We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
In This Article
- Time Zone
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- Language
- How to Get Around
- Best Hotels
- Best Restaurants
- Things to Do
- Areas to Know
- Weather
- Apps to Download
Maui is the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, often called “The Valley Isle.” This nickname reflects its unique geography, characterized by a large valley nestled between two dormant volcanoes: Haleakala in the east and Mauna Kahalawai in the west. The name Haleakala translates to “House of the Sun,” and it is recognized as the largest dormant volcano globally, with an elevation of 10,023 feet, a depth of 4,000 feet, and a crater spanning 21 miles. Mauna Kahalawai is known for its eroded beauty and forms part of the West Maui Mountains.
This stunning island is renowned for its picturesque beaches, boasting over 120 miles of coastline and 80 distinct beaches—more than any other Hawaiian island. Maui’s beaches offer a range of experiences, from gentle surf perfect for families to crashing waves for the adventurous, featuring fine white sand and unique red and black sand beaches near Hana.
Kahului Airport serves as the main gateway to Maui, strategically located in Central Maui between Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains. The island is divided into five distinct regions: West Maui includes popular resort areas like Kaanapali, Kapalua, and the historic town of Lahaina. South Maui is home to resort communities such as Kihei, Wailea, and Makena, while East Maui features attractions like the famous Road to Hana and Haleakala State Park. The Upcountry region offers a glimpse of local agriculture with farms, dairies, and ranches thriving in the volcanic soil. Central Maui’s Iao Valley State Park provides stunning natural beauty with its hiking trails, lush forests, and flowing streams.
Time Zone
Hawaii operates on Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), which is five hours behind Eastern Standard Time and two hours behind Pacific Standard Time. Notably, Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so remember to add an extra hour to the time difference during that period (March through November).
Best Time to Go
The summer months, primarily from April to November, feature warmer temperatures and reduced rainfall, making this a popular time for vacationers. June, July, and August are particularly busy, as schools are out, and the weather is generally warm and dry.
Conversely, winter (December through March) offers slightly cooler temperatures while remaining sunny and pleasant, although increased rainfall is sometimes expected. Weather patterns can vary significantly across the island, with the western and southern shores generally experiencing less precipitation. In West Maui, areas like Lahaina and Kaanapali typically receive around 10 inches of rain each year, while higher elevations can see over 300 inches annually.
Winter also attracts numerous visitors escaping cold climates back home. Whale watching, in particular, is a popular seasonal activity between December and May, peaking from January through March.
Things to Know
Haleakala is classified as a dormant volcano—not extinct—as evidenced by its last eruption occurring between 1480 and 1600, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). It is anticipated to erupt again in the future. At this elevation, the summit can even receive snow during winter months.
Honokohau Falls, plunging 1,119 feet in two stunning tiers, is the tallest waterfall on Maui and ranks among the highest in the world. Located in an inaccessible valley within the West Maui Mountains, a helicopter tour provides the best vantage point to witness its grandeur.
Lahaina, once a whaling port and hub of the whaling industry during the early to mid-19th century, served as Hawaii’s original capital until 1850. This historical significance adds a rich layer to the area’s allure.
Maui not only refers to the island but also encompasses the entire Maui County which includes Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe. This collective designation enhances the region’s charm.
Charles Lindbergh, the famed aviator and explorer, rests in peace at a grave located at the Palapala Ho’omau Church along the scenic road to Hana.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture mandates that travelers arriving in Hawaii must complete a declaration form regarding uninspected plants and animals. During departure, luggage will undergo screening for uninspected fruits and plants, although inspected fresh flowers and fruits are permitted for travel.
Kahului Airport (OGG) is the main airport for Maui, supplemented by smaller commuter airports at Kapalua and Hana. Direct flights to Molokai and Lanai operate from their respective airports.
Every year, approximately 10,000 humpback whales journey over 3,500 miles from Alaskan waters to Maui for their winter migration, with the island recognized as one of the foremost locations for whale watching. Visitors can observe these magnificent creatures from shore or join whale watching boat cruises to get a closer look.
