15 Best Restaurants with great views in Maui, Hawaii - with map! 2026 Update

Sheraton Maui Entrance

10 Best Restaurants in Maui, Hawaii (Local Favorites & Must-Try Spots) Map included for 2026

UPDATED: January 9, 2026

Maui isn’t just a paradise for surfers and sunset chasers — it’s a dream destination for food lovers, too. From casual beach-side breakfasts to elegant dinners with ocean views, this island’s dining scene is as diverse and delicious as its landscapes. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood plucked straight from Hawaiian waters, local twists on classic comfort food, or unforgettable fine dining experiences, Maui delivers unforgettable meals that are every bit as memorable as its beaches and sunsets. After years of visiting and eating our way around the island, we’ve rounded up the 15 best restaurants in Maui — the spots we always return to and that we think you’ll love too.

We’ve been to Maui every year since 2013, so we know a thing or two about the island. We try and find new restaurants but we have a handful that we keep going back to! Here is a great list of where to eat in Maui, Hawaii! See some of the best restaurants on the island, sorted by area, and noted by price.

There are a few restaurants that were lost due to the 2023 Maui fire but I’m going to keep them on this list in hopes they open a new location. I have made a note if their current status as of January 9, 2026.

Related Posts: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary

Here is a map of the best restaurants in Maui made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google Maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation! 

Map courtesy of Wanderlog travel planner

 See our list of what to pack for your next Maui vacay here: Hawaii Packing Essentials

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Where to Eat in Kahului, Maui (Near airport)

Kahului is often seen as a quick stop for the airport or shopping, but it’s also home to some of Maui’s best local food spots. From casual counter-service restaurants to longtime local favorites, Kahului is where you’ll find authentic flavors, generous portions, and some of the island’s best value meals. If you’re looking to eat like a local—or want a great meal without the resort prices—Kahului is well worth a stop.

Tin Roof Maui ($)

Location: 360 PAPA PLACE STE Y, KAHULUI, HI, 96732

Closed on Sundays!

When landing in Maui, hunger hits. You've been on a plane forever. Pick up your rental car and drive 5 mins to Tin Roof! It's not a sit-down service restaurant (no liquor license) but excellent Hawaiian cuisine. 

Per their website: TIN ROOF is a new generation mom & pop shop, owned by Internationally recognized Chef Sheldon Simeon & his wife, Janice. Raised in Hilo, Hawaii rain is a part of everyday life. Farmers markets keep buzzing, errands roll along, and garage kani ka pila never ends.

I loved their steak bowl - chopped flat iron steak wok-fried with garlic & scallion bottoms & topped off with ginger scallion pesto, served over rice & with a side of our daily banchan. Josh ordered the Sheldon Stay Hungry Special with pork belly and garlic noodles. It was the perfect quick meal after our long flight. 

Don’t skip out on dessert! Try the Chocolate Birthday Bibingka Cake 🌈💗🎂 filled with ube, chocolate, peanut butter, sprinkles, and pop rocks!

There isn’t a place to sit, so pick it up and take it to enjoy on the beach!

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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10 Best Restaurants Near Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua (North West Shore)

The North West Shore of Maui—home to Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua—offers some of the island’s most scenic and memorable dining experiences. From oceanfront restaurants perfect for sunset dinners to casual spots ideal for families staying near the resorts, this area is packed with must-try places to eat. Whether you’re visiting for a weeklong vacation or just looking for a great meal near your hotel, these are the best restaurants on Maui’s North West Shore worth adding to your itinerary.

We love to stay at Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa on Kaanapali beach! See our review here: Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa

Monkeypod Kitchen ($$$)

Wailea Location: 10 Wailea Gateway Place B-201, Kihei, HI 96753

Kaanapali Location: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761

See our full review: Best Restaurant in Maui: Monkeypod Kitchen

We first discovered Monkeypod in Wailea and were overjoyed when they opened a second location in Whalers Village, Kaanapali! We’ve found that it is the perfect spot for drinks and dinner. Get a Monkeypod Mai Tai with their fabulous honey foam! Loved the Bulgogi Pork Tacos - handcrafted kimchee, jalapeño, asian pear, sriracha aioli, locally-made corn tortilla. Jalapeño mashed potatoes ARE A MUST. They are green, but don’t let that scare you!

Dessert is a must here, we loved the rich Chocolate Cream Pie but they have other cream pies such as Banana available as well. Make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable (they might not be taking reservations at this time, but always triple check!).

Monkeypod is great for kids! They offer FREE butter noodles.

Best time to go to Monkeypod is Happy Hour to enjoy a discount on appetizers, pizzas, beers, and (my fave) Mai Tais!

See our full review here: Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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Hula Grill & Barefoot Bar ($$$/$$)

Whalers Village, 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

Located in Whalers Village with outstanding ocean views, these two restaurants, Hula Grill and Barefoot Bar are not only owned by the same company, they are connected to each other. 

Hula Grill is a little more pricey with delicious traditional Hawaiian entrees including many fish dishes (crab, snapper, shrimp) and land dishes (chicken, steak, short rib, emu).

Barefoot bar is more casual ($$) serving burgers, fish and chips, pizza. The fun part about the bar, your feet are in the sand. Usually, they have live music and entertainment. 

Regardless of which restaurant you try, I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella! Also, you MUST try the Hula pie! It’s vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top (served at both restaurants)! Best part is - they are walking distance from the Kaanapali hotels! 

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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Merriman's Kapalua ($$$$)

Location: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761

The perfect spot for sunset drinks and dinner, and a fine dining restaurant right on the water overlooking Kapalua Bay. Their cocktails are superb, made with fresh ingredients. The farm to table menu has a variety of fresh fish like Mahi Mahi and savory steak. Make a reservation a month in advance to get in around sunset (you can google "sunset in Maui" and a time table will appear). Merriman's about a 15 min drive from the Kaanapali resorts.

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: SUNSET FOR THE VIEW!

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Yes, the sky was PINK! Made my Mai Tai much more enjoyable with a view like this:

Call ahead and make reservations or use Resy.com

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Aloha Mixed Plate ($$) - BACK OPEN AGAIN!

Location: 1285 Front Street, Lahaina

Star Noodle had taken over their location but as of October 2024, Star Noodle moved next door and Aloha Mixed Plate moved back home to their original location. You get the most bang for your buck here! Good sized portions of traditional Hawaiian fare.

What to order: I went for the traditional Aloha Mixed Plate -most popular combination - shoyu chicken, thinly sliced teriyaki rib eye, fresh fish served with macaroni salad and steamed white rice. I also indulged in a Lava Flow which is half strawberry daiquiri and half Pina colada.

Dessert - You must get the Aloha Pie - Cookie crumble, coconut ice cream, fudge topped with coconut flakes. Calories don’t count on vacation.

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

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Star Noodle ($$)

Location: 1287 Front Street, Lahaina **NEW LOCATION**

See our full review here: Star Noodle Restaurant Review

So many people highly recommended Star Noodle to us, but every time we tried to go on previous trips, there was always a long wait. We made a reservation ahead of time and we finally made it to Star Noodle! It’s right on the water with a great view of Lanai and the perfect spot to watch the sunset. I HIGHLY recommend you make reservation at least a month out to dine at the restaurant.

Star Noodle is known for Asian shared plates, noodle dishes & sake cocktails.

MUST TRY: The garlic noodles and pork buns were so great, they brought us back a second night when we picked up food to go to eat on our balcony! Pro tip: Order the garlic noodles with the udon noodles (they are bigger, thicker, delicious noodles).

We went 3 times in one trip and our staples were the Pork Buns and Chicken Wings for appetizers, along with the Pork Udon (ramen type dish with pork, pork broth, and udon noodles) and the garlic noodles.

For dessert, they did have some interesting ice cream flavors: Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee.

Star Noodle has a full bar, but I wasn’t impressed with the selection. Their food is definitely worth the wait.

See our full review here: Star Noodle Restaurant Review

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Star Noodle Pork Buns

Star Noodle Views

Star Noodle Ice Cream Flavors: Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee.

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Maui Brewing Company ($$)

Locations: 605 Lipoa Pkwy, Kihei, HI 96753 and NEW LOCATION in the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort - 2525 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

Maui Brewing Company is great for a beer (variety of selections on tap both local and from the mainland) and appetizers, burgers, and sandwiches. Try the Black Rock dip and chicken wings, you won't be disappointed! 

One thing to note, the Honoapiilani Highway restaurant closed and is now walking distance within the Kaanapali resorts!

Fun Fact: The actual Maui Brew Co brewery is closer to the airport near Kihei. 

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch or Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Happy Hour

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Maui Brew Co Beers on tap

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Sale Pepe ($$) - NOW OPEN

Address: 157 Kupuohi St STE J1, Lahaina, HI 96761

Sale Pepe has returned after their storefront being destroyed in the Lahaina fires!

An Italian and New Yorker opened an Italian joint in Hawaii and it is PERFECTION! We had a few of their pizzas and pasta and can’t wait to come back for more.

