Maui – Experience Fun and Adventure Like a Local
We talk to lots of friends and acquaintances that have gone to Maui, and are continually surprised by their response when we ask what they did. For many, the first stop is Costco for groceries after picking up their rental car and heading to their timeshare in Kaanapali. The next seven to ten days is spent soaking up the sun during the day and sipping on tropical drinks. Sometimes they never even leave their timeshare property before its time to fly home and go back to the real world.
We think spending a relaxing week in paradise without a care in the world, beaching, eating, drinking, and not straying from the resort sounds like the start of a good plan. Venture out beyond the resort as we do and kick your vacation up to Maui Wowee!
We are lucky to have family that lives on Maui. This has given us the opportunity to spend a lot of time there and to benefit from local insider information and secrets.
Below are some of our favorite places to go and things to do – let us know if you go to these places or have favorite places to go in Maui that we missed.
First, let’s talk about the lay of the land. Maui is a large island, actually two islands that have grown together as a result of volcanic activity. There is east and west Maui, each created by a volcano, with the lava flowing together to make it one large island with the connection being the lowlands that join.
We were surprised to learn that ten of the fourteen climactic zones of the earth are found in the Hawaiian Islands! Although, the beaches are fabulous, there’s a lot more to see and experience in Maui.
Whale Watching
Humpback whales migrate to the warm shallow waters near Maui each winter from November to May with peak season running January to March. The area between West Maui and the nearby island of Lanai is the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. It is possible to see whales breaching and tail slapping from shore but the most exciting and interesting whale watching happens on the water. We like whale watching with the Pacific Whale Foundation. During the whale season, the foundation runs several daily tours departing from Lahaina and Ma’alaea Harbors.
We have see tons of whales on the large boats but had an even more amazing experience riding in the smaller zodiacs. A zodiac will get you closer to the action (and water). The water really reflects the sun, so be sure to take sun glasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket as it can be cool and windy at times on the water.
Private Charters
Another whale watching option if you have a group of a few people is to charter a sailboat out of Lahaina harbor. We have sailed onboard the Scotch Mist a number of times, a sailboat out of Lahaina. Bring some appetizers, beer and wine to enjoy onboard while you kick back and enjoy the view of Maui from the ocean.
Sailing is an extraordinarily quiet and relaxing experience. Our very first time on Scotch Mist we saw something odd floating in the sea and neither the crew nor us could figure out what we were looking at. As we got closer, we realized it was a brand new baby whale with its snout just above water. Momma was down below supporting baby to breath as it acclimated to its new world. A truly memorable experience for us! We dropped anchor and just floated there watching the scene for an hour or so. Finally, as it was time to sail back, Momma whale swam up behind us and did a huge breach and tail slap as if to say she was sorry we were leaving.
Mt. Haleakala & Haleakala National Park
Mt. Haleakala is the volcano that formed East Maui. A delightful Hawaiian legend explains that the goddess Hina complained one day to her son Maui that the sun moved across the sky so fast that she couldn’t get her cloth to dry, so the next day Maui hid on the top of Haleakala and caught the sun as it passed only agreeing to release the sun once it had agreed to cross the sky more slowly. Haleakala is 10,023 feet at the summit and offers spectacular views of West Maul and on clear days the Big Island’s Mauna Kea volcano is visible.
The sunset from here is breathtaking. There are many things to take in including the moonscape of the terrain, exotic plants and endangered birds. You can hike into the crater on well-marked trails or watch the sunset. The National Parks Service has a robust website offering maps, visit guides, educational information and a live webcam. The drive to the summit will take you though the beautiful ranch region known as upcountry Maui.
Old Lahaina Luau
No trip to Hawaii is complete without a luau. We especially enjoyed the Old Lahaina Luau. The surroundings are lovely and lush; the performances are great, not cheesy. On arrival, you are transported to another time and greeted with Aloha, fresh flower lei, and a Mai Tai. Before the feast begins the ceremonial removing of the kalua pig from the umu, (fire pit) is a fun experience.
Entertainment is first rate throughout the evening and is a great experience for kids and adults beginning with the story of the Hawaiians and then Hula as it was meant to be enjoyed. Reservations are needed.
