Maui, Hawaii is a paradise that should be on every traveler’s list. From breathtaking west coast beaches and lush rainforests to the iconic Road to Hana and the majestic Haleakalā sunrise, Maui offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and unique experiences. Whether you’re snorkeling with sea turtles, exploring vibrant local culture, or savoring fresh island cuisine, Maui promises an unparalleled experience. If it’s the first time you’re going to visit Maui, this guide will help you plan a trip that captures the island’s essence and ensures you don’t miss its top highlights. Get ready to discover the magic of Maui!
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Why Visit Maui
Maui offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural splendor that sets it apart from other destinations. Its diverse landscapes range from the golden sands of Kaʻanapali Beach to the cascading waterfalls of Iao Valley, providing endless opportunities to connect with nature. Maui’s charm lies in its balance—whether it’s whale watching in the winter, savoring farm-to-table cuisine in Upcountry, or diving into Hawaiian history in the island’s charming towns. Unlike bustling Oahu or secluded Kauai, Maui combines vibrant energy with tranquil escapes. It’s the perfect destination to immerse yourself in aloha spirit while creating unforgettable memories tailored to your style.
Getting to Maui
The best way to travel to Maui is by flying into Kahului Airport (OGG), the island’s main gateway, with direct flights available from major cities in the U.S. and neighboring Hawaiian Islands. Choosing a morning flight allows you to maximize your time and enjoy clear views of Maui’s stunning coastline as you land. If you plan to travel among the Hawaiian Islands, inter-island flights are short and readily available.
Getting Around Maui
The best way to get around Maui is by renting a car, offering the freedom to explore the island’s diverse attractions at your own pace. From the winding turns of the Road to Hana to the summit of Haleakalā, having a car ensures access to even the most remote spots. For short trips in Maui’s charming towns, rideshare services and taxis are convenient options. Public transportation is limited but can be used for basic travel. For a unique experience, consider bike rentals for scenic rides along the coast. Guided tours are also a great way to visit key landmarks hassle-free.
Top Maui Attractions
Maui is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences, offering a wide range of attractions that cater to every interest. From stunning natural landscapes to cultural landmarks, the island is brimming with opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. On Maui, every turn reveals a new reason to fall in love with the island!
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Pristine West Maui
West Maui is one of the island’s most popular regions, celebrated for its postcard-perfect white sand beaches that draw visitors from around the world. Among its standout gems are Napili Beach, a tranquil spot ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and Kaʻanapali Beach, a vibrant hub for water sports, sunbathing, and beachfront dining. The crystal-clear waters and soft sands of West Maui create a picture-perfect paradise that is hard to resist. Beyond the beaches, West Maui offers stunning views of nearby Molokaʻi, vibrant sunsets, and a lively resort atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, West Maui offers the perfect setting for unforgettable island experiences, blending natural beauty with opportunities for exploration, dining, and enjoying Maui’s laid-back charm.
Haleakala National Park
Haleakalā National Park is one of Maui’s top attractions, offering an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Home to the world’s largest dormant volcano, the park’s summit rises over 10,000 feet, providing breathtaking panoramic views that are especially stunning at sunrise and sunset. The landscape ranges from otherworldly volcanic craters to lush rainforests filled with unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. To fully immerse yourself in these spectacular surroundings, explore some of the park’s hiking trails that lead through the crater, past cinder cones, and into serene valleys. The park also holds deep cultural significance, with ties to ancient Hawaiian traditions and stories, as well as spectacular stargazing opportunities.
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana offers the chance to take a scenic day trip filled with breathtaking beauty and adventure. Winding along Maui’s eastern coast, this 64-mile journey takes you through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and along dramatic ocean cliffs. The drive itself is an experience, with over 600 curves and 50 bridges leading to hidden gems along the way. From tropical beaches and tranquil pools to vibrant botanical gardens, each stop showcases Maui’s natural splendor. While the journey is half the fun, reaching Hana offers its own rewards, including serene landscapes and a sense of connection to old Hawaii. Whether you drive yourself or join a guided tour, the Road to Hana is an unforgettable exploration of Maui’s raw beauty.
Top Things to Do on Maui Island
Maui is a paradise for adventure and relaxation, offering an incredible range of activities to fill your stay with excitement. Whether you’re exploring the island’s natural beauty, diving into its vibrant culture, or indulging in water and land-based adventures, these things to do on Maui are sure to deliver.
