Complete Maui Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Maui Hawaii

Complete Maui Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Maui Hawaii

Maui is the perfect United States destination for a honeymoon, babymoon, family vacation or really any occasion. This Maui travel guide will explain everything you need to know about Maui to plan the perfect getaway.

I have been to Maui 6+ times, most recently in January 2021.The people, weather and natural beauty of Maui are what keep me returning time and time again. The visual beauty of Hawaii, from the ocean views to the road to Hana are guaranteed to take your breath away.

Keep reading to discover where to stay in Maui, what to do and what to eat. Learn from my many trips, many mistakes, and many memories. This Maui travel guide will help you save time and optimize your Hawaiian vacation to come home with unforgettable memories.

Everything you need to know about Maui Hawaii

Different Regions of Maui

Maui, while relatively small, has a few different key tourist areas. Many people wonder which area of Maui they should visit. Lets break down how to make that decision:

Hana: Hana is located on the east coast of Maui at the end of the famous “road to Hana”. Hana is known for natural beauty, eco-tourism, and proximity to Maui’s national parks. I recommend at least seeing Hana by completing a one-day road trip. If you have time in your itinerary, plan to stay 1-2 nights in this cute jungle town.

Lahaina/Kaanapali: The town of Lahaina and nearby resort area of Kaanapali is the most-visited area of Maui. Located on the west coast of Maui, Lahaina is known for local shops, fun restaurants and many tourist activities. It also has lower priced accommodations compared to Wailea, the luxury area of the island. If are seeking a lower price point, stay in Lahaina. Otherwise, opt for visiting in a day trip.

Wailea: Wailea is my personal favorite area of Maui. Known for high-end luxury and 5-star resorts, Wailea is the most exclusive and pricey area of the island. Located in west Maui, Wailea also tends to have drier and warmer weather than other areas of the island. If it fits in your price point, I highly recommend using Wailea as your home-base then taking day trips to the above areas.

Read my complete guide for more information about staying in Wailea.

Where to Stay in Maui

Now you understand the different regions of Maui, you need to pick which hotel to stay at. I have either stayed at the below resorts myself or have had them highly recommended by friends and family. With so many great hotels and resorts on the island, this should help narrow it down.

Fairmont Kea Lani

Fairmont Kea Lani Pool

First, my absolute favorite hotel in Maui and one of my favorite hotels in the world. The Fairmont Kea Lani has stunning grounds, personable staff, and approachable luxury in every detail.

Each room at the resort is a suite with high-end furnishings and spacious living areas. the large ocean-front villas are perfect for larger groups or those seeking a bit of privacy. The three pools are tailored to adults, families, and young children, respectively.

There are two restaurants onsite serving high-end cuisine as well as a casual pool restaurant and café. The willow stream spa provides a wide variety of services and relaxing treatments. What makes me return to the Fairmont Kea Lani Maui time and again is the fantastic, friendly staff that makes the resort feel like a home away from home.

Grand Wailea Maui

Grand Wailea Resort Maui

The Grand Wailea is the most-family focused resort on this list. Owned by Waldorf-Astoria, you can expect their high level of service and luxury.

The rooms are spacious but a bit outdated. However, if an amazing pool is a priority for you, this is the best place to stay. The impressive pool area has multiple pools, waterslides, and swim-up bars.

Hana-Maui Resort

Hands down, if you choose to spend any time in Hana, the Hana-Maui resort is the best resort in the area. This beautiful beachfront resort emphasizes the natural surroundings, with open, airy rooms and large private balconies.

This resort is conveniently located near many of the restaurants and tourist sites in Hana for easy convenience. Onsite, they have a gym, restaurant and two pools.

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa

If you choose to stay in the Kaanapali area of Maui, the Westin is a great option. As with all Westin properties, the service is exceptional, the rooms are updated, and the amenities meet all your needs.

Onsite at the Westin Maui, you will find 5 restaurants, a large pool, a fitness center, and a spa. Nearby, easily walk to the beach or Whaler’s village shopping center.

Getting around Maui

Jeep Wrangler Road to Hana

While Maui is a relatively small island, it has many different regions to explore. As mentioned above, it is recommended to visit at least the Wailea, Hana and Lahaina areas.

