Three Perfect Days: A Trip to Maui

The Road to Hana (or Hana Highway) is more than just a scenic drive. Spanning Maui’s northeastern coast, this famous route will take you through some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes and iconic sites. Stop along the way to explore (and eat at):

• Twin Falls, the first and most easily accessible waterfalls along the road. Less crowded than other spots, it’s a great place to have a casual hike or picnic. But make sure you bring swimming gear and a pair of shoes you don’t mind getting wet!
• Huelo Lookout, a rest stop that offers amazing views of the coastline and a variety of delicious snacks. On the menu are fresh fruit smoothies, coconut coffee, crepes and shaved ice. In the winter, you might even get a glimpse of a humpback whale peeking out of the water.
• Maui Garden of Eden, a lush arboretum where part of the first Jurassic Park movie was filmed. Take pictures of the roaming peacocks, explore the walking trails and get a rare view of Puohokamoa Falls. Then, stop at the gift shop to pick up a piece of handmade jewelry.

These are just a few of the worthwhile stops between Maui’s charming towns, starting with the town of Kahului.

Kahului

In the middle of central Maui, Kahului is where the airport and largest harbor are located. It’s also where the Road to Hana begins. It can seem like this is just a place to pass through, but there’s plenty to do and see in this commercial hub.

Right near the airport is the small Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum, where you can learn about the history and impact of sugar plantations in Maui. Walking through this exhibit takes less than an hour, but it leaves a big impression. For art lovers, the Schaefer International Gallery at Maui Arts and Cultural Center is a must-see as well. It’s considered one of Hawaii’s finest galleries.

On Saturday mornings, you can shop at the Maui Swap Meet, the largest open-air market in the area with 200 vendors. Besides the great food and bargains, it’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the community and day-to-day culture of Maui.

Looking for a unique experience? You’ll find a hidden gem in Cat Café Maui, a cozy space where you can relax with a cup of coffee and pet adorable cats—all while supporting the local animal rescue.

Before getting back on the road, make sure to try a refreshing scoop of “guri-guri”—a famous sherbet like dessert served at Tasaka Guri-Guri in Maui Mall Village.

Paia

You should be stopping in Paia for more than just gas. In the 80’s and 90’s, it was the hub for windsurfers and anyone interested in North Shore surf culture. Now, this historic little town is still a great checkpoint for surfers. Laid-back Lower Paia Park is just a short walk from downtown, while the more exciting Baldwin Beach and Ho’okipa Beach Park are both a few minutes’ drive away.

There’s more to do than just surfing here, though. Get a taste of the art scene at Cesere Brothers Photography, where stunning photos of marine life are showcased. Then explore the local shops, like the Maui Crafts Guild, which is a combination art gallery and gift shop.

For a bite to eat, head over to Paia Bay Coffee and Bar, which serves breakfast, brunch and dinner with a side of live music. For a sweet treat, we recommend the Paia Chai on the Barista Menu.

Hana

At the end of the scenic Hana Highway is the peaceful village of Hana—also known as “Heavenly Hana” because of its lush rainforests, waterfalls and relaxed pace. Locals call it the “Real Hawaii,” highlighting Hana’s strong connection to their history and culture. Take your time exploring these top spots:

• Wai’anapanapa State Park is known for its stunning black sand beach. Here, you’ll discover other unique features like the sheltered sea caves, lava tubes and native hala forest. Don’t forget to make a reservation.
• Hana Cultural Center & Museum features traditional artifacts and tells compelling life stories through displays like the Faces of Hana. The center also hosts workshops and events that showcase Hawaiian culture.
• The Hana Coast Gallery has a large collection of art from local artists, including paintings, sculptures and jewelry, some of which is available to buy.
• One of the most impressive landmarks you can visit on the island is Pi'ilanihale Heiau. It’s the largest place of worship in Polynesia and one of the most well-maintained in Hawaii.

For lunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong with a spicy Ahi Poke at Kilo’s Kitchen. If you’re in the mood for something different but just as delicious, try Thai Food by Pranee for an authentic Thai meal.

Planning to stay? We don’t blame you. Get comfortable at the Hana-Maui Resort, which offers luxury amenities while keeping you close to the beaches. Or for a more rustic islander experience, try the low-cost Hana Inn.

Maui is covered in breathtaking mountains—some more imposing than others. Surrounding each are thriving communities, full of unique things to discover. From national park tours on horseback to shopping in the upcountry, plan to spend a day in these mountains.

Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā (which means “the house of the sun”) can be seen from just about any place on the island. This massive volcano sits 10,023 feet above the Pacific Ocean and takes up three-quarters of Maui's 727 square miles. The oldest exposed lava here is said to be more than a million years old.

Spanning thousands of acres, the Haleakalā National Park lets you safely experience this unique ecosystem. We recommend visiting:

• The Haleakalā Visitor Center, one of three visitor centers in the park. If you want one of the most stunning views of the sunrise, you can make a reservation to park at the summit.
• The Haleakalā Crater, where you can walk around it’s volcanic rim and see the colorful formations up close.
• The Kīpahulu District, a remote area surrounded by lush rainforest, waterfalls and endangered wildlife. It’s also where you can view the seven freshwater pools known as the Pools of ʻOheʻo.

For the adventurous, you can also take a guided hike or horseback ride, try ziplining or paragliding and even camp on the separate campgrounds.

Shopping in Makawao

The Upcountry town of Makawao sits on the western slope of Haleakalā. A former Japanese and Portuguese settlement, it’s become a laid-back shopping hub while still holding on to a rich Paniolo (“Hawaiian Cowboy”) culture.