Water Sports
Maui is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering a variety of thrilling activities to enjoy. Surfing is a must-try, with world-renowned spots along the west coast catering to all skill levels. For a more laid-back experience, boogie boarding at the island’s gentle beaches provides fun for all ages. The crystal-clear waters also make Maui perfect for swimming and snorkeling, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside sea turtles and colorful fish. Scuba diving takes it a step further, offering deeper underwater adventures. Stand-up paddleboarding is another popular option, offering a peaceful way to glide across the water while taking in Maui’s stunning coastline. The pristine waters along Maui’s many beaches offer endless opportunities for adventure!
Land-Based Adventures
Maui isn’t just a paradise on the water; it also offers incredible land-based activities for outdoor adventurers. Hiking is a top choice, with trails that lead you through lush rainforests, up volcanic craters, and to hidden waterfalls. For a more adrenaline-packed experience, ATV tours let you explore rugged landscapes and remote parts of the island, offering a thrilling ride through varied terrain. Horseback riding takes you through Maui’s scenic upcountry, where you can enjoy the island’s rolling hills and breathtaking views. Ziplining is another exciting option, offering an aerial view of Maui’s stunning valleys, forests, and coastlines. Whether you’re seeking peaceful hikes or adrenaline-pumping adventures, Maui’s land-based adventures offer endless opportunities to explore the island’s rugged beauty.
Shopping
Maui offers fantastic shopping opportunities, blending island style with local craftsmanship. Whether you’re browsing casual surf shops for the latest beachwear or exploring charming boutiques, the island has something for every taste. You’ll find a wide range of unique items, from handcrafted jewelry and locally made clothing to Hawaiian-inspired home decor. Browse art galleries showcasing island-inspired works and stores showcasing local artisans’ wares. For a more upscale experience, Wailea boasts a range of high-end designer stores. Whether you’re looking for a souvenir, a gift, or a piece of Maui to take home, the island’s shopping scene offers a unique island flair.
Luau
Attending a luau offers a vibrant way to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and tradition. A luau typically includes a feast of local delicacies such as kalua pig, poi, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits, showcasing the island’s rich culinary heritage. Alongside the delicious food, you’ll enjoy captivating performances of traditional Hawaiian music, hula dancing, and cultural storytelling that trace the island’s history and legends. It’s an unforgettable experience that offers both a taste of Maui’s flavors and a deeper connection to its culture, sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Can’t-Miss Restaurants
Maui boasts a vibrant and diverse restaurant scene, offering something for every palate and occasion. From fresh seafood and farm-to-table dining to international flavors and local Hawaiian cuisine, the island’s eateries are varied. Be sure to enjoy a meal at a few of these can’t-miss Maui restaurants!
Merriman’s Maui
Dining at Merriman’s Maui offers an exceptional farm-to-table experience. Located right along the ocean, the restaurant offers plentiful outdoor seating with stunning views, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely meal. The menu highlights locally sourced ingredients, featuring fresh seafood, island-grown vegetables, and meats from nearby ranches. Known for its commitment to sustainability, Merriman’s crafts dishes that showcase the flavors of Maui’s bountiful land and sea. Its west coast location makes it the perfect option for a sunset dinner.
Mama’s Fish House
Dining at Mama’s Fish House offers an unforgettable experience right along the north shore coastline and is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Known for its breathtaking ocean views and rustic charm, this iconic restaurant is one of the most sought-after on the island, so be sure to make a reservation well in advance. Mama’s specializes in serving the freshest fish, caught daily by local fishermen, ensuring each dish highlights the flavors of the sea. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and a menu that celebrates Maui’s marine bounty, dining at Mama’s Fish House is a true island treasure.
Duke’s Beach House
Dining at Duke’s offers a unique experience that celebrates the legendary Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing. With an open-air vibe and stunning ocean views, the restaurant captures the spirit of aloha and the island’s rich surfing culture. Positioned to enjoy ocean views, Duke’s offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and locally sourced ingredients. From the famous hula pie to expertly prepared fish dishes, Duke’s menu is a tribute to both the island’s flavors and its history.
Leilani’s on the Beach
Leilani’s on the Beach offers a perfect dining experience with breathtaking ocean views that add to the ambiance. Located along the famed Ka’anapali Beach within Whaler’s Village, it’s the ideal spot for enjoying fresh seafood and Hawaiian-inspired dishes while taking in the beauty of the coastline. The relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating allow you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the beach as you savor a delicious meal and tropical cocktail.
