Looking for nice actions and points of interest in Maui? Our Maui itinerary is all it’s essential to plan the proper journey!
Adored for its stunning seashores, rocky cliffs, wealthy plant and animal life, and spectacular sightseeing alternatives, Maui is among the finest islands to see whereas visiting Hawaii!
The second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui is a tropical paradise house to one of many world’s largest dormant volcanoes, Haleakalā Crater.
This dormant volcano is an enriching image that has impressed legends, as its spectacular construction could be seen from virtually all factors on the island. It represents a number of the impactful tradition and Hawaiian historical past.
Extra necessary symbolic websites on the island, just like the sacred ʻĪao Valley, play a significant function in Maui’s historical past. There are different rewarding alternatives to expertise the island’s tradition, equivalent to hula performances and native delicacies, that are an ideal addition to any Maui itinerary.
Often known as “Valley Isle,” Maui is beloved for its thriving rainforests, rugged coastal landscapes, sprawling sandy seashores, and attention-grabbing blue waters.
The various plant and animal species, a few of that are endemic to the island, that decision Maui house are one other drawing characteristic of Maui, the place many individuals journey for whale-watching as humpback whales migrate to the island yearly.
A visit to Maui presents a possibility to journey the island’s lush forests and oceans via memorable actions, together with mountain climbing, whale-watching, tenting, snorkeling, windsurfing, scuba diving, boating, and extra!
Our Maui itinerary, which ranges from 3, 5, and seven days, takes you on a whirlwind of a visit to enterprise into the enriching expertise of Maui in all its glory for an unforgettable trip!
Discover extra of the most effective issues to do in Maui right here!
Learn how to Spend As much as 7 Days in Maui Itinerary
There are a lot of methods you’ll be able to select to spend your time whereas visiting Maui. Whether or not you’re an adventurer, a nature fanatic, or just wish to savor the tropical paradise of this Hawaiian Island, our 3-day Maui itinerary is specifically made to point out off the most effective of the island.
Plus, we’ve prolonged the itinerary to five days in Maui and seven days in Maui for many who have extra time to spare on their Maui trip!
Core 3-Day Maui Itinerary
The shortest period of time really helpful to spend is 3 days in Maui. And this 3-day Maui itinerary is the core of any go to to this beautiful Hawaiian Island, stuffed with journey, tradition, and pure magnificence!
We’ll add on extra days in order that you can spend 5 or 7 days on Maui and luxuriate in each minute of your time there!
Maui Itinerary: Day 1
After you arrive at Kahului Airport on day one in Maui, there’s no higher method to absorb the impactfulness of Maui’s nature and wonder than on the scenic Highway to Hana route.
Go to the well-known Black Sand Seaside alongside the way in which, then hike the quite a few scenic mountain climbing trails at Waiʻānapanapa State Park for the proper begin to your journey!
Day 1 Morning – Highway To Hana
Begin the morning sightseeing with superb views of Maui on the legendary Highway to Hana. This 64-mile stretch of scenic highway hyperlinks Kahului to Hana in east Maui.
Thought-about one of many prime issues to do in Maui, the Highway to Hana is the proper exercise to begin your journey on the most effective word whereas relishing in Maui’s dashing waterfalls, awe-inspiring vistas, and luscious tropical rainforests.
On this journey tour of the Highway to Hana, expertise the Kipahulu District, spectacular lava caves at Wai’anapanapa State Park, and extra well-known factors of curiosity alongside the Highway to Hana.
The Highway to Hana is an absolute should if you discover Maui, so that you may as nicely tick it off the bucket listing instantly!
Day 1 Afternoon – Black Sand Seaside
After driving the Highway to Hana, head to the well-known Black Sand Seaside. Get pleasure from some stress-free seaside time at this stunning spot located on mile marker 32 off the Highway to Hana Freeway.
