Maui Vacation Travel Guide

Maui; where paradise is truly found. Maui, Hawaii is known as “The Valley Isle” and is the second largest island in the Central Pacific, part of the Hawaiin archipelago. It’s one of those destinations on everyone’s bucket list where beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and rainbows live. Travelers come from all over the world in hopes of experiencing Hawaii in its most pure form, because of it’s wonderful and adventurous reputation.

Maui is great for honeymoons, anniversaries or “just because” you want to go to a beautiful island paradise. The island is most known and beloved for its amazing beaches, jaw-dropping scenery and year-round warm temperatures. You can expect to find a beach for every mood, scenic drives along the coast, kiteboards, snorkeling, surfing and adventures at every corner.

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Maui Vacation Travel Guide

Maui is one of the most beautiful, interesting and geographically stunning places I’ve been. My boyfriend and I (Bubs) went to Maui during Thanksgiving in 2019 for 5 days and 4 nights and we absolutely loved our experience. Between the scenic drive from the airport, the green grass, stunning ocean waves, resort and outdoor activities, we felt that we had a well-rounded vacation. The only downside to our trip is that it rained most of the time with very little sun. It was just the beginning of rainy season. So we had bad luck with the weather. However, if you’re going to have rain on vacation, Hawaii is the place to be. Because it makes the environment thrive while still allowing you to do so many great activities.

While we had a lot rainy weather for of our trip, most of the time you certainly will experience long periods of sun. Different parts of the island will be sunny while other parts will be rainy and vice versa. It’s important to consider the best times to go, depending on what weather is most ideal to you. The island is broken up into two weather phases; dry season from April to October and wet season from November to March. The peak travel season is from December to August.

Of course, the main highlight of visiting a gorgeous island like Hawaii is to see the magnificent beaches.

With 120 miles of coastlines, Maui is home to over 30 miles of stunning beaches (around 80) where you’ll find white, black and red sand. Surfing, windsurfing, swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing are some of the most popular things to do on these beaches. The island itself is made of 6 regions including West Maui, Upcountry Maui & Haleakala, Lahaina & Kaanapali, Kihei & Wailea, Hana Highway and Central Maui. Kahului Airport is the main island airport where you can rent a car or Uber to whichever region you’re visiting on the island. While English is the main language in Hawaii, you will definitely hear words, phrases and songs in Hawaiin.

Best Time To Visit Maui

summer

The warmest and most touristy time to visit Maui is in the summer. It’s a very popular family vacation spot. So you’ll definitely see a lot of families and kids who are off from school during these months. The weather is mostly hot and muggy. But the ocean winds add a nice cool breeze. Temperatures are typically between 75-85. It’s the perfect time to do outdoor activities like the beaches, Road to Hana excursion, state parks, farmers markets, surfing lessons, watching the sunrise and more.

Fall

The fall, while not as populated, still holds ideal temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s. This is a great time to come to Maui for budget-conscious travelers as it is considered shoulder-season. You can experience plenty of comfortable outdoor activities before the wet season officially arrives. In the fall it’s a great opportunity to attend a Luau, swim with the sea turtles, walk on a black sand beach, tour a pineapple farm and learn to hula.

Winter

Winter in Maui is definitely expected to be a bit colder with lower temperatures, rain and wind. While the typical whale-watching season is from November to March, January to March is actually the best time to see whales in Maui, if that’s a bucket list item for you. Aside from whale-watching, there’s a ton of holiday events going on during these months for Christmas, New Years and beyond.

Spring

Spring is another beautiful time to visit because the temperatures start to warm up. The weather gets a bit drier and all the gorgeous flowers start to bloom. Popular activities you can do in this season include snorkeling, taking a helicopter tour, sailing and zip lining.

Where To Stay in Maui

The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua is a wonderful, magical and luxurious haven in Hawaii. You can never go wrong with a Ritz property, everyone knows that. They’re known for having the utmost reputation when it comes to luxury, beauty and pristine service. If you want to experience Hawaii with an ocean-front view, stunning architecture/decor, amazing meals and impressive amenities, The Ritz in Maui is the way to go.

The 54 acre property resides along the edge of the Pacific Ocean and has absolutely everything you need. They offer modern amenities like guest rooms and suites, golf courses, sophisticated dining options, event spaces and spa treatments. This resort is perfect for romantic getaways, honeymoons, family vacations, and conferences. There’s something for everyone! Check out the full hotel review and details here.