Experience Maui as a Local
To truly experience Maui like a local, take time to immerse yourself in the island’s relaxed pace and vibrant community. Visiting local markets can be a great place to chat with residents, discover fresh, island-grown produce, and support local artisans by shopping for handmade crafts. Food trucks offer a delicious, low-key way to sample authentic local cuisine, often serving up island-inspired tacos, poke bowls, and other island favorites. For a more authentic beach day, venture off the beaten path to less crowded shores away from the resort areas, where you can enjoy more secluded spots and breathtaking views. Embrace Maui’s slow-paced lifestyle, savoring each moment, whether it’s watching a sunset, hiking through lush landscapes, or simply chatting with residents you meet. By stepping away from the tourist spots, you’ll experience Maui’s true essence and discover a side of the island that many visitors miss.
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Maui Vacation Rentals
Selecting the right Maui vacation rental can greatly enhance the quality of your stay, offering a more personalized and comfortable experience. The most popular areas to stay are along the west coast north of Lahaina, or in the Kihei area, known for the beautiful beaches and convenient access to local attractions. Many vacation rentals come with amenities like a full kitchen, comfortable living room, private bedrooms, and a private outdoor lanai, allowing you to feel at home while enjoying the island. You’ll find many properties located right along the oceanfront, boasting stunning views. Onsite amenities such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and BBQ areas are common, providing additional relaxation and convenience. Whether you’re looking for a cozy studio or a spacious multi-bedroom home, choosing the right vacation rental ensures a more enjoyable, stress-free stay.
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At My Perfect Stays, we offer a wide range of Maui vacation rentals to suit a variety of budgets and preferences. Browse our listings here and turn your dream Maui vacation into a reality!
The Hawaiian Islands have a wide array of things for you to do and see on your next tropical trip. Set your sites on the beautiful beaches and fun you’ll only find on Maui and create an island getaway that’s truly unique and yours. The island and locale alone are great reasons to visit, but there is a lot more waiting for you to discover once you get here!
Rich History
The second-largest island in the state of Hawaii, it has a rich history that reaches back well before it joined the union. Modern Hawaiian history – including the monarchy – began in the mid-18th century when king of the island of Hawaii, Kamehameha I, invaded the island in 1790. Europeans brought change and preservation, including creating the 12-letter Hawaiian alphabet and writing down the previously orally transmitted history of the area. After years of royal rule, it became a U.S. territory in 1900 and the 50th state in 1959.
A Welcoming Environment
After the devastating wildfires that started in August of 2023 and burned for multiple days, many of Maui’s historic landmarks were lost. As the island and its residents work to recover and rebuild, we are welcoming visitors with open arms. Activities and attractions that remain open or have reopened are eager to host you and your loved ones, giving you a taste of Maui and Hawaiian culture you won’t want to miss.
Beaches
No matter how many times you have been or come back to Maui, you’ll always find yourself at the beach. There are many named beaches, but there are also several small, secluded sections of sand and water just moments from your rental. You’ll even find some of Hawaii’s iconic black sand beaches – those beaches touched by volcanic activity. While you may want to take a barefoot stroll, resist the urge at a black sand beach – the black absorbs heat faster and can cause burns.
Festivals
Celebrate Hawaiian culture, or a holiday. Maui celebrates important U.S. holidays like Memorial Day, 4th of July, and all the rest. There are also celebrations of Hawaiian and Maui history, including special dates like the banyan tree’s birthday, the Prince Kuhio Festival, surfing competitions, and more.
Hawaiian Cowboys
Cowboys aren’t just for the American Southwest. Hawaii has its own ranches and cowboys. The Upcountry Maui town of Makawao is home to ranches, horses, and the cowboys that run them – known as paniolo. Horseback-riding paniolo have been wrangling cattle in the upland fields since the late 19th century. It’s a completely different experience from the beautiful beaches and is a great day trip for your Maui itinerary.
Volcanic Activity
This isn’t the kind of activity that includes lava flow. Haleakala is a dormant volcano located in a national park that bears its name. Reaching 10,000 feet, you can watch the sun rise through a halo of clouds. After the sun rises, grab a bike and cruise over 35 miles of road down the volcano’s steep slopes. You’ll pass by volcanic rock formations as well as deep green vegetation specimens. Both activities will require a jacket for the cold air at the top! After you’ve experienced volcanoes on land, dive below the water for more.
Snorkel A Volcanic Cone
If you’re all about volcanoes, you can get a look at them from above the water and below the water on a trip to Maui. The island is just one of three volcanic atolls in the world! Molokini Crater is filled with a rainbow of coral, schools upon schools of tropical fish, and more. A snorkel trip to the area is a perfect way to experience the complex world below the crystal-clear waters surrounding the crater.