Additionally known as Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Seaside, or Honokalani, this pure surprise is a sacred spot for Hawaiians, stuffed with historical past and legends. It’s house to Hawaii’s largest heiau, a non secular temple, and pure points of interest, equivalent to blow holes, lava caves, sea stacks, and vistas.
Day 1 Night – Waiʻānapanapa State Park
Additionally discovered off the Highway to Hana Freeway, off mile marker 32, Waiʻānapanapa State Park is a 122-acre park stuffed with geologic stunners, breathtaking views, and prime points of interest in Maui.
Tenting is offered at Waiʻānapanapa State Park for out of doors fans. There are scenic mountain climbing trails, together with the three-mile spherical journey Ke Ala Loa O Maui / Piilani Path.
Additionally known as Waianapanapa Coast Path North, this path travels alongside the rugged shoreline. This can be very in style, touring over barren lava with distinctive viewpoints of native hala (screw-pine) timber, the Slopes of Haleakala, and the Hana Coast.
- Deal with: Hana, HI 96713
- Cellphone Quantity: (808) 248-4843
- Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM (Every day)
Heading to Honolulu subsequent? Take a look at our listing of the most effective issues to do if you get there!
Maui Itinerary: Day 2
See the excellent sights of the red-sanded seaside, Kaihalulu Seaside. Hike to the Seven Sacred Swimming pools on the ʻOheʻo Gulch and swim within the different swimming pools within the forest. Expertise the legends at Haleakala Nationwide Park whereas relishing the awe-inspiring sights of Central Maui!
Day 2 Morning – Kaihalulu Seaside
Kaihalulu Seaside, also referred to as Crimson Sand Seaside, is a serenely hidden cove and crescent-shaped seaside in east Maui. The seaside cuts into the Ka’uiki Head cinder cone and lava cinder cliffs, the place it receives its purple coloration for its sand.
The purple sand seaside contrasts wondrously with vibrant blue waters, rugged black lava rock, and cliffs dotted with timber.
As security recommendation, solely skilled hikers ought to take into account making an attempt the hike to Kaihalulu Seaside. The hike shouldn’t be tried earlier than or after heavy rainfall. Kaihalulu Seaside can also be a “clothes optionally available” seaside infamous for its robust rip currents.
Day 2 Afternoon – ʻOheʻo Gulch
ʻOheʻo Gulch is house to the Seven Sacred Swimming pools, probably the most well-known points of interest in Maui. Fashioned over time and fed by the river touring via the rainforest, ʻOheʻo Gulch is positioned off the Highway to Hana in Haleakala Nationwide Park.
Swimming within the Seven Sacred Swimming pools is prohibited. Nevertheless, different swimming pools sprinkled alongside the mountain climbing path can be found to swim in to refresh and relish Maui’s luscious nature.
- Deal with: Pipiwai Path, Hana, HI 96713
- Cellphone Quantity: (808) 248-7375
- Hours: 9 AM – 4:30 PM (Every day)
Day 2 Night – Haleakala Nationwide Park
Infamous for its breathtaking sunrises, Haleakala Nationwide Park in Central Maui is house to the endangered Hawaiian geese and the dormant volcano, Haleakalā.
The volcano, translated to “home of the solar,” is the place legends of the demigod Maui, a personality within the Disney film Moana, originate from. Legends inform it that the demigod lassoed the solar atop the volcano’s summit to sluggish its descent.
Go to Haleakala Nationwide Park on an epic dawn tour for a next-level expertise! Study the park’s historical past out of your native, eco-certified information whereas savoring breakfast and the dawn atop the volcano’s summit!
Maui Itinerary: Day 3
At present, head to South Maui from the breathtaking vistas on the Manawainui Gulch for a fast cease. First, traverse the ‘Āhihi-Kīna‘U Pure Space Reserve to stroll amongst lava fields and glimpse uncommon sights.
Then, hit the sand at Mākena Seaside or Maluaka Seaside to expertise the most effective seashores in your journey on this tropical paradise!
