Known as the Valley Isle, Maui is a Hawaiian paradise that offers everything from sunrise at 10,000 feet above Haleakalā Crater to swimming with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters.
Maui rises from the Pacific with dramatic volcanic peaks, cascading waterfalls, and beaches that range from golden to black sand.
Drive through the legendary Road to Hana, surf in Kihei, or watch humpback whales breach offshore; Maui encourages you to be adventurous and just deeply relax by the waves.
If you’re planning your trip, this comprehensive guide maps out the perfect Maui itinerary. You may also check out our guide on the best time to visit Maui for ideal weather and events.
Itinerary Summary
- 2 Days in Maui – Express weekend island highlights
- 3 Days in Maui – Essential and classic Maui experience
- 4 Days in Maui – Sea exploration with extended beach time
- 5 Days in Maui – Complete first-timer’s sea adventure
- 7 Days in Maui – Deep sea and island exploration
- 10 Days in Maui – Ultimate Hawaiian holiday
- Getting Around Maui
- Where to Stay in Maui
- Maui Travel Tips
The best home to stay for a Maui Escape is Wailea Ike, a condo that is perfectly positioned near several pristine beaches. It has easy access to sun-soaked sands and crystal-clear waters.
2 Days in Maui: The Power Weekend
This fast-paced itinerary works for travelers extending business trips or island-hopping through Hawaii with limited time. You’ll experience Maui’s most iconic moments without spreading yourself thin. Perfect for couples seeking romance or solo adventurers wanting maximum impact from a quick Hawaiian escape.
Day 1: Upcountry and Haleakalā
Morning: Start before dawn for sunrise at Haleakalā National Park, as reservations are required. Watching the sun rise above the clouds at 10,023 feet is otherworldly. Dress warmly as temperatures hover near freezing. After sunrise, drive down through the park’s volcanic landscape and unique silversword plants.
Lunch: Stop in Kula for breakfast-lunch at Kula Lodge with panoramic upcountry views. Their macadamia nut pancakes and Kula coffee hit perfectly after the early morning. Browse the gift shop for locally made products.
Afternoon: Continue to Paia town, a former sugar plantation village turned bohemian surf hub. Walk the colorful main street lined with surf shops, art galleries, and boutiques. Grab shave ice at Ululani’s, consistently rated Maui’s best.
Evening: Sunset dinner at Mama’s Fish House in Paia delivers oceanfront dining with fresh-caught fish. Each menu item notes which fisherman caught your dinner and where. The Polynesian ambiance and stunning location make this Maui’s most romantic restaurant.
Day 2: Beaches and Snorkeling
Morning: Head to Wailea for breakfast at Monkeypod Kitchen, where their macadamia nut cream pie is famous island-wide. Walk off breakfast on the Wailea Beach Path, a 1.5-mile coastal trail connecting five crescent beaches.
Afternoon: Snorkel at Molokini Crater on a morning boat tour. This crescent-shaped volcanic crater offers crystal-clear visibility and abundant marine life. Tours depart early from Maalaea Harbor and typically include breakfast and lunch. Swimming with sea turtles and tropical fish in 150-foot visibility is unforgettable.
Lunch: Lunch is usually provided on your snorkel tour.
Evening: Return to shore and relax at Wailea Beach before sunset. End your whirlwind Maui experience with dinner at Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante at Four Seasons, an Italian cuisine restaurant with oceanfront dining. The sunset views and sophisticated atmosphere provide a perfect finale.
3 Days in Maui: The Essential Island Experience
Three days capture Maui’s essence perfectly for first-time visitors or couples celebrating special occasions. This itinerary balances adventure with relaxation, making it ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, or milestone birthdays. You’ll experience the island’s diverse landscapes from volcanic summits to tropical coastlines without feeling rushed.
Day 1: West Maui Exploration
Morning: Start in Kaanapali Beach, one of Maui’s most famous stretches of sand. Rent snorkel gear and explore Black Rock at the north end, where sea turtles congregate. The morning light makes for clearer underwater visibility. Walk the beachfront path connecting resort properties.
