Hawaii recap: Travel guide to Maui
Maui sure has it all, it is home to a dreamy coastline with mountains to the other side, stunning beaches with red, black, green, and white sands, waterfalls, volcanoes, and rain forests make it one of the most naturally gorgeous islands in the world!
“Ua mau ke ‘ea o ka ʻāina i ka pono”, which translates to “the life of the land be perpetuated in righteousness” – is the motto of the Hawaiian Islands. When you visit Maui, their motto is captured beyond, every place you go, with every breath you take and every sight that you see. I am so fortunate to have visited three Hawaiian Islands on one trip with my husband. Maui was our first stop and my absolute favorite island. I am sure that the vibes of this place will strike you and I know you will fall in love with the aloha spirit as we did! Read on for our list of daily eats, sights and so much more. Enjoy!
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Travel to Maui during COVID-19
Visit the Hawaii Safe Travels Website for current policies in place when planning your trip as they change frequently.
How we got around:
We flew into Kahului Airport (OGG), located on the north side of the island, nestled between the two mountains —Haleakala (east) and West Maui Mountains (west). This is where Target, Costco, Whole Foods, and Walmart are located. From experience, you won’t spend much time in Kahului once you pick up your rental car and groceries. A 4-door Jeep is a must in Hawaii. We rented a jeep from National Car Rental.
Where we stayed:
Considering where to stay in Maui is an important aspect. There are lots of towns and areas to explore on this gorgeous island. The most popular visitor destinations are West Maui and South Maui. We stayed in West Maui in Lahaina near Kaanapali at Lahaina Shores Beach Resort but often ventured to South Maui during the evenings.
West Maui towns are made up of Lahaina, Kananapali, Kapalua and Honokowai.
Tons of picturesque beaches, scenic drives, fabulous waterfront dining, and a variety of outdoor activities.
South Maui towns are made up of Wailea, Makena, Maalaea, and Kihei.
More on the expensive side, upscale restaurants, and shops. Crescent beaches, golfing, quieter.
What we did:
Road to Hana - a picturesque 53-mile, curvy road with breathtaking waterfalls, hiking spots and beaches, and hidden gems.
Download the Shaka Guide app (on IOS/Android) for a self-guided tour. Check out a complete guide to driving Road to Hana HERE!
Haleakala National Park
Watch the amazing sun RISE! note: There are ONLY 150 parking passes available every day.
Nakalele Blowhole - a super cool marine geyser that expels pressurized water into 100ft into the air.
Kaanapali Beach
Makena State Park Beach
Kapalua Coastal Trail
Drums of the Pacific Luau located at the Hyatt - we got the VIP seating
Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach (one of the Road to Hana stops)
Lahaina Banyan Court Park
Pipiwai Trail (one of the Road to Hana stops)
Ho'okipa Beach Park
Shopping and dining at The Shops at Wailea
What we ate + drank:
Budget Tip: Our spacious suite had a kitchen, so we bought groceries and made breakfast with fresh fruits almost every day and enjoyed our beautiful ocean view. Food trucks are also a huge go-to for lunches as food can get very pricey.
Must-try foods: Malasadas, Moco Loco, Poke, Kalua Pork, Banana Bread, Shave Ice, Guava Chiffon Cake
Hawaiian shave ice at Ululani’s
Geste Shrimp Truck - an absolute must for lunch!
Māla Tavern - Beachfront dining, Mediterranean food, and wines
Frida’s Beach House - Airy waterfront for yummy Mexican digs
Sea House Restaurant at Napili Kai Beach Resort
Pacific O’ - Beachfront dining with creative seafood digs
Honu- New England style eats
Leilani’s on the Beach - Beachside dining, local seafood, and tropical drinks
Hula Grill Kaanapali - Beachfront dining, Hawaiian cuisine, and live music
Kimo’s - Waterfront dining, harbor views, and fresh local seafood
Ka’ana Kitchen @ Andaz Wailea Hotel - farm to table, delicious breakfast
Star Noodle - Asian style eatery
