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Haleakala National Park is a must-do on the island. Head up to the volcano top for a sunrise or a sunset, or hike one of the many trails in the area. Haleakala has a little bit of everything – Mars-like volcano views, forests, waterfalls, and colorful birds. Update: sunrise at Haleakala National Park now requries advance reservations; book here. It is EXTREMELY challenging to secure tickets, so I highly recommend you book this sunrise tour to guarantee you don’t miss these beautiful views!

Beaches need no explanation – surfing, tanning, swimming, snorkeling, beach volleyball, BBQ – go enjoy some Vitamin D! But make sure you sunscreen up AND make sure that you either buy sunscreen on the island or check that your sunscreen is reef safe as Hawaii has banned sunscreens with certain chemicals that could damage coral populations.

The Road to Hana is famous for its incredible waterfalls and stunning ocean cliff views around every bend. That being said, make sure you are careful with your rental car and drive cautiously. The roads are busy and narrow, with lots of small bridges where you must yield to oncoming traffic. Finally, make sure you gas up in Paia, your last place to do so before Hana itself. Nervous about the drive? You can jump on this full-day tour, where you will also learn about Hawai’i’s rich history from a local guide, and get a free lunch!

Iao Valley State Park is a lush, gorgeous location that was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1972. Fog often is trapped in the valley and creates a moody look to your photographs. Best way to see it? Sign up for this private tour where you’ll stop at beautiful scenic areas, taste some local food, and take a guided tour of a local dairy farm for a full upcountry experience. Upcountry Maui is SO underrated and you shouldn’t miss it!

The ocean sealife is truly spectacular on the islands. See the colorful fishes while snorkeling, or if getting in the water isn’t your cup of tea, visit the Maui Ocean Center, the island’s aquarium and oceanography center. My favorite places to snorkel are Molokini and Turtle Town – highly recommend this tour from GetYourGuide because you’ll get a chance to learn about the reef from experts, Marine Naturalists, who often know EXACTLY where to see the best wildlife! 

One note on wildlife on the islands – if you see a turtle in the water and especially on land, PLEASE maintain a thirty foot distance at ALL TIMES. No going up and trying to take a selfie, no touching them – only take your photographs from a safe distance. Coming any closer to the turtle may cause it stress and can be harmful to its health and its life – i.e. not worth the selfie.

Or anywhere that faces east or east-ish – where the sun will rise! The best part is that you will likely have the beach to yourself, unlike at sunset, since most people will be sleeping in at that time.

OR ANY BEACH, really. Every sunset is amazing in Maui, it really defies physics. Head to the beach and catch all that beautiful glory. If you don’t see at least one sunset in Maui, were you even on the island?

The islands of Hawaii hosts many wondrously colorful endemic birds. Pictured here is the stunning ‘I’wi bird. Check out hotspots for birding here.

Upcountry Maui refers to the area nestled in the hills of Haleakala. Scenic drives, wineries, lavender farms, farmers markets, and ranches all make this a unique area. I highly recommend the burgers at the Ulupalakua Ranch Store.

Some things that didn’t make the main list but are nevertheless worth mentioning are shopping, paddleboarding, kayaking, scuba diving on Molokini, and whale watching).

Kihei and Lahaina are bursting with shopping opportunities, which is a great thing to do during one of Maui’s inevitable rain storms.

Scuba diving around the island is fantastic, but it’s even better on Molokini or Lanai Cathedrals with a boat tour. This particular tour has an expert guide, who will pick two premier dive spots to ensure an unforgettable experience, and you’ll spend 30% longer underwater than with other local diving companies.

Finally, if you are there during the winter months, definitely take a boat out to see the whales – peak season is November-May. It is an experience that you won’t forget.

There are many places to stay on the island – the main places being Kihei, Wailea, Lahaina, Kapalua and Hana. The hotels on the island can be expensive but are all phenomenal, but I always love staying in a condo so I can do my own cooking and feel a little more at home. For our trip, we made our base in Kihei, so we stayed at the condos at the Hale Kamaole Co-Op, and I HIGHLY recommend units 170, 174, and/or 176.

If you prefer hotels, I recommend:

• Andaz Maui in Wailea – which has an infinity pool, INCREDIBLE restaurants, private hiking tours (!), kayak and surfing lessons, and of course a spa – it truly just a beautiful place, easily my top favorite hotel in Maui
• Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea – a fantastic stay that is family-friendly and boasts both suites and beachfront villas, and of course a pool, waterslide, 24-hour gym, and more
• The Plantation Inn in Lahaina – a perfect location to explore artsy Lahaina, with traditional decor, breakfast, and fairly affordable rates
• Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa in Lahaina – beach access, an onsite luau, pools, a grotto bar (!), and lanais in every guest room
• The Hana-Maui Resort in Hana – a rustic and honestly more authentic-feeling set of cottages that will get you away from the big tourist crowds on other parts of the island, plus you are RIGHT in the middle of some of the most beautiful waterfalls and views the island has to offer
• Montage Kapalua Bay in Kapalua – the luxury pick with three restaurants, a spa with personalized treatments, and epic cliff views

Kihei Caffe – amazing fried rice
Da Kitchen – Kahlua pork that is to die for
Wow Wow Lemonade – my favorite Açai bowls in the world
Kō – one of the many delicious upscale restaurants in Kihei, my favorite for a romantic night

Kimos – known for their famous hula pie
Aloha Mixed Plate – features a beachy patio and traditional Hawaiian fare
Pacific’O – a good romantic place for seafood and sunsets

Mama’s Fish House in Paia – start with seafood and ocean views before your drive
Halfway to Hana stand – midway to Hana, stop at this stand for banana bread that will make your life complete
Huli Huli Chicken – once in Hana, grab some delicious chicken to refuel on your adventure

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