Lunch: Grab lunch at Hula Grill on Kaanapali Beach. Their fish tacos and mai tais with toes-in-the-sand dining capture the island vibe perfectly. The barefoot bar serves casual Hawaiian fare with unbeatable beach views.
Afternoon: Drive north to Kapalua and walk the Kapalua Coastal Trail. This one-mile path hugs a dramatic lava rock coastline with frequent whale sightings in winter. End at D.T. Fleming Beach Park for swimming in calmer waters. The golden sand and ironwood trees provide natural shade.
Evening: Head to Napili Bay for sunset, where calm waters and a protected cove create perfect swimming conditions. Dinner at Sea House Restaurant overlooks Napili Bay with fresh seafood and island specialties. Watch the sun melt into the Pacific while enjoying poke and passion fruit cocktails.
Day 2: Haleakalā and Upcountry
Morning: Drive up to Haleakalā National Park for sunrise or mid-morning visit, both are spectacular. Sunrise requires reservations months in advance but offers ethereal above-the-clouds views. If you skip sunrise, arrive mid-morning for equally dramatic volcanic landscapes without the 3 AM wake-up call.
Lunch: Stop at Grandma’s Coffee House in Kula on your way down. This upcountry gem serves excellent coffee and homemade pastries with sweeping ocean views. The banana bread is legendary among locals.
Afternoon: Explore Makawao town, Maui’s paniolo (cowboy) country with art galleries and western charm. Visit Ocean Vodka Distillery for tours and tastings, or browse Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center. Stop at Surfing Goat Dairy for goat cheese tasting and farm tours.
Evening: Dinner at Hali’imaile General Store offers plantation-era charm with innovative Hawaii Regional Cuisine. Chef Bev Gannon’s menu features local ingredients transformed into unforgettable dishes. The drive back down the mountain under stars completes a perfect upcountry day.
Day 3: Road to Hana Adventure
Morning: Start the Road to Hana early, leave by 7 AM to avoid traffic, and maximize daylight. This 64-mile drive features 620 curves and 59 bridges through lush rainforest. Stop at Twin Falls for easy waterfall access and fruit stands selling banana bread. The journey matters more than the destination.
Lunch: Grab lunch at Hana Fresh Market or picnic supplies before leaving Paia. Once on the road, options become limited. Pack snacks and water for the winding journey.
Afternoon: Key stops include Waianapanapa State Park’s black sand beach (requires reservations), Wailua Falls for photos, and Pools of Oheo (Seven Sacred Pools) in Kipahulu. Each stop reveals different aspects of Maui’s tropical beauty. Allow 3-4 hours minimum for the drive plus stops.
Evening: Either turn back the same way or continue around the island’s back side, and the latter requires confident driving on rough roads. Stop at Mama’s Fish House in Paia on your return for a celebratory dinner. The Road to Hana deserves a worthy finish.
4 Days in Maui: The Balanced Island Explorer
Four days allows families and friend groups to explore Maui’s highlights while building in actual vacation time for pool lounging and beach relaxation. This pace works perfectly for spring break trips, friend reunions, or when you want adventure without sacrificing downtime. You’ll experience varied landscapes while leaving room for spontaneous beach days.
Day 1: South Maui Beaches
Morning: Start at Kihei’s Kalama Beach Park for breakfast at Kihei Caffe, their massive portions and local atmosphere set the perfect tone. Walk to nearby Charley Young Beach for morning swimming and snorkeling. The reef fish and sea turtles appear regularly in shallow waters.
Afternoon: Drive south to Makena State Park (Big Beach). This massive, undeveloped beach stretches a half-mile with turquoise waters and few crowds. Body surfing in the shore break provides thrills, but respect the powerful waves. Secret Beach (Little Beach) sits over the rocky outcropping for clothing-optional sunbathing.
Lunch: Stop at Nalu’s South Shore Grill in Kihei for fish tacos and craft cocktails with ocean views.
