Vacations can suffer last-minute changes. We’ve all experienced it. You have a choice – you can either cancel it all. Take the hit and walk away. Or you can find a way to make the most of what you CAN do. That was us just last year. We had a week planned for visiting Maui. This was our first time on the island and it was supposed to kick off Christmas Break. But then vacation dates moved as they sometimes can do. And just like that, our week changed to a long weekend.
Regardless of how long you have, if you’re planning a vacation to Maui, you’ve come to the right place because we’re about to share all of our top picks for things to do on this magical Hawaiian island. From exploring Haleakala National Park, taking a drive along the Road to Hana, and snorkeling with sea turtles, there’s something for everyone here—whether you want an adrenaline and adventure-filled getaway or some serious beach-lounging. We’ll also help you decide when you should visit Maui for optimal sunny days and activities that may be out of reach at certain times of the year. So pack your bags and join us on a tour through one of Hawaii’s most beloved islands!
But there’s one consideration before we get started – something called a carrying capacity study.
Table of Contents
What’s A Carrying Capacity Study?
As responsible travelers, it’s crucial to be mindful of our impact on the environment and local communities. A carrying capacity study is a study that reflects on a population’s size and impact on local factors such as environment, food, and water. It helps us understand the maximum number of visitors an area can sustain without causing harm to the ecosystem or diminishing the quality of life for residents. At the time of writing, Maui residents and some local officials backed a plan to study tourism carrying capacity at popular tourist destinations around the island. Keeping this in mind, we encourage you to explore Maui with respect and consideration for its natural beauty and culture.
Get Your Travel Goals Newsletter & BONUS Workbook
Getting to Maui
Kahului Airport (OGG) serves as the main gateway to Maui, welcoming travelers from across the United States and the world. Located in central Maui, the airport is conveniently situated near many popular attractions, making it the ideal starting point for your island adventure. Most major airlines operate flights to and from Kahului Airport, so finding a suitable connection should be a breeze. You can also island hop from this airport and extend your Hawaiian vacation to other islands, such as Oahu or Kauai, in the archipelago.
Best Time to Visit
Maui is a year-round destination with pleasant weather and activities available to visitors across the year. However, depending on your interests, some seasons may be more appealing than others. From December (when we visited) to April, humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters. This is a fantastic time of year for whale watching.
How Many Days in Maui Do We Need?
All of the available activities and attractions could easily fill up a week or more. However, for those with limited time visiting Maui, like we were, it’s important to plan accordingly to make the most of your stay. The Road to Hana takes a full day to complete, while Haleakala National Park can also take a full day depending on chosen hikes. Snorkeling especially if done on your own at a beach nearby your lodging, can be a half day or just a couple of hours. A scenic drive on Highway 340 can take a half day.
To see the most and best of Maui, it’s recommended to spend at least a week on the island. However, if you have a shorter stay, you can still experience some of the best the island has to offer with our Top 5 recommended activities.
Get Your Travel Goals Newsletter & BONUS Workbook
TL;DR Our Top 5 Recommended Activities
If you only have a few days in Maui, it can be overwhelming to try to fit in all the must-see attractions. Our Top 5 recommended activities are a great place to start.
- Visit Haleakala National Park, where you can witness the sunrise or sunset from the top of the volcano.
- Support local vendors and eat shave ice, a refreshing and delicious treat that’s a must-try on the island.
- Combine a day at the beach with snorkeling on your own, one of the best ways to experience Maui’s vibrant marine life.
- Enjoy the scenic drive on Highway 340, which offers stunning views of the coast and countryside.
- Hike the Acid Trail on your way to check out the Nakalele Blowhole, a natural wonder that creates a powerful spray of water as waves crash into the rocks.
Reservations to Make in Advance
Certain activities on Maui require reservations in advance, especially during peak season. If you’re planning to witness the sunrise from Haleakala National Park, be sure to make your reservation 60 days in advance. Iao Valley State Park will also start requiring reservations for out-of-state visitors starting May 1st, 2023.
Ziplining tours and fine dining reservations at upscale spots like Lahaina Grill, Mama’s Fish House, and Merriman’s Kapalua should also be made in advance to ensure availability. Snorkeling tours and surf lessons can book up quickly, so it’s recommended to book with your vendor ahead of time. Additionally, if you’re interested in taking a helicopter tour of the island, it’s best to book in advance. By making reservations with a local vendor in advance, you can ensure that you don’t miss out on any of the must-see activities during your stay in Maui.
Getting to Know the Island One Region At a Time
West Maui Mountains
Home to the lush Iao Valley State Park, West Maui Mountains offer a plethora of hiking trails, amazing views, and a deep connection with nature. Here, you can also visit historic sites, and hear about King Kamehameha, who united the Hawaiian Islands in the early 19th century.
South Maui
South Maui is synonymous with luxury and relaxation. Wailea Beach Resort offers pristine beaches, upscale accommodations, and world-class amenities, including tennis courts and golf courses. Tee off on some of the finest greens while taking in the stunning ocean views.
