Planning a vacation to Maui can be a daunting task. Choosing from an endless list of activities while having enough free time to relax is a tough balance to find. While nothing on Maui is too far away, we’ve found the best way to embrace everything the Valley Isle has to offer to take it a day at a time and make the most of your travel time!
To get the whole experience, the road to Hana really does require a full day. It’s possible to drive the entire road in a few hours, but there is always more to see in Hana. We recommend at least stopping to see rainbow eucalyptus, a half dozen waterfalls, a bamboo forest (or two!), and eating banana bread or fresh fruit on a beach (Red Sand, Black Sand, Koki, Hamoa, it’s pretty hard to choose just one). If you want the whole experience, sunrise to sunset is really the only option!
There are plenty of ways to explore Haleakala. Whether you're into sunrises, sunsets, hiking, camping, relaxing, stargazing, bike riding, or birdwatching, there’s no shortage of things to do on your way up the mountain. Like Hana, we recommend taking a whole day to explore upcountry (Kula, Pukalani, and Makawao) as you journey to the summit. There are hidden gems all along the way! Hosmer’s Grove, Olinda Forest, Kula Lodge, and Poli Poli Recreation Area are just a few of our favorites!
Lanai is the perfect destination for people really looking to slow down and enjoy living on the island time. One of the most remote Hawaiian Islands, Lanai has plenty of beaches and very few visitors competing over space. This secluded paradise is just a ferry ride away, making it the perfect candidate for a day trip from Maui for anyone wanting a few hours off the grid.
Most people familiar with snorkeling on Maui have likely heard of the snorkeling tours on Maui’s southern coast to Molokini Crater. Depending on the time of year, visitors can expect to see whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and countless unique species of fish. Beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike are bound to witness amazing wildlife all around. Even those who feel more comfortable staying on the boat will have plenty to see!
Oahu, Maui’s smaller but much more densely populated neighbor, is a haven for foodies and shoppers. Fortunately for visitors to other islands, this island's airport has plenty of flights to and from neighboring islands- about 50 a day from Maui alone! A cheap (as low as 33$ roundtrip) and quick flight (20-25 minutes) from Maui to Oahu might be the perfect compromise for anyone a little apprehensive about an extended stay in a bustling city.
The lush vegetation and natural beauty around every corner of Kauai have earned it the nickname “The Garden Island.” Its famous beaches are beautiful but secluded enough for private weddings and events. For adventurers, Kauai’s hikes (or ATV rides) through wilderness and jungle can feel like you’ve been transported to another country but is near enough to return to Maui on the same day.