Evening: Sunset at Wailea Beach, consistently rated one of America’s best beaches. The crescent of golden sand fronted by luxury resorts creates a postcard scene. Dinner at Matteo’s Osteria in Wailea serves Italian cuisine with island flair. Their wood-fired pizzas and pasta pair with excellent wine selections.
Day 2: Molokini and Water Adventures
Morning: Full-day snorkel tour to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town. Most tours depart around 7 AM from Maalaea Harbor and include breakfast, lunch, drinks, and all equipment. Molokini’s crescent shape creates calm, clear waters with incredible visibility. Swimming alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles at Turtle Town caps the experience.
Afternoon: Your tour returns mid-afternoon. Relax at your rental or nearby beach to recover from sun exposure. The all-day boat adventure delivers plenty of activity without additional planning.
Evening: Casual dinner at Dog and Duck Irish Pub in Kihei for comfort food and live music. Or try Coconuts Fish Cafe for local-style plate lunches and fish dishes. Keep it simple after a full day on the water.
Day 3: Upcountry and Haleakalā
Morning: Drive to Haleakalā National Park for sunrise (requires advance reservations) or arrive mid-morning. The volcanic crater landscape feels like another planet with cinder cones and rare silversword plants. Hike the Sliding Sands Trail for dramatic crater views. Even a short walk reveals the park’s otherworldly beauty.
Lunch: Stop at Kula Bistro for farm-to-table lunch featuring upcountry-grown produce. The casual atmosphere and fresh ingredients showcase why Maui’s upcountry farming region is special.
Afternoon: Explore Makawao town and nearby Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. The purple fields with ocean views offer peaceful wandering and lavender lemonade. Browse Makawao’s galleries and boutiques before heading downhill. Stop at Ocean Vodka Distillery for an organic vodka tasting.
Evening: Dinner at Casanova Italian Restaurant in Makawao brings European charm to upcountry Maui. The pizza, pasta, and deli are all excellent. Live music and dancing make this a local favorite for evening entertainment.
Day 4: Chill Beach Day
Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your rental. No agenda today beyond beach relaxation. Choose your favorite beach from earlier in the trip and return with books, snacks, and sunscreen. Maybe it’s Wailea’s calm waters or Makena’s wild beauty.
Lunch: Beach picnic with takeout from South Maui food trucks or cafes. Fork & Salad offers healthy options perfect for beach eating.
Afternoon: Try stand-up paddleboarding or simply float in the ocean. This unstructured day lets you recharge before returning home. Visit local shops for souvenirs or simply nap under an umbrella.
Evening: Final sunset dinner at Monkeypod Kitchen in Wailea. Their farm-to-table menu, craft cocktails, and live music create the perfect send-off. Order the famous macadamia nut cream pie and toast to your Maui adventure.
5 Days in Maui: The Complete First-Timer’s Adventure
Five days gives first-time visitors comprehensive Maui coverage without an overwhelming pace. Perfect for families with children or couples wanting both adventure and resort time. This duration captures the island’s diversity from beaches to volcanoes while leaving breathing room for spontaneous exploration or extra beach time when you find your favorite spot.
Day 1: West Maui Coastline
Morning: Start at Kapalua Bay Beach, consistently rated one of the world’s best beaches. The crescent bay offers calm snorkeling with abundant tropical fish and sea turtles. Rent snorkel gear from nearby shops or bring your own. Morning light provides the best underwater visibility.
Lunch: Walk to The Plantation House for lunch overlooking the Kapalua golf course and the Pacific Ocean. The views stretch to the Molokai and Lanai islands. Their fresh fish preparations showcase island flavors beautifully.
Afternoon: Drive the coastal route north toward Kahakuloa. The narrow, winding road hugs dramatic sea cliffs with waterfalls and traditional Hawaiian villages. Stop at Nakalele Blowhole when swells are running for dramatic water spouts. The drive requires careful attention but is rewarded with stunning coastal views.
Evening: Return to Kaanapali Beach for sunset cliff dive ceremony at Black Rock. Locals leap from the lava promontory every evening while blowing a conch shell. Dinner at Hula Grill offers beachfront dining with Hawaiian music and fresh seafood. Their macadamia nut mahi-mahi is a signature.