To see all these locations, many people opt to rent a car for the duration of the their stay. Cars run around $100 per day depending on the season and which vehicle you choose. Having a car will allow you to explore beyond your resort area, drive to a variety of dining options and have the freedom to run errands at your pleasure.

If you choose to rent a car, arrange before you arrive as they sell out quickly. Once you land in Maui, follow the signs to the rental car facility to retrieve your vehicle.

Alternatively, if you choose not to rent a car, taxis and rideshare options are readily available. Typically, a taxi or rideshare will be $50-$75 from the airport to Lahaina or Wailea. If you plan to stay at your resort most of the trip, this option may be better for you.

On my recent trip to Maui, I chose to do a hybrid of the above options. Since I knew my plan ahead of time, I chose to rent a car for only two days. These days were the Road to Hana and day trip to Lahaina. Ultimately, your decision depends on what about Maui you plan to experience each day.

Things to Do in Maui

Now, the most important part of this Maui travel guide: what activities you need to do. The great thing about Maui is that there is something for everyone from relaxation to adventure. I recommend balancing the following activities with lazy resort days for the perfect, balanced, Hawaii vacation.

Road to Hana

Road to Hana Maui

The Road to Hana is one of the top things to do in Hawaii. This 40-mile road starts on the north shore then travels along the east shore of Maui and passes many waterfalls, lookouts, and beaches.

For a great Road to Hana day trip, leave your hotel early in a rental car and proceed to the surfing town of Paia. From Paia, follow the Hana highway, stopping along the way to see the sites. Some of the best stops on the Road to Hana are Ho’okipa beach, Ke’anae peninsula, Waianapanapa State Park and Haleakala National Park.

Once you arrive in Hana, enjoy a delicious lunch at Braddah Hutts then continue home. Since this is a long day, be sure to come prepared with gas, snacks and extra phone and camera batteries.

My number one tip for the Road to Hana is to utilize this phone guide to help you navigate the roads, learn about the area, and keep yourself from getting lost. Many people will assume they can do the road on their own, but that often ends in stress.

My second tip for the Road to Hana is to read my complete guide for more details.

Day Trip to Lahaina

Lahaina Maui Hawaii

If you are not staying in Lahaina, a day trip is a great way to experience the charm of the cute, local town. The best way to get to Lahaina is by renting a car, which is discussed above.

Once you arrive in Lahaina, spend time walking the main street, stopping in local shops. Find tropical clothing, souvenirs, local food products and luxury jewelry. Be sure to stop by the banyan tree at the edge of town to take some photos and marvel in its large size.

Lahaina is also a great place to try some tasty eats. For lunch, stop at either Cheeseburger in Paradise or Kimos. Both are situated next to the water and serve casual American fare. For dessert get a shave ice or dole whip (or both).

Snorkeling in Maui

Polo beach maui

Hawaii is one of the best snorkeling locations in the world and Maui has some incredible spots. Plan to snorkel off a nearby beach or book a snorkeling tour at least once during your vacation.

If you prefer the casual option, find snorkel gear at stands near most major tourist beaches. If in the Wailea area, there are great options off polo beach. When snorkeling from the land, seek out areas with rocks or coral to find the most animal life.

For even better snorkeling, book a day tour to the Molokini crater or another major snorkeling destination. These tours typically leave early morning or midday and provide food, drinks and all snorkeling equipment.

Whale Watching

Whale watching season in Maui is from December to February when the humpback whales are migrating to warmer waters. During this time of the year, you can easily spot whales from shore. To find them, look for water spouts approximately 300 feet offshore. Once you spot a spout, keep an eye out for breeching whales.

If you prefer, there are many whale watching tours that go out on boats or kayaks. This option will typically guarantee a sighting and will get you closer to the whales. If you’re up for the adventure, check out this whale watching snorkel tour.

Traditional Hawaiian Luau

Maui travel must do= Hawaiian luau

The final thing you must do in Maui is visit a Hawaiian luau. One of the most compelling things about Maui is the wonderful, rich, culture. Found at many major resorts and private locations, luaus are a fun feast and celebration. Expect a large buffet serving local foods such as Kalua pork, macaroni salad, poi and much more. On stage, watch the history of Maui depicted through dance.