Language
Hawaii’s official languages include English and Hawaiian, though Hawaiian is rarely spoken in everyday conversations. In major resort areas, it’s common to find customer service representatives fluent in Japanese, accommodating the diverse tourist demographic.
How to Get Around
Traveling around Maui can be done via shuttle services, tour buses, taxis, or public transport options. However, to truly explore the island’s offerings and hidden gems, reserving a rental car in advance from Kahului or Kapalua Airport is strongly recommended.
The Maui Public Bus System encompasses 13 bus routes, providing extensive service in and between various communities on the island. All routes operate daily, including holidays, ensuring accessibility.
Best Hotels
West Maui
Westin Resort Ka’anapali
Address: 2365 Kaanapali Parkway, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 667-2525
This oceanfront hotel has recently unveiled the Hōkūpaʻa at The Westin Maui, a luxury beachfront tower boasting guest rooms with sweeping ocean views and a private lounge offering exclusive amenities. Several al fresco dining options invite guests to experience diverse culinary offerings.
Ka’anapali Beach Hotel
Address: 2525 Ka’anapali Parkway, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 661-0011
This hotel stretches along a vast three-mile sandy beachfront and features a variety of recently renovated guest rooms and suites. Guests can explore a new water activity center offering unique ocean and beach experiences including stand-up paddle boarding and snorkeling.
Montage Kapalua Bay
Address: 1 Bay Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (833) 779-7951
Montage Kapalua Bay offers luxurious accommodations comprising one, two, and three-bedroom residences, alongside two on-site restaurants and a market. Guests can unwind at the spa, enjoy multiple pools, and partake in various golf and ocean activities.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
Address: 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Kapalua, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 669-6200
This luxurious hotel spans 54 acres and features 466 newly renovated accommodations, including suites and club-level options. Resort amenities consist of a spa, six dining venues, tennis courts, and two 18-hole championship golf courses, including the renowned Plantation Course, home to the PGA Tour’s annual Sentry Tournament of Champions.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
Address: 200 Nohea Kai Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 661-1234
This completely reimagined resort is situated on 40 oceanfront acres in Ka’anapali, offering 831 guest rooms, including 31 exquisite suites and eight dining options. Guests can enjoy six pools along with a full-service oceanfront spa and salon.
Royal Lahaina Resort
Address: 2780 Kekaa Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 400-7554
The resort boasts 441 contemporary rooms and suites featuring custom teak furnishings and art pieces, alongside a range of oceanfront amenities including an on-site restaurant, poolside beach bar, and three swimming pools.
Sheraton Maui Kaanapali
Address: 2605 Kaanapali Parkway, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii 956761
Phone: (808) 661-0031
Website
This newly renovated resort features 508 guest rooms and suites, most of which offer stunning ocean views. Positioned on 23 lush oceanfront acres, the property includes a lagoon-style pool, a spa, and a unique cliff diving ceremony at sunset.
Aston Kaanapali Shore
Address: 3445 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 667-2211
This family-friendly condominium resort features a diverse range of accommodations, including standard rooms and expansive suites equipped with full kitchens and private lanais. The property also features two pools and a freshwater oceanfront pool, alongside Camp Ka’anapali activities for kids.
Plantation Inn
Address: 174 Lahainaluna Road, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 667-9225
Situated in the historical heart of Lahaina Town, this adults-only bed and breakfast consists of 18 charming rooms, equipped with modern amenities and surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Guests can enjoy a fine dining experience at the inn’s on-site restaurant.
South Maui
Hotel Wailea
Address: 555 Kaukahi Street, Wailea, Maui, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 874-0500
This luxurious Relais & Chateaux resort encompasses 72 elegantly designed suites set across a serene 15-acre landscape. The restaurant boasts stunning views overlooking the ocean, offering a delightful “culinary casual” menu alongside prix fixe options.