We ordered 2 pizzas and a pasta dish and got 3 meals out of it for the 2 of us. Our favorite pizza was the Tomato, Fior di Latte, Red Onion, Pecorino, Maui Cattle Co. Meatballs Pizza. They cut their slices in fourths, so if you want smaller pieces I suggest you make the request when you order! Indoor seating also available here.

• 🍽 Best for: Pizza

• 🕒 Best time to go: Dinner

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Sale Pepe Pizza

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Lunch at Aloha Braised Food Truck

Address: 58 Kupuohi St, Lahaina, HI 96761

We went here two days in a row we liked it so much. It’s a little off the beaten path but also conveniently located next to a grocery store and near our favorite dive shop, Extended Horizons! If you like spicy, you must try the Volcano Chicken (fried chicken with spicy mayo) served with rice and mac salad! Josh liked the pork belly! Get a side of crinkle-cut fries to share!

• 🍽 Best for: Lunch

• 🕒 Best time to go: Afternoon

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Aloha Braised Food Truck - Volcano Chicken

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Lahaina Coolers ($$) - PERMANENTLY CLOSED DUE TO FIRE

OLD Location: 180 Dickenson St #107, Lahaina, HI 96761

Amazing spot for breakfast (or lunch) just off Front Street! There was NO wait on a Saturday morning at 8:30a! We sat out on the patio and had great service right away! I indulged in the Local Benedict (served over Hawaiian sweet bread with Kalua pig) and did not leave hungry. Josh ordered the breakfast sandwich, which was good, but not as good as the benedict. Their potatoes are a perfect mix of french fries and tater tots! Also, try their homemade hot sauce, but caution, it’s SUPER SPICY if you overload!

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Gazebo Restaurant ($$)

Location: Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger, 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761

Great breakfast spot, however, it’s always crowded. Try and get there 30 minutes before they open to beat the line. We waited for about an hour after arriving a tad after 7:30a, but saw the most amazing rainbow while waiting (pictured below along with the pancakes that I was too excited to eat and forgot to take a picture of them whole).

Pro-tip: You can go around the back to place an order go (see where the lady is standing in the picture), then sit right on the beach and enjoy your meal with a view of Napili Bay!

The macadamia nut pancake combo with pineapple and banana pancakes made the wait worth it! Make sure you get coconut syrup and whipped cream on top. Their coffee was fresh and strong, definitely order the fresh POG juice (pineapple, orange, guava).

It's about a 15 minute drive from Kaanapali resorts. 

Pro tip #2: park in the free beach parking by Merriman’s then go to the beach/snorkeling after breakfast. Just wait those 30 minutes before you swim! ;-)

• 🍽 Best for: Breakfast

• 🕒 Best time to go: Early Morning

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Gazebo Restaurant for Breakfast in Lahaina

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Down the Hatch ($$) - TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO FIRES - Hope they open a new location soon!

OLD Location: 658 Front St #102, Lahaina, HI 96761

Breakfast Burrito Maui

We went to Down the Hatch on our last day, in which we were heading to the airport. We decided to order breakfast to go to enjoy at a park along the beach! My breakfast burrito was amazing with a chipotle aioli sauce of some sort and the coffee was freshly brewed.

The downside, if I may, was that football games were on and the restaurant was super busy, taking about 30 mins for my food to go.

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Best Restaurants in Wailea

Wailea is known for its luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and some of the best dining experiences on the island. From upscale oceanfront restaurants perfect for romantic dinners to laid-back spots ideal for families staying nearby, Wailea offers a wide range of memorable places to eat. If you’re looking for exceptional food, stunning sunset views, and convenient dining close to your resort, these are the best restaurants in Wailea to add to your Maui itinerary.

Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante at the Four Seasons Wailea ($$$)

Location: Four Seasons - 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753

After being in Maui for a few weeks, we hadn’t had much Italian food and were so excited about our reservation at Ferraro’s! We came hungry and ordered a lot of food for 2 people…

For an appetizer, we started with the Al Forno Fired Focaccia Bread (Nduja Butter, Roasted Garlic, Maui Olive Oil, Fried Rosemary), which was fantastic. The Nduja Butter was made with salami and was rather tasty.

For dinner, I ordered the Pappardelle A.O.C. Ragu Bolognese (Pork and Beef Ragu, Shaved Pecorino, Fiore Sardo) and there wasn’t a bite left. Josh ordered the Spaghetti Carbonara (Guanciale, Organic Egg, Pecorino Romano, Black Pepper) heavy white cream sauce with a pepper kick. Good, but not our favorite. Call us crazy, but we ordered a side of Gnocchi (Brown Butter, Rosemary, Black Truffle), yes, we ordered a side of pasta to go with our pasta and don’t regret it one bit. It was the best gnocchi we’ve ever had.

You’d think we’d stop there after all the carbs, but no, we went for dessert. So, we liked the options on the regular menu but saw there was an Apple Pie with Vanilla ice cream on the kids/teens menu, and that’s what we went with. It came out looking like a tart and was perfect.

This is one of our new favorite restaurants and we will definitely come back.

• 🍽 Best for: Italian

• 🕒 Best time to go: Early evening

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Pappardelle and Gnocchi at Ferraro’s Wailea

Apple Pie for dessert at Ferraro’s

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Lineage in Wailea ($$$)

Location: 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753

cinnamon leaf and POG Sherbet at Lineage

You might recognize Chef Sheldon as a finalist on the show Top Chef, and after trying his food and drinks you can see why he made to the finals! His theme is eat, drink, and talk story - which is what we did at Lineage!

DRINKS: The Mai'a Tai is different from most Mai Tais but has a delicious spin to the tiki classic. Mai'a Tai - Banks 5 Rum, Banana Milk Punch, Walnut, Pecan, Giffard Apricot de Rousillon, Lime, Almond~Spice Liqueur

FOOD: Josh and I split the Korean Fried Chicken and had both the Sweet Kochujang and Spicy Jalapeno Garlic - Crispy fried chicken, pickled kohlrabi, sesame seeds, peanuts and kochujang glaze. The chicken was tender and perfect with a light kick but not too spicy. Complimentary tea was served to cleanse our palettes and savor our dishes.

DESSERT: We were pretty full but had to try dessert! We had the sherbet flavors cinnamon leaf and POG (Pineapple, Orange, Guava juice). The pog was so tangy and refreshing while the cinnamon leaf had a spice to it. Very yin and yang!

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HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A ($$$)

Location: Grand Wailea - 3850 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753

Easy for you to say! This was our favorite place to get a drink a fancy cocktail in the bar and watch the sunset. Humuhumnukunukuapua’a means triggerfish with a snout like a pig (it’s a reef triggerfish). Their recipe for The Grand has a lighter taste without the dark rum and topped off with a wonderfully sweet pineapple vanilla foam. 

Make reservations ahead of time for dinner here, the menu looks fantastic!

• 🍽 Best for: Cocktails and Appetizers

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? No

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Wolfgang Puck’s Spago at the Four Seasons Wailea ($$$$)

Location: Four Seasons - 3900 Wailea Alanui Dr, Kihei, HI 96753

DRINKS: The mixologists at Spago have come up with some really inventive, and delicious, takes on the Mai Tai, giving that floating in the ocean without a care in the world feeling!

• The 1944 - Plantation Xaymaca Run, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Dry Curacao, Lime

• The Spago Maui - Plantation Pineapple Rum, Koloa Dark Rum, 151 Proof Rum, Apricot Brandy, Almond, Lime, Pineapple

• The Stirred - Plantation Xaymaca Rum, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Plantation Pineapple Rum, Dry Curacao, Citrus Oils

FOOD: We enjoyed a nice sunset dinner at Spago overlooking Wailea Beach. Adam Sandler was sitting at the table next to us! For dinner, I savored the Pan Roasted Puna Chicken with surfing goat cheese, chili, garlic, and roasted Aloun Farm's vegetables and Josh had the Wiener Schnitzel with marinated fingerling potatoes, watercress, and Styrian pumpkin seed oil.

Don’t forget dessert! Try the decadent Valrhona Chocolate Soufflé topped with Guanaja Valrhona chocolate sauce & vanilla ice cream! So rich and delish!

• 🍽 Best for: Dinner

• 🕒 Best time to go: Sunset

• 👶 Kid-friendly? No

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MONKEYPOD KITCHEN

Don’t forget, there is a Monkeypod Kitchen in Wailea too! See the Kaanapali section for more or see our full review here: Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant

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Best Restaurant in Paia / Road to Hana

Mama’s Fish House  ($$$)

Location: 799 Poho Pl, Paia, HI 96779

Mama’s Fish House is one of Maui’s most iconic dining experiences, known for ultra-fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and unforgettable oceanfront views. It’s a must-visit for special occasions and first-time visitors looking for a classic Hawaiian fine dining experience. Great for dinner and drinks on the North Shore. We went here on our way back from the Road to Hana adventure. See our guide here: ROAD TO HANA GUIDE

I'm not a fish person particularly, but I did try some and it was the best fish I’ve ever had. I enjoyed their short rib and a couple of Mai Tai's (love that it's served in a tiki glass)!