Day 2: Haleakalā National Park
Morning: Reserve sunrise viewing at Haleakalā weeks or months ahead. Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunrise in warm layers as temperatures drop below freezing at the summit. Watching sunlight creep across the volcanic crater from above the clouds is mystical. The Haleakalā sunrise is one of Hawaii’s most iconic experiences.
Late Morning: After sunrise, drive down, stopping at overlooks and trail heads. The Leleiwi Overlook and Kalahaku Overlook both offer different crater perspectives. Walk short trails to experience the unique alpine desert ecosystem found nowhere else on Earth.
Lunch: Stop at Kula Sandalwoods Cafe for cottage-style breakfast-lunch with upcountry views. Their Eggs Benedict and local coffee provide perfect mountain fuel.
Afternoon: Visit Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm for peaceful strolling through purple fields. The gift shop sells lavender products, and the cafe serves lavender scones. Continue to Makawao for art gallery browsing and boutique shopping in this charming paniolo town.
Evening: Dinner at Hali’imaile General Store delivers innovative Hawaii Regional Cuisine in a historic plantation building. Chef Bev Gannon’s menu features local farmers and ranchers with creative preparations. The drive-up requires some effort, but the food is worth it.
Day 3: Road to Hana
Morning: Leave Paia by 7 AM for the legendary Road to Hana. This all-day adventure requires patience and flexibility. Stop at Twin Falls for easy waterfall access and fresh fruit stands selling banana bread. The road winds through bamboo forests, past waterfalls, and around countless curves.
Lunch: Pack lunch supplies from Paia or stop at roadside fruit stands. Sit-down restaurant options are limited along the route. Halfway to Hana offers food trucks with local plates near Hana Bay.
Afternoon: Key stops include Waianapanapa State Park’s black sand beach (requires advance reservations), Wailua Falls for photos, and Pools of Oheo in Kipahulu. Each reveals a different tropical beauty. Swimming in freshwater pools surrounded by waterfalls feels like paradise. Budget minimum 3-4 hours driving plus stops.
Evening: Either return the same route or brave the backside road around. The latter is rough, and rental companies often prohibit it. Stop at Paia Fish Market for a casual dinner after your adventure. Their fish tacos and fish and chips satisfy post-road hunger perfectly.
Day 4: South Maui Water Activities
Morning: Snorkel tour to Molokini Crater aboard a catamaran. These popular tours sell out weeks ahead during peak season, so book early. The volcanic crater’s clear waters offer 150-foot visibility on calm days. Swimming with tropical fish in this protected marine sanctuary is magical.
Afternoon: Your tour returns early afternoon. Head to Wailea Beach for post-snorkel relaxation. The gentle waves and golden sand make this perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Walk the Wailea Beach Path connecting five beaches for sunset views.
Evening: Dinner at Ferraro’s at Four Seasons Wailea delivers Italian fine dining with ocean views. Watch sea turtles surface while enjoying creative pastas and fresh seafood. The romantic setting suits celebrations or special occasions. Alternatively, Gannon’s in Wailea offers more casual elegance.
Day 5: Free Day and Local Flavors
Morning: Choose your own adventure today. Options include surfing lessons in Kihei, stand-up paddleboarding in Wailea, or simply reading at your favorite beach. Maybe visit the Maui Ocean Center aquarium to learn about Hawaiian marine life and conservation efforts.
Lunch: Hit Ono Gelato Company in Wailea for Hawaiian-inspired gelato flavors like lilikoi, guava, and macadamia nut. The perfect mid-day treat while beach-hopping.
Afternoon: Explore Kihei’s beach parks and local shops. Stop at the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary for free exhibits and whale watching viewpoints (winter season). Grab shave ice at Ululani’s in Kihei, voted Hawaii’s best, with unique flavor combinations.