Andaz Maui at Wailea
Address: 3550 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 573-1234
Available accommodations at this resort comprise 301 options, including 35 suites and 11 luxury villas, each featuring a private lanai. The beachfront property is home to various dining venues, such as The Feast at Mokapu Luau and the acclaimed Morimoto Maui, created by renowned chef Masaharu Morimoto.
Four Seasons Resort Maui
Address: 3900 Wailea Alanui Drive, Maui, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 874-8000
This resort features luxury accommodations that range from opulent guest rooms to expansive suites with ocean views. Offerings include world-class spa services, an adults-only infinity pool, and three exceptional 18-hole golf courses. Dining options showcase Wolfgang Puck’s Spago, along with casual poolside dining options such as Duo Steak and Seafood and Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante.
Grand Wailea Maui, a Waldorf Astoria Resort
Address: 3850 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 875-1234
Accommodations at this resort range from elegantly designed guest rooms and suites to stunning villas boasting private outdoor spaces with ocean views. Guests can gather for poolside meals or sip cocktails at the inviting Botero Lounge, nestled among a celebrated art collection.
Makena Surf
Address: 4850 Makena Alanui, Kihei, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (855) 676-2061
Set alongside Paipu Beach and the Wailea Gold Golf Course, this luxury condominium resort features full kitchens in each accommodation type. Guests can enjoy panoramic ocean views as they take advantage of two outdoor pools, tennis courts, and dedicated barbecue areas maintained with herb gardens.
Fairmont Kea Lani
Address: 4100 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea-Makena, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 875-4100
Located steps from Polo Beach, this resort offers spacious suites and villas, tailor-made for family vacations or leisurely retreats. The two and three-bedroom villas provide 1,800 to 2,000 square feet of living space with gourmet kitchens, dining areas, private courtyards featuring plunge pools, and barbecue grills.
Upcountry, East Maui, and Kahului
Hana-Maui Resort
Address: 5031 Hana Highway, Hana, Hawaii 96713
Phone: (808) 400-1234
Located on 66 lush acres at the eastern tip of Maui, this 74-room oceanfront resort serves as a luxury oasis on the scenic road to Hana. Choose from a selection of guest rooms, suites, bungalows, or family residences, each featuring full or partial ocean views and private lanais. Indulge in dining experiences either poolside or at the casual Hana Ranch Restaurant.
Heavenly Hana Paradise
Address: 4575 Hana Highway, Hana, Hawaii 96713
Phone: (808) 248-8442
Website
This cozy inn provides an ideal stop for travelers along the highway, located just 10 minutes from Hana town and Hamoa Beach. Enjoy the covered terrace, and some rooms boast kitchens, with tropical surroundings filled with fruit trees and flowers enhancing the experience.
Courtyard by Marriott Kahului Airport
Address: 532 Keolani Place, Kahului, Hawaii 96732
This hotel, located within five minutes of the airport, features an outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, and a casual bistro serving breakfast, dinner, and cocktails.
Best Restaurants
West Maui
Hula Grill
Address: 2435 Ka’anapali Parkway, at Whalers Village, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 667-6636
Website
Hula Grill specializes in local fresh fish, Maui-grown produce, and a diverse raw bar, all presented in a breathtaking scenic setting. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific, along with the islands of Lanai and Molokai.
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman
Address: 2435 Ka’anapali Parkway, at Whalers Village, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 878-6763
Website
Monkeypod, founded by celebrated chef Peter Merriman, showcases fresh local ingredients creatively prepared and artfully presented. An extensive selection of craft beers, wine, and culinary cocktails complements lunch and dinner experiences. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity.
Duke’s Beach House
Address: 130 Kai Malina Parkway, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 662-2900
Website
Duke’s Beach House, named after Olympic champion Duke Kahanamoku, offers beautiful ocean views and a diverse menu featuring breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Their offerings range from poke tacos to seafood risotto and signature filet mignon. Reservations are suggested.