Make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable. Parking is valet only. 

• 🍽 Best for: Fish

• 🕒 Best time to go: Early evening

• 👶 Kid-friendly? Yes

Mama’s Fish House Mai tai

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BONUS: MAUI COFFEE AND ICE CREAM SUGGESTIONS!

 Island Cream Company ($)

Location: 305 Keawe St #511, Lahaina, HI 96761

I'm not sure Island Cream Company just tastes better because it's in Hawaii (everything is better in Hawaii) or if it's their original recipe with the perfect mix of gelato and ice cream. All ice creams are hand made as well as their cones, fudge and other fun toppings. Most ice creams are natural and products are bought locally.

My favorite was the Maui-Loco filled with Macadamia nuts, chocolate chips and caramel in a creamery coconut ice cream base. So refreshing and delicious!

See our full review here: Island Cream Co

Coffee and Breakfast at Island Press Coffee

Address: 2580 Kekaa Dr STE 104, Lahaina, HI 96761

You can’t go wrong with an egg, cheese, and bacon croissant with a Mac nut latte! They also have other croissant variations as well as other pastries (try the crumb cake). We went here twice, taking our breakfast to go to enjoy on the beach!

Island Press coffee and breakfast croissant

Grandma’s Coffee ($)

Location: 9232 Kula Hwy, Kula, HI 96790

Perfect place for coffee and breakfast if you're attempting the back way to Hana. Fresh coffees, espresso drinks and pastries will leave your tummy happy and full.

From central Maui, head up Haleakala Highway 37 from the Hana Highway. Following Highway 37 traverse Haleakala Crater while enjoying the spectacular upcountry Maui views. Continue on to the picturesque community of Keokea, home of Grandma's Coffee House. Grandma's is a short distance from the Kula botanical Gardens and on the way to Tedeschi Vineyards.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurants in Maui

What are the best restaurants in Maui?

Some of the best restaurants in Maui include Mama’s Fish House, Monkeypod Kitchen, Merriman’s Kapalua, Tin Roof Maui, and Star Noodle, offering everything from casual local food to upscale oceanfront dining.

Do you need reservations at Maui restaurants?

Yes, reservations are strongly recommended for popular Maui restaurants, especially for dinner and oceanfront dining, and should often be booked weeks in advance during peak seasons.

Where should I eat in Maui by location?

Kahului is best for casual local food near the airport, Wailea is known for upscale resort dining, and Kaanapali, Lahaina, and Kapalua offer scenic oceanfront and resort-friendly restaurants.

Are there kid-friendly restaurants in Maui?

Yes, Maui has many kid-friendly restaurants, including casual eateries, food trucks, and restaurants with outdoor seating that are well-suited for families.

What is the best area to stay in Maui for food?

Wailea and the Kaanapali–Lahaina area are the best places to stay for food lovers, offering the widest variety of dining options from casual spots to fine dining with sunset views.

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MORE MAUI, HAWAII Travel Inspiration, Hacks, and Tips:

The Hawaiian Islands: Which One Is Right for Your Trip?

Sheraton Kauai Resort

Which island should you choose to travel to for your Hawaiian beach vacation? Oahu, Maui, or Kauai?

Planning a trip to Hawaii but not sure which island to visit? You’re not alone — each Hawaiian island offers a completely different experience, from lively city life and historic landmarks to secluded beaches and dramatic natural landscapes.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, honeymoon, babymoon, or first-time trip to Hawaii, this guide breaks down the major Hawaiian islands so you can confidently choose the one that fits your travel style best.

I’ve been asked this question a few times, “where to travel in Hawaii, which island is your favorite?” I might be biased because we’ve been to Maui so many times but it all comes down to how you like to travel and what experiences you’re looking for. I broke this list into categories so you can see for yourself what Island matches your style and pace!

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

🔎 Jump to Section

• Oahu
• Maui
• Kauai
• Big Island
• Island Comparison
• Island Quiz
• FAQ

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HAWAIIAN ISLANDS: Oahu vs Maui vs Kauai vs The Big Island - which island is best?

🌴 Overview of the Main Hawaiian Islands

While Hawaii is made up of eight major islands, four are most commonly visited by travelers:

• Oahu – Best for first-timers, history, beaches, and nightlife

• Maui - Best Overall Island for Families, Couples & Babymoons

• Kauai – Best for nature lovers and laid-back escapes

• Big Island – Best for volcanoes and unique landscapes

Below, we’ll dive into what makes each island special — and who it’s best for.

Still deciding? Maui is the best all-around Hawaiian island for most travelers, while Oahu is ideal for first-time visitors who want beaches, history, and nightlife.

Not sure which island fits your travel style?
👉 Take the Island Quiz

Take the Quiz

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Oahu

Sunrise in Oahu

Why Visit Oahu?

• World-famous Waikiki Beach

• Pearl Harbor and historic landmarks

• Great restaurants, shopping, and nightlife

• Easy public transportation (no car required)

Best For:

✔ First-time Hawaii travelers
✔ City lovers who still want beaches
✔ History buffs
✔ Travelers without a rental car

Keep in mind: Oahu is busier and more fast-paced than other islands — perfect if you like energy, but not ideal if you’re craving solitude.

See our Oahu Guide - What to do and Where to go

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Maui

Maui - Sunrise at Haleakala

🌺 Maui: Best Overall Island (Families, Couples & Babymoons)

If you want the best mix of relaxation, adventure, and beautiful beaches, Maui consistently ranks as the top choice.

Why Visit Maui?

• Incredible beaches like Wailea and Kaanapali

• The iconic Road to Hana

• Snorkeling, whale watching, and waterfalls

• Luxury resorts and family-friendly hotels

Best For:

✔ Families with kids
✔ Couples & babymoons
✔ Travelers who want variety without island-hopping

Why Maui shines: It offers that classic “Hawaii vacation” feel without being overwhelming.

See our ULTIMATE Maui Travel Guide - Where to stay, what to do, and (most importantly) where to eat!

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Kauai

Kauai - Waimea Canyon

🌿 Kauai: Best for Nature & Relaxation

Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is lush, dramatic, and incredibly peaceful.

Why Visit Kauai?

• The breathtaking Na Pali Coast

• Stunning hikes and waterfalls

• Fewer crowds and a slower pace

• Minimal nightlife — maximum nature

Best For:

✔ Nature lovers
✔ Honeymooners
✔ Travelers seeking quiet and scenery

Good to know: Kauai is less developed — great for unplugging, but not ideal if you want shopping or nightlife.

See our full Kauai Guide - Where to Stay, Restaurant Recommendations, and things to do in Kauai

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Big Island

Mauna Kea Volcano Eruption on the Big Island - you must see the lava glow at night

🌋 Big Island: Best for Adventure & Volcanoes

The Big Island of Hawaii offers the most diverse landscapes of any island — from black sand beaches to active volcanoes.

Why Visit the Big Island?

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

• Black, white, and green sand beaches

• Stargazing on Mauna Kea

• Less touristy feel

Best For:

✔ Adventurous travelers
✔ Repeat Hawaii visitors
✔ Those wanting something unique

Note: The island is large — driving distances are longer than on other islands.

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Are you looking for a fast-paced or relaxing kinda trip?

• More Relaxation - Kauai was like driving through a jungle most of the time! The island felt very spread out, and as it is the garden isle, it was so lush and green. We went in January which was very windy and wet, though I hear that’s often the weather pattern in Kauai. We stayed in Poipu and it wasn’t very crowded. No one felt like they were in a rush here, which was nice for a change.

• A little of both - Maui is great so that you can get to remote areas like staying in Hana to unplug for a few days. Or, you can stay in Wailea or Kaanapali at a resort with ocean views and beach access (and spas!). You’ll still have shopping areas and more options to zip around the island.

• Fast-Pace - Oahu is very city-like with lots of high-end retail stores, high-rise buildings, and traffic if you stay in Waikiki! If you’re looking for nightlife, this is your place! The North Shore is more laid back if you want to head up there to relax or catch a surf competition.

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

Grand Wailea Resort

Outdoor Activities

Kauai - So many things to do outdoors!

• Hiking is available on all three islands, though we did more hikes in Kauai than the other 2 combined! There are many levels of difficulty and well, mud. You can also casually tube down the mountains via water tunnels and canals in some spots!

• Take a helicopter tour around Kauai. Ours was canceled 3 times due to weather so we were unable to go, but the pictures and sites we saw from the ground would have been even better from a birds-eye view.

• Go on a snorkel tour and see the island from the outside looking in.

Maui - Lots of water activities!

• Tour the Road to Hana for lava tubes, hiking, red and black sand beaches, waterfalls, and swimming! The gorgeous remote views will take your breath away!

• Check out what’s under the sea. Lots of great snorkeling and scuba sites all over the west side of Maui. If you don’t want to get wet, check out the aquarium to see the beautiful Hawaiian reef behind glass. During the winter months (November-May), humpback whales migrate through the sheltered ʻAuʻau Channel between the islands of Maui county!

Oahu - So much to explore!