Evening: Final dinner at Mama’s Fish House in Paia caps your Maui trip with legendary oceanfront dining. Each fish menu item notes the fisherman who caught it. The Polynesian decor, fresh ingredients, and unbeatable setting create unforgettable memories. Reservations are essential weeks ahead.
7 Days in Maui: The Deep Island Exploration
A full week lets you explore Maui’s hidden corners while revisiting favorites without rushing. This itinerary suits remote workers, multi-generational families, or groups celebrating milestone events. You’ll discover local haunts, have time for multiple water adventures, and truly understand why Maui consistently ranks among the world’s best islands.
Days 1-5: Follow the 5-Day Itinerary
Begin with the comprehensive 5-day plan covering West Maui, Haleakalā, Road to Hana, and South Maui. This foundation ensures major highlights before exploring deeper.
Day 6: North Shore and Paia
Morning: Breakfast at Paia Bay Coffee Bar before hitting Hookipa Beach Park, Maui’s premier windsurfing and surfing beach. Watch pros catch waves and fly kites in consistent trade winds. The colorful beach scene and dramatic wave action provide entertainment without entering the water.
Lunch: Lunch at Paia Fish Market for their famous fish tacos, ahi burgers, and casual island atmosphere. This local institution serves generous portions of fresh-caught fish. Eat on the patio watching Paia’s bohemian street life.
Afternoon: Explore Paia’s surf shops, boutiques, and art galleries. This former sugar plantation town maintains an authentic local character despite tourist popularity. Stop at Ululani’s for shave ice, then drive to Baldwin Beach Park for swimming and boogie boarding. The long stretch of sand rarely gets crowded.
Evening: Sunset at Ho’okipa Beach Park overlook, where sea turtles come ashore to rest on the sand. Dinner at Mama’s Fish House requires advance reservations but delivers Maui’s finest seafood experience. The oceanfront setting and Polynesian ambiance create magic.
Day 7: South Maui and Relaxation
Morning: Kayak from Makena Landing to Turtle Town for independent exploration. Rent kayaks from Makena Beach and paddle south along the coast. The sea caves and turtle cleaning stations offer incredible snorkeling. Guided tours are available if you prefer an expert-led tour.
Lunch: Picnic lunch at Makena State Park (Big Beach) with takeout from Azeka Maui grocery store. The massive beach provides plenty of space for spreading out with food and relaxation.
Afternoon: Your final full day deserves flexibility. Maybe try surfing lessons in Kihei, explore La Perouse Bay’s lava fields, or simply maximize beach time. Visit the Shops at Wailea for last-minute souvenirs and local artisan products.
Evening: Final sunset at Keawakapu Beach in Kihei, a local favorite with golden sand and good swimming. Farewell dinner at Ko Restaurant in Wailea showcases plantation-era fusion cuisine. Their tasting menus highlight local ingredients and Hawaiian culinary traditions. Toast your week in paradise with craft cocktails.
10 Days in Maui: The Ultimate Hawaiian Immersion
Ten days transform Maui from a destination to a temporary home. This extended stay suits digital nomads, families on extended vacation, or anyone craving complete island immersion. You’ll establish routines, discover secret beaches, venture to neighboring islands, and experience Maui’s rhythm beyond the tourist timeline. This is how locals live.
Days 1-7: Follow the 7-Day Itinerary
Complete the week-long plan, ensuring comprehensive Maui coverage from beaches to mountains, Road to Hana to Haleakalā. By day seven, you’ll know your favorite beaches and restaurants.
Day 8: Lanai Day Trip
Morning: Catch the early Expeditions Ferry from Lahaina Harbor to Lanai (about 45 minutes). This small island offers a dramatic change from Maui’s energy. Rent a jeep in Lanai City or book a resort day pass. The ferry ride itself offers whale watching opportunities in winter.
Mid-Morning: Drive to Shipwreck Beach to see the rusted WWII-era tanker stranded on the reef. The deserted beach and offshore wreck create an eerie, beautiful landscape. Four-wheel drive is required for beach access or a view from the road.
Lunch: Lunch at Blue Ginger Cafe in Lanai City for local-style plate lunches. This casual spot serves generous portions of island favorites. Explore Lanai City’s small town charm with its Norfolk pines and plantation-era buildings.