Learn subsequent: The 21 Finest Issues To Do In Kauai, Hawaii
Day 3 Morning – Manawainui Gulch
A fabulous method to begin the day, the Manawainui Gulch is teeming with breathtaking vistas of the ocean and the sprawling valley. From its place on the south shore of Maui are distinctive sightseeing factors of Wailea, La Perouse Bay, Pu’u O’lai, and Makena Seaside.
A hidden gem, the gulch is on the shoulder of Haleakalā Nationwide Park and was established by rain and wind erosion. It’s a quick however worthwhile cease teeming with pictures and sightseeing alternatives.
- Deal with: Piilani Hwy, Kula, HI 96790
Day 3 Afternoon – ‘Āhihi-Kīna‘U Pure Space Reserve
A protected bay thriving with marine life in south Maui, ‘Āhihi-Kīna‘U Pure Space Reserve options lava fields established by Haleakala volcano’s final eruption, believed to be 200-500 years in the past.
The marine ecosystems within the reserve embrace uncommon anchialine ponds and native crops equivalent to cotton, wiliwili, and naio.
Snorkeling is unbelievable at ‘Āhihi-Kīna‘U Pure Space Reserve, the place its coral reefs are thriving with native marine species, like Hawaiian Inexperienced Sea Turtles and varied tropical fish.
Day 3 Night – Mākena Seaside (or journey farther to Maluaka Seaside)
Inside south Maui is the massive expanse of Mākena State Park and two seashores, Little Seaside and Large Seaside, which can also be known as Oneloa Seaside.
Mākena Seaside, one other identify for Large Seaside, is an undeveloped seaside with viewpoints of the Kaho’olawe and Molokini islands. Seaside hopping right here is ideal if you’re looking for to get away from the extra crowded seashores with out compromising the standard of the placement.
Sometimes called Pu’u Olai Seaside, Little Seaside can get crowded. It’s additionally the place folks come to sunbathe within the nude. The park is house to Pu’u Olai, a dormant volcanic cinder cone in the midst of the park, excellent for taking part in an additional journey earlier than the day ends!
- Deal with: 4670 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753
- Hours: 6 AM – 7:45 PM (Every day)
5 Days In Maui Itinerary
Prolong your journey to spend 5 days in Maui to expertise extra of the island’s prime points of interest! This 5 day Maui itinerary could be added to the really helpful 3 day plan, as the complete itinerary is designed to loop round Maui to come across all sides of this Hawaiian island.
Maui Itinerary: Day 4
Start day 4 of your 5 days in Maui with a rewarding hike on Hoapili Path, the place Hawaiian royalty as soon as walked. Then, snorkel, boat, or dive across the waters of Molokini Crater, fashioned by a volcanic eruption. Lastly, end the day basking in paradise at Wailea Seaside on this distinctive 5-day Maui itinerary!
Discover extra enjoyable issues to do in Hawaii right here!
Day 4 Morning – Hoapili Path
The most effective hikes in Maui, the historic Hoapili Path travels amongst lava fashioned from an eruption in 1790. The 5.5-mile spherical journey path is surrounded by a barren land of lava rock alongside the rugged shoreline.
It was as soon as a reserved strolling path for Hawaiian royalty, which is the way it received its nickname, “King’s Freeway.”
The Hoapili Path’s trailhead is within the parking zone for La Perouse Bay, the place many journey to snorkel and surf.
From the parking zone is a three-mile trek to the snorkeling spot, and earlier than you hit it, there may be the browsing spot, Laps, the place surfers go to check their braveness and abilities. Alongside this path is an indication to enter the King’s Freeway, which refers to Hoapili Path, and seaside entry to Kanaio Seaside.
Day 4 Afternoon – Molokini Crater
A crescent moon-shaped volcanic crater, Molokini Crater, is positioned within the ʻAlalākeiki Channel, three miles off Maui island and close to Kaho’olawe. A few of Molokini Crater is submerged, the crater forming an islet surrounded by reefs and wealthy marine life.