• Visit Pearl Harbor! I was surprised by how much there was to see and do there, and most of it is free! There are ships, submarines, and planes you can walk on for an inexpensive price! Get there early before tickets sell out.

• Hike up the inactive volcano, Diamond Head, and take in Waikiki views from above.

• Surf gnarly waves! Some of the best waves in Hawaii can be found on Oahu beaches.

The Big Island - VOLCANO!

• Mauna Kea often erupts and you can see it! Pro-tip: stay until it gets dark to see the lava glow in the crater!

• Great coffee in Kona!

RELATED POST: Maui with Kids - Why Maui is perfect for families

Oahu - View of Waikiki Beach from Diamond Head

Are you a hotel resort or Airbnb type of person?

• Kauai has smaller resorts compared to Maui and Oahu, but they also have some Airbnb type options as well.

• Maui has bigger resorts and more Airbnb type options. Resort prices range from 3 stars to 5 stars along the sand beaches!

• Oahu has lots of skyscraping hotels in Waikiki with lively nightlife! If you have your window open in your room, it almost sounds like New York city with honking and traffic.

• The Big Island - Has great resorts if you’re a tourist. The Airbnb locations might not have as many walkable restaurant options.

No matter which island you choose, we ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

Sheraton Maui Deluxe Room Views

Beaches - Do you want to layout or participate in water activities?

• Kauai - We stopped at a few beaches driving along the coast and most were completely empty! Great sand to layout on or take a long walk.

• Maui - Lots of beaches to visit on the west side! If you drive further away from the resorts, you might have a beach to yourself! However, the resorts do have a lot of water activities available such as parasailing, jet ski, etc. If you’re into that!

• Oahu - Head towards the North Shore for less crowded beaches, although the Waikiki waves were pretty fun! Lots of water activities available here too.

• The Big Island - Has a few beaches perfect for kids with shallow entry and a reef barrier! You can also swim with Dolphins at the Hilton Waikoloa Village.

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

Sheraton Kauai Resort

Restaurants - Do you prefer fine dining or more casual restaurants?

• Kauai - Some fine dining, but more local casual spots. Folks like to turn in early here. We enjoyed Merriman’s which wasn’t too far from our hotel in Poipu.

• Maui - It’s a bit of a mix and match of both fine dining near the bigger resorts as well as great local spots with loco moco! Our favorite restaurant is Monkeypod Kitchen and they have 2 locations (Wailea or Kaanapali)!

• Oahu - More chain-like restaurants here, but definitely some great fine dining options. My favorite restaurant was the Top of Waikiki, a revolving restaurant with 365 views! Sounds like it is permanently closed due to the lack of tourism in 2020!

How do you budget travel to Hawaii and how do you island-hop?

GREAT question! If you’re traveling on a budget, I recommend using points and miles. Plan at least a year in advance if you need to save up! Alaska Airlines offers a great deal if you have their credit card - you can have a companion fly for a discounted price upon booking! Sometimes my flight as a companion is only $150 and free checked bags (1 per person)! Make sure you book well in advance to take advantage of this opportunity. Chase credit card points are also good as they have a 1:1 ratio for points and miles. The Marriott Bonvoy credit card offers a free night a year! I’m happy to give you free pointers if you contact me!

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui?- Itinerary, budget, and more!

Don’t want to mess with credit cards? We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO!

Most flights come into Honolulu (HNL) or Maui (OGG). From there you can travel to the other islands within an hour via plane.

No matter what, you’ll have a great time in Hawaii! Live aloha and relax! Feel free to contact us for a more in-depth conversation or leave a comment below. We’d be happy to help you plan your next trip!

✈️ Can You Visit More Than One Island?

Yes! Many travelers combine islands on longer trips.

Popular combos:

• Oahu + Maui → City + relaxation

• Maui + Kauai → Beaches + nature

✈️ Inter-island flights are short (30–45 minutes) and frequent.

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Maui - Merriman’s Restaurant at Sunset

💸 Is Hawaii Expensive?

Hawaii can be pricey, but planning helps.

Average costs (per night):

• Budget hotels: $200–$300

• Mid-range resorts: $350–$500

• Luxury resorts: $600+

Saving tips:

• Book early

• Travel shoulder season

• Use grocery stores for breakfasts & snacks

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📅 Best Time to Visit the Hawaiian Islands

• Best weather: April–June & September–October

• Whale season: December–April (best on Maui)

• Peak crowds: Summer, holidays, spring break

Hawaii is beautiful year-round — choosing when to go often depends on crowd tolerance and budget.

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Island Comparison

Island	Best For	Vibe	Top Experiences	Ideal Trip Length	Crowds	Rental Car
Oahu	First-time visitors, culture, nightlife	Lively, urban + beach	Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, North Shore	5–7 days	High	Optional
Maui	Families, couples, babymoons	Relaxed, scenic, upscale	Road to Hana, whale watching, Wailea/Kaanapali beaches, snorkeling	7–10 days	Medium	Recommended
Kauai	Nature lovers, honeymooners	Quiet, lush, laid-back	Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, waterfalls, hiking	5–7 days	Low–Medium	Required
Big Island	Adventure seekers, repeat visitors	Wild, diverse, spacious	Volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, Mauna Kea stargazing	7–10 days	Low	Required

New Dolphin Show at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on The Big Island

QUIZ: Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?

If you’ve read this far and still can’t decide, this quick quiz will point you in the right direction.

🌴 Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit?

Answer these quick questions to find your perfect island match.

1️⃣ Your ideal vacation day looks like:

Shopping, sightseeing, and great food Beach time with a little adventure Hiking, waterfalls, and quiet beaches Exploring volcanoes and unique landscapes

2️⃣ Your travel style is:

Balanced — a little of everything Fast-paced and energetic Slow and peaceful Adventurous and off-the-beaten-path

3️⃣ Who are you traveling with?

Kids or extended family Friends or first-time visitors Partner or honeymoon Solo or repeat Hawaii trip

4️⃣ What matters most to you?

Nature and scenery Beaches and resorts Culture, food, and activities Unique experiences

See My Island Match 🌈

Quick Guide & Planning tips:

• 🌆 First time? → Oahu (Where to stay, what to do)

• 🌺 Best all-around? → Maui (Start planning here)

• 🌿 Love nature & quiet? → Kauai (Everything you need to know)

• 🌋 Want adventure? → Big Island

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Hawaiian Islands FAQ

Which Hawaiian island is best for first-time visitors?

Oahu is usually the best choice for first-time visitors thanks to iconic beaches like Waikiki, major attractions, historic sites such as Pearl Harbor, and the widest variety of restaurants and activities.

Which Hawaiian island is best all-around?

Maui is often considered the best all-around Hawaiian island because it offers a balance of beautiful beaches, resort areas, outdoor adventures, and easy day trips like the Road to Hana.

Which Hawaiian island is best for families?

Maui is very family-friendly with calm beaches, resorts with pools and kid amenities, and plenty of easy activities for all ages.

Which Hawaiian island is best for nature lovers?

Kauai is best for nature lovers who want lush scenery, waterfalls, hiking, and a slower, more peaceful pace.

Can you visit more than one Hawaiian island in one trip?

Yes. Many travelers visit multiple islands on longer trips, commonly pairing Oahu and Maui or Maui and Kauai using short inter-island flights.

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🌈 Final Thoughts

No matter which Hawaiian island you choose, you’ll find unforgettable beaches, warm aloha spirit, and incredible scenery. The key is picking the island that matches how you want to travel, not just what looks best on Instagram.

👉 For detailed itineraries, family-friendly tips, and hotel recommendations, explore the rest of my Hawaii travel guides here on The Sweetest Escapes.

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Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

MORE HAWAII POSTS:

Maui With Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide 2026

Kids love RUnning on Airplane beach in Maui and in and out of waves

Is Maui Worth It With Kids? A Real Family-Friendly Travel Guide

Yes — Maui is absolutely worth visiting with kids. From calm beaches and stroller-friendly resort areas to kid-loving restaurants and flexible activities, Maui is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands to enjoy as a family — even with toddlers.

Our kids don’t understand how lucky they are for the amount of times they have gone to Hawaii! Maui is our favorite destination for traveling as a family. There is so much to do and the island has so much to offer for everyone. We have made some sweet memories together from having an infant to toddler and kid years.

We have learned to have a successful trip you need the balance of snacks, naps, and fun! therefore, we have recommendations for accommodations, restaurants, and things to do to entertain (and hopefully tire out) your tot!

Related Post: Don’t miss our ULTIMATE MAUI GUIDE

Honokōwai Beach Park

Quick Jump

• Best Places to Stay in Maui with Kids
• Best Beaches in Maui for Kids
• Best Restaurants in Maui with Kids
• Things to Do in Maui with Kids
• 5-Day Maui Itinerary with Kids
• What to Pack for Maui with Kids

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Best Places to Stay in Maui for Families

After many hotel and condo stays around Maui, let’s break up the island to compare which areas are best for your family!

