The Key To Getting The Most Out Of Your Next Trip To Maui, HI: A Travel Guide

Maui, Hawaii, has so much to offer; whether you are traveling with family, friends, or solo, there is always something to do. With its stunning beaches and towering waterfalls, every part of Maui offers a unique experience. The six regions that make up Maui are: West Maui, Central Maui, North Shore, South Maui, Upcountry, and East Maui. The most well-known places in Maui are Kapalua (in West Maui), Wailea (in South Maui), and Hana (in East Maui). Despite each region offering many different things, they all have one thing in common: the community’s desire to preserve the land. 

For example, consider the Maui Sunscreen Ban, which states that the only sunscreen that can be brought to or bought in Maui must be safe for the coral reefs. In other words, it bans the use of non-mineral sunscreen, without a prescription. The best way to protect the environment of Maui, as a traveler, is to respect the laws and familiarize yourself with them. All of the environmental laws can be found on The County of Maui website.

Weather

Maui is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, which means that the weather can be unpredictable. It is to be expected that most days will have a random, misty light rain. Each region in Maui has microclimates, meaning that some parts of the island are rainier and some are drier than others. The official rainy season for the entire island is from November to March. The island has two seasons: summer and winter. The weather ranges from a high of around 80 degrees F (26 degrees Celsius) in the summer, to a high of 70 degrees F (21 degrees Celsius) in the winter. The low is typically around 57 degrees F (14 degrees Celsius) in both summer and winter.
What to Pack

Whether you are traveling in Summer or Winter, it is important to bring layers. It is recommended to bring a light rain jacket and if you are planning on hiking to bring pants and waterproof sneakers or hiking boots. Below is a list of the basic necessities for traveling to Maui:

• Swimwear

• Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection

• Shorts

• T-shirts/tank tops

• Light-weight sweater

• Sunglasses

• Beach cover-up

• Beach towels (depending if your hotel has them or not)

• Sandals/flip-flops

• Sneakers or hiking boots

• Light-weight rain jacket

• Non-mineral sunscreen

• Bug spray*

*Maui is home to two common species of mosquitoes - one that bites during the day and one during the nighttime, so bringing a bug-spray is highly recommended.

Maui offers a plethora of activities for any age group. From snorkeling to a hike through the jungles, there is so much to do. The best activities to get the most out of your stay in Maui are:

• The Road to Hana: The Road to Hana is a roughly seven hour trip that is typically organized by a tour guide that you can find on HikeMaui or TripAdvisor. During the trip you will make several stops at different beaches, waterfalls, and state parks along the east coast of Maui. Lunch will be brought on the trip and most tours end with opportunities to try some of Maui’s famous banana bread. While the Road to Hana is a long trip, it is definitely worth it and an excellent way to explore many different parts of Maui.

• Snorkeling: The tour begins aboard a boat that will take you to an area of the ocean known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. You may encounter sea turtles, colorful fish, coral reefs, and occasionally dolphins, whales, or harmless sharks. Some tours include a lunch served on the boat, though this varies depending on the package. Snorkeling tours can typically be arranged through your hotel or platforms like TripAdvisor.

• Ziplining: Ziplining is a great way to view Maui from above. Tour guides will supply you with gear. The tour will usually last two or three hours long, with a break in between. During the tour you will be able to zipline through the jungles of Maui and observe nature. This tour can be booked through your hotel or TripAdvisor. 

• Whale Watching: Whale watching season in Maui begins in November and goes until April. The tour can be during the day or at sunset. It is a wonderful experience that will take you far out in the ocean, where much of the marine life lives. You will be able to see whales, dolphins, or even sharks from the comfort of a boat. The tour you select will depend on the boat that you will go on. The boats that are offered are either catamarans, eye-level rafts, or larger vessel boats. These tours will typically last two hours but some can be for half a day. These longer ones will offer food and drink options. SeaMaui is a great tour for a sunset cruise but daytime tours can be found on TripAdvisor.

• Waterfall Hikes: A waterfall hike offers a unique experience through the jungles of Maui. Not only can you observe and swim in various waterfalls ranging in height, you can also familiarize yourself with the many plants as well as the unique wildlife. During the jungle hike, you'll have the opportunity to taste various plants and learn to distinguish between those that are safe to eat and those that are poisonous. The hike typically spans five to six hours, making it a half-day adventure. Most tours provide lunch, water, and backpacks for participants. It's essential to bring sunscreen, a hat, and bug spray, as you'll be outdoors for an extended period. For a highly-rated experience, consider booking with HikeMaui.

• Luaus: A luau is an amazing way to get to know the culture of Hawaii. During the luau, dinner will be served. Dinner consists of many traditional Hawaiian dishes including kalua pig. During the dinner, guests can enjoy various cultural performances and traditional Hawaiian songs, creating a truly immersive experience. By the end of the night, you'll have gained a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture, enriching your trip. Luaus are often organized through hotels, with some of the highest-rated options available at The Ritz-Carlton in Kapalua and the Grand Wailea Resort in Maui.

Travelers should note that the more strenuous tours such as ziplining, snorkeling, or long hikes are not recommended if you have any heart conditions or injuries.

Places to Stay

The hotel that you stay in can make or break your trip. Finding the right hotel can be tedious and even feel impossible at times. The perfect hotel varies based on several factors, including whether you're traveling with family, your budget, and the type of experience you're seeking.

FAMILIES

These hotels cater to families with child-friendly activities, family-oriented restaurants, and expansive pool areas. Additionally, they offer special amenities to enhance your family vacation:

1. Grand Wailea - Waldorf Astoria Resort

• Features in-room childcare.

• Offers an immersive activity for children that begins upon their arrival, making it an engaging experience right from the start.

2. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa

• Includes a kid's club with organized activities tailored for younger guests.

3. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

• Also features a kid's club, providing entertainment and supervised activities for children.

These resorts provide an ideal balance of relaxation and fun for families.

WORK TRIPS

These hotels provide extensive facilities for business meetings and events, catering to corporate needs. They also offer discounts for groups traveling together for work purposes:

1. The Ritz Carlton Maui, Kapalua

• Features elegant and spacious event venues, perfect for formal meetings or conferences.

• Renowned for its high-end service and attention to detail for business travelers.

2. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

• Offers versatile meeting spaces equipped with modern technology.

• Provides group discounts and packages tailored for corporate teams.

3. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

• Includes expansive event spaces ideal for professional gatherings.

• Well-suited for hosting business events with picturesque backdrops for relaxation post-meeting.

These hotels combine professional amenities with the luxury of a tropical destination, ensuring a productive and enjoyable work trip.

WEDDINGS

If you're planning to tie the knot in Maui, these top hotels offer stunning venues to make your wedding truly unforgettable:

1. Grand Wailea - Waldorf Astoria Resort

   • Known for its lush gardens and breathtaking ocean views, this resort provides multiple venues for ceremonies and receptions.

   • Offers personalized wedding packages, luxury accommodations, and a dedicated team to handle every detail.

2. The Ritz Carlton Maui, Kapalua

   • Features elegant venues surrounded by natural beauty, including beachfront settings and a stunning chapel.

   • Renowned for its exceptional service and ability to create bespoke wedding experiences.

3. The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

   • Combines sophistication with tropical charm, offering idyllic beachfront and garden ceremony locations.

   • Provides world-class catering and luxury amenities to ensure a flawless celebration.

These resorts promise magical settings and exceptional service to make your special day in Maui unforgettable.

MOST EXPENSIVE HOTELS IN MAUI

If you're looking for the ultimate luxury experience in Maui, these top-tier hotels stand out for their opulence, but come with a price tag averaging around $700 per room:

1. Grand Wailea - Waldorf Astoria Resort

   • A sprawling oceanfront resort featuring world-class dining, a massive pool complex, and luxurious spa facilities.

   • Perfect for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and high-end amenities.

2. The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

   • Renowned for its personalized service, stunning ocean views, and elegant rooms.

   • Features top-notch dining, an infinity pool, and exclusive experiences tailored to guests.

3. The Ritz Carlton Maui, Kapalua

   • A secluded retreat offering refined accommodations and unparalleled service.

   • Nestled in a tranquil setting with breathtaking views, championship golf courses, and a luxurious spa.

These hotels epitomize luxury and are ideal for those seeking a high-end vacation in paradise.

AFFORDABLE HOTELS IN MAUI

These hotels provide excellent amenities and services at a more budget-friendly price, with rooms under $500 per night:

1. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa

   • A beautiful beachfront property with a large pool area, spa services, and several dining options.

   • Ideal for families and couples looking for a blend of relaxation and activity.

2. AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea

   • A modern hotel offering sleek design, great service, and convenient access to shops, beaches, and restaurants.

   • Perfect for travelers seeking a stylish stay without the high-end price tag.

3. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

   • A resort known for its tropical landscaping, fun pool areas, and engaging cultural activities.

   • A great choice for families or business travelers.

Alternative Options:
If traditional hotels aren't your style, consider booking a vacation rental through Airbnb or Vrbo. These platforms offer unique accommodations, often with kitchens and larger spaces, making them perfect for families or groups.

TOP RESTAURANTS

Food is a gateway to experiencing the unique culture of Maui. Known for its fresh fish, vibrant fruits, and iconic treats, Maui offers a feast for the senses. Overall, Hawaii is known for its fresh fish in sushi or poke bowls, as well as its fresh fruit, which can be found anywhere on the island. Maui has especially excellent food and is known particularly for its shave ice and banana bread.

Sushi Spots

Nuka (Haiku, North Shore)
A hidden gem offering fresh, inventive sushi and authentic Japanese dishes.

1. Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar (Lahaina, West Maui)
   A fan favorite, this spot consistently wins the gold “Aipono Award for Best Sushi” in Hawaii.

2. Kojima’s Sushi & Japanese Cuisine (Makawao, Upcountry)
   A cozy locale with a wide selection of fresh sushi and traditional Japanese dishes.

Shave Ice Favorites

Uluani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice (Lahaina, West Maui)
Renowned for its finely shaved ice and homemade syrups, it’s a must-visit for the ultimate shave ice experience.

1. Tobi’s Poke & Shave Ice (Paia, East Maui)
   A perfect blend of refreshing shave ice and fresh poke bowls.

2. Peace Love Shave Ice (Kihei, South Maui)
   Known for its creative flavors and laid-back vibe.

WHERE TO GET BANANA BREAD

1. Aunt Sandy’s Banana Bread (Haiku, North Shore)
   Famous for its moist, rich banana bread—a North Shore staple.

2. Julia’s Best Banana Bread (Wailuku, Central Maui)
   A local favorite for its authentic taste and perfect sweetness.

3. Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop (Lahaina, West Maui)
   Offering a twist with banana bread pies and other delightful baked goods.

Spending a week or more in Maui can easily become the vacation of a lifetime. Immersing yourself in the culture of Hawaii through the different activities you do, the food you eat, and the adventures you have will create lasting memories. The different parts of Maui are all completely unique and offer so much to do. It is extremely important to remember before you go that the Hawaiian islands are sacred. After all, the Hawaiians believe that if we take care of the land, the land will take care of us.