kayak along the beautiful coastline of Makena, where you can explore sea caves, spot sea turtles, and enjoy the stunning ocean scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Maui with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Maui
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its stunning sunrise and sunset views, as well as its unique volcanic landscape.
A scenic drive with numerous waterfalls, lush landscapes, and coastal views perfect for photography.
Known for its black sand beach, sea arches, and dramatic coastal views, ideal for capturing stunning photos.
A crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic caldera that offers crystal clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, great for underwater photography.
A popular beach with soft sands and a picturesque sunset, perfect for capturing the essence of Maui.
Home to the iconic Iao Needle and lush greenery, making it a lush backdrop for nature photography.
A beautiful crescent-shaped bay known for its calm waters and stunning sunsets, ideal for tranquil photos.
Offers unique lava rock scenery and a chance to see sea turtles and dolphins, making it perfect for nature shots.
Experience scenic vistas of the island, lush farms, and rolling hills, capturing the diverse landscapes of Maui.
A hiking trail that leads to the breathtaking Waimoku Falls, perfect for adventure and nature photography.
Food in Maui
Maui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Hawaiian dish made from diced raw fish, usually tuna, seasoned with soy sauce, green onions, sesame oil, and various other ingredients. Highly recommended at Da Poke Shack.
Must-Try!
A hearty local favorite consisting of rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. For an authentic taste, try it at Sam Sato's.
Marinated and grilled chicken served with rice and a delicious sauce. You can find this dish at various roadside stands, especially at Huli Huli Chicken on the Road to Hana.
Slow-cooked pork that is traditionally prepared in an underground oven, known as an imu. Enjoy it at a local luau or at places like Grandma's Maui BBQ.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Maui better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling weekly market held in Kahului, featuring local vendors selling fresh produce, food trucks, crafts, and unique local products.
A casual eatery in Paia known for its fresh seafood tacos and plates. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a must-visit for street food lovers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Embrace the Aloha Spirit by being friendly, respectful, and welcoming. The term 'Aloha' reflects a way of life that emphasizes love, compassion, and mutual respect among people.
Hawaiians hold a deep reverence for their natural surroundings. Follow local guidelines while enjoying outdoor activities, such as hiking and snorkeling, and ensure to leave no trace behind to preserve the beauty of the islands.
Be mindful of local customs and cultural practices. For instance, when participating in a luau or other cultural events, follow the etiquette such as not touching or stepping on traditional items, and asking permission before taking photographs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Maui with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Maui
Ensure a smooth experience
In Maui, it is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers. The standard tip is usually 15-20% of the total bill. In bars, tipping $1-2 per drink is common. For tour guides and other services, a tip of $10-20 per person is appreciated, especially in the tourism-driven economy of Maui.
Most establishments in Maui accept credit and debit cards, although it is always advisable to carry some cash for small vendors, markets, or tips. In many tourist areas, electronic forms of payment such as mobile apps and contactless payment methods are widely accepted. It is also important to note that added service fees may apply for certain activities or during peak tourist seasons.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Maui.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is peak tourist season in Maui, with mild temperatures averaging 70-80°F (21-27°C). Expect large crowds, especially during the holidays, and higher prices for accommodations. Rainfall is more common, particularly in the northern regions.
A great time to visit, as the weather is warm and the crowds are smaller. Temperatures range from 65-85°F (18-29°C). Whale watching is popular as migrating humpback whales can be seen before they depart for summer. Prices for lodging may be lower compared to winter.
This is a popular time for families to visit due to school vacations. Temperatures can reach 75-90°F (24-32°C). While it can be busy, especially in family-friendly areas, Maui offers many outdoor activities. Prices may be moderate but can spike during peak travel periods like the Fourth of July.
Considered a shoulder season, this time offers pleasant weather with temperatures around 70-85°F (21-29°C) and less humidity. Crowds begin to dissipate after summer, and accommodation prices may drop. This is also a good time for surfing as swells start to increase.
Maui at Night
Hiking in Maui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring diverse ecosystems, volcanic landscapes, and breathtaking sunrise views. There are multiple trails varying in difficulty, including the Sliding Sands Trail and Pipiwai Trail.
A lush valley with scenic views and the iconic Iao Needle rock formation. The trails are relatively easy and suitable for families, allowing for a close encounter with Hawaii's natural beauty.
A captivating 4-mile hike that takes you through a bamboo forest and leads to the majestic Waimoku Falls. This trail offers a moderate challenge and beautiful scenery.
An educational trail that showcases the rich marine life of Hawaii. This easy hike is great for families as it winds through the coastal areas and offers opportunities for birdwatching.
A 5-mile trail that takes you along the ridges of the West Maui Mountains. This hike offers stunning views of the valley, ocean, and lush vegetation, suitable for more experienced hikers.
An easy to moderate loop trail that provides panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islands, as well as a beautiful experience of Maui's natural flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Maui through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Maui by plane.
The main airport serving the island of Maui, located in Kahului. It offers both domestic and international flights.
Located on the island of Oahu, this is the largest airport in Hawaii and offers numerous international flights. It is approximately 100 miles from Maui.
Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, it serves international flights and is around 165 miles from Maui.
Also on the Big Island, this airport handles domestic flights and some international flights, situated about 200 miles from Maui.
Located on the island of Kauai, this airport provides some international flights and is roughly 150 miles from Maui.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group includes individuals of Hispanic or Latino descent, which is a significant demographic in Maui.
The non-Hispanic White population represents a large portion of Maui's residents.
This group includes various Asian ethnicities, such as Japanese, Filipino, and Chinese, contributing to Maui's diverse culture.
This demographic includes Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders, who are indigenous to the region.
A smaller demographic group in Maui, comprising individuals of Black or African descent.
This group includes individuals who identify with more than one racial category.
This group represents a small percentage of Maui's population.
The Soul of Maui
Discover the essence of Maui through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Maui is famous for its world-class surf spots, including Peahi (Jaws) and Hookipa Beach, attracting surfers from around the globe.
Stand-up paddleboarding is a popular water activity in Maui, enjoyed by both beginners and experienced paddlers on calm waters.
Maui's vibrant coral reefs and marine life make snorkeling a favorite sport for visitors and locals alike, with hotspots such as Molokini Crater.
Maui offers numerous hiking trails, including the infamous Haleakalā National Park and the lush trails of Iao Valley, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Maui features several beautiful golf courses, set against stunning backdrops, making it a popular destination for golf lovers.
Many beaches in Maui, like Kaanapali and Wailea, have volleyball courts, making beach volleyball a popular group sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Maui, such as Choice Health Bar and Cafe Maui, offer dedicated vegan menus with a variety of options, including smoothies, salads, and grain bowls.
Vegetarian diners will find many options available at places like Aloha Mixed Plate and Taverna, which serve flavorful local dishes that cater to plant-based diets.
Several eateries, including Makena Grill and the Mercato di Vino, provide gluten-free alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy local cuisine without worry.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Maui with these cultural adventures.