🏝️ Best Areas to Stay in Maui With Kids

Area	Best For	Walkability	Beach Type
Kā‘anapali	First-timers, toddlers	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Sandy, swimmable
Wailea	Luxury, older kids	⭐⭐	Resort beaches
Napili / Kapalua	Quiet stays, babies	⭐	Calm coves

These are the best areas to stay in Maui with kids based on walkability, beach conditions, and family-friendly amenities.

Kaanapali vs Wailea vs Kapalua with Kids

• Kaanapali is much more kid friendly, as well as budget friendly, than Wailea. Both areas of the island have family friendly hotels but Kaanapali has a long stretch of them! There is a great beach and tons of hotels and shopping along Kaanapali with a long walk way to connect everything together.

• Wailea has more high end hotels that are more geared towards adults, such as the Four Seasons or the Andaz. The Grand Wailea has an awesome pool with lots of water slides but you can also get similar pools in Kaanapali.

• Napili and Kapalua are further North and rockier than the previous areas discussed. It’s not as walkable as the hotel resorts are more spread out, which makes it less crowded and quieter. Kapalua bay has a great beach that doesn’t have big waves but also has a coral reef that is great for snorkeling! The Kapalua coastal trail is great for strollers or walking with a carrier.

🏨 Condo Resorts vs Hotels

Depending on your length of stay, if it’s more than 5 days, you might be more comfortable trying a condo like Outrigger’s Honua Kai! You can pick your room layout (Studio, One Bedroom, Two Bedroom or Three Bedrooms) so that you have plenty of space especially when babies or toddlers are napping and you need another room to hang out in!

Condo Rental Wins:

• Pools are like resort pools! Honua Kai has one of our favorite pools complete with water slides, splash pad, and kiddie pool! You can even get food and drink poolside service from Duke’s restaurant!

• My favorite feature is having a full kitchen with the little ones so you can make pancakes or have fresh fruit and milk available in a full sized refrigerator as opposed to a mini fridge.

• We book through Maui Resort Rentals and they have cribs/pack n plays so you don’t have to bring a bed!

Taking first steps on a Little Beach bridges in front of Honua Kai

Best resorts for families

Don’t get me wrong, the resort hotels are wonderful too! If you have kids that are 4+, traveling is a bit easier since you don’t have to bring diapers, strollers, pack n play, etc!

Kaanapali has a few great hotel resorts:

• Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas

  • The Westin in Kaanapali has an amazing pool area with slides, fountains, and one especially parent-friendly feature: our 3-year-old could climb up to the slide on their own and land in a shallow pool (about 1.5 feet deep). This setup was a huge win for us—it gave our toddler independence while giving us a much-needed break from constant stair climbing.

  • The Westin also has great restaurants, a Starbucks, and an ARCADE!

  • Other activities include feeding the flamingos and birds in the morning. Ask the front desk about the times for daily feedings. We were even able to hold the birds too!

• Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

  • The pool at the Hyatt Regency Maui is a kid’s tropical playground that feels more like a mini-waterpark than a hotel pool. Between the sandy lagoons, waterslides, swinging rope bridge, hidden grottos tucked behind rushing waterfalls, and the legendary Ululani’s Shave Ice located right on the pool deck, it provides enough adventure to keep children entertained from sunrise to sunset.

  • The Hyatt Regency Maui resort has a resident colony of African Black-Footed Penguins. Located right in the atrium lobby, these charismatic birds are a must-see, especially during the daily 9:30 AM feedings where children can watch them waddle, swim, and dive for their breakfast while learning about conservation from the wildlife team. It’s essentially a mini-zoo experience without leaving the hotel, featuring not just the penguins but also flamingos, swans, and talking parrots scattered throughout the lush grounds.

  • Has a game room/arcade area geared toward kids and teens.

African Black-Footed Penguins at the Hyatt Regency Maui

Wailea also has a family friendly hotel:

• Grand Wailea

  • Though there isn’t an arcade, the Grand Wailea offers a kids club and teen lounge including video games and indoor activities— which is more structured and supervised than the Hyatt or Westin Arcades.

  • The Grand Wailea pool is widely considered the heavyweight champion for kids on Maui. The massive Wailea Canyon Activity Pool is a sprawling 25,700-square-foot playground that is actually nine individual pools connected by a network of lazy rivers and whitewater rapids.

  • Children can choose from five different waterslides, including the three-story Lava Tube for the brave and gentler interconnected slides for the younger ones. Between the Tarzan rope swing, the hidden caves behind waterfalls, and a dedicated Baby Beach with a sandy bottom and zero-entry slope, it essentially functions as a private, world-class waterpark that keeps kids engaged for days on end.

    See our full review of The Grand Wailea.

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Honokōwai Beach Park

🏝️ Best Beaches in Maui for Kids

The key to the best kid friendly beaches in Maui:

• Calm water

• Shallow entry

• Easy parking

• Nearby bathrooms

Here’s what we recommend:

• Kaanapali Beach is great for kids who are strong swimmers or like to boogie board. There are a few free lots to park in but they fill up quickly. Otherwise it’s best to park at a resort or the Whalers Village Shopping parking lot. See more but

• Airplane Beach just north of Kaanapali has a more shallow entry and calmer waves than Kaanapali. Our toddlers loved running up to the waves crashing on the shower then running from the water before it could catch them. Parking is harder to find or the free lot near the Sheraton is quite a distance and fills up quickly.

• Kapalua Bay is also a great play for littles that want to play in the ocean that is more Shallow with softer waves. If you peak on the other side of the bay off the grassy knoll, you’ll find turtles sleeping. There’s a parking lot (fills up quick, get there early) with public bathrooms nearby too.

• Honokōwai Beach Park has a playground AND a great beach that is protected by a rock reef so it’s more like a pool that even infants can sit and play in! There’s also a public bathroom and parking lot too!

Look Closely for the Sleeping Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles in Kapalua Bay

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🌊 Things to Do in Maui With Kids

• Easy hikes

  • Iao Valley is great to wander around and has different hiking levels for all ages. There’s also a stream to swim in.

  • Kapalua’s Coastal Trail is even stroller friendly with stunning beach views.

    See our full breakdown in our Maui Hiking Trails Post!

• Farm visits

  Kula Ranch is a great place to visit especially in October! They have a full pumpkin patch as well as a few animals to look at and pet. Kula is above Wailea but you ave to drive around to get to it. Also, try the pumpkin bread sold in the little stand!

• Road to Hana Stops

  The Road to Hana is such a great way to see how gorgeous Maui is filled with waterfalls, beaches, banana bread stops and more! If you do go, it is an ALL day adventure, so plan and prepare ahead of time.

  You must stop at the Black Sand Beach and try to get to Haleakala National Park for a hike through the Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest). See our full list of Road to Hana Stops for more!

• Professional Maui Family Photos

  Maui provides the perfect background for any photo, so take your professional family portraits on the island! Think Christmas card photos - Male Kalikimaka! Our favorite local, Tracy Leboe at Baby Hawaii Photography, is super talented taking maternity photos but also captures gorgeous family moments! Book your session ahead of time.

Family Portraits taken by Baby Hawaii Photography

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🍽️ Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Maui

1. Monkeypod is a very toddler friendly restaurant with crayons and free butter noodles for kids 3 and under. It also has great happy hour and my favorite Mai Tai! There are two locations on Maui - Kaaanapali and Wailea!

2. Barefoot Bar is a fun restaurant where you can eat with your toes in the sand! It is part of Hula Grill but has a separate entrance on the South side of the restaurant. They also have crayons and some good kid food options. Our kid claimed, “it was the best restaurant ever!”

3. The Ritz’s Burger Shack is a toddler approved restaurant located outside with a big grassy area for kids to run around. It’s also parent approved if you want to hang out and have a boozy milkshake or just watch the waves crash on the shore for a few minutes!

🧃 Easy Snacks for Kids in Maui (That Don’t Melt)

When you’re exploring Maui with kids, having the right snacks on hand can make all the difference. Between beach days, car rides, and long sightseeing stops, you’ll want options that hold up in warm weather and are easy for kids to eat on the go.

These parent-approved snacks travel well around the island and won’t melt or turn messy in your bag:

• Gummies
  Gummies are lightweight, easy to portion, and a favorite with kids of all ages. They’re ideal for beach bags, stroller pockets, and plane rides since they don’t melt like chocolate snacks.

• Fruit Snacks
  Fruit snacks are great for quick snack breaks while sightseeing or driving around the island. Look for resealable packaging so you can spread snacks out throughout the day without waste.

• Pouches
  Fruit and veggie pouches are especially helpful in Maui’s heat. They’re refreshing, mess-free, and easy for kids to eat while walking or riding in the car. Many are shelf-stable, so refrigeration isn’t an issue until they’re opened.

Love this idea but don’t want to pack all of this? I don’t blame you! Good news is that you can get these as soon as you land at the Target or Costco by the Maui OGG Airport!

💡 Parent Tip: Pack snacks in a small insulated pouch or shaded backpack pocket to keep them out of direct sun, especially during beach days or long drives.

We bring our Wagon instea of a Stroller

Traveling to Maui With Toddlers

1. Nap-friendly days

   With toddlers down to one nap, we would try and get out early, because they were up early anyway, and make it back before naptime or time it where we would be in the car so they could nap.