While this may seem like a steep-priced hotel, we were actually able to book our trip completely on credit card points by using our Marriott Bonvoy credit card. Being able to stay at such a prestigious and luxury hotel for 4 nights would not have been possible without our credit card points.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling to Maui and want to be treated like royalty with VIP upgrades, booking your hotel through my booking request form will give you access to a travel advisor, complimentary daily breakfast, up to $1,000 in resort credits depending on room category, complimentary WiFi, first priority on waitlists in sold-out situations, early check-in/late check-out based on availability, first priority for requested room category, bed type, rollaways and connecting rooms, VIP status granted with in-person welcome, priority for complimentary room upgrade (based on availability) $100 spa credit and a complimentary 5th night! Use this booking portal to request your dates now and instantly be treated like royalty!

Where to Eat in Maui

The Gazebo

This popular American breakfast spot caters to those looking for American-style breakfast in a laid-back atmosphere with stunning views of the ocean. The Gazebo is a fun hut-looking restaurant that locals and tourists have made popular over the years. It resides on the ocean adjacent to Napili Bay and is open from 7:30am-2pm. They serve delicious pancakes, omelettes, salads, sandwiches, burgers and more. It’s definitely an ideal location for a little brunch. And a great Hawaiin atmosphere outdoors. Definitely expect a wait time as the restaurant does not take reservations. And there is always a line out the door in the sun (wear sunscreen). You can expect a 25-45 minute wait time, but I promise it’s worth it!

Get directions to The Gazebo here.

Burger Shack

One of my favorite places to eat and hangout in Kapalua is The Burger Shack. This unique ocean-side shack offers a laid-back, fun and lively atmosphere. With tables and chairs, gorgeous views of the ocean and mountains and an excellent menu. Here you can enjoy appetizers, burgers, seafood, incredible ice cream shakes, beer, and cocktails. The Burger Shack is open daily from 11am-4pm and offers happy hour from 3-4pm. You won’t want to skip out on this beachside restaurant. Especially since it resides at The Ritz Carlton. Laid-back luxury at its finest!

Get directions to The Ritz Carlton Burger Shack here.

Down the Hatch

Down The Hatch is a super fun happy hour bar that offers an open-air patio in a quaint outdoor seating area. With white lights, and a lively atmosphere. They offer casual seafood items, cool tiki-themed cocktails and shave-ice. It’s the perfect place to enjoy happy hour before dinner or exploring the local area.

Get directions to Down The Hatch here.

Fleetwoods Rooftop Bar

This highly-rated, admired and upscale-casual restaurant offers American cuisine, fine-dining, amazing views, a stunning rooftop bar and live entertainment. Fleetwood’s Rooftop Bar is the best place to experience a well-rounded Hawaiin afternoon with multi-level floors, happy hour and an awesome atmosphere.

Happy Hour is from 3-5pm and includes items like fresh shucked ousters, crab & corn fritters, fish tacos, BLT bruschetta, lobster shrimp rolls, Fleetwood mac & cheese and more. They also have an exceptional dinner, drinks and dessert menu.

Get directions to Fleetwood’s Rooftop Bar here.

Kimo's Restaurant

Kimo’s Restaurant is a relaxed seafood spot with incredible harbor views where you can see and hear the waves crashing below you. They serve some of THE most incredible seafood I’ve had to date. And also offer their famous prime rib and Hula pie dessert. Between their intentional menu, delicious cocktails and beers on tap, you’re bound to have an excellent time. As a historic destination for dinner, you’ll see families and couples flocking here to enjoy one of the most beautiful Hawaiin dinner experiences as the sun sets on the water.

I suggest making a reservation to secure your dinner spot. Get directions to Kimo’s Restaurant here.

Things To Do In Maui

Go to a Luaua

Experiencing a luau in Hawaii is one of the best ways to be immersed into the culture through food, hospitality and entertainment. While there are several luaus to attend in Maui, the best of the best is Old Lahaina Luau. Here, you’ll have a beautiful oceanfront view on their outdoor venue where some of your most memorable experiences will be created.