Ho’oikpa Beach
Ho’oikpa Beach and Lookout also known as JAWS is a great locale to hang out on the beach as there is always entertainment in the form of local surfers and kite-surfers enjoying the waves. This makes a great stop to hang on the beach, sunbath, play in the water, have a picnic lunch, or if you are just driving past and don’t have a swimsuit, there is a lookout on the cliff overlooking the surf offering spectacular views and photo opportunities.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a great way to experience the amazing variety and colors of tropical fish, sea anemones and coral just below the surface of the water. If you are lucky, you may even see a sea turtle or two. There are places all over the island where you can rent or buy a mask and snorkel. Fins aren’t necessary, but some folks like them as they make it easier to move around. In addition, a small kick board can be useful; as this will allow you to float without a lot of effort.
Best Spots to Snorkel
As for the best spots, most people will agree that Molokini Crater is the best and it has very dense marine life and coral formations. The depth is about 40 feet and is a volcanic crater about two and a half miles off Maui. Getting to Molokini requires you to either have a boat, or join a snorkeling excursion. If you do a tour, snorkeling equipment is provided. Two other choice spots are Honolau Bay and Ahihi Kinau Natural Bay Reserve. Honolau Bay is about 30 feet deep and located just north of Kapalua off the Honoaplillana Highway and is about 8 miles from the Kaanapali resorts.
There are also other good snorkeling areas all around the island and between the Kaanapali resorts and Honolua Bay. Some we like are Black Rock and Slaughterhouse Beach. Kanahena Cove in the Ahihi Kinau Natural Bay Reserve is about 10 feet deep and about 13 miles south of Kiehi. This is a young and delicate eco-reef system in Maui, so it is better suited for small groups of people, and is a good place to go if you have small children or people that may not be comfortable being in open water.
Highway to Hana
The Highway to Hana is a memorable experience and worth the days’ time to explore. The Hana Highway is nearly a 65 mile drive along some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet. It is also a challenging drive and not for those weak-of-heart as there are more than 600 curves (10 for each mile) and 54 bridges. There are also stretches of road that are single lanes and blind curves requiring attention to the road and the other drivers while the scenery is constantly demanding your attention. The amazing views and vistas are just two of the reasons to make the trek to Hana.
There is almost an unlimited number to sights, stops, hikes, and destinations along the journey and awaiting you in Hana. The drive will typically take about 2 ½ hours in each direction. Much of the drive is in tropical rain forests with panoramic ocean views. There are more than 20+ stops along the way that you can choose from to stop, take pictures, hike, and swim, stretch your legs, or just experience the wonder of paradise.
The 20+ stop along the Highway to Hana also means there is a stop or sight on average almost every 3 miles. A good guide if you choose to take the adventure would be to check out the Road to Hana site that provides a guided tour by mile marker that can be found at Road to Hana.
Coastal Redwoods
Coastal Redwoods in Hawaii? Really? Yes! A walk through these majestic trees can only be described as spiritual. Planted in the 1920s the redwoods have grown to be nearly 150 feet tall in the sun at 6,000 feet on the southwest side of East Maui in Poli Poli State Park. You have a choice of trails in Poli Poli, the Redwood Trail is a moderate hike just shy of 2 miles during which you will gain 900 feet in elevation. Keep in mind; you are in the thinner air at 6,200. If this hike is within your comfort level, it is well worth the effort. In addition to the Redwood trail, if you enjoy hiking and nature, the Poli poli, Redwood, Plum and Haleakala Ridge trails form a loop that is almost 4 miles long, so for the more ambitious hiker, game on!
Waimoku Falls
Waimoku Falls Trail is another wonderful hike. As you make the four mile loop along Pipwai Stream, you will pass through giant groves of bamboo, discover 200-foot tall waterfalls and even steep waterfalls with swimable pools, and giant banyan trees. Enjoy the peace of just getting lost in a place that feels both magical and spiritual. This is described by many as one of the best hikes on the island. The hike ends at the Waimoku Falls, which have a drop of nearly 400 feet, and is one of the tallest waterfalls on Maui. At the bottom of the fall is a pool, be sure to wear of bring a suit or cut-offs.