Another huge part of the culture is lei making. A lei is seen as a representation of life, memories and a connection to the land. At Haku Maui you can buy a traditional lei or participate in a lei making workshop. Once you’re done, stop in on these local shops:

• Komoda Store & Bakery, a mom-and-pop store famous for its guava malasadas (sugarcoated Portuguese donuts) and chocolate cream puffs.
• Pink by Nature, a high-end clothing boutique known for its modern, luxury pieces.
• Holoholo Surf, a white-walled shop that sells longboards, breezy caftans and swimwear designed by owner Julie Stone.

If you’re hungry, check out the Hali’imaile General Store for locally sourced veggies and a crunchy fried chicken sandwich. Another great option is Kiawe Outdoor, for smoked fish and charred octopus.

West Maui

The Western part of the island has been through a lot. But its warmth, beauty and local culture has ensured it remains one of the top places to visit. With that in mind, here are some of the areas, restaurants and attractions we suggest visiting in West Maui.

Māʻalaea:

• Māʻalaea Harbor has a variety of boat tours, restaurants and shopping options. It’s a great spot to take photos and relax with the family.
• If you love seeing marine life and learning about conservation, stop at the Maui Ocean Center. There are interactive exhibits, touch pools and an immersive underground tunnel. They also have whale watching on the harbor when it’s in season.
• Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop serves comfort food with a twist. Don’t leave here without trying one of their mini pies.

Kapalua:

• Kapalua Bay is great for beginner surfers and those who love a quiet atmosphere. Right on the beach is the Montage Kapalua Bay, a 24-acre luxury resort with an award-winning spa.
• From the beach, head right onto the Kapalua Coastal Trail. This beautiful hiking trail is easy to navigate, encourages wildlife photography and gives access to other coves like Napili Bay and Namalu Bay.

Ka’anapali:

• If you’re adventurous, go cliff-diving off black lava rock formations at Black Rock Beach.
• Book a reservation for the ‘lao Valley State Monument and visit the ethnobotanical garden.
• Spend time in Whaler’s Village, an oceanfront retail center where you can shop, eat and enjoy live cultural performances. Then go relax at the Hyatt Regency Maui resort and spa on Ka’anapali Beach next door.

Lahaina:

• Visit the Lahaina Cannery Mall to do some shopping in a fully enclosed, air-conditioned space. Depending on the day, you can expect to see a Hula show or an art demonstration from local artists.
• Mala Ocean Tavern is premier oceanfront dining. Eat and sip cocktails from breakfast until midnight.
• Go to Aloha Mixed Plate for that local comfort food everyone craves, including fried rice and coconut shrimp.
• Experience the best traditional food, music and dancing at the famous Old Lāhainā Lūʻau.

The southern part of Maui is known for being calm and casual. The beaches, shops and restaurants tend to be less crowded, so if your goal is to unwind, this is where you want to be. Here’s what we like to do in the serene south:

Kīhei

Kīhei isn’t as busy as the bigger resort areas but still has all the charm and convenience. Explore one of the many diverse beaches, like Kalama Beach Park—home to a skate park, a volleyball court, a surf spot called “the Cove” and more.

If you’re an animal lover, stop by the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Sanctuary Visitor Center to learn about their habitat and maybe even catch sight of a whale. Or go bird spotting on the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge boardwalk.

Looking for something to do with the kids? Hawaii Mermaid Adventures has mermaid swimming lessons taught by certified lifeguards.

After your adventure, grab a bite to eat in the Kīhei Food Oasis, a collection of 14 different food trucks and stalls in South Maui Gardens. Then, for dessert, you can’t go wrong with shaved ice at Ululani’s. Their house-made purées and syrup are legendary, but don’t forget to add the “snow cap” of sweetened condensed milk.

For an extended stay, we suggest the Maui Coast Hotel which has the features of a luxury resort while still being budget-friendly.

Wailea

Wailea is full of things to do, from Lava Tube slides to the award-winning Ka’na Kitchen waffles at the Andaz Maui resort. But some of the top things to do are right outside the comfort of the luxury beach front resorts.

A local and tourist favorite is Makena Beach State Park, divided into two sides called “Big Beach” and “Little Beach.” It’s one of the largest undeveloped beaches in Maui and one of the most secluded, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy untouched nature.

Right past Makena is La Perouse Bay where (if you come early enough in the morning) you might get to see spinner dolphins.

Wailea is also known for its sports. Play a round at Wailea Golf Club, which includes two of the best courses in Maui and a golf academy for instruction. Not interested in golfing? Head to the Wailea Tennis Club for a game of tennis or pickleball.

Then, try something affordable and delicious at Monkeypod Kitchen, a farm-to-table restaurant with excellent cocktails. Or grab dinner and a show at the irish pub Mulligans on the Blue, Maui’s only Irish-owned restaurant and music venue. There’s nothing like ending the night with good food and good music.

Know before you go

• Getting around: You will need a car to get around the island comfortably. Car rentals are available at the airport or from local agencies.
• Being a mindful visitor: Maui is starting a new chapter after last year’s tourism pause. However, many of the locals are still recovering physically, emotionally and financially from the wildfires. Being respectful and empathetic is key while visiting—which includes, but isn’t limited to, avoiding fire-affected areas and being patient with longer than usual wait times in some places.
• Showing support: If you’re interested in supporting recovery on the island, here are a few organizations that we recommend working with or donating to:
  • The Maui Strong Fund, run by the Hawai’i Community Foundation
  • Maui Recovery Fund
  • The Maui Food Bank
  • The Kākoʻo Maui Fund by The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement