Maui is one of my favorite places on the planet! Keep reading for a complete breakdown on my top Maui travel tips for an amazing Maui vacation!
Fun fact: I dream about snorkeling in Hawaii on a regular basis. Last night I dreamed I was snorkeling in Maui with whales and it was so incredible. I had gone a few weeks without any Hawaii dreams and I was starting to panic that they were going away! Crisis averted.
I’m going to cover my best Maui travel tips:
- Top 5 Favorite Activities
- Top 5 Best Eats
- Top 5 Scenic Views
- Things I still want to do
- Where I recommend staying
- Pro Tips
Take a seat, grab a mango LaCroix and enjoy! (didn’t noticed that rhymed until editing, but I’m keeping it ;))
TOP 5 MAUI TRAVEL ACTIVITIES
1) Snorkeling on your own:
Inexpensive and a total blast. You are basically guaranteed to see multiple sea turtles if you spend enough time in the water! It is also common to hear dolphins whistling and clicking in the distance! If the budget is tight, you could fill an entire week with snorkeling on your own and other inexpensive activities.
Favorite locations: Napili Bay, Kapalua Bay, Black rock by the Sheraton (jump off the rock!), Kamaole beaches in Kihei
Never go out in murky/choppy water (common after it rains). I am firmly in the “sharks are nice” camp, but when they can’t see you, it’s easy to mistake you for a fish! Weather and water conditions are usually best earlier in the day (but not too early!)
2) Snorkel Tour to the Molokini Crater
Pristine waters, tons of colorful fish. High on the list of where I would put my money. BUT be aware that in unsafe/miserable conditions, they will take you somewhere else. (This can happen when the weather on the shore is calm.) So when booking you run the risk of paying $ and not even getting to the crater. This has happened to me — it was still an awesome day and I think it’s still worth it.
I recommend doing snorkel and whale watching tours through the Pacific Whale Foundation. They are organized, reliable and I like supporting their cause!
3) Whale Watching Tour
On my list of Maui travel tips, my #1 is to book a whale watching tour. There is nothing I love more on Maui than to whale watch! Humpback whale season is December 15th-May 15th.
If you’re there during the season, you will absolutely see whales from the shore! But there is nothing like being on a boat just yards from a humpback whale (or two!) breaching and tail/fin slapping. The most fun I’ve ever had – promise. Just look at this pic I got!!
4) Soak Up The Sun
Black Rock Beach or Napili Bay (or anywhere!)
5) Luau: Old Lahaina Luau
I like this Luau because it feels more authentic than others. If there is any room in the budget, do not miss a luau!
TOP 5 MAUI EATS
1) Frida’s Mexican Beach House: Hands down the best food I’ve ever had in the most magical setting! Request a table by the edge to watch sunset, order their Corn Cotija with chips and salsa, then enjoy absolute BLISS. I think I’m drooling.
2) Ululani’s Shave Ice: Their website says “All Shave Ice is Not Created Equal” and I couldn’t agree more! My favorite order: Macadamia nut ice cream topped with shave ice, then mango + guava + strawberry syrup and finally a Snow Cap (sweetened condensed milk mixture). Heeaaaaaven.
3) Fish Market Maui: seafood plate lunch! Get the Two Shrimp Taco Plate with rice and mac salad and then enjoy it at a picnic table across the street at Honokowai Beach Park.
4) Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop: Order your favorite mini pie at the counter. My fav? Chocolate Mac Nut. It is SO good. Make sure to get there early in the day, though because everyone else on the island thinks it’s delicious, too and they will sell out!
5) Julia’s Banana Bread: A Maui classic. Delicious banana bread with stunning views. Her permanent location is in Wailuku, but there is often a stand set up on a pull-off north of Kapalua on the west side. Check out the website for more info.
TOP 5 MAUI SCENIC VIEWS
1) Dragon’s Teeth aka Makaluapuna Point:
This is a rocky point that juts out into the ocean, accessed via a walkway near the Ritz-Carlton in West Maui. My mom and I went on a walk that turned into watching the most mesmerizing storm come in at sunset. We watched massive waves crash on the rocks and ended up totally soaked from the rain on the way back to the car. It was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve ever had. Don’t miss this! I think it’s fun to go on a slightly stormy day when the waves are angry — just be sure to stay safe!
2) North Loop Coastline Road Hwy 30
So many gorgeous views on this drive, including the Nakalele blowhole and the heart-shaped hole in a rock.