Pulehu, an Italian Grill
Address: 6 Kai Ala Drive (Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas), Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 667-3200
Website
Pulehu offers a delightful selection of pasta, fresh seafood, meats, salads, and appetizers, including house specialties such as woodstone oven-baked pizzas and flatbreads. Reservations are recommended to ensure availability.
Banyan Tree
Address: 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 665-7096
Website
In a picturesque outdoor setting with ocean views, Banyan Tree’s “Hawaiian Coastal” menu offers dishes like Hawaiian cioppino, steamed mahi mahi, and grilled New York steak. For dessert, indulge in the specialty Ban-nan-yas Foster, featuring banana macadamia nut ice cream served with a malasada (Hawaiian donut). Reservations are suggested.
Merriman’s Kapalua
Address: 1 Bay Club Place, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 669-6400
Website
The captivating oceanfront setting combined with a four-course prix-fixe menu makes for an unforgettable dining experience. Menu options include ahi ginger poke, caesar salad, pan-seared mahi mahi, and enticing desserts such as Maui pineapple bread pudding and white chocolate-filled malasadas. Reservations are highly recommended.
Taverna
Address: 2000 Village Road, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 667-2426
Website
A favorite among locals and visitors alike, Taverna serves wood-fired pizzas, fresh house-made pasta, and other Italian dishes in a charming open-air atmosphere. Patrons can dine on the expansive patio while enjoying picturesque views of the golf course and ocean, or relax at the lively bar menu. Reservations are suggested due to its popularity.
Mala Ocean Tavern
Address: 1307 Front Street, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 667-9394
Website
This oceanfront eatery offers an exquisite dining experience within a casual-chic environment, overlooking Mala Wharf. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., guests can enjoy brunch until 2 p.m., with a lively happy hour from 2 to 4 p.m., followed by dinner until closing. Their menu includes seafood, salads, flatbreads, and delectable desserts. Reservations are encouraged.
Son’z Steakhouse
Address: 200 Nohea Kai Drive, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 667-4506
Website
Situated within the Hyatt Regency Resort, this upscale dining venue specializes in premium steaks, chops, and seafood. With a picturesque view over the lagoon and Swan Court, reservations for dinner service are highly recommended.
Fleetwood’s on Front Street
Address: 744 Front Street
Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 669-6425
Website
Founded by music legend Mick Fleetwood, this two-story restaurant features a menu full of delightful offerings, including appetizing entrees, salads, and appetizers—along with a special side dish aptly named Fleetwood Mac & Cheese. Happy hour offers exclusive pricing and an enticing food selection. Reservations are advisable.
Lahaina Grill
Address: 127 Lahainaluna Road, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 667-5117
Website
Renowned for its premium cuisine crafted from fresh local ingredients, Lahaina Grill features an extensive menu that covers appetizers, soups, salads, seafood, and meat entrees. Dessert selections are equally enticing, including the celebrated Road to Hana chocolate layer cake with macadamia nut caramel. Reservations are suggested.
Kimo’s Restaurant
Address: 845 Front Street, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 661-4811
Website
Celebrated since 1977, Kimo’s is famous for its fresh fish, signature prime rib, authentic Hawaiian cuisine, and its iconic Hula Pie, made with macadamia nut ice cream, chocolate cookie crust, hot fudge, and whipped cream. A diverse selection of local beers, wines, and cocktails (including the sought-after Kimo’s Grog) rounds out the experience. Reservations are encouraged.
Gerards
Address: 174 Lahainaluna Road, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
Phone: (808) 661-8939
Website
Housed within the Plantation Inn, this upscale contemporary dining facility merges French culinary techniques with Maui’s freshest fruits and vegetables along with locally caught fish. Guests can choose to dine indoors at the elegant setting or outside on the garden patio. Reservations are suggested.
South Maui
Tommy Bahama
Address: 3750 Alanui Drive, Kihei, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 879-7828
Website
Located at The Shops at Wailea, Tommy Bahama offers delicious lunch and dinner options, complemented by a special happy hour menu enjoyed on their spacious dining deck or inviting lanai. Highlights include ahi tuna tacos and coconut shrimp, along with their specialty cocktails. Dinner reservations are recommended.