On this hike you’ll again be amazed by the bio-diversity Maui has to offer. The sights are stunning and every moment is a photo opportunity. On the practical side, bring water, sun block, bug spray and wear good hiking shoes. Plan on about 3 to 4 hours, possibly a little longer as you may not want to leave. There is about a 650 foot elevation gain over all. Also, as with most hike and nature areas on island, be sure to read any posted signs, and be cautious when crossing streams and check local conditions and warnings. Rains up mountain can create flash floods in streams and ravines.
The Sacred Garden
Walk a Labyrinth. The Sacred Garden of Maliko in Makawao is a visit worth the time. Sacred Garden has an including stories that Jimi Hendrix and Janice Joplin stayed here in the 1970s during the filming of the Rainbow Bridge. Maliko Gulch is a powerful place and has a history of its own. When visiting, ask about its history and the magic and myth that surround this mystical place. There are two shaded labyrinths to walk and center your mind and spirit. It is currently open 7 days a week and is free to the public, with donations accepted.
Suggested Dining
There are almost unlimited exceptional opportunities for delicious local dining experiences. Below is a list of a few of our favorites. We like these because they offer a unique menus and memorable environments, and eh, the food is good too! We have linked their names to their websites for you to find out more and check out their menus.
Mama’s Fish House (discussed further in Top 5 things to do)
Kula Lodge (discussed further in Upcountry section)
Colleen’s at the Cannery in Haiku
Hali‘imaile General Store (discussed further in Upcountry section)
Ko Restaurant (in the Fairmont Kea Lani Hotel)
Fleetwood’s On Front Street (discussed further in Lahaina section)
Kimo’s (discussed further in Lahaina section)
Leilani’s on the Beach at Whalers Village
Top Five things to Do In Maui
If you choose to wing it and spend a lot of time just chillin’, I recommend at least sprinkling in the following five things which will really give you a lot of wonderful memories and make your visit to Maui more magical.
Mama’s Fish House
There are many exceptional dining experiences and opportunities on Maui. However, the one that is a must is Mama’s. Of all the places you could eat, if you could only pick one to remember your trip to Maui, it should be Mama’s. It is more than just a meal, or great food. It is truly a memory and experience that I believe you will remember fondly and treasure as a part of your visit to Maui. Mama’s Fish House is ranked as the second most popular restaurant in the US by Open Table and one of the top 10 fine dining restaurants in the US by Trip Advisor.
You’ll experience excellent food, service, and surroundings and be treated like Ohana (family) and feel the Aloha Spirit. Be sure to make reservations, this can be easily done on their website or by calling.
The restaurant is also oceanfront with its own beach area and some outstanding photo spots. We took our wedding announcement photo in their outrigger canoe!
Iao Valley State Park
The Iao (EE-ow) Valley is a lush tropical State Park that really is paradise. There are high jagged peaks on both sides that protect the valley below, tropical foliage, hiking trails, the Iao creek on the valley floor. The park and valley are a rainforest and one of the wettest places on earth receiving more than one inch of rain each day. A popular landmark in the Iao Valley is the 1,200 foot Iao Needle that rises up and makes an excellent lookout with its towering cropped rock formation jutting out over the Valley floor below.
The valley extends ten miles covering about 4,000 acres while the official park covers just over six acres. There is also a spiritual and historical significance to the valley. In 1790, King Kamehameha I sought to unify the Hawaiian Islands and battled Maui’s army in the valley at the Battle of Kepaniwai, ultimately defeating them. Legend holds that the valley bodies blocked the creek damming the waters and the valley ran red with blood. Today, this is hard to image a battle of that scale in such a beautiful rain forest.
Paia (pah-ee-ah) and Makawao (MAH-kah-wow)
These two small towns share a laid-back beach town vibe. We enjoy spending an afternoon poking our heads in art galleries, clothing stores, stopping for an enormous shave ice at Toby’s Shave Ice in Paia and taking a little break from all that shopping. Break. Enjoy a very laid-back opportunity to explore some small local shops, art galleries, and restaurants. This is not the typical island most tourists experience. Wandering around and poking your head in and out of these shops will provide everything from typical graphic t-shirts, to local arts and crafts, unique clothing, a wide array of yummy foods and tastes, and more of a sense of where many of the locals live day to day life.
