Ultimate Maui Travel Guide

Imagine an island of lush greenery with palm trees lining the sandy shores next to turquoise water and world-class resorts. That’s Maui. “The Valley Isle” is everything you think of when you think of Hawaii and more. Its world-class resorts and big adventure continuously make it a sought-out destination for all types of travelers. Discover the island’s best hotels, things to do, and places to eat in this carefully curated Maui Travel Guide.

The dazzling waters are brimming with coral reefs, colorful fish, sea turtles, and humpback whales. The jungles are full of adventure and staggering waterfalls. The shores range from powdery white-sand to jet black volcanic rock. And the resorts are some of Hawaii’s most luxurious. Here are all your questions about Maui, answered. If you’re still trying to decide which island is to visit, start by reading Which Hawaiian Island is Best to Visit.

This Maui Travel Guide covers the following topics. Click each link to jump to the corresponding section.

Maui – Know Before You Go

Island Overview

When to Visit

Where to Stay

What to Do

Where to Eat

Know Before You Go

Will I need a rental car? What will the weather be like? Here are all the logistical questions you have about planning a trip to Maui answered. 

• COVID-19: The testing requirements for Hawaii travel—both trans-pacific and inter-island—are everchanging. Please read the most up-to-date information for travel to Maui on Hawaii’s official website. Due to capacity restrictions, you will need to make restaurant reservations and book tours well in advance. Restaurants and tours have limited spaces available and are booking up months in advance. 

• Rental Car: Maui has so much to explore. If you plan on leaving the resort you’ll definitely want a rental car. It takes a full three hours to drive from the West side of Maui to the town of Hana in the East. 

• Overall Expense: Dining and lodging can be expensive. The island’s popularity and remote location in the middle of the Pacific drive prices up. Expect to pay more for accommodation, food, gas, and other goods. Many of the food trucks and stands are cash only so come prepared.

• Weather: The climate on Maui varies significantly based on region. You’ll find plenty of sun on the beaches of South and West Maui. Just be sure to schedule water activities in the morning as winds pick up in the afternoon. The weather on the East side is a bit less predictable so prepare for rain. Upcountry Maui can get quite cold. The temperature at the summit of Haleakala frequently drops into the 30s and 40s—Don’t get caught without a sweater!

• Traffic: Although the traffic is nothing like Honolulu, try to avoid driving through more populous areas like Kahului around rush hour. 

• Reef Safe Sunscreen: Make sure to pack (or pick up) reef safe sunscreen. Many sunscreens contain chemicals that are extremely harmful to coral reefs. In order to protect the coral reefs, Hawaii banned the sale of reef-harmful sunscreens. Do your part to protect the reefs. My favorite brand is Coola!

Maui – Island Overview

Despite being a relatively small island, Maui is comprised of a diverse set of regions—climate and activities vary for each. Here’s a brief overview of each region. 

• South Maui – Home to great beaches and and sunny weather. The the upscale resort town of Wailea and laid-back residential community of Kihei are both located in South Maui.

• West Maui – You’ll find more great beaches and weather in West Maui as well as the resort towns of Ka’anapali and Kapalua. The historic whaling village of Lahaina—Maui’s most visited town—is also located here!

• Central Maui – You’ll start your journey in Central Maui at the island’s main hub of Kahului, Maui’s most commercial town and home to OGG airport. If you need to make a Costco run after arrival, this is where you’ll find it.

• East Maui – Covered in rainforests, waterfalls, and small local communities. The Road to Hana winds through this region and Hana is its main town. Twelve miles past Hana is the Kipahulu Area of Haleakalā National Park. Here you’ll find Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls. Please note that you cannot reach the volcano summit from this entrance.

• North Shore Maui – Great surfing area with big waves (especially in the winter) and the sleepy town of Paia. The famous Mama’s Fish House and Tobi’s Shave Ice are located in Paia.

• Upcountry Maui – Higher elevations on the center of the island feature varying landscapes and the Haleakalā Volcano, whose chilly summit rests at 10,000 feet in elevation and is accessible via the National Park.

When to Visit Maui

With great weather year-round, there’s really no bad time to visit Maui. Dry season runs from April to October. Rainy season is from November to March, although the rain is minimal and this is still a popular time to visit. 

The best time to visit Maui is during shoulder season—in between the two peak seasons when the weather is best and the number of tourists is low. Shoulder season runs from September to November and April to May. Airfare and hotel rates are also lowest during these months. If seeing humpback whales is a priority for you, visit November through March as this is when the whales migrate to Maui from Alaska!

Where to Stay on Maui

With so many accommodation options, choosing a place to stay on Maui can be overwhelming. The resort areas are in West and South Maui, where the weather is dry and the beaches are beautiful. The primary resort communities are Ka’anapali, Kapalua, and Wailea. Each community is well-suited for exploring Maui and each offers excellent weather, beaches, and activities. If you’re not interested in the resort scene, consider well-located residential areas like Kihei or quiet towns like Paia (on the North Shore) and Hana. 

Best Resorts for a Honeymoon

Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux is the island’s hidden honeymoon gem and one of Hawaii’s top resorts. The intimate and luxurious adults-only property is comprised of tropical gardens, fitness and wellness studios, a stunning pool with oversized cabanas, and fabulous dining options. Click to read all about my stay at Hotel Wailea. The glamourous oceanfront Four Seasons Maui at Wailea features multiple pools, including the beautiful adults-only Serenity Pool, a spa, top-notch fitness center, delicious dining options, golf access, and more. Spend your honeymoon being pampered at this stunning Four Seasons property. The Montage Kapalua Bay in West Maui is another great honeymoon option. The property is spread out over an impressive 24-acres with suites so large and luxurious that they are referred to instead as “residences.” Spend your days in the poolside cabanas, at the spa, dining on Hawaiian cuisine at Cane & Canoe, or golfing at the Kapalua Bay Course.  

Best Resorts for Families

As a family-friendly destination, Maui has plenty of resorts that cater to groups of all ages. At Four Seasons Maui at Wailea you’ll find the kid-friendly Waterfall Pool just around the corner from the adults-only infinity pool. The oceanfront Fairmont Kea Lani offers everything from one-bedroom suits to multi-bedroom villas, a kid’s club, spa, several restaurants and more. The Ritz Carlton, Kapalua is a great family resort. The massive property has it all, including a spa, multiple golf courses, and the Ritz Kids program—where children can spend the morning learning about volcanoes or searching for sea turtles. 

Best All-Around Luxury Resorts

Four Seasons Maui at Wailea consistently comes out as one of Maui’s top resorts. Boasting pristine beach-side views, the Four Seasons property has everything from a posh spa, Peloton Bikes, top-rated dining options, a variety of pools, and much more. The Ritz Carlton, Kapalua is spread out over a massive 54 acres with all forms of sport and leisure. The resort also offers a shuttle to nearby attractions so no need for a rental car. The chic Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort is steps away from Mokapu Beach in Wailea. From here you can easily walk to The Shops at Wailea and other nearby beaches. And if the multi-level infinity pool isn’t enough for you, many of the multi-bedroom villas even have private plunge pools. The Montage Kapalua Bay is one of just five Montage properties in the world and the ultimate luxury property. The property features residential-style suites with full kitchens and living areas. Spend your days in the poolside cabanas, at the spa, dining on Hawaiian cuisine at Cane & Canoe, or golfing at the Kapalua Bay Course.  

Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Resorts

If you’re looking to branch out from the traditional resort scene, consider staying in other regions of Maui. The Paia Inn is a boutique hotel in the surf town of Paia along Maui’s North Shore. The trendy property is steps away from the beach and the many delicious food options of Paia. Hana-Maui Resort is another underappreciated property situated in Hana, a secluded oasis along the coast of East Maui’s jungle. If the oft-treacherous drive along Hana Highway is not your cup to tea, the resort offers a quick 20-minute flight from the island’s primary airport in Kahului. 

Best Things to Do ON Maui 

Beach Parks 

All of Hawaii’s beaches are open to the public meaning there are virtually no private beaches on the islands. As a result, Maui (and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands) are littered with absurdly beautiful beaches that everyone can enjoy. Don’t just sit on the beach in front of your hotel, get out and explore some of the world’s finest beaches and vibrant marine life. Here are some of Maui’s best beaches!

• Makena Beach aka Big Beach of Makena State Park (Wailea) 
• Ka’anapali Beach (Ka’anapali)
• Kapalua Bay (Kapalua)
• Wailea Beach (Wailea)
• Maluaka Beach (Wailea)
• Baldwin Beach (North Shore)

Road to Hana

Hana Highway is Maui’s most famous road. The windy path starts in Paia and runs through the lush jungle of East Maui stretching 64 miles with 620 hairpin turns and 59 bridges. This is the place to see waterfalls on Maui. The road trip is an all-day affair with more stops than you can visit on a single trip—plan out the stops you want to visit beforehand. Cell service is spotty and not all the stops are well-marked so make plans prior to embarking. You can also listen to the Gypsy Road to Hana along the way. Pack snacks, get an early start, and—when you find yourself praying for your life as you make yet another blind turn—remember, it’s about the journey, not the drive. Listed below are some of the most popular stops. 

Lahaina Town

Lahaina is Maui’s most-visited town and serves as the gateway to the Kapalua and Ka’anapali resort areas. The charismatic port has played an integral part in Hawaii’s history. Over the years it has been a whaling port, helped develop Maui’s sugar and pineapple industries, and even served as the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii. Nowadays, Lahaina is now filled with touristy shops, restaurants, art galleries and more. Come here for a morning stroll and grab a cup of Kona coffee from Island Vintage Coffee or make reservations for a dinner at the renowned Lahaina Grill. 

Haleakalā National Park Sunrise or Sunset

Drive through the clouds to the Martian landscape surrounding the volcano’s summit—a stark contrast to the island’s lush tropical beaches. At 10,000 feet in elevation, sunrises and sunsets are unlike any other here and the stargazing is unmatched. As Maui’s largest inactive volcano, the iconic Haleakalā Crater is the center of Haleakalā National Park. If you want to explore the unique terrain further, hike Sliding Sands Trails across the crater. If you plan on coming for sunrise (3am-7am), make sure to book a reservation well in advance via this link. No reservations are needed for a sunset visit. And make sure to bring warm clothes as the temperature drops into the 30s and 40s at the peak.  

Dragon’s Teeth (Makaluapuna Point)

A series of jagged black rocks positioned against the ocean have earned the name Dragon’s Teeth for their resemblance to what Dragons Teeth probably look like. The formation was created when the West Maui Volcano erupted and lava collided with the ocean, strong wind, and waves. The forces were so strong that the lava was pushed back and ultimately cooled in a manner that resembles giant piercing teeth. The striking formation is situated along the Kapalua Coastal Trail at Makaluapuna Point. 

Waihe’e Ridge Trail

Hike along West Maui’s Waihe’e Ridge for some of the island’s most scenic views—the emerald-covered West Maui Mountains against the deep blues of the Pacific. The mountains’ layers of green are reminiscent of Kauai’s famed dramatic landscape. The trail, four miles roundtrip, incorporates a 1,500 ft elevation gain so prepare for steep inclines. Look closely into the valley on your left and you’ll see staggering waterfalls only accessible by helicopter. Waihe’e Ridge Trail is a great hike for those looking to be active without it taking up the entire day. Bring a snack and enjoy a picnic with a view before cruising back down the path. 

Nakalele Point and Blowhole

Nakalele Blowhole is a powerful water spout that shoots water up to 100 ft in the air when the tides and waves roll in. The geyser-like effect is a dramatic sight against the violent seas and lava rock. A blowhole is created when the roof of a sea cave collapses. When waves crash into the cave, the water is forced up through the blowhole. Nakalele Point also features a lighthouse and half of Maui’s heart-shaped rock (the complete heart collapsed in 2020). Exercise caution around the blowhole as it can erupt unexpectedly and the wet rocks are slippery. Nakalele Point is situated northeast of Kapalua off Konoapiilani Highway.  

Snorkel or Dive Tour

With clear waters and an abundance of coral reefs and marine life, Maui is a mecca for underwater activities. You can easily snorkel off many of the beaches or book a snorkel or dive tour and let a guide show you the best spots. Just off Maui’s coast lies Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped, half-sunk volcanic caldera. The secluded island marine sanctuary is Maui’s best snorkel and dive locations with visibility reaching depths of 150 feet. The snorkel tours leave from West and South Maui and boats range from small rigid-hull inflatable rafts to large catamarans. If you’re new to scuba diving, don’t worry, there are plenty of dive companies that cater to all levels of experience. When you’re out on the water, keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales and spinner dolphins!

