Maui Guide
Mother Maui welcomes you — one of the most sought-after destinations on the planet.
Maui Welcomes You
One of the most sought-after destinations on the planet, known for inspiring natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm Aloha spirit. In one day you can witness a sunrise from Haleakala, snorkel in waters teeming with marine life, and visit the iconic Iao Needle. Maui's stunning scenery has captivated filmmakers, including HBO's The White Lotus and Disney's Moana.
- 727 Square Miles
- Wailuku Main Town
- ~165,000 Population
- The Valley Isle Maui's Nickname
Ready to explore Maui on your own? A rental car is the easiest way to see the island at your own pace. Check Maui car rental rates →
The Bucket List
Sunrise from Haleakala's Summit
A once-in-a-lifetime experience. Arrive early (4-5am) to secure parking, dress warmly for the elevation, and book tickets in advance through recreation.gov. Light trade winds and scattered clouds make for the most vibrant colors. Shop top-rated Haleakala tours →
Drive the Scenic Road to Hana
A 52-mile journey with 600 curves and 54 bridges, past stunning seascapes, lush botanical gardens, and hidden beaches. Fill up on gas, bring snacks, and take your time. Book the Shaka Guide audio driving tour →
Molokini Crater Snorkeling
A crescent-shaped volcanic crater and marine sanctuary, home to tropical fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral. Book a morning tour for calm waters and the best visibility. Shop & book Molokini tours →
Honolua Bay
A tranquil oceanic haven on Maui's northwest coast — crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and lush surroundings perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Shop & book Honolua Bay tours →
Ka'anapali
Maui's premier resort town — soft white sand, snorkeling at Black Rock, golfing, spa treatments, and luaus, all on the island's western coast. Shop & book Ka'anapali tours →
Nakalele Blowhole & Olivine Pools
A sea cave that shoots towering plumes of ocean water into the air, alongside shimmering turquoise tide pools on Maui's rugged northern coast. West Maui coastline audio tour →
Wai'anapanapa State Park
A sacred 122-acre park meaning "glistening water" — ancient Hawaiian temples, cave shelters, and Maui's iconic black sand beach. Shop & book tours →
Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm
A 13-acre haven in Kula's countryside — fragrant fields, tranquil gardens, and breathtaking views, with guided tours and scenic picnics. More info →
Whale Watching (Seasonal)
Every winter, humpback whales migrate up to 3,000 miles to Maui's warm waters to mate, give birth, and nurse their young — from December to May, expect breaching, tail-slapping, and haunting songs. With Maui's unique geography and shallow waters, it's one of the best places in the world to whale watch. Popular spots include Lahaina and Ma'alaea Harbors, Molokini Crater, and Honolua Bay. Shop Maui's best whale watches →
Paia's Vibrant Arts Scene
Galleries, boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants in a laid-back, bohemian beach town — surf shops, yoga studios, and eclectic cafes.
Surf or Windsurf at Ho'okipa Beach
Advanced level. World-class surfing and windsurfing, with lessons and equipment rental available. Watch pros in action from the beach's picnic areas.
Attend a Luau
Hawaiian culture, music, and dance alongside traditional dishes like kalua pig and poke — a classic Maui evening. Book a luau →
Pipiwai Trail & Waimoku Falls
A local favorite: hike the moderate 4-mile Pipiwai Trail through an enchanting Bamboo Forest to Waimoku Falls — a 400-foot cascade and the largest waterfall on Maui accessible by land.
Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery
Maui's only organic distillery, nestled in Kula's countryside — learn sustainable farming and vodka-making, with live entertainment and tastings. More info →
Family-Friendly Beaches & Activities
Enjoy gentle waves at Ka'anapali Beach, calm waters at Wailea Beach, or shallow toddler-friendly water at Baby Beach. Napili Bay and Makena Beach State Park round out the top five family beaches on the island.
Molokini Crater
One of only three volcanic calderas in the world, home to over 250 fish species — calm, safe, and perfect for all ages.
Turtle Town
Maui's southern coastline offers a nearly guaranteed encounter with federally protected Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu).
Family Surf Lessons, Kalama Park
A private lesson in Kihei for families or groups up to 15, with all equipment provided. Book surf lessons →
Makena Turtle Town Kayak & Snorkel
A guided small-group tour from Makena, paddling calm waters and spotting turtles, manta rays, and dolphins. Book the tour →
Family Beach Photo Session
A professional one-hour photo shoot at a picturesque state park, with 250-350 high-quality retouched images. Book a photo session →
Where to Eat: Family-Friendly Favorites
Monkeypod Kitchen (Wailea & Ka'anapali) offers a keiki menu and kids-under-3-eat-free. Coconut's Fish Café (Kihei) has healthy, kid-friendly options under $8. Nalu's South Shore Grill serves legendary fish tacos in a family-friendly setting, and Kihei Café is a beloved breakfast institution. For a splurge, Mama's Fish House offers an oceanfront keiki menu worth the price.
Thrill Seeker
Skydiving with Skydive Maui
Free-fall from 10,000 feet at 120 mph over Haleakala, Molokini Crater, and the island's scenic coastline.
Tandem Paragliding
Soar silently through Maui's skies with expert instructors, taking in breathtaking views from a completely unique perspective. Book paragliding →
Zipline Eco Adventure
Eight ziplines, three tree platforms, and two swinging bridges through Haiku's lush jungle — a 2-hour adventure through tropical scenery. Book the zipline tour →
Bungee Jumping
Maui's only bungee jumping adventure, suspended 150 feet above lush rainforest — complimentary photos and video included.
Lahaina UTV Adventure
A rugged four-seater UTV tour through Pu'u Kukui Watershed Preserve — hidden trails unreachable by standard vehicles. Book the UTV tour →
Waterfall Rappelling
A small-group excursion along the Road to Hana, descending waterfalls up to 30 feet with refreshing swims along the way. Book the rappelling tour →
Just Maui'd
Hotel Wailea Honeymoon Getaway
An adults-only, 5-star resort 300 feet above the sea, with private lanais, a candlelit treehouse dinner, and couples' spa treatments.
Beach Brunch & Photos
A tucked-away beach, a breakfast charcuterie spread, and professional photos capturing the whole experience. Book beach brunch →
Private Sunset Champagne Air Tour
A private 1-hour scenic flight over Nakalele Blowhole, Molokini Crater, and Honolua Bay, with a champagne toast at sunset. Book the air tour →
Road to Hana Private Tour
A personalized Convertible SUV tour with a culturally immersed guide, Hawaiian history, waterfalls, and beachside huli huli chicken. Book the private tour →
Sunset Dinner Cruise, Ka'anapali
A chef-prepared dinner buffet, open bar, and seasonal whale watching (Dec-Apr) off Maui's coast. Book the dinner cruise →
Ma'alaea Harbor Sunset Dinner Cruise
A 3-story catamaran with tableside service, Hawaiian music, and premium dinner options like prime rib or mahi-mahi. Book the dinner cruise →
West Maui Mountain Horseback Tour
Ride through valleys and gulches to waterfalls and oceanfront views, suitable for all skill levels. Book the horseback tour →
Exploring Maui? Rent a Car!
Unlock Maui's hidden gems at your own pace — from Haleakala's summit to the far side of the Road to Hana.
Ready to Explore Maui?
From sunrise on Haleakala to sunset on the water, Maui is waiting.
Check Maui Rates