The other benefit is Paia is on the way to Makawao, only a few miles, but we have always viewed Makawao as the entrance or beginning of going upcountry. Makawao’s heritage include paniolos (cowboys) and ranching. This experience of Maui is unexpected and different and something many visitors do not get an opportunity to experience.
Upcountry Experience
Maui’s Upcountry is a completely different experience from the coastal areas. Upcountry refers to the areas on the slope of Haleakala volcano. Four towns make up the Upcountry: Makawao, Kula, Pukalani and Ulapalakua. Visiting these attractions makes a nice change of pace after several days of sun, sand and salt water. A few key attractions that we like to recommend are those that move beyond exploring Paia and Makawao to the cooler regions upcountry.
Must See Upcountry
These destinations include driving to Ali’I Lavender Farms, wine tasting at the Maui Winery, visiting the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center, And of course, a trip to Haleakala National Park and Crater. Exploring Haleakala includes taking in the visitor center, hiking, watching the sunrise or sunset, stargazing and even camping. Other activities you may find fun include riding a bike down the mountain, horseback riding, ziplines or a helicopter tour. You can easily spend an entire day and evening exploring.
Food and eating is an important part of the exploration of upcountry. In Kula there are many opportunities for food, the La Provence Bakery is an authentic French style bakery serving breads, coffees and teas, along with a crepe menu and full lunch menu, which includes a plant-based friendly option. For a farm-to-fork experience, stop at O’o Farms. O’o Farms offers a walking tour to rouse your appetite. The kitchen and dining areas await you with a bounty of flavors including fresh coffee from beans grown on the farm.
Cowboys on Maui
On the leeward side of Kula check out the Ulupalakua Ranch featuring cowboy cuisine including barbecued brisket, Maui raised burgers in beef, lamb, and elk. Everything is locally sourced farm-to-fork. Purchase a picnic at the take-out deli. Note: the Maui sweet onions are to die for. If you are interested in horseback riding, the Mekena Stables and their tours are on the 20,000 acres of the Ulupalakua Ranch.
Upcountry Dining
When I think upcountry and food, two restaurants that are my favorites are the Kula Lodge (in Kula) which is incredibly comfortable and relaxed serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and offering a full menu of amazing food, plant-based friendly options, and some of the most spectacular views both from your table, and for the strolling path that winds through the flowers and garden on the hillside. The food is excellent. This can also be a great place returning from the day’s adventures upcountry to have dinner and watch the sunset. There is also a great patio and special pizza oven and menu. Reservations recommended for peak times (they have an easy reservation app on their website).
My other favorite upcountry restaurant is Hali’imaile General Store. It offers a memorable experience and has been recognized internationally as a destination restaurant. Bev Gannon the owner and executive chef completed her formal training at London’s Le Cordon Bleu School. The menu features American and Asian inspired delights in a simple but welcoming dining room with display kitchen. Closing our adventures into Maui’s Upcountry region, if photography is a hobby or passion, the opportunities here are endless. Your friends will be amazed at the stories and pictures you’ll bring home. They will say with astonishment, you took this on Maui? Everyone expects the million pictures of beaches, palm trees and sunsets over the ocean. While you’ll have plenty of those, the upcountry experience will be unique and memorable.
Lahaina
Lahaina could be described as a cute little tourist town near many of the resorts on Maui. But it is also the former capital of Hawaii, was a global whaling trade center, and the historic district is also a national historic landmark. For these reasons, Lahaina should be on your list of places to go and things to do when visiting Maui. Some of the many things to enjoy in Lahaina include some typical tourist activities like wandering, browsing, poking in and out of shops and art galleries and the many restaurants.
Historic Lahaina
Walking along Front Street it is easy to imagine the early days of old Lahaina as a historic whaling village where thousands of sailors took liberty from their hundreds of whaling ships. Along Main Street there are historic stops like the Hale Paaho – Lahaina Prison, the U.S. Seamen’s Hospital and the Pioneer Inn. Almost 55 acres have been included in the Lahaina historic district. Activities in Lahaina include Banyan Tree Park in courthouse square featuring the largest banyan tree in the United States with a canopy covering more than two-thirds of an acre. Take a surfing or stand-up paddle (SUP) lesson, Segway tours, a submarine ride, and whale watching.
