Maui

Volcano sunrises, whale songs, and long beach days

Region

Hawaii · United States

Best time to go

Hawaii is warm year round, with the driest and sunniest weather generally from April through October. Winter brings more rain and bigger surf on north shores, and it is also humpback whale season.

Getting there

Nonstop flights from many West Coast and major US hubs; connections through Honolulu or the mainland from elsewhere.

Why go to Maui

Maui pairs calm resort beaches on its south and west shores with a 10,000-foot volcano and a wet, green eastern coast. Most visitors split their time between beach days in Kihei, Wailea, or Kaanapali and longer drives to Haleakala, Hana, and Upcountry farm country. A rental car opens up nearly all of it.

Golfers Divers and snorkelers Surfers Wildlife lovers Hikers Food lovers Spa and wellness travelers Wedding couples and groups

Things to do in Maui

NatureSunrise at HaleakalaSunrise from the summit of Haleakala is the island's classic early start, with the sky lighting up above a sea of clouds. Sunrise viewing needs an advance reservation from the national park, and the summit is often near freezing, so bring a warm jacket.Explore related tours

AdventureThe Road to HanaThis winding highway along the northeast coast passes waterfalls, bamboo forest, black sand beaches, and fruit stands across dozens of one-lane bridges. Start early, pull fully off the road when you stop, and plan on a full day rather than rushing it.Explore related tours

AdventureSnorkeling at MolokiniMolokini is a partly sunken volcanic crater off the south shore where clear water often lets you see far down to the reef. Boats leave in the morning from Maalaea Harbor and the south shore, and mornings usually bring the calmest water.Explore related tours

BeachKaanapali Beach and Black RockKaanapali is a long golden beach on the west side, and the lava point at its north end, known as Black Rock or Puu Kekaa, is a favorite snorkel spot. Go in the morning before the wind picks up and look for turtles near the rocks.Explore related tours

BeachMakena Beach (Big Beach)Makena Beach, often called Big Beach, is a wide, undeveloped stretch of sand in Makena State Park just south of Wailea. The shorebreak can be powerful, so it is better for sunbathing and for strong swimmers than for small children.Explore related tours

NaturePipiwai Trail and Waimoku FallsIn the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, past Hana, the Pipiwai Trail climbs through a dense bamboo forest to the tall Waimoku Falls. It is about four miles round trip and often muddy, so wear shoes with good grip and carry water.Explore related tours

CultureIao Valley State MonumentIao Valley is a deep green valley above Wailuku, home to the Iao Needle rock spire and the site of a major 1790 battle in Hawaiian history. The paved walk is short and suits all ages, and you should check current state park reservation rules before going.Explore related tours

NatureWinter whale watchingHumpback whales spend the winter in the shallow channels around Maui, and sightings usually peak from January through March. Boat trips leave from Maalaea and the west side, and shoreline lookouts along the south and west coasts can also offer sightings.Explore related tours

NatureHookipa Beach ParkHookipa, just east of Paia, is known for windsurfing and big winter surf rather than swimming. Late in the afternoon, green sea turtles often rest on the sand here, so keep a respectful distance and stay outside any roped-off areas.Explore related tours

CultureUpcountry Makawao and KulaThe slopes of Haleakala hold ranch land, lavender and protea farms, and the old cowboy town of Makawao with its galleries and bakeries. The air is cooler up here, and the drive pairs easily with a Haleakala visit for a relaxed half day.Explore related tours

AdventureHonolua BayHonolua Bay is a protected marine conservation area on the northwest coast with rocky reefs and plenty of fish. Summer usually brings the calmest snorkeling, while winter swells turn it into a well-known surf break, so check conditions before you get in.Explore related tours

BeachWaianapanapa State ParkAlong the Hana Highway, Waianapanapa State Park has a black sand beach, sea caves, and a coastal trail over old lava. Out-of-state visitors must reserve entry and parking ahead, so book it before the day you drive to Hana.Explore related tours

Where to stay in Maui

WaileaPolished, sunny, resort calmWailea is a planned resort area on the south shore with a string of crescent beaches linked by a paved coastal walking path. It is one of the sunniest parts of the island, and the water is often calm in the morning. It suits couples and travelers who want an easy, upscale base.HoneymoonsCalm swimmingCoastal walks