2. Stroller walks

   There were a lot of stroller walks up and down Kaanapali beach when we had infants and toddlers! We would bring our beach wagon and put both toddlers in for a walk!

3. Pool days vs adventure days

   We would typically alternate pool days and adventure days but most days involved a splash in the pool regardless.

   We would even use a night swim as an incentive to eat their dinner.

4. What to skip with toddlers

   • The Road to Hana is great but is a longggg day for little ones. It’s essentially a 5 hour (or more) drive so you must plan accordingly to be on the road ALL day. You can break it up with stops but getting to the furthest point is a three hour drive straight there. Even the first stop from Kaanapali or Wailea is about a two hour drive. If you’re only in Maui for a few days this might be a good one to skip unless your kids are a bit older. If you’re pregnant and have nausea, don’t attempt it. I speak from experience.

   • Haleakala sunrises and sunsets are breathtaking, but don’t go with toddlers or younger.

   • Sunset cruises are fun but stressful with younger kids that like to run around.

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Walking along the kid and stroller friendly Kapalua Coastal Walk in Maui

5-Day Maui Itinerary with Kids

Day 1 Arrival

12p Arrival into OGG, pick up rental car

1p stop at Target, Costco, then pick up Tin Roof

3p Check into Honua Kai Condo

4p 🛍️ Head to Whalers Village for shopping and dinner at Monkeypod (get extra food for fridge). Must order: Chicken Wings, Kalua Pork Pizza, Free Butter Noodles for kids, pie slices to go to eat in room after kids go to bed. Don’t forget to order the best Mai Tai on the island! All of this is on the Happy Hour menu!

6p Back to hotel for bedtime

Day 2 Pool-time and Burgers

5a Kids wake up, make pancakes (and coffee) in room

7a Adult Breakfast pickup (or dine in) at Duke’s

8a Pool opens!

11a Back to room for lunch

12p Naptime

2:30p Drive to Ritz in Kapalua and have Linner at Burger Shack (it’s a big meal to fill up on). Must order: burger and milkshake

4p Explore Ritz and Kapalua or go to DT Fleming beach

6p Back to Hotel for Bedtime

Pipiwai Trail With Baby in Carrier

Day 3 Road to Hana Adventure

5:30a Kids wake up - make more pancakes for everyone (and another pot of coffee)

6:30a Drive the Road to Hana

8a Stretch legs at Banana Bread Stop

9a Arrive at Kīpahulu Visitor Center which is part of Haleakala National Park where you can explore the Oheo Gulch Pools, Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest), and Waimoku Falls

11a Eat a packed lunch or drive to the Food Trucks in Hana

1p Stop at Wainapanapa Beach (Black Sand Beach) - make a reservation ahead of time.

3p Drive back to hotel

5p Dinner at hotel or pick up something on the way back

6p Bedtime

Day 4 - Pool and Luau

6a Kids wake up

7a Breakfast at Slappy Cakes or The Gazebo

8a Kapalua Bay for beach time, maybe try the coastal walk

11a Back to room for lunch

12p Naptime

2:30p Quick Pool Play

5p Luau at Hyatt or Sheraton

7p Bedtime

Day 5 - Last Swim and Depart

6:30a Kids Wake Up

7:30a Breakfast at Duke’s

8:30a Take turns with your partner packing

10:30a Drive to Airport (and cry the whole way)

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Sticker Tape Road and Travel Magnatiles keep them entertained in the hotel room

What to Pack for Maui With Kids

I think giving a list of what not to pack is a shorter list because we bring almost everything! One thing I will advise is there is a Costco and a Target by the airport so make your Target order for pickup before your flight takes off so it’s ready for you when you land. You can always Instacart Costco or just head in for free snacks.

Here is a copy paste of what I packed for my 2 and 4-year-old on our last trip.

Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list.

Carry-on Plane

• Personal Carry-on:

  • Toys & some books

  • iPad

  • Headphones 🎧

  • Waterbottles

• Wagon - We bring a wagon instead of a stroller these days now that the kids are older. Though we loved our travel stroller for when we had babies!

• Snack Bag - Dedicated light weight backpack that folds up into a pouch

  • Pouches

  • That’s it bars

  • Pirate booty

  • Cereal Bars from Trader Joes

  • Bear Fruit Snacks

  • Gummies

  • Teddy Grahams

Here is the full list of everything else that scatters into multiple bags:

Sleep 

• Inflatable bed x 2

• Sheets x 2

• Blanket x 2

• Small Toddler pillows x 2

• PJs

• White noise / Hatch

Food Things

• Food bag

• Bowls 🥣

• Baby Spoons 🥄

• Bibs

• Water cup/bottle

• Milk cup

• Sippy cup

• Safe dish soap 🧼

• Sandwich bags

• Snack bowl

Travel and Misc

• Car seat x 2

• Car seat bags x 2

• Swaddle

• Clothes pins

• Outlet covers

• Beach bag

• Beach blanket mat

Toiletries for Kids

• Baby shampoo

• Baby body wash

• Soft Wash Cloths

• Nail clippers

• Brush

• Kids Tylenol

• Kids Sunscreen

• Diaper rash cream

• Baby Aquaphor/neosporin

• Ear drops

Clothes and diapers

• Sweatshirt for plane & Mainland airport travel

• Socks

• Shorts

• Shirts

• Swimwear

• Swim diapers

• Size 4 diapers

• Pull ups

• Overnight Diapers

• Wipes

• Hat

• Multipurpose Sanitation wipes in ziplock bag

Toys and Entertainment - Shop our Toddler Packing Amazon list

• Bath Toys - Cars 🚗

• Books 📚

• Sand toys 🏖️

• Football 🏈

• Frisbee

• Trucks 🛻

• Cars 🚙

• Sticker Road

• Plane toys - coloring book, sticker book

• Cards 🃏

• Travel Magnatiles

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Is Maui Worth It With Kids?

Yes—Maui is absolutely worth it with kids, especially for families traveling with toddlers and young children. The island offers calm, swimmable beaches, family-friendly resorts, walkable areas like Kā‘anapali, and activities that don’t require long drives or packed schedules. With the right balance of pool days, beach time, and nap-friendly outings, Maui is one of the easiest Hawaii islands to enjoy as a family. If you plan intentionally—choosing the right area to stay and skipping overly long excursions—Maui can be both relaxing and unforgettable with kids.

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More Maui Posts:

5 Best Snorkel Spots (and swim with turtles) in Maui, Hawaii - Video included!

Hawaiian Sea Turtle swimming

5 Best Places to Snorkel in Maui, HI

My friends from Outside Pursuits help me put this article together, check out their site with great travel advice for the outdoors! The warm, crystal-clear ocean surrounding Maui provides perfect conditions for snorkeling all year round. If you enjoy slipping under the waves, Maui is an ideal destination for a snorkeling tour. The only decision you must make is which snorkel spots to visit.

Make sure you check the Maui snorkel report for water clarity: MAUI SNORKEL REPORT

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

Our favorite snorkel gear:

Cressi Scuba Mask

Cressi Scuba Mask - Great with antifog and comes in various colors. Pro-tip, bring baby shampoo to clean the inside lens if it fogs up!

CAPAS Travel Snorkel Fins

CAPAS Snorkel Fins, Swim Fins Travel Size Short Adjustable for Snorkeling Diving Adult Men Women Kids Open Heel Swimming Flippers - travel size and fit in your suitcase! We usually just put our snorkel gear in this snorkel travel bag and take it as a carry-on. It’s also great for carrying around your gear or sand toys.

Don’t forget to check out our video at the bottom of the post to see these reefs in action!

For a complete breakdown of where to eat, stay, and what to do, see our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide.

These are my 5 favorites!:

Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach

#1. Black Rock

Black Rock is a rocky outcrop to the north of Kaanapali Beach on the west coast. Like all the rock on Maui, Black Rock was formed by a lava flow. It is a popular place for cliff diving and sunset torch lighting. If you get there early, you can find free parking on the ground level at the Sheraton Maui Resort.

The locals call the outcrop Pu’u Keka’a. Hawaiian tradition holds this is where souls come to join their ancestors. If they cannot find their way, lost souls attach themselves to rocks. It is considered bad luck to take away rock from the beach.

The water near the beach is around 8 feet deep but deepens to around 25 feet around the point. The seabed is mostly sand, but you can follow an underwater basalt ledge. Where overhangs occur along the ledge, watch out for turtles. We have the best luck in the morning on the shelf opposite side of where you would jump in the water off the top of Black Rock.

The fish you can expect to see here include boxfish, butterflyfish, cardinalfish, chub, cornetfish, damselfish, goatfish, hawkfish, humuhumumukunukuapua’a (reef triggerfish), jacks, mackerel, Moorish idol, needlefish, parrotfish, perch, porcupine fish, snapper, surgeonfish, tang, triggerfish, and wrasse. You can also expect to see crustaceans, invertebrates, and, of course, turtles.

VIDEO: Scroll down to our video to see the octopus and other sea creatures we found at Black Rock!