East Maui
East Maui is perhaps best known for the iconic Hana Highway, a scenic drive that takes you through rich green rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Along the way, you’ll encounter enchanting black sand beaches, where the warm waters invite you to take a refreshing dip.
Central Maui
Central Maui is the cultural heart of the island, housing the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, which hosts various events, performances, and exhibitions throughout the year. As mentioned earlier, Kahului Airport, the main hub for arrivals and departures, is also located in this region.
North Shore
The North Shore of Maui is famous for its charming beach towns, vibrant marine life, and laid-back vibes. Here, you can spot sea turtles sleeping in the sun, enjoy unique ocean experiences, and indulge in the local cuisine at one of the many beachfront eateries.
Upcountry Maui
Finally, Upcountry Maui is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The crown jewel of this region is Haleakala National Park, home to the dormant Haleakala volcano, which offers one-of-a-kind views of the island’s diverse landscapes. While exploring Upcountry Maui, make sure to visit local farms that produce fresh fruits, vegetables, and other delicacies. Sample some of the island’s finest produce, and support the community by purchasing their goods. This region is also known for its paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture, which you can find on display at Makawao in its History Museum. This makes for a great stop on your way up to, or down from Haleakala National Park.
Get Your Travel Goals Newsletter & BONUS Workbook
Experience Maui’s Culture
A visit to Maui isn’t complete without delving into the island’s rich cultural heritage. Traditional Hawaiian customs, legends, and practices continue to thrive and play an integral part in daily life. Experience the warmth of the aloha spirit, learn about the people’s history, and savor the flavors of traditional Hawaiian cuisine.
Cultural centers and historic buildings abound on the island and provide a glimpse into Maui’s past. Notable sites include the Hana Cultural Museum, Bailey House Museum in Wailuku, Lahaina’s Baldwin Home, and the Lahaina Heritage Museum or the Wo Hing Museum focused on Chinese immigration to the island, each offering a unique perspective on the island’s history and the people who migrated here.
Outdoor Adventures
Maui is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering countless opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural world. From the dense, tropical rainforests of the Hana coast to the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Haleakala National Park, there are trails for every skill level and interest. One popular hike is the Pipiwai Trail, which leads you through a lush bamboo forest and ends at the majestic Waimoku Falls. A very different trail is the Sliding Sands Trail, which takes you into the depths of the Haleakala crater, offering fascinating views of the once-active volcanic landscape.
The island’s crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life make Maui an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, you’ll be amazed by the underwater wonders that await. Top spots for snorkeling include Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic crater teeming with colorful fish. With this option, you can join a guided boat tour that will take you to the snorkeling sites.
But to explore the ocean’s hidden treasures without the crowds, you may wish to snorkel on your own. Honolua Bay in West Maui is a protected marine life area that you can explore on your own. Just follow a short trail through a forested area to reach the rocky shores of the bay. When we visited there was a food truck right across the road and we grabbed amazing smoothies before hitting the bay.
Or consider Maluaka Beach, or Turtle Town, where you have a better chance to swim alongside friendly green sea turtles. We also had amazing snorkeling with turtles experiences at Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach in West Maui. We recommend you start your snorkeling early in the morning as this beach is very close to resorts and can get crowded. Consider water conditions as well and snorkel only when the waters are calm to avoid strong currents.
Maui’s outdoor adventures don’t end there; from ziplining through lush canopies to horseback riding across the rolling hills of Upcountry Maui, the island has something for every nature lover. So, grab your hiking boots or your snorkeling gear (or both!) and enjoy your time on the island that truly has something for everybody.
Get Your Travel Goals Newsletter & BONUS Workbook
Tips for Travelers
To make the most of your time in Maui, it’s essential to plan your trip wisely. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to become overwhelmed, but a little organization can go a long way. Begin by prioritizing the activities and attractions that excite you the most, and allocate sufficient time to explore them without feeling rushed. If you’re short on time, consider focusing on one or two regions of the island, rather than attempting to cover everything in one visit.
Don’t forget to leave room for spontaneity – some of the best experiences come from unplanned moments, like stumbling upon a hidden beach or enjoying a breathtaking sunset from an unexpected vantage point. Finally, talk to locals and other travelers for recommendations and insider tips. They may guide you to hidden gems that you won’t find in guidebooks, making your trip even more memorable. Like the amazing Maui Wines, the only winery on Maui.
As we wrap up our travel guide to the enchanting island of Maui, it’s clear that this tropical paradise is the perfect destination for travelers seeking unique experiences and unforgettable memories. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and a myriad of outdoor adventures, Maui is truly a place where we recognize our need to respect this island and its residents as we travel to their home.
It’s crucial to remember the importance of respecting its carrying capacity and preserving its natural resources. By doing so, we can ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the magic of Maui for themselves. So, whether you’re exploring the depths of the Haleakala crater, snorkeling alongside sea turtles, or immersing yourself in the island’s vibrant cultural heritage, always remember to tread lightly and cherish the wonders of this extraordinary destination.