Longhi’s Wailea
Address: 3750 Wailea Alanui Drive, Kihei, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 981-8883
Website
A well-loved Maui institution since 1976, Longhi’s specializes in Italian cuisine, featuring an extensive wine selection and full bar. Located within The Shops at Wailea, the restaurant serves breakfast/brunch, lunch, and dinner from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily and offers a happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. Reservations are suggested.
Matteo’s Osteria
Address: 161 Wailea Ike Place, Wailea, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 891-8466
Website
Situated in the Wailea Town Center, this award-winning restaurant offers a variety of pasta, pizzette, and classic Italian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Dinner specialties include lasagna and bolognese prepared with Maui Cattle Company beef, while delightful desserts such as affogato and tiramisu await. Reservations are suggested for a seamless dining experience.
Nick’s Fishmarket
Address: 4100 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 879-7229
Website
Located within the Fairmont Kea Lani, this restaurant delivers an exceptional menu focusing on the freshest fish and island-style dishes, served in a lush setting with elegant hospitality. The restaurant enforces a resort attire dress code for evening dinners available from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., with an inviting happy hour featuring special pricing on drinks and appetizers from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended.
Ruth’s Chris
Address: 3750 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 874-8880
Website
Indulge in sizzling USDA prime steaks alongside fresh seafood and decadent side dishes within a stylish atmosphere. Extensive cocktail, wine, and dessert options enhance the dining experience, making it ideal for special occasions. Reservations are encouraged.
Lineage
Address: 3750 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, Hawaii 96753
Phone: (808) 879-8800
Website
Lineage offers an exciting menu crafted by chef de cuisine MiJin Kang Toride, blending flavors from Guam, Korea, China, and Hawaii. Signature dishes include Korean fried chicken, Szechuan garlic noodles, and stellar local fish preparations. An extensive selection of teas, sake, beer, handcrafted cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages rounds out the experience.
Upcountry and East Maui
The Wooden Crate
Address: 1813 Baldwin Avenue, Makawai, Hawaii 96768
Phone: (808) 446-8823
Website
This restaurant, located in a boutique property, emphasizes fresh local ingredients sourced from the area. Guests can enjoy dining on the lanai while taking in the garden views, or savoring memorable sunsets on the covered terrace.
Polli’s Mexican Restaurant
Address: 1202 Makawao Avenue, Makawao, Hawaii 96768
Phone: (808) 572-7808
Website
Nestled in the heart of Maui’s ranching country, Polli’s serves delectable Mexican cuisine with an island twist, from guacamole made with Maui avocados to savory tacos, burritos, and house favorites like baby back ribs and Mexican-style fish. Guests can also enjoy a selection of wines, beer, and margaritas.
Kula Bistro
Address: 4566 Lower Kula Road, Kula, Hawaii 96790
Phone: (808) 871-2960
Website
This casual bistro located near Haleakala National Park serves a menu of comfort food offerings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast highlights include crab cake Benedict, while lunch features delicious paninis, pizza, and Italian-style entrees crafted from fresh, local ingredients, with BYOB options available at no corkage fee.
Mama’s Fish House
Address: 799 Poho Place, Paia, Hawaii 96779
Phone: (808) 579-8488
Website
Known for serving the freshest daily catch, Mama’s Fish House prides itself on crafting meals sourced within a day. Diners can enjoy salads and sides prepared using locally sourced produce, including Maui onions, Kula strawberries, and Hana papaya. Tempting desserts, such as Lilikoi crème brûlée and Hana banana crisp, seal the dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended.
Hali’imaile General Store
Address: 900 Haliimaile Road, Makawao, Hawaii 96768
Phone: (808) 572-2666
Website
Located in a historical building, Hali‘imaile General Store is notably recognized as “Maui’s Original Farm-to-Table Restaurant.” Since 1988, it has featured a menu crafted around local ingredients, showcasing Asian influences through popular dishes such as sashimi Napoleon, Korean BBQ ribs, and Asian duck steamed buns. Reservations are recommended.