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Kapalua Bay at Sunset

#2. Kapalua Bay

A little north of Black Rock on the western coast you’ll find Kapalua Bay, a sheltered sandy beach. The two reefs that extend out from both ends of the bay form a C-shaped cove. The calm water and reefs make this a perfect destination for novice snorkelers. This is the best place in Maui to teach your kids how to snorkel.

Note that the water in the center of the bay can be a little cloudy from the soft sand. But if you set off from the north end of the beach and swim along the ledge, the visibility is better. The depth there is 10 feet.

Expect to see boxfish, butterfly fish, chub, cornet fish, damselfish, goatfish, hawk fish, humuhumumukunukuapua’a, jacks, Moorish idol, parrot fish, perch, porcupine fish, scorpion fish, surgeonfish, tang, triggerfish, and wrasse. You’ll also find invertebrates and crustaceans.

You’ll find parking for the beach near the public restrooms and showers. However, it’s a popular beach, so get there early.

See our favorite Maui Restaurants close by

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Honolua Bay

#3. Honolua Bay

This is a more challenging snorkeling spot a little further north than Kapalua Bay on the north coast of West Maui. The best snorkeling locations are a half-mile swim from shore. Also, you must take a 700-feet or 1,500-feet hike to reach the ocean. Locals recommend you study the layout of the bay from the cliffs above before snorkeling.

If there has been a lot of rain in the past few days, don’t come. A stream flows into the bay, and silt can cloud the bay when its output increases. However, Honolua Bay can be calmer than other bays around Maui, making it a good place to come when the conditions are bad for snorkeling elsewhere. But check the swell forecast. If the surf is up, you’ll find the beach crowded with surfers. 

You can either enter the water from the sandy part of the beach to the left or over the boulders to the right. Head for the boulders to the right and pass the boat ramp before entering the water. The water is clearer there because the stream enters the bay to the left near the sand. Also, the coral and abundant marine life is focused toward the north end of the bay. You’ll need shoes to reach the water, and please be careful on the slippery rocks.

Honolua Bay is a Marine Life Conservation District and boasts vibrant and interesting corals that are fun to explore. Expect to see big eyes, boxfish, butterflyfish, cardinalfish, chub, damselfish, flag tails, goatfish, hawkfish, humuhumumukunukuapua’a, jacks, Moorish idol, mullet, parrotfish, peacock bass, snapper, soldierfish, squirrelfish, surgeonfish, tang, triggerfish, and wrasse. You might also encounter eels, turtles, and barracudas.

Scroll down for video footage of what we found under the sea at Honolua Bay!

So many fish

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Hawaiian Sea Turtle swimming

#4. Turtle Town - Wailea area

Turtle Town is found near Makena on the southern shore of Maui, specifically near Maluaka Beach. You don’t need to be a genius to figure out that this is the best place in Maui to see Hawaiian green sea turtles. Maluaka Beach is also a popular destination for families with kids. The soft sand is great for relaxing and volleyball. And Makena is a popular destination for whale watching tours over the winter months.

When you come to Maluaka Beach, walk south until you reach the rocks. The coral reef stretches out from there, and that’s where you’ll find the vast majority of the turtles. Also watch out for angelfish, butterflyfish, triggerfish, and trumpetfish. You may also see octopuses and moray eels. Maluaka Beach is adjacent to the Makena Beach and Golf Resort. Note that there is no sign for Maluaka Beach. This keeps down the number of visitors. 

Bonus: Visit the Turtles on land in Wailea where you don’t even have to get wet! Great to bring kids and toddlers!

Right off the back of a Makena Landing parking lot (5083 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753), you’ll often find turtles resting in the sand/rocks. Don’t disturb them, but admire them while hiding behind shrubs and trees! Also, there were tons of chickens chasing each other in the parking lot.

See more: Fun things to do in Wailea

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Molokini Crater

#5. Molokini Crater

Molokini Island is located 3 miles southwest of Maui. It is the best snorkeling destination in Hawaii. The water inside the crater is a Marine Life Conservation District and the surrounding rim is a State Bird Sanctuary. If you love nature, this is the best snorkeling spot to visit.

One of Molokini’s biggest advantages over other snorkeling spots is that it suffers no silt from stream wash, so here you’ll find the clearest water in Maui. Underwater visibility can exceed 200 feet. Another feature of Molokini is that the crater rim protects the interior from ocean swells, meaning that it’s a safe place for snorkelers of all ages and abilities.

Expect to see big eye scad, butterflyfish, chub, cornetfish, damselfish, emperor fish, goatfish, hawkfish, humuhumumukunukuapua’a, jacks, Moorish idol, needlefish, perch parrotfish, snapper, soldierfish, squirrelfish, surgeonfish, tang, triggerfish, and wrasse. You might also encounter eels and reef sharks.

To get there, it’s about a 30-minute boat ride. We booked and boarded the Malolo. You can always rent a boat from our friends at GetMyBoat, it’s like Airbnb for boats!

Wanna take it up a notch, get certified and try scuba diving, here are our favorite spots: Maui Scuba Dive Locations

Watch our video of our snorkel trips!

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We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

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8 Delicious Mai Tai's you must try in Maui, Hawaii!

Where to find the Best Mai Tai in Maui, Hawaii

Mai Tais are by far the most popular drink in Maui and most islands of Hawaii at that. Victor Jules Bergeron, famously known as Trader Vic, claimed to have invented the Mai Tai in 1944 at his popular restaurant, Trader Vic's, in Oakland, California. Recipes for Mai Tais today are based on Trader Vic's 1944 recipe include rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur or orange curaçao. Other ingredients may include almond, grenadine, orange and grapefruit juices, beer, etc. To make a perfect Mai Tai, you have to find solid ingredients and a great ratio of tropical flair to rum! 

We’ve been to Maui at least 8 times, so let's just say, we've had our fair share of Mai Tais. Some are basic, which don't stray far from the recipe, while other drinks have beautiful presentations and something different added to their Mai Tai to make it stand out from others. Let’s dive in!

For a complete breakdown of where to eat, stay, and what to do, see our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide.

Related Post: Best Restaurants in Maui

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Merriman’s Mai Tai

Merriman's Maui in Kapalua 

Some of the best sunsets sinking into the Pacific have occurred while sitting on Merriman's patio! They are known for their signature recipe incorporating local rum and topped with exquisite sweet honey-liliko'i foam. 

Merriman's Mai Tai - Old Lahaina Rum, Triple Sec, Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice, honey-lilikoi foam

 Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

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Monkeypod Mai Tai

Monkeypod in Kaanapali or Wailea 

Monkeypod is a sister restaurant to Merriman's also serving a similar recipe meaning you enjoy this cocktail in multiple locations!

Monkeypod Mai Tai - kula organic silver and dark rums, lime, house-made macadamia nut orgeat, bols orange curacao, honey-lilikoi foam

 Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

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Having trouble packing for Hawaii? Don’t forget the most important thing!

Check out our Hawaii Packing Essentials complete with a checklist!

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Mai'a Tai at Lineage

Lineage in Wailea

You might recognize Chef Sheldon as a finalist on the show Top Chef, and after trying his food and drinks you can see why he made to the finals! The Mai'a Tai is different from most Mai Tais but has a delicious spin to the tiki classic. 

Mai'a Tai - Banks 5 Rum, Banana Milk Punch, Walnut, Pecan, Giffard Apricot de Rousillon, Lime, Almond~Spice Liqueur

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

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The Grand at Humuhumunukunukuapua'a

Humuhumunukunukuapua'a at the Grand Wailea 

Yes, that is the name of a restaurant which is also a word for the Hawaiian Triggerfish or the little triggerfish with a snout like a pig (we learned this from their kids menu)! Their recipe for The Grand has a lighter taste without the dark rum and topped off with a wonderfully sweet pineapple vanilla foam. 

The Grand - Ron Zacapa 23yr Rum, Orange Curacao, Orgeat, Lime Juice, Pineapple Vanilla foam

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$$

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The Stirred Mai Tai at SPago

Wolfgang Puck’s Spago at the Four Seasons Wailea

The mixologists at Spago have come up with some really inventive, and delicious, takes on the Mai Tai, giving that floating in the ocean without a care in the world feeling! The Stirred - Plantation Xaymaca Rum, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Plantation Pineapple Rum, Dry Curacao, Citrus Oils

The 1944 - Plantation Xaymaca Run, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Dry Curacao, Lime

The Spago Maui - Plantation Pineapple Rum, Koloa Dark Rum, 151 Proof Rum, Apricot Brandy, Almond, Lime, Pineapple

The Stirred - Plantation Xaymaca Rum, Duquesne Aged Rhum Agricole, Plantation Pineapple Rum, Dry Curacao, Citrus Oils

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$$

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Fresh Squeezed Mai Tai at the Barefoot Bar

Hula Grill and Barefoot Bar in Kaanapali

I think the tiki glass presentation really makes a difference here! ;-) This Mai Tai is on the fruitier side with a great combo of juices integrated.