KiheiCasual, beachy, good valueKihei runs for several miles along the south shore with beach parks, condos, food trucks, and casual places to eat. It is sunny and dry and sits close to Wailea and Makena beaches. It suits families, longer stays, and travelers who prefer a kitchen and a relaxed feel.FamiliesCondo staysLonger trips

KaanapaliLively west-side beach resortKaanapali is a long beach lined with resorts and a beachfront walkway that connects shops and restaurants. Snorkeling at Black Rock and sunset views toward Lanai and Molokai are easy from here. It suits first-time visitors who want everything close by, though the drive to Haleakala and Hana is long.First-time visitorsSunsetsWalkable beachfront

Napili and KapaluaQuiet bays, green northwestNapili and Kapalua sit at the northwest tip of the island, with small sheltered bays, coastal trails, and golf. The area is greener and a bit wetter than the south shore, and it feels quieter in the evenings. It suits couples and repeat visitors who want calm over nightlife.Quiet staysSnorkeling baysGolf

Paia and UpcountrySmall towns, farms, cooler airPaia is a surf town on the north shore with boutiques and cafes, and Upcountry towns like Makawao and Kula sit higher on Haleakala. Stays here are mostly small rentals rather than resorts. It suits travelers who want local character and a head start on Hana and the summit.Road to Hana startsLocal feelCooler weather

When to go

Winter

December to March

Weather: Warm days with more passing showers, and big surf on north and west shores.
Crowds: Busy, especially around the holidays and during peak whale season.
Value: Highest rates of the year, especially over Christmas and New Year.

Spring

April to May

Weather: Drying out, warm, with fewer showers and calmer seas.
Crowds: Moderate, apart from spring break weeks.
Value: Often good value outside spring break.

Summer

June to August

Weather: Hottest and driest stretch, with calm water on most shores.
Crowds: Busy with families on school break.
Value: Higher rates, though usually below the winter holiday peak.

Fall

September to November

Weather: Still warm and mostly dry, with ocean water at its warmest.
Crowds: Quieter, outside the Thanksgiving week.
Value: Usually the best value of the year.

Getting the best value

Spring outside spring break and fall from September to mid-November usually cost the least. Winter, especially the Christmas and New Year weeks, brings the highest rates, and summer is busy with families on school break.

Check tour dates

Getting there and around

Getting there

Most visitors fly into Kahului Airport (OGG) in central Maui, with small regional service at Kapalua West Maui Airport (JHM).
Nonstop flights run from many West Coast cities and some larger US hubs, and travelers from elsewhere usually connect on the mainland or in Honolulu.
Maui is part of the United States, so US citizens do not need a passport; bring a REAL ID-compliant license or other accepted ID and check current TSA rules before flying.
From Kahului it is a drive of roughly 30 to 60 minutes to the south shore or west side, by rental car, shuttle, taxi, or rideshare.

Getting around

A rental car is close to essential for Haleakala, Hana, Upcountry, and beach hopping, and reserving early is wise in busy seasons.
Taxis and rideshare work in the main resort areas but get scarce and slow in remote parts of the island.
The Maui Bus offers limited public routes between towns, useful for short hops but not for sightseeing.
Resort areas like Wailea and Kaanapali are walkable along their beach paths, so you can skip the car on some days.

Eat and drink

Plate lunchRice, macaroni salad, and a main like teriyaki beef or kalua pork, served at casual counters across the island. It is the everyday lunch of Hawaii and easy to take to the beach.Fresh pokeCubes of raw fish, often ahi, dressed with shoyu, sesame, onion, and seaweed. Grocery store and market poke counters are a local habit and a good picnic option.Shave iceFinely shaved ice with tropical syrups, sometimes with ice cream or sweet azuki beans underneath. It is the classic afternoon cool-down after a beach day.Banana bread on the Hana roadRoadside stands along the Hana Highway are known for banana bread, fresh fruit, and coconuts. Bring small bills, since many stands are cash only.Upcountry farm foodKula is known for sweet Maui onions, greens, and strawberries, and farm stands and markets sell local produce and coffee. A slow Upcountry morning with a pastry and coffee is a local favorite.Luau feastA luau usually includes kalua pig cooked in an underground oven, poi, lomi salmon, and haupia coconut pudding, along with music and hula. Book ahead in busy seasons.