Molokini Crater is infamous for being a scorching spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, whereas whale watching is in style within the winter. Throw on some reef-safe sunscreen and take to the water!
This afternoon snorkeling journey gives a variety to journey to Coral Gardens or Molokini Crater. The snorkeling tour takes company on a 55-foot catamaran throughout the Pacific to discover the surprise of Molokini Crater’s biodiversity and enriched coral reef setting.
Day 4 Night – Wailea Seaside
Snagging the repute as America’s Finest Seaside in 1999, visiting Wailea Seaside is among the finest issues to do in Maui!
Wailea Seaside’s golden-tinted sand, shaded palm timber, and glowing blue waters make for a much-needed escape. A rejuvenating method to finish the day respiration within the salty breeze and contemporary air, at Wailea Seaside, you’ll be able to dip your toes within the water, sink your toes within the sand, and calm down.
The waters are protected by a small cove, making it a secure spot to swim with out the specter of crashing waves or intense rip currents. Throughout whale watching season you’ll be able to typically see whales off the coast!
Maui Itinerary: Day 5
End off your 5 days in Maui with a bang! Expertise the glory of the traditional and sacred West Maui Mountains, embodying Hawaiian tradition, historical past, and life.
Then, discover extra of West Maui and be a part of a tour of Hawaii’s largest craft brewery on the Maui Brewing Firm. Lastly, see marine species endemic to Hawaii up shut and private on the distinctive Maui Ocean Middle to finish the day on the proper word!
Day 5 Morning – West Maui Mountains
Take a day journey to the spectacular West Maui Mountains, which characteristic fascinating biodiversity. The affluent habitats within the mountains, which embrace lowland forests, Hawaiian music forests, and extra, have quite a few native species, together with eighteen plant species endemic to Maui.
These historical mountains are a sacred historic website devoted to Hawaiian tradition, and a day journey right here is the proper addition to your Maui itinerary.
The mountains are estimated to be 1.7 million years previous, stuffed with sightseeing and different actions, such because the distinctive rock formation Makaluapuna Level Dragon’s Enamel.
Day 5 Afternoon – Maui Brewing Firm
The most important craft brewery in Hawaii, Maui Brewing Firm, is a refreshing cease for the afternoon to quench your thirst and socialize with locals and fellow vacationers in West Maui!
Go on a Maui Brewing Firm brewery tour to see the brewhouse, cellar, and packing line whereas studying concerning the brewery’s course of of constructing its distinctive hand-crafted brews.
There’s additionally a guided tasting choice to think about, led by an skilled craft beer curator that provides company an opportunity to expertise the 4 flagship beers of Maui Brewing Firm.
- Deal with: 605 Lipoa Pkwy, Kihei, HI 96753
- Cellphone Quantity: (808) 201-2337
- Hours: 11:30 AM – 10 PM (Every day)
Learn subsequent: The 21 Finest Issues To Do In Waikiki, Hawaii
Day 5 Night – Maui Ocean Middle, The Aquarium of Hawaii
The most important dwelling tropical reef aquarium within the Western Hemisphere, the Maui Ocean Middle is a one-of-a-kind expertise to not move up on throughout your travels to West Maui!
Since its founding in 1998, the middle has continued to impress with its distinctive reveals and encounters with marine life, a few of that are endemic to Hawaii alone.
Expertise one of many world’s largest collections of reside Pacific corals on the Maui Ocean Middle, be taught concerning the native tradition and marine life via the aquarium’s teaching programs, and observe the glory of the underwater world at this prime Maui attraction!
- Deal with: 192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793
- Cellphone Quantity: (808) 270-7000
- Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Every day)
7 Days In Maui Itinerary
For a Maui 7-day itinerary, it’s important to hit a number of the different prime points of interest of the realm that shouldn’t be missed out on. These really helpful factors of curiosity proceed round to the North Shore of Maui, making a loop, and are inside quick access of each other so it can save you time and benefit from your journey to Maui!
Maui Itinerary: Day 6
Begin the morning snorkeling the waters of Honolua Bay in North Maui. Then, sink into luxurious at Ka’anapali Seaside, surrounded by top-notch resorts. Then, fulfill your urge for food with Hula Grill Kaanapali’s contemporary seafood and sip on refreshing tropical drinks!
Day 6 Morning – Honolua Bay
A implausible location on the west coast for snorkeling and scuba diving, Honolua Bay is part of the Mokulēʻia Marine Life Conservation District, its ecosystem stuffed with affluent marine life, secluded seashores, and thriving nature.
On the northwest shore of Honolua Bay is a scorching spot for skilled surfers to catch some waves, particularly through the winter. Nevertheless, through the summer season, Honolua Bay is usually the place folks come to discover the enriched marine setting, together with coral formations, tropical fish, sea turtles, and extra!
Day 6 Afternoon – Ka’anapali Seaside
One other among the best seashores within the USA, Ka’anapali Seaside in west Maui was beforehand an expensive retreat for Maui royalty, although now it’s a favored vacationer spot close to resorts and inns.
A must-attraction on this Maui itinerary, Kaanapali Seaside’s golden sand and blue waters are a infamous attraction on the island. Although swimming and sunbathing are in style at Ka’anapali Seaside, extra famously recognized is the each day cliff diving ceremony held at Black Rock, the northernmost cliff positioned on the seaside.
Day 6 Night – Hula Grill Kaanapali Seaside
Finish the night on the beachside eatery, Hula Grill Kaanapali!
Dance and sing together with the reside music. Quench your thirst with refreshing tropical drinks whereas people-watching on the Barefoot Bar settled on the water’s fringe of Ka’anapali Seaside. Relish in chef-driven eating with contemporary native treats like fish tacos and pupu sourced and impressed by native fishermen, farmers, and ohana.
The open-air setting of Hula Grill Kaanapali is one you’ll always remember, with immaculate vibes to make you’re feeling at house whereas in paradise.
- Deal with: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
- Cellphone Quantity: (808) 667-6636
- Hours: 11 AM – 10 PM (Every day)
Heading to the US mainland? Right here is our listing of the most effective issues to do in Los Angeles!
Maui Itinerary: Day 7
On the final day in Maui, savoring the pure great thing about Maui is a should! First, head to Paia close to Upcountry Maui for a seaside day at Baldwin Seaside Park. Within the afternoon, hike the Bamboo Forest Waterfalls Trailhead in North Maui. Then, finish your Maui journey with a go to to Ke’anae Arboretum to see the colourful rainbow eucalyptus timber dwelling in a tropical rainforest!
Day 7 Morning – Baldwin Seaside Park
Positioned in Paia close to Upcountry Maui, Baldwin Seaside Park is a tranquil seaside park excellent for spending time with the household. Lifeguards are on watch at Baldwin Seaside Park, which additionally incorporates a pavilion, loos, picnic tables, showers, and grills for cooking out.
Skilled boogie boards like to point out off their abilities right here because of the park’s common and enormous shore break that modifications ideally within the winter months.
Households can head to the 2 protected swimming areas on the west and east ends of the park for the children and newbie swimmers to securely benefit from the waters. The east finish is Baldwin Cove, and the west known as Child Seaside.
- Deal with: Baldwin Park, Paia, HI 96779
- Hours: 7 AM – 8 PM
Day 7 Afternoon – Bamboo Forest Waterfalls Trailhead
Na’ili’ili Haele Stream & Waterfalls, extra generally referred to as merely “Bamboo Forest,” is reached by the Bamboo Forest Waterfalls Trailhead. Whether or not you’re a novice or an skilled hiker, this journey is completely rewarding and accessible to the great thing about Maui!
Alongside this hike, you’ll trek via a wealthy bamboo forest to a streambed. Past this level is a string of roaring waterfalls. Reaching these factors of curiosity depends upon how skilled a hiker you might be, as they could be troublesome to entry.
Nevertheless, the primary few waterfalls are inside speedy attain, only a quick distance into the hike for fast entry, whereas the others require extra work to achieve.
- Deal with: Highway to Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708
Day 7 Night – Ke’anae Arboretum
The Ke’anae Arboretum is an enriching environmental sprawling throughout six acres. The botanical backyard and arboretum are overflowing with distinctive species, such because the rainbow eucalyptus timber, the one species of gum tree that may develop and maintain itself in a tropical rainforest.
Quite a few scenic trails lead company all through the Ke’anae Arboretum to witness the glory of the distinctive species set within the rainforest, together with papaya, taro, and hibiscus!
- Deal with: 13385 HI-360, Kula, HI 96790
Maui Journey Information
Now that you understand how to spend your days, right here is a few data that can provide help to perceive the most effective time to go to, the best way to get round, and the place to remain if you go to Maui.
When Is The Finest Time to Go to Maui
The very best time to go to Maui is earlier than the crowded vacationer months throughout summer season. These embrace April to Could and September to November. Throughout these months, the climate is good for visiting, with decrease possibilities of experiencing rain that may spoil your out of doors plans of seeing all of Maui’s stunning pure wonders.
Snorkeling remains to be nice year-round, however Could to September has significantly nice visibility for recognizing sea turtles and different marine creatures. If you wish to spot whales, go to from November to Could! These months are additionally thought-about wet season, although you must nonetheless get nice climate blended in with some showers.
Getting Round Maui
A rental automobile is the easiest way to get round Maui to expertise the marvels of this island. For instance, driving the scenic Highway To Hana or hitting up a number of the finest seashores and coves scattered across the island is way simpler in your personal automobile.
Nevertheless, if renting a automobile shouldn’t be within the books, different types of transportation can be found, together with taxis, shuttles, and different public transportation choices. Guided excursions additionally go to most of the finest points of interest!
One of the best ways to get round is to hire a automobile and discover by yourself! We advocate Rental Vehicles, which has the most important vary of autos for the most effective worth in the marketplace.
The place To Keep In Maui
Final on our Maui itinerary information, let’s talk about the place to remain in Maui! Our suggestions for the most effective lodging in Maui will provide help to select the highest spot to your funds!
Finest Hostel in Maui
Mounted round a Tiki Backyard, Tiki Seaside Hostel has the most effective seaside vibes set on Lahaina’s beachside. A keep at this lodge consists of entry to boogie boards, seaside chairs, snorkeling gear, and a fascinating location at the most effective surf spot in Lahaina and close to probably the most well-known streets in Maui, Entrance Avenue, for purchasing, eating, and exploring.
Finest Mid-Vary Resort in Maui
Inside strolling distance of Maui’s prime points of interest, Kihei Akahi presents impeccably designed condos with scenic viewpoints of Kamaole Seashores I and III. Go snorkeling or swimming on the seashores solely a brief stroll away, or take a dip on the two on-site swimming pools to calm down and soak within the solar.
Finest Luxurious Resort in Maui
A luxurious five-star lodge, Resort Wailea, Relais & Châteaux was named the #1 lodge in Hawaii by Journey + Leisure in 2022. From Resort Wailea, company can savor 180-degree viewpoints of three Hawaiian Islands surrounded by landscaped grounds stuffed with tropical gardens, strolling paths, and dashing waterfalls. Your dream trip begins right here!
DISCLAIMER: A number of the hyperlinks on this article are affiliate hyperlinks, which implies in case you ebook lodging, excursions or purchase a product, we’ll obtain a small fee at no further price to you. These commissions assist us hold creating extra free journey content material to assist folks plan their holidays and adventures. We solely advocate the most effective lodging, excursions and merchandise, and repeatedly evaluation these. Thanks to your help, type buddy!