Lahaina Dining
There is no shortage of restaurants and excellent food in Maui. When in Lahaina, we look forward to dining on the beachfront lanai at Kimo’s. The experience and dining room feel Hawaiian with incredible ocean views from your table. The cool tropical breezes will have you asking if you can just stay here forever. Prior to dinner, check out Fleetwood’s one block down Front Street owned by Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac fame. Fleetwood’s offers a very unique sunset ceremony on their rooftop lounge. It features storytelling from a Scottish bagpiper followed by a blessing from a Hawaiian shaman. Grab a drink or soda for the kids and enjoy the experience while watching the sun slowly set below the horizon.
Friday Parties
Maui Friday Town Parties – Festive, family friendly street parties that feature local artisans and crafters, yummy foods and music. Held in Wailuku, Lahaina, Makawao, and Kihei on alternating Fridays.
Maui Arts & Cultural Center
Maui Arts & Cultural Center or the MACC as locals call it is an excellent facility offering a wide variety of performing artists and free exhibits in the gallery. A great place to see a hula performance or ukulele recital. Kahului.
See a musical or dramatic performance produced by Maui Onstage at the historic Iao Theater in Wailuku.
Travel Insurance: A Must-Have
When planning that perfect getaway in paradise, it is important to remember unplanned surprises can happen. That is what travel insurance is for, the unplanned.
The unplanned could be health issues, unplanned weather or acts of mother nature, or other reasons why travel plans may need to be changed. A nasty car accident or a violent earthquake, travel insurance can cover your foreign medical expenses and help get you home. Unexpected emergencies are our primary reason for having this coverage while traveling.
But travel insurance has many additional benefits such as rental car insurance, petty theft, minor medical issues that may arise, trip cancellation, missing passports or credit cards, and so much more.
For our travel insurance needs, we use and recommend World Nomads.
Seven Days in Maui – Sample Itinerary
So many choices – Which way to go?
The following is our recommendation of how you might spend seven days in Maui. You can arrange the days and activities in any order; except Day 1 is intended to be your first day in Maui. The remaining days can be arranged to your preference. However, note we have grouped attractions geographically to maximize your fun time and minimize wasted time spend crisscrossing the island.
Day 1 –Adjust to Island Time – Relax
We suggest you make day 1 a slow, leisurely relaxation day. Take this time to get in harmony with island time and finding your Aloha. This might be hanging out at the pool or beach, getting familiar with your surroundings, enjoy some good food, but save any activities and adventures to begin on day 2.
Day 2 – Lahaina
Lahaina
Exploring, browsing and shopping
Whale Watching
Fleetwood’s for sunset ceremony
Kimo’s for Dinner
Day 3 – Upcountry to Haleakala
Get an early start and have breakfast at Kula Lodge
Stop at Lavender Farms or Winery on your way to the crater
Haleakala – Visitor’s center
Stop at Ulupalakua Ranch for a bite to eat on the way back to your accommodation
Day 4 – Shop – Beach – Nature
Shop the funky boutiques in Paia
Have lunch or pick up sandwiches at Manna Foods health store in Paia
Have a picnic at Baldwin Beach or Hookipa surf break overlook in Paia
Hike Twin Falls in Ho’olawa Valley via Hana Highway, or
try out the Jungle Zipline course in Haiku
Day 5 – Luau or Hana
Highway to Hana
OR, stay local and experience Hawaiian tradition
Old Lahaina Luau
Day 6 – Culture and Mama’s
Have a relaxing morning at your resort
See the exhibit gallery at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (open 10 am – 5 pm, closed Mondays)
Have a wonderful meal at Mama’s Fish House
Stroll on the beach in front of Mama’s after dinner
Day 7 – Enjoy Island Time – Relax
Relax at resort, snorkel or paddle board
Day 8 – Dream About Your Return
Fly home and begin planning your return adventure !
Mahalo !
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