Town of Paia 

The unassuming surf town on Maui’s North Shore was once a bustling plantation town. Nowadays, Paia is a sleepy boho town that marks the start of Hana Highway. While many visitors pass through Paia as they embark on the Road to Hana, few stop to explore its local charm. If you’re looking to branch out from the resort areas, stay here at the Paia Inn, grab a delicious poke bowl at Tobi’s Shave Ice, or dine at world-famous Mama’s Fish House. 

Iao Valley State Park

Situated in Central Maui is the Iao Valley, a lush basin full of tropical flora and historical significance. The park is home to the 1,200-foot Iao Needle—one of Maui’s famous landmarks. The sacred valley is the location of the 1790 Battle of Kepaniwai, when King Kamehameha I sparred with Maui’s army, which used the high ground of Iao Needle as a strategic lookout. Kamehameha proved victorious and continued his quest to unite the islands. The decisive battle had a profound impact on Hawaii’s history. The Iao Needle Trail is a short half-a-mile loop that features a river, an observation deck, and superb views of the Iao Needle and surrounding nature. 

Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls

Located 12 miles past Hana, Pipiwai Trail is a four-mile round trip hike that takes you through a bamboo forest to the surreal 400-foot Waimoku Falls. This is one of Maui’s best hikes. Follow Kuloa Point Trail in the other direction along a half-mile loop and you’ll find ‘Ohe’o Gulch, otherwise known as Seven Sacred Pools. The trails are the last stop on the Road to Hana and located just inside Haleakalā National Park’s Kīpahulu District. Hiking Pipiwai Trail takes several hours, so give yourself enough time to finish the hike and get your car out of the park before the gates lock at 5:00 pm. 

Whale Watching

Every year from November to March thousands of humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm and shallow waters. The gentle giants travel nearly 3,000 miles from Alaska’s icy waters to give birth, mate, and play. The whales put on spectacular performances as they frolic in the ocean on the leeward (west and south) side of Maui. The Hawaiian Islands are a designated Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary to protect the endangered species. Grab a pair of binoculars from shore or book a whale watching tour to take in the beauty of this spectacular species.  

Lavender Farm

Rolling hills covered in purple hues is a scene you’d expect from Southern France not the South Pacific. That said, the conditions in Upcountry Maui are ideal for growing lavender. Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, near the base of Haleakalā National Park, is home to over 55,000 lavender plants as well as olive trees, hydrangeas flowers, and more. Wander the endless rows of lavender, take a tour, and peruse the gift shop. Maui’s lavender farm is a unique stop for nature lovers conveniently on the way to Haleakalā. 

Where to Eat

Maui has everything from cash-only fruit stands and fresh-caught local seafood to upscale five-star dining with views as incredible as the food itself. For the freshest seafood, head to Paia Fish Market. The island’s best Mai Tai is at Monkeypod Kitchen. Need your morning coffee fix? Island Vintage Coffee serves 100% Hawaiian coffee and great acai bowls. And to celebrate a special occasion, dine at Mama’s Fish House or Lahaina Grill. Be sure to make reservations well in advance! Here are some of Maui’s best restaurants.