Day trips from Maui

Molokini Crater by boatMorning boats head to this partly sunken crater for clear-water snorkeling, often adding a second stop along the south shore. Calm seas are most likely early in the day.Explore related tours

Lanai by ferryA passenger ferry connects Maui and Lanai, a small, quiet island with a calm beach at Hulopoe Bay. Check the current departure harbor and schedule before planning the day.Explore related tours

Winter whale watch cruiseFrom roughly December to April, boats leave from Maalaea and the west side to see humpback whales up close. Mornings often bring calmer water and smoother rides.Explore related tours

Hana and KipahuluMake the full drive to Hana and on to the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park for the Pipiwai Trail and coastal pools. Leave at first light and budget the whole day.Explore related tours

Sample itineraries

5 days on Maui

Day 1Arrive at Kahului, check in on the south or west shore, and ease in with a sunset walk on the beach.
Day 2Take a morning boat to snorkel Molokini, then spend a slow afternoon at Wailea or Kaanapali.
Day 3Drive the Road to Hana with stops at Twin Falls, the Keanae Peninsula, and Waianapanapa State Park, using your reservation.
Day 4Visit Iao Valley in the morning, then spend the afternoon at Makena Beach or snorkeling near Black Rock.
Day 5Browse Paia and grab a last plate lunch before your flight out of Kahului.

Browse activities for this itinerary

7 days on Maui

Day 1Arrive, pick up your car, and settle in with an easy beach afternoon near your hotel or condo.
Day 2Snorkel Molokini by boat in the morning, then relax on the south shore and watch the sunset from Wailea.
Day 3Head up Haleakala for sunrise with a reservation, then explore Kula and Makawao on the way down.
Day 4Spend a beach day at Kaanapali and snorkel Black Rock, or go to Honolua Bay if summer seas are calm.
Day 5Drive the Road to Hana, visit Waianapanapa, and continue to the Pipiwai Trail in the Kipahulu District if you started early.
Day 6Take a whale watch in winter or a quiet morning at Makena Beach, then stroll Paia and see the turtles at Hookipa.
Day 7Visit Iao Valley if you missed it, enjoy one last swim, and head to the airport.

Browse activities for this itinerary

Good to know

Hawaii restricts sunscreens with certain chemical ingredients, and Maui County limits sales further, so pack a mineral, reef-safe sunscreen.
Book Haleakala sunrise and Waianapanapa State Park reservations as soon as your dates are set, since they can fill well ahead.
Lahaina is still recovering from the 2023 wildfire, so follow local guidance, respect closed areas, and support open West Maui businesses.
Keep at least 10 feet from sea turtles and much more from Hawaiian monk seals; it is the law and the respectful choice.
Never leave valuables visible in a parked car at trailheads or beach lots, as break-ins happen.
Tipping follows mainland US norms, and a little cash helps at fruit stands and farm stalls along rural roads.

Questions people ask

What is the best month to visit Maui?

April, May, September, and October usually offer dry weather, calmer crowds, and better value. Visit between December and March if seeing humpback whales is your priority.

How many days do I need on Maui?

Five days covers the main sights at an easy pace. A week lets you add Haleakala, Hana, and a few slow beach days without rushing.

Do I need a car on Maui?

Yes for most trips. The island's best sights are spread out, and public transit is limited.

Do I need a passport to visit Maui?

No, US citizens flying from the mainland only need an accepted ID such as a REAL ID-compliant license. Check current TSA rules before you travel.

Is Maui good for families?

Yes. Kihei, Wailea, and Kaanapali have calm morning water, and short walks like Iao Valley suit kids, though some beaches have strong shorebreak.

Is the Road to Hana worth it?

For most visitors, yes, if you start early and treat the drive itself as the experience. Travelers prone to carsickness may prefer a shorter version.

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