Afternoon: Drive to Hulopoe Bay for snorkeling and swimming. This protected marine preserve offers clear waters and abundant fish. The Four Seasons Resort Lanai sits above the bay if you want to explore luxury resort life. Relax on the crescent beach before heading back.
Evening: Catch the afternoon ferry back to Lahaina. Casual dinner at Down the Hatch in Lahaina Harbor serves fresh fish and harbor views. Watch boats return from day trips while enjoying sunset cocktails.
Day 9: Whale Watching and Local Experiences
Morning: Book a whale watching tour if visiting December through April. Humpback whales migrate to Maui’s waters for breeding, creating spectacular surface displays. Pacific Whale Foundation offers educational tours with marine naturalists. Even outside whale season, dolphin and sea life tours operate year-round.
Lunch: Lunch at Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop in Olowalu for comfort food and famous pies. The banana cream and coconut cream pies are legendary. This local favorite sits between Lahaina and Maalaea in a historic building.
Afternoon: Visit Maui Tropical Plantation for zip-lining, tram tours through working farms, or simply wandering tropical gardens. The farm-to-table restaurant showcases local agriculture. Alternatively, explore the Maui Arts and Cultural Center in Kahului for rotating exhibits and performances.
Evening: Attend a luau for traditional Hawaiian culture and entertainment. Old Lahaina Luau is most authentic with traditional imu ceremony and cultural performances. Ka’anapali Beach luaus offer more resort-style productions. The feast, hula, and fire knife dancing provide fitting cultural immersion.
Day 10: Favorite Spots and Farewell
Morning: Return to your favorite beach for the final ocean time. Maybe it’s Wailea’s perfect crescent, Kapalua’s calm bay, or Makena’s wild beauty. Savor the morning knowing these waters have become familiar friends. Swim, snorkel, or simply float contemplating island time.
Lunch: Final shave ice at Ululani’s with creative flavor combinations you haven’t tried yet. Sit in the shade watching the world pass by at island pace. Pick up fresh pineapple from a roadside stand as edible souvenirs.
Afternoon: Last-minute shopping at Paia’s boutiques or Makawao’s galleries. The local artisan products make meaningful gifts. Or simply return to your rental for pool time and packing, letting the experience settle into memory.
Evening: Sunset dinner at Merriman’s Kapalua offers farm-to-table Hawaii Regional Cuisine with ocean views. Chef Peter Merriman pioneered using local farmers and ranchers decades ago. The food, setting, and philosophy perfectly cap ten days of island immersion. Watch your final Maui sunset knowing you’ve truly experienced the Valley Isle.
If You Have Extra Time
If you have extra time or are looking for other things to do in Maui, consider exploring these places to make your trip even more memorable.
Day Trips and Adventures
Molokai: Ferry or small plane to Hawaii’s most authentic island. No stoplights, minimal tourism, and maximum aloha spirit. Visit Kalaupapa Peninsula, Halawa Valley, or simply experience Hawaii before development. Day trips are possible, but overnight stays reveal more.
Zip-Lining Adventures: Multiple companies offer canopy tours through upcountry forests. Piiholo Ranch Zipline and Skyline Eco-Adventures provide adrenaline with views. Courses range from gentle to extreme, with some featuring 3,600-foot lines.
Hana Overnight: Instead of rushing the Road to Hana, spend a night in Hana town. This allows exploring beyond the crowds and experiencing the area’s peace after day-trippers leave. Hana’s black sand beaches, waterfalls, and rural character deserve more than a quick visit.
Hidden Gems Worth Finding
La Perouse Bay: Drive past Makena to where the paved road ends. The lava field coastline offers dramatic hiking with tide pools and ancient Hawaiian sites. Rarely crowded, this wild coast showcases Maui’s volcanic geology. Bring plenty of water.
Iao Valley State Park: This lush valley outside Wailuku features the iconic Iao Needle rock formation rising 1,200 feet. Quick access provides rainforest hiking without the Road to Hana commitment. The valley holds significance in Hawaiian history.