Some of the best Luau’s in Maui are hosted at the Grand Wailea Resort or the Andaz Maui. Their food is the best in my opinion, and I appreciated the open bars. To prepare for a luau, come hungry and dress in your best tropical attire. When at the event, respect the dancers and culture by giving your full attention.

Read this article to learn what to expect at the Grand Wailea Luau.

Where to Eat in Maui

This Maui travel guide would not be complete without suggesting where to eat on the Island. A great thing about Maui is the variety of cuisine and price ranges of food you can find (all of which is delicious).

Nick’s Fish Market

Nicks Fish Market Fairmont Kea Lani

Cuisine: Seafood
Location: Fairmont Kea Lani, Wailea

Nick’s Fish Market is my favorite high-end restaurant in Maui. It is a great spot for a celebration or date night. The food at Nick’s showcases fresh local ingredients with gourmet preparation. Some of my favorite dishes are the seared scallops with goat cheese tortellini, macadamia crusted catch of the day and the filet mignon.

Humble Market Kitchen

Humble Market Kitchen Maui

Cuisine: Asian-Fusion
Location: Wailea Beach Resort, Wailea

Humble Market Kitchen is a high-end Asian fusion restaurant with stunning views of Wailea beach and the ocean. The restaurant has a comfortable atmosphere with elevated food. Once I tasted the complimentary edamame starter, I knew I was in for a great meal. I recommend the catch of the day, beef short ribs and the cauliflower starter. Be sure to try a cocktail from their unique and inventive drink menu.

Kimos

Kimos Lahaina Maui

Cuisine: Casual American
Location: Lahaina

During your day trip in Lahaina, Kimo’s is a great causal lunch spot. The large deck has stunning views of the ocean. Their Mai Tai’s are delicious and come in a fun tiki glass. For food, I recommend the poke stack, burger and the hula pie for dessert.

Mama’s Fish House

Cuisine: Local Seafood
Location: Paia

Mama’s Fish House is often rated the number one restaurant in Maui and will show up on every Maui travel guide. Unfortunately, I have been unable to get a reservation at this popular spot.

Visitors rave about the service, location, and quality of the fresh caught seafood. Be sure to book a reservation at Mama’s at least two months ahead of time for an unforgettable dinner in Maui.

Braddah Hutts

Cuisine: Hawaiian BBQ
Location: Hana

Braddah Hutts is a food truck in Hana serving up the best Hawaiian BBQ. Located on the property of the owner and chef, this casual food truck will not disappoint. I recommend stopping here as part of your road to Hana drive. You cannot go wrong with any of the dishes but I recommend the barbecue chicken or kalua plate.

Maui Brewing Co.

Maui Brewing Co

Cuisine: Bar Food
Location: Kihei

Maui Brewing is great for a casual dinner or happy hour. This large warehouse has brewing facilities, a large restaurant and outdoor patio. There are 20+ beers on tap, great pizza, burgers and appetizers. Maui brewing’s outdoor patio has a turf lawn and games, making it a great family spot.

Maui One Week Itinerary

Here is how I would structure a one week itinerary for Maui. It will give you a glimpse of the entire island and a taste of the best activities.

Day 1: Arrive at your hotel in Wailea and spend the day relaxing at the beach or pool, then enjoy a nice dinner nearby.

2: From Wailea, take a day tour to the Molokini crater for snorkeling and time on the water.

3: Take a day trip to Lahaina and spend the entire day there exploring the town, trying local restaurant for lunch and dinner.

4: Spend another day relaxing at the beach or pool. At night, visit a local luau, such as this farm-to-table luau at the Andaz Maui.

5: Set out on the Road to Hana, then spend the night at the Hana Maui Resort.

6: Explore Hana, spend time relaxing at your beautiful resort.

7: Return to Wailea for the end of your trip and take this whale watching tour if time allows.

Summary of this Maui Travel Guide

Maui travel views

Hopefully, this Maui travel guide answered all your questions about Maui. If not, please reach out or leave them in the comments below. For those that have visited before, leave your best Maui travel tips below.

Overall, your Maui vacation will be wonderful whether you do all the activities on this list or choose to relax at your resort the entire time. Be sure to take advantage of the local beauty, explore the Hawaiian culture and get to know all the amazing people.

Complete guide to Maui Hawaii Maui Travel Guide

This Maui travel guide will explain everything you need to know about Maui including the best resorts, restaurants and activities.