Casual Eats

• Island Vintage Coffee (Lahaina; breakfast & lunch) – The popular coffee shop has been serving gourmet Kona coffee since it first opened in 1996. Grab a local coffee and acai bowl or one of their other food items for breakfast. 
• Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade (Kihei; breakfast & lunch) – Stop here for refreshing craft lemonade, açai bowls, smoothies as well as health-conscious bites. The colorful eatery has an impressive variety of fresh-pressed lemonades and açai bowls. 
• Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop (Lahaina; breakfast & lunch) – Charming café famous for their delicious pies. The shop serves—in their own words—”glorified grandma comfort food” with a focus on fresh and sustainable ingredients. Be sure to try the Banana Cream or Key Lime Pie!
• Kihei Caffe (Kihei; breakfast & lunch) – The classic American diner is a popular breakfast spot. Order at the counter (the wait can be a little long so be prepared) and then relax at their tables just across from the beach. The banana & macadamia nut French toast is delicious!
• Down the Hatch Maui (Lahaina; breakfast, lunch & dinner) – Opened by three friends who grew up together in the state of Georgia and relocated to Maui, Down the Hatch Maui serves Hawaiian fare with a Southern influence.A great spot for happy hour with deals on cocktails, local beers, and appetizers. 
• Eskimo Candy Seafood Market & Café (Kihei; lunch) – As the name suggests, seafood is their specialty. The market serves seafood caught daily by local fisherman. Order a poke bowl (some of Maui’s best) and the seafood chowder. 
• Coconut’s Fish Café (Kihei; lunch & dinner) – The popular eatery has the best fish tacos in Maui. Each taco is full of flavor and made up of a blend of 17 different ingredients. 
• Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman (Wailea, Ka’anapali; lunch & dinner) – Home to the best Mai Tai on Maui, Monkeypod Kitchen is a lively eatery designed by the award-winning Chef Peter Merriman. They don’t take reservations so go for happy hour in the afternoon if you want to avoid a wait.
• Paia Fish Market (Paia, Lahaina, Kihei; lunch & dinner) – Serving some of Maui’s best seafood, the eatery sources their fish from local fisherman and fresh produce from the Hawaiian Islands. The flagship store is in Paia, but expanded to other parts of the island due to popularity. 
• Thai Mee Up (Kahului; food truck) – Known as some of the best Thai food on Maui. Thai Mee Up is located in Central Maui near the airport and has a variety of authentic Thai dishes.  
• Geste Shrimp Truck (Kahului; food truck) – Another top food truck located near the airport.
• Ululani’s Shave Ice (multiple locations; late morning-early evening) – No trip to Maui is complete without a stop at for shave ice. The iconic treat was brought to Hawaii by Japanese migrant workers, who would enjoy the treat on their day off. Ululani’s has some of Maui’s best and with five locations around the island, you’re never far from the sweet refreshing treat. 
• Tobi’s Shave Ice (Paia; lunch) – Another famous shave ice location with a more expansive menu. If you’re hungry, get the Tuna Poke—you won’t regret it! Located along Hana Highway in Paia.
• Maui Brewing Company (Lahaina, Kihei; lunch & dinner) – As Hawaii’s largest craft brewery, Maui Brewing Company serves some of Hawaii’s best handcrafted brews and prides themselves on sourcing local ingredients. The establishment also served Hawaiian-style pub fare if you get hungry. 

Date Night Restaurants 

• Mama’s Fish House (Paia; lunch & dinner) – The world-famous restaurant is known for its five-star fresh fish, exciting flavors and incredible views. Its namesake, Mama Doris, was influenced by her time in French Polynesia to open a fish house that focused on fresh seafood and respect for the ocean. The coveted eatery first opened in 1973 and has been one of Maui’s top restaurants ever since. Make a reservation well in advance here.
• The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea (Wailea; dinner) – Hotel Wailea is one of Hawaii’s top hotels. Its restaurant lives up to this high reputation. The only Relais & Châteaux restaurant in Hawaii serves island-to-table cuisine in a romantic setting. Pair a five-course meal with sweeping ocean views from the balcony or an intimate experience under the stars in the garden.  
• Lahaina Grill (Lahaina; dinner) – The contemporary bistro is consistently rated as one of the top restaurants not just in Maui, but in all of in the United Sates. The restaurant, which first opened in 1990, serves New American cuisine alongside artwork by Jan Kasprzycki, Maui’s top colorist. Order the sesame seed crusted ahi or sautéed mahi-mahi.
• Merriman’s – Maui (Kapalua; dinner) – A product of award-winning Chef Peter Merriman, the restaurant highlights farm-to-table food and sources 90% of its ingredients on the island. Enjoy a four course, prix-fixe meal while the lights fade and the colors bloom over the Pacific.  
• Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante (Wailea; lunch & dinner) – The oceanfront outdoor restaurant is the perfect spot to watch the sunset while enjoying contemporary Italian cuisine. Order the Bruschetta, Seafood Cobb Salad, and Pappardelle Bolognese for dinner along with the Spritz Tropicale to drink. Located at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea Resort.