Maui Wine Upcountry: Visit Maui’s only winery in upcountry Kula. The pineapple wine is unique, but they also produce traditional varietals. Tours and tastings operate daily with spectacular views across the island to the ocean.
Getting Around Maui
Maui requires a rental car for exploring beyond your resort. The island’s diverse regions spread across 729 square miles with limited public transportation. Understanding driving patterns and distances helps maximize your time.
Rental Cars: Essential for Maui exploration. Book well ahead as availability gets tight during peak seasons. Expect $50-100 daily, depending on vehicle type. Most visitors rent at Kahului Airport, where all major companies operate. Four-wheel drive isn’t necessary for most destinations, though the backside of Haleakalā requires it and violates most rental agreements.
Driving Distances: Kahului Airport to Wailea takes 30 minutes, to Kapalua 50 minutes, to Hana 2.5-4 hours, depending on stops. The island’s figure-eight shape means West Maui and South Maui require backtracking through central valleys. Morning and evening traffic around Kahului and Kihei can slow commutes. Plan 3-4 hours minimum for Road to Hana.
Road to Hana: This legendary drive requires preparation. Start early (by 7 AM) with a full gas tank and snacks. The narrow, winding road demands focused attention. Most rental agreements prohibit the backside past Hana, as the rough road risks damage. Decide beforehand whether to turn back or continue around. Either way adds hours to your day.
Parking: Beach parking fills quickly at popular spots like Wailea and Makena. Arrive before 9 AM or after 3 PM for easier access. Most beaches offer free parking, though some require meters. Haleakalā sunrise requires parking reservations in addition to entry reservations. Never leave valuables visible in parked cars.
Alternative Transportation: Uber and Lyft operate mainly around resorts and Kahului. Service to remote areas like Hana or Kapalua is unreliable. Taxis cost significantly more than rideshares. Some hotels offer shuttle service to nearby beaches and shopping areas, but this limits spontaneity.
Where to Stay in Maui
Choosing the right home base shapes your entire Maui experience. AvantStay offers premium vacation rentals across Maui’s best locations, and our curated collection ensures you’re staying in Maui’s most desirable areas.
Why Choose AvantStay
Unlike traditional vacation rentals, AvantStay properties are professionally managed with consistent quality standards. Every home features thoughtful design, high-end furnishings, and modern amenities that make your stay comfortable and memorable. Our properties span from South Maui’s sunny beaches to West Maui’s resort areas, positioning you perfectly for island exploration.
Concierge Services and Upgrades
AvantStay’s personal concierge service elevates your vacation beyond simple accommodation. We handle the details so you can focus on experiencing Maui.
- Mid-Stay Cleaning: Keep your space fresh during your stay or if you plan to extend.
- Bring Your Pets: We offer pet-friendly homes where your furry family members are welcome.
- Private Chef: Elevate your Hawaiian dining experience with a personal chef perfect for special occasions.
- Stocked Fridge: Skip the grocery store hassle and let us handle the shopping for a fully stocked kitchen.
- Transportation: Need a ride to the airport, beaches, or attractions? We arrange reliable transportation throughout your stay.
- Find Local Child Care: We can help you find and hire local sitters with detailed profiles, references, and reviews for an adults-only evening.
- In-Home Massage: Indulge in ultimate relaxation without leaving your rental. Perfect after hiking Haleakalā or a full day of snorkeling.
- Rent Baby Gear: Traveling with a baby doesn’t mean packing your entire nursery. Rent cribs, strollers, car seats, high chairs, toys, and more.
For other requests, rentals, or special occasion setups, our concierge team handles whatever makes your Maui vacation exceptional.
Book Through the AvantStay App
Download the AvantStay app to browse properties, manage bookings, and access concierge services all in one place. The app provides 24/7 support, check-in details, local recommendations, and direct messaging with our team.
Download via: AvantStay iOS Application
Download via: AvantStay Android Application
Essential Travel Tips
Before you dive and surf under the sun, a little preparation goes a long way. These essential travel tips will help you feel at ease while having the best Maui fun.
Getting To and From Kahului Airport
Kahului Airport (OGG) serves as Maui’s main airport with direct flights from the mainland US and inter-island connections. The open-air terminal reflects island casual vibes. Most visitors rent cars, though options exist for those staying in resort areas.
Airport Transportation: Rental car shuttles run continuously to the off-site facility housing all major companies. The drive takes 5-10 minutes. Uber and Lyft pick up outside baggage claim with typical costs of $50-80 to Wailea, $70-100 to Kapalua. Shuttle services like Speedi Shuttle offer shared rides at lower costs but longer travel times.
Car Rentals: Book rental cars months ahead during peak seasons (December-March, June-August). Prices fluctuate wildly based on demand. Inspect your vehicle thoroughly before leaving the lot and photograph any existing damage. Most companies offer free mileage, though fuel policies vary.
Packing for Maui
Year-Round Essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen (Hawaii bans harmful chemicals), sunglasses, swimsuits (bring multiple), water shoes for rocky beaches, light layers for upcountry and evening, comfortable walking sandals, and a reusable water bottle. Bringing your own snorkel gear saves rental costs if you plan frequent ocean time.
Dry Season (April-October): Temperatures stay warm with minimal rain. Pack lightweight clothes, sun protection, and maybe one light long-sleeve shirt for sun protection. Upcountry and Haleakalā get chilly even in summer, so bring a jacket for high-elevation adventures.
Wet Season (November-March): Maui’s “winter” brings more rain, especially on the windward side. Pack a light rain jacket and long pants for cooler evenings. Haleakalā requires warm layers year-round, with temperatures near freezing at sunrise. Whale watching season runs from December through April, so bring binoculars if you’re visiting then.
Practical Maui Preparation
Time Zone: Maui operates on Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time, three hours behind Pacific Time and six hours behind Eastern Time. Hawaii doesn’t observe daylight saving time, so the gap increases by an hour during the summer months.
Beach Safety: Ocean conditions change rapidly. Red flags mean dangerous surf and currents, so stay out of the water. Yellow flags signal caution. Respect warning signs at beaches and never turn your back on the ocean. Waves can appear calm, then suddenly surge. Rip currents are common, and if caught, swim parallel to shore rather than fighting directly back.
Costs: Maui is expensive. Expect $20-35 for casual meals, $50-100 for nice dinners, $8-12 for craft beers, and $15-20 for cocktails. Groceries cost 30-50% more than mainland prices. Activities range from $50 for snorkel rentals to $200+ for boat tours. Budget accordingly and consider grocery shopping for breakfast and lunch to save money.
Reservations: Book everything far ahead during peak seasons. Popular restaurants like Mama’s Fish House require reservations months in advance. Haleakalā sunrise viewing needs reservations at recreation.gov weeks or months ahead. Molokini snorkel tours and luaus sell out quickly. Road to Hana’s Waianapanapa State Park requires parking reservations through the Hawaii state parks.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Hawaii bans sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate that damage coral reefs. Buy reef-safe brands before arriving or at island stores. Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are allowed. Violations result in fines, and more importantly, harmful sunscreens damage the reefs you’re visiting.
More Questions About Your Maui Trip?
Planning a Hawaiian vacation involves countless details, and we’re here to help. Whether you need recommendations for family-friendly properties, oceanfront homes, or rentals with specific amenities, our team can answer questions and guide your booking process.
Contact us via:
- Email: experience@avantstay.com
- Phone: (833) 442-8268
Your Maui Story Starts Here
Maui welcomes you with aloha and endless beauty. Sunrise at Haleakalā, that perfect beach you discovered, underwater worlds where sea turtles glide past coral gardens, and the fresh fish dinner overlooking the Pacific.
The memories you create here will absolutely become the stories you’ll tell for years. Maui is the perfect place for families, couples, and groups seeking authentic Hawaiian experiences.
Ready to book your stay? Browse our top vacation rentals in Maui today.
