🌴 Maui Travel Guide: Explore Paradise

Welcome to Maui — where lush rainforests meet golden beaches, and the aloha spirit flows as freely as the ocean breeze. Whether you’re looking to unwind in luxury, chase waterfalls along jungle roads, or dive into Hawaiian culture and cuisine, Maui offers unforgettable adventures for every traveler.

🚗 Getting Around Maui

The best way to explore the island’s beauty and hidden gems is by car.
Car Rental Tip: We’ve had great experiences booking through Discount Hawaii Car Rental — they often have excellent rates and easy pickup options at the airport.

✨ Top Attractions & Adventures

🌿 Road to Hana

An iconic Maui experience, the Road to Hana is a winding, tropical drive filled with waterfalls, lush rainforests, and hidden beaches.

Don’t Miss: The Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden and the ʻOheʻo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools).
Tip: Start early to avoid crowds, and stop at the many fruit stands and food trucks along the way.

🌋 Haleakalā National Park

Watch the sunrise from the summit of this dormant volcano — a moment you’ll never forget. You can also hike through its other-worldly crater trails.

Tip: Sunrise reservations are required, and it gets chilly — pack layers!

🌺 Luaus

Experience authentic Hawaiian culture through music, dance, and a feast under the stars.

Recommendation: Old Lahaina Luau — Maui’s most authentic luau experience, known for its oceanfront setting, traditional performances, and exceptional food.

🌄 ʻĪao Valley State Park

Explore this lush valley and the iconic ʻĪao Needle. This short, scenic hike requires advance reservations.

🏄 Surfing

Whether you’re a pro or a first-timer, Maui has waves for every skill level. Try a surf lesson or rent a board for a day in the sun.

🐠 Beaches, Water Activities & Wildlife

🏖️ Beaches

Maui’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world.

Favorites: Wailea Beach, Kaʻanapali Beach, and Big Beach (Oneloa Beach).
Caution: Big Beach often has strong shore breaks — swim with care.
For Families: Baby Beach (Paia) is perfect for little ones thanks to its calm, reef-protected lagoon.

🤿 Snorkeling & Diving

Discover vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish at Molokini Crater, Honolua Bay, and Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve.

Tour Tip: We’ve had great experiences with Aliʻi Nui and Sail Trilogy tours.

🐢 Turtle Watching

Head to Hoʻokipa Beach Park — where it’s almost guaranteed you’ll spot majestic sea turtles resting on the sand.

🐋 Whale Watching (December–March)

Witness humpback whales breaching during their annual migration.

Bonus Tip: You can often see them right from the beaches in front of Honua Kai!

🛍️ Shopping

Whether you’re looking for local treasures, designer finds, or the perfect souvenir to bring a bit of Maui home, the island offers some wonderful shopping experiences.

Whalers Village – Located right on the ocean in Kaʻanapali, Whalers Village is Maui’s premier open-air shopping and dining destination.
Stroll through an inviting mix of boutiques, surf shops, art galleries, and island-style clothing stores, all surrounded by ocean breezes and stunning views.

Don’t miss:

Local favorites like Honolulu Cookie Company, Sand People, and Crazy Shirts.
Luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co.
Dining options with ocean views — perfect for relaxing after shopping.

Tip: Catch one of the free cultural events or live performances often held in the evenings for a fun, family-friendly experience.

🌾 Upcountry Escape

Take a break from the beaches and venture into Maui’s cool, scenic Upcountry — a region of rolling hills, farms, and charming small towns.

🏡 Makawao Town

Stroll through this historic cowboy town (paniolo country!) and stop at:

Komodo Store (since 1916) for amazing pastries.
Espresso Mafia, our favorite coffee shop — the owner Anthony makes his syrups from scratch!

🌸 Drive Toward Kula

Continue into the countryside and stop at:

🍔 Scenic Drive & Local Treats

We love stopping at Ulupalakua Ranch Store for delicious burgers, then heading across the street to Maui Wine for a tropical wine tasting.

Tip: It’s a perfect spot to relax, enjoy mountain views, and let kids run around the big grassy area.

🥕 Farmer’s Markets

Don’t miss Maui’s local farmer’s markets for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and island vibes.

🍍 Culinary Delights & Favorite Restaurants

Maui’s food scene is a delicious blend of local Hawaiian, Asian, and island-inspired cuisine. Try poke, loco moco, Spam musubi, and tropical fruits like pineapple and coconut.

Kaʻanapali & West Maui

Aloha Mixed Plate – Classic local flavors; try the loco moco and fresh fish.
MonkeyPod Kitchen by Merriman’s (Whalers Village) – Great Happy Hour and the island’s best Mai Tai!
Papi’s Ohana – Famous cinnamon rolls steps from Honua Kai — arrive early before they sell out.
Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop – Don’t miss the banana cream or Olowalu pies (and banana bread!).
Merriman’s Maui – Perfect for special occasions — book early for sunset views.
The Gazebo Restaurant – Iconic breakfast with stunning views — go early!
Leilani’on the Beach (Whaler’s Village) – Downstairs casual; upstairs fine dining with ocean views.
Taverna – Elegant Italian overlooking Kaʻanapali Golf Course. Try the lasagna!
Sale Pepe – Fresh handmade pasta and pizza. Reservations highly recommended.
Miss Arepa – Venezuelan comfort food — locally owned and full of flavor.

Kihei & Wailea (South Maui)

Sugar Beach Bake Shop – Home to our favorite malasadas!
Lahaina Brewing Company – (Previously Kohola) Great beer, food, and ocean breeze. Try the macadamia nut stout!
DUO Steak & Seafood (Four Seasons) – Ideal for romantic dinners.
Matteo’s Osteria – Classic Italian, always busy — reserve ahead.
Nalu’s South Shore Grill – Local vibes and great Hawaiian comfort food.
Pita Paradise – Casual Mediterranean — the hummus and kabobs are musts.

Paia (North Shore)

Mama’s Fish House – Iconic, elegant, and worth the splurge. Book this first — reservations open 18 months out!
Flatbread Company – Creative pizzas — add the local sausage!
Café des Amis – Cozy spot for Mediterranean and Indian fusion dishes.

Kahului (Central Maui)

Akamai Coffee (drive-thru in Home Depot Lot) – Our go-to first and last stop — best cappuccinos and Honey Bee Frap.
Mo‘Ono Hawai‘i (Food Truck) – Across from Costco — top-notch açaí bowls with poi & lilikoi drizzle.
Momona Bakery & Coffee – Fantastic croissants, perfect for pre-flight treats.

Upcountry

Foodland Grocery – Has the best take out Fresh Poke!
Kula Bistro – BYOB gem with great steaks and Italian fare.
Espresso Mafia – Our daily coffee fix — everything is delicious!
Serpico’s Restaurant – Laid-back Italian with hearty portions — try the meatball sandwich.
Colleen’s Restaurant & Bar – Locally owned favorite — the crispy chicken and ribs are outstanding.

🌊 Water Safety & Respecting the Island

Help keep Maui safe and beautiful for generations to come:

Water Safety: Always check ocean conditions and heed lifeguard instructions. Beware of rip currents and large waves.
Wildlife Respect: Keep a respectful distance from turtles, monk seals, and all marine life. Never touch or feed animals.
Environmental Care: Follow Leave No Trace principles — pack out what you bring, and don’t disturb the landscape.
Sun Protection: Use reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect both yourself and Maui’s reefs.

🌺 Final Aloha

Maui is more than just a destination — it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. Embrace the aloha spirit, support local businesses, and let the beauty of this island fill your soul.

Mahalo for visiting Maui — we hope this guide helps you discover the magic of paradise!