HOWEVER – note that east past the blowhole, the road gets very narrow with sharp drop offs. It can be dangerous, a little scary and often rental car companies specifically state not to go here. If you do go, make sure to allow plenty of time. It will take longer than you think! All that said, I think it’s a total blast.
3) Sea Turtles at Ho’okipa Beach Park
North of Paia, this is a great rainy day activity. You are practically guaranteed to see dozens of turtles slowly crawling in and out of the water and lounging on the sand and rocks. It is so cool! Get Ululani shave ice in Paia or fish and chips at the Paia Fish Market while you’re at it!
Yep, turtles, not rocks!
4) Watch Sunset at the Lahaina Waterfront
Even if you don’t eat at Frida’s, the entire stretch of Lahaina waterfront offers stunning sunset views. There are dozens of restaurants down there — or you can just go find a bench or rock to sit on and enjoy.
and Whale Watch from Shore
If you are going to be on Maui during humpback whale season (December 15th-May 15th), be sure to bring a pair of binoculars! You will be able to see them breaching and playing from anywhere you stand on the coast. Did I mention I love whales??
5) Sunrise at Mt. Haleakala
One of the most magnificent sunrises you will ever see, from the highest peak on Maui. You have to get up verrrry early to make the drive up there (and the weather may or may not cooperate for sunrise!) but it’s truly stunning. Don’t forget to get tickets ahead of time (inexpensive)! You can get all the details here.
STILL ON MY LIST
Road to Hana: I did this when I was younger and would love to do it again. This is where you will see waterfalls! The next time I’m in Maui, I want to take my time exploring on the way to Hana and then spend a night there.
Explore the east side of Maui, particularly the Seven Sacred Pools
Visit Mahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve (Makena) and its neighbor Maluaka Beach, AKA Turtle Town
Snorkel Honolua Bay: This bay is so beautiful and has gorgeous snorkeling. Often times, though, the conditions are dangerous or simply unclear for snorkeling. During those times, the bay turns into a surfing spot. I snorkeled there once, but on the next trip it was only surfing conditions. Check the snorkel report before you go out and stay safe!
Jump off Black Rock: I didn’t do it last time! Next time for sure
Ferry to Lana’i (neighboring island): I’ve never done this, but I would love to!
WHERE TO STAY
*Disclaimer: I am an adventurer/explorer and decidedly not a vacationer. I typically spend less money on lodging and more money on activities. I usually don’t prioritize staying in resorts, etc.
I also like to travel often, so I love finding a great deal on a place to stay. Laying out at the pool isn’t at the top of my list (and I don’t have kids, so that influences where I’m willing to stay).
Find an AirBNB:
I love renting an AirBNB when I travel because they are typically less expensive than renting a hotel room and usually come with more space, a kitchen, etc. Having a kitchen can save a lot of money on a place like Maui!
In 2018, my mom and I stayed here and were very happy with it. The bed was comfortable, the room was clean, the kitchen was great and the pool and hot tub were very nice.
Regardless, booking early can give you many more options. Don’t forget to consider things like parking, if they have a washer/dryer in unit, etc.
I’m a big fan and have a few adventures planned this year where AirBNB will be my home base.
If you use this link to sign up for AirBNB, you will get $40 off your first booking (and I get up to $30 credit if you complete the trip – thank you for supporting me!).
MAUI TRAVEL PRO TIPS
Maui Vacation Equipment rental: they rent everything from snorkel gear to camping supplies to baby essentials! Take a look at everything they offer and see if there’s anything you might need. They will even deliver to your hotel or condo before you arrive! We were very happy with our experience with them.
Sign up for the snorkel report here. They’ll send it to you daily via email.
Bring an underwater camera if you want to bring home memories of snorkeling! (I have the GoPro HERO7 Black and LOVE it.)
Immerse yourself in the culture! Find a farmer’s market to go to or attend a local church.
Ask locals for advice! They will always point you in the right direction. Ask for Maui travel tips from the front desk at your condo/hotel or from the checker at a convenience store.
Eat all the mango and macadamia nut ice cream you can find! 😉
Adventure, relax, enjoy your time in Maui!
Mahalo for hanging out with me for a bit! I hope you found some helpful Maui travel tips for planning your next Maui adventure. Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below. Is there anything you’d add to this list?
Next time you’re on Maui, say hello to the whales for me!
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