Thai Food by Pranee
Address: 5050 Uakea Road, Hana, Hawaii 96713
Phone: (808) 419-503
This beloved spot along the road to Hana serves a variety of authentic Thai dishes, including pad Thai, green papaya salad, pineapple fried rice, and spring rolls, with an ever-changing daily menu.
Things to Do
Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park serves as a breathtaking natural wonder featuring diverse ecosystems that range from coastal landscapes to summit vistas. Visitors can experience the park through three visited centers, hike miles of scenic trails, witness stunning sunrises or sunsets along the crater’s edge, or spend a night camping under the stars.
The Road to Hana
Embark on the unforgettable 60-mile drive along the Road to Hana, where delightful surprises abound, including stunning waterfalls, lush tropical landscapes, and serene pools. To truly appreciate the beauty, allow ample time for the journey, characterized by 620 curves and 59 bridges.
Visit Lahaina Town
Take a trip to the historic town of Lahaina, previously the epicenter of the whaling industry and Hawaii’s capital. Engage in a walking tour to discover significant landmarks like the magnificent Banyan tree that provides ample shade. Indulge in a meal, snack, or refreshing shave ice while soaking in the views.
Maui Ocean Center
Located at 192 Maalaea Road, Wailuku, Hawaii, the Maui Ocean Center invites visitors to explore Hawaii’s rich marine life through fascinating exhibits, including a Living Coral Reef and Open Ocean exhibit, featuring sharks, sea turtles, eagle rays, and a variety of tropical fish. Website
Molokini Crater
This crescent-shaped island off Maui’s southwestern coast is renowned for its exquisite snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. The underwater area boasts vibrant coral, a diverse array of tropical fish, and occasional sightings of green sea turtles. The best way to reach Molokini Crater is via boat tour.
Visit Upcountry Maui
Discover Maui’s rustic, elevated region with charming attractions such as the Surfing Goat Dairy, where guests can indulge their senses in cheese tastings and even milk a goat. Don’t miss a wine-tasting experience at Maui Wine, which specializes in a unique pineapple wine in addition to grape varieties. Nearby, the Kula Botanical Garden features stunning plant varieties, rock formations, waterfalls, aviary habitats, and a serene koi pond.
Visitors can also explore the historic paniolo town of Makawao or the charming plantation town of Pa’ia.
Whale Watching
Join an exhilarating whale watching boat trip to witness the playful antics of humpback whales during their winter migration to Maui from December to May, with peak sightings occurring from January through March. Sunset and daytime cruises remain popular year-round, offering additional opportunities to see dolphins, seabirds, and captivating landscapes.
Haleakala Bike Ride
This breathtaking bike ride allows visitors to descend 23 miles downhill at their own pace from the summit at 10,023 feet above sea level. Haleakala Bike Company provides transportation to the top while guests have the freedom to ride down at their leisure. Self-guided and guided tours are available.
Horseback Riding
Mendes Ranch, located on the north shore, offers both morning and afternoon trail rides, taking guests through scenic paths that lead to coastline vistas showcasing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and ample opportunities for memorable photographs.
Iao Valley State Park
Boasting an impressive 4,000 acres, Iao Valley State Park in Central Maui is home to the iconic 1,200-foot Iao Needle, a lushly green pinnacle named in honor of Iao, daughter of Maui. The park features paved paths for pedestrian viewing and hiking trails leading to scenic overlooks. The valley is also rich in historical significance, as it was the site where King Kamehameha I triumphed over Maui’s forces in a pivotal battle.
Enjoy a Luau
Experience a traditional luau at least once, immersing yourself in Hawaiian culture through local foods and entertainment. Notable luaus include the Old Lahaina Luau, and the Royal Lahaina Luau on Ka’anapali Beach. In South Maui, the Grand Wailea Luau and Feast at Mokapu at the Andaz Maui are also highly