Three Islands
Maui is part of a three-island chain officially known as Maui Nui. The nearby islands of Lanai and Molokai join Maui as part of the island grouping. Sail from Maui to Lanai on a ferry ride or take to the skies on a 25-minute plane ride to Molokai – every moment filled with breathtaking views.
Delicious Eats
Hawaiian and Polynesian fare is a unique blend of flavors. Maui also has a variety of seafood restaurants, American, and everything in between. The island of Maui even boasts Top Chef-worthy cuisine! Sheldon Simeon owns several restaurants across the island, with cuisines that include Asian noodles, traditional Hawaiian home cooking, and more.
Contact Us
These are just a few reasons to make Maui your next stop for vacation relaxation. There are plenty more, with one of the top being a home away from home in a vacation rental provided by My Perfect Stays. Book a cozy studio-style unit for a solo or sweetheart Maui adventure, all the way up to a 3-bedroom home. No matter which home you choose, enjoy expansive living spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, stunning indoor and outdoor living, and more.
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No matter what time of year you need a break, the Hawaiian Islands have a wide array of things for you to do and see. Set your sites on the beautiful beaches and fun you’ll find on Maui and create an island getaway that’s unique to you and your loved ones. The island alone is a reason to visit, but there are plenty more highlights, must-do, or must-see attractions and activities that will make the decision to visit Maui a no-brainer.
Weather
No matter what time of year you visit Maui you’ll experience sun and warmer temperatures. Winter highs are in the low 80s and lows in the mid 60s. Summer turns up the heat a little with highs in the high 80s and lows in the 70s. With less than an inch of rain on average in the wettest months, you can be rest assured to have good weather during your Maui adventure.
Culture
The Hawaiian Islands are a blend of Hawaiian, Polynesian, and other cultures. You can experience each on your visit. Attend a lu’au or visit the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. You’ll learn about area culture and customs or take in a show presented by various performers like the Hawai’i Youth Symphony, or nationally recognized artists like UB40, Old Dominion, and Wayne Newton.
Beaches
An island escape means time on the beach, and in Maui that activity is year-round. Spend plenty of time on the beaches of Maui while you lay out in the sun and sunbathe, get your exercise with a walk or run on the sand, or grab a beach blanket and pack a basket for a beach picnic.
Water Activities
In addition to the many beach activities on land that attracted you and your traveling companions to Maui, there are a myriad of fun water sports to add to your Maui itinerary, too. If you‘re looking for an adrenaline boost or feel the need for speed on the water, take off on a jet ski. For a unique and memorable water experience, learn to “hang 10” and take surfing or windsurfing lessons with certified instructors. Take a dip in the ocean or take some time to explore the underwater world on a SCUBA or snorkeling trip.
Road to Hana
It’s a road trip not to be missed on a visit to Maui. Pack up the rental car and go on a must-do sightseeing excursion on land. While the Road to Hana is “only” 64 miles, it’s full of hairpin turns, one-lane bridges, and an array of blind spots to negotiate. You may set out on the journey thinking the 25-mile-an-hour speed limit is a bit slow, but you’ll be thankful for it as you negotiate your way through the twists and turns. The road to Hana isn’t just driving! Pull off to the side with the many other vehicles and hike to beautiful waterfalls, lava tubes and rocks, black sand beaches, and historic sites that include Charles Lindbergh’s grave site.
Brave the road on your own and make your own stops or join a tour with a knowledgeable guide who will take you to many of the best landmarks and hiking spots along the way, meaning you won’t miss a thing. However you navigate the famous Maui path, make sure to pack plenty of drinks, snacks, and your camera.
Wildlife Watching
Charter a boat that seeks out some of Hawaii’s sea life. Several charters in the marinas of Maui will take you out in search of dolphins, whales, and other ocean life. Bring your camera for pictures of whales breaching, or dolphins coming up for a little air. You might even win their companionship as they race alongside the vessel.
Come Stay with Us!
These are just a few reasons you need to make Maui your next vacation destination. There are plenty more, including a relaxing home away from home in a vacation rental provided by My Perfect Stays. Book a cozy studio-style unit for a solo or sweetheart island retreat, all the way up to a 3-bedroom home. No matter which home you choose, enjoy expansive living spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, and more.
Call us today to discuss reasons why you should start planning a fun-filled visit to Maui!