Fresh Squeezed Mai Tai - Tropical blend of fresh pineapple, guava, orange, and passion fruit Juices with orgeat, orange curaçao, gold rum and a dark rum float

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

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Maui Brew Co in Lahaina 

Maui Brew Co not only serves a good Mai Tai but they have made a unique beer cocktail called the Mana Mai Tai made with you guessed it, BEER! This will throw your taste buds in delightful loops, forgetting you have a beer in your hand.

Mana Mai Tai - Pineapple Mana Wheat, orgeat, Pineapple, Coconut Hiwa Porter float

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

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Black Rock Mai Tai at the Cliff Dive Grill

Sheraton Maui Mai Tai at the Cliff Dive Grill

We often stay at the Maui Sheraton and the Cliff Dive Bar is usually our first stop for a Mai Tai! Not only is it refreshing but we love the beach views and watching jumpers dive off of black rock!

Black Rock Mai Tai - light & dark rum, pineapple & orange juice, orange orgeat

Presentation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Taste: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: $$

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I’d like to thank my family for their help with my extensive research for this article! 😃

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See all Hawaii posts HERE and check out our latest and greatest:

Paradise Found: The Best Hotels in Maui, Hawaii (with map)

Kaanapali Beach Views

Paradise Found: The Best Hotels in Maui, Hawaii

Happy 2025, have you booked your Hawaiian vacation yet? You bet we did!

Maui, the "Valley Isle," is a captivating destination that effortlessly blends natural beauty with vibrant culture. From the dramatic peaks of Haleakala volcano to the pristine beaches of Ka'anapali, Maui offers a diverse landscape of breathtaking scenery. Explore lush rainforests, witness the mesmerizing Road to Hana, and indulge in delicious Hawaiian cuisine. With its warm hospitality, vibrant arts scene, and endless opportunities for adventure, Maui is a truly unforgettable vacation spot.

Choosing where to stay can be overwhelming, so we've compiled a list of our top 6 hotels in Maui to help you find your perfect slice of paradise.

Here is a map made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation! Check out the Kaanapali Beach hotels and how they compare to others. We’ve been to most, here are our top 6 places to stay in Maui!

Map courtesy of Wanderlog, the best trip planner app on iOS and Android

See the best hotels to stay at in Maui with a map of all Ka’aanapali Beach hotels.

See our full Guide to Kaanapali Beach including where to stay, things to do and best restaurants!

Find the best rate to visit these hotels by booking your room through Booking.com Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks! 

If you’re still deciding where to stay, our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide breaks down the best areas and resorts across the island.

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Charming Gardens with Ocean views at the Hyatt Regency

1. The Maui Hyatt Regency:

• Where to Stay: This iconic resort boasts a prime location on Ka'anapali Beach with breathtaking ocean views.

• Why it's Great:

  • Stunning Pools: Multiple pools, including a lazy river and a waterslide, offer endless fun for all ages.

  • Delicious Dining: From casual beachfront cafes to elegant fine dining, the Hyatt offers a variety of culinary experiences.

  • Live Entertainment: Enjoy nightly luaus and live music performances for a taste of authentic Hawaiian culture.

  • Pampering Spa: Relax and rejuvenate at the award-winning Napili Point Spa.

  • Shave Ice Heaven: Indulge in a refreshing shave ice treat at Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice, located just steps from the resort.

  • Animal Menagerie: Find parrots that say “Aloha”, swans, flamingoes, and penguins. Yes, I said penguins.

Budget hotel option: You can use Hyatt points here but free night rewards don’t typically work. I always check!

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Sheraton Maui Resort with Black Rock!

2. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa:

• Where to Stay: Nestled on the shores of Black Rock, this resort offers stunning ocean views along the Maui coast and easy access to snorkeling and diving.

• Why it's Great:

  • Legendary Cliffs of Kapalua: Witness the iconic cliff divers leaping into the ocean during the nightly cliff diving ceremony.

  • World-Class Golf: Play a round of golf at the renowned Kapalua Golf Courses.

  • Spacious Accommodations: Choose from a variety of rooms and suites, many with private lanais and ocean views.

  • Multiple Pools: Enjoy several pools, including a lagoon pool and a children's pool.

  • Delicious Dining: Savor fresh seafood and local flavors at the resort's diverse dining options.

See our full review here: SHERATON MAUI RESORT HOTEL REVIEW

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View from Room in Westin Maui Resort and Spa

3. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa:

• Where to Stay: Located on Ka'anapali Beach, this luxurious resort offers a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

• Why it's Great:

  • Heavenly Beds: Experience the signature Westin Heavenly Bed for ultimate comfort.

  • Award-Winning Spa: Indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the Heavenly Spa.

  • Breathtaking Views: Enjoy panoramic ocean views from your private lanai or while lounging by the pool.

  • Exciting Activities: Participate in a variety of water sports, including snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

  • Family Fun: The resort offers a variety of activities for children, including a kids' club and a playground.

Budget Travel Tip: Book with Marriott points! Get the credit card and save those points!

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Grand Wailea Room views at Sunset

4. The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel:

• Where to Stay: This iconic resort boasts an unparalleled level of luxury and sophistication on Wailea Beach.

• Why it's Great:

  • Epic Pools: Explore the resort's nine interconnected pools, including a lazy river, waterfalls, and water slides. There’s even an elevator in the pool!

  • World-Class Dining: Indulge in a culinary journey with award-winning dining experiences.

  • Luxury Spa: Experience ultimate relaxation at the award-winning Spa Grande.

  • Impeccable Service: Enjoy personalized service from the dedicated staff.

  • Ice Cream Bliss: Cool down with a delicious scoop of ice cream from the resort's own ice cream parlor.

Luxury travel resort, if you want to be fancy.

See our full blog post review here: GRAND WAILEA HOTEL REVIEW

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Pool views at the Andaz Maui

5. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort:

• Where to Stay: This stylish and contemporary resort offers a unique blend of modern luxury and Hawaiian charm.

• Why it's Great:

  • Stunning Oceanfront Location: Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and easy access to Wailea Beach.

  • Stylish Design: Experience contemporary design with a touch of Hawaiian flair.

  • Exceptional Dining: Savor innovative cuisine at the resort's acclaimed restaurants.

  • Relaxing Atmosphere: Unwind by the infinity pool or on the private beach.

  • Unique Experiences: Participate in cultural activities such as lei making and ukulele lessons.

There’s a good snorkel spot close by! See the Best Snorkel Beaches in Maui

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Honua Kai Resort

6. Honua Kai Resort & Spa (Airbnb-Style):

• Where to Stay: This luxurious resort offers spacious condominium-style accommodations with fully equipped kitchens and stunning ocean views. Great if you want to work from the hotel or if you have kids and need more space than a hotel.

• Why it's Great:

  • Home Away From Home: Enjoy the comforts of home with spacious living areas and private lanais.

  • Access to Resort Amenities: Guests have access to resort amenities such as pools, spas, and restaurants.

  • Prime Location: Located on the pristine beaches of North Ka'anapali, offering easy access to nearby attractions.

  • Self-Catering Options: Enjoy the flexibility of cooking your own meals in your fully equipped kitchen.

  • Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a more laid-back and independent vacation experience.

My favorite so that you can sprawl out! There isn’t maid service but there is a Duke’s Beach House Maui that also has waiters stop by the pool lounge chairs! Mai tai, please!

See how to budget your next trip: Maui Budget, Itinerary, and Checklist

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Choosing the best hotel in Maui depends on your individual preferences and budget. Whether you're seeking luxury, adventure, or relaxation, you're sure to find the perfect paradise on this magical island.

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Looking for more about Maui?! We have all you need:

TOP 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN MAUI, HAWAII | You can't miss...

THE BEST ACTIVITIES AND THINGS TO DO IN MAUI

Snorkel at Black Rock to see plenty of fish and Hawaiian Green sea turtles!

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

We have traveled to Maui every year since 2013 and try to find something new to do every time. Although it is a small island, there is a lot to see! The island of Maui, with its lush rainforests, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches, offers an unforgettable vacation experience. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Hawaiian culture, Maui has something for everyone.

In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best things to do in Maui, from sightseeing and exploring the Road to Hana to swimming with Hawaiian green sea turtles and indulging in delicious local cuisine. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to discover the sweet escape to Maui!

1. Embarking on the Hana Highway: A Maui Adventure Awaits

The Road to Hana, a winding ribbon of asphalt snaking along Maui's northeastern coast, is more than just a drive – it's an unforgettable journey. Prepare for breathtaking coastal cliffs, lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and hidden black sand beaches. This iconic route is a true test of patience, but the rewards are immense.

There are so many sights to see along the island of Maui and Hana Highway is a perfect full-day activity to see its beauty. Some of our favorite stops include and amount of time you should spend there in parenthesis:

1. Black Sand Beach (60 mins)

2. Lava Tubes (30 mins)

3. Red Sand Beach (30 mins)

4. Coconut Glen's ice cream (15 mins)

5. Haleakala National Park (2 hours - if you do the long hike, and swim in the seven sacred pools)

Check out our complete guide to the Road to Hana with mile marker stops