Maui is Road to Hana + Haleakala sunrise + best beaches in Hawaii. 5-7 days perfect. Family-favorite.
Top Things to Do in Maui
1. Drive the Road to Hana (64 miles, 600 curves)
Cost: Free.
Allow full day. 50+ waterfalls + viewpoints.
2. Haleakala Crater sunrise
Cost: $1 reservation + $15 park entry.
10,023 ft. Arrive 6am – reservation required.
3. Snorkel Molokini Crater (boat tour)
Cost: $120-180.
Submerged volcanic crater. Best snorkel in Hawaii.
4. Surf or whale watch Lahaina (winter Dec-April)
Cost: $60-120 whale tour.
Humpback whales migrate Dec-April.
5. Walk Ho’okipa Beach (windsurfing capital)
Cost: Free.
World’s premier windsurfing beach.
6. Eat at Mama’s Fish House
Cost: $80-150/person.
Book months ahead. Most romantic restaurant in US.
7. Bamboo Forest hike (Pipiwai Trail)
Cost: $30 park entry.
4-mile hike to 400-ft waterfall.
8. Visit Lavender Farm (Ali’i Kula)
Cost: $3 entry.
Garden in cooler upcountry Maui.
9. Hana Lava Tube tour
Cost: $15.
Walk inside a 600-ft lava tube.
10. Sail to Lanai for snorkel + lunch
Cost: $200-300.
Day trip. See Sweetheart Rock.
11. Eat shave ice at Ululani’s (best in Maui)
Cost: $5-8.
Try the Lava Flow.
12. Drive to Iao Valley State Park
Cost: $5 entry.
Iao Needle – 1,200-ft natural spire.
13. Hike Waihee Ridge Trail (uncrowded)
Cost: Free.
4. 5-mile out and back. Best non-Hana hike.
14. Watch surfers at Ho’okipa or Honolua Bay
Cost: Free.
Pro surfing here.
15. Visit Old Lahaina Town (post-fire rebuilding)
Cost: Free walking.
Pay respects + support local businesses.
Practical Tips for Maui
Sun protection: Caribbean sun is intense. Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, UV shirt essential.
Beaches: All beaches in Caribbean are public by law. Hotels may try to gate access – know your rights.
Tipping: 15-18% at restaurants. All-inclusive often have service charge included. Tip housekeeping $5-10/day.
Hurricane awareness: Travel insurance critical June-November. Watch weather forecasts.
Where to Stay in Maui
All-inclusive resorts dominate the Caribbean. Boutique hotels in historic centers offer more authentic experience. Book 4-6 months ahead for peak season (December-April).
FAQ
Is Maui safe for tourists?
Maui is generally safe in tourist areas. Standard travel precautions apply – watch valuables, avoid going alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
How many days do I need in Maui?
Maui deserves at least 5-7 days. Most travelers do all-inclusive resorts that include activities.
What’s the best time to visit Maui?
December-April is high season (peak weather + peak prices). May-November is hurricane season (lower prices, more risk).
Do I need a passport?
Yes – US passports required for Caribbean travel. Most countries allow visa-free entry for 30-90 days for US passport holders.
What’s the currency?
USD widely accepted. Local currencies also used. Use ATMs for cash. Cards accepted at hotels + resort restaurants.
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