Upon arrival, you’ll be offered a fresh orchid lei to wear as a necklace as you’re escorted to a private table either raised or traditional on the floor. Throughout the evening you’ll be entertained with live music including ukulele’s, drums and dancing of the traditional Hawaiin performances, have delicious and flowing cocktails as well authentic Hawaiin dishes, all you can eat. The includes crispy kalo (taro) and sweet potato chips, flavorful kalo hummus, fresh local greens salad with a breadbasket and honey-guava butter, kālua pig roasted underground in an imu among hot stones, lau lau (bundles of pork and taro leaves), fresh ʻahi poke, salty lomilomi salmon, samples of steak, chicken, fish, veggies and more! You definitely won’t leave hungry.

Visit Kaanapali Beach

The beaches of Hawaii are some of the most incredible and sought-out in the entire world. Kaanapali Beach in Maui is known as one of America’s best beaches with its miles of white sand, crystal clear water, tropical fish, cliff diving opportunities and stunning landscape. There’s plenty of great spots on Kaanapali beach for swimming, snorkeling and diving. But it is known for having more sharks in the area. So that will be something to consider. Always take part in water activities that are designated for tourists and where lifeguards are present.

Not only can you enjoy traditional beachside activities, but Kaanapali Beach also has resorts, restaurants and shops that reside alongside.

Check Out Maui Brewing Company

What better way to enjoy a Hawaiin atmosphere outdoors than to enjoy an ice cold beer. Maui Brewing Company offers indoor and outdoor seating on their stunning patio with handcrafted beers and a fresh-ingredients menu. They serve items like chicharrones & beer cheese dip, hot wings, nachos, sliders, flatbreads, entrees, burgers, sandwiches, cocktails and of course their famous Maui Brewing Co. beers.

Do the Road to Hana

This is definitely the most iconic and must-do activity in all of Maui. The Road to Hana. This magical drive stretches 64.4 miles long with twists, turns, vista points, waterfalls, ocean views, beaches, swimming opportunities and some of the most amazing landscapes you’ll see in your life. While the drive itself doesn’t sound that long, it’s the slow-moving turns and stops that make this an all-day outing. Depending on the stops you make it can take 7-9 hours roundtrip. But it can also take 10-12 hours, like it did for us.

Here are a few tips for doing the road to Hana:

Rent a Jeep – This is the best way to see everything and get around, especially with the rugged trails, twists and turns.
Go EARLY – Set your alarm, grab some coffee and get there early to beat any traffic, you don’t want to be stuck behind a slow poke. Plus, watching the sunrise on the way is absolutely gorgeous.⁣
Pack the essentials – Water, snacks, beer/hard seltzer (for those not driving), sunscreen, bug repellent and a first-aid kit.
Bring a bathing suit and a change of clothes – There’s many opportunities to swim and stand under waterfalls. So make sure you don’t forget your swimsuit and clothes to stay warm and dry after! ⁣
Follow along with a Road to Hana app – This was the key to our success and how we knew exactly where to stop and when. I HIGHLY recommend doing this instead of trying to figure out where to go on your own with Google Maps.
Stop at a Black Sand Beach – One of the coolest beaches you will ever see and one day it will no longer be available. So it really is a once in a lifetime experience.

Spend the Day in Lahaina

Spending the day or evening in Lahaina is an excellent idea as most of the places listed in this travel guide reside there. Lahaina stands for “restless sun” and is home to historic architecture, art galleries, unique shops and amazing restaurants. In Lahaina you can visit Banyan Tree, go sailing during the day and at sunset, go to the famous Luau as previously mentioned, go inside a submarine, shop on the famous Front Street and go whale watching.

While planning a trip can be a ton of fun, sometimes it’s easier to outsource things to get us time back and get things done the right way. I have a personal relationship with a fabulous trusted luxury travel advisor who can help you plan your trip. Whether you just want help with the hotel booking or are looking for a fully-customized travel itinerary.

The best part is you will get access to all the best hotels and packages, some coming with VIP perks and upgrades at no extra cost to you. This can include things like complimentary breakfast (the good kind, not bananas and coffee. I’m talking eggs Benedict and pancakes, etc.), room upgrades, hotel credit, champagne and welcome amenities, early check in & late check out and more. Using a travel advisor is a wise idea if you want to get the best deals for your trip and be treated like royalty in the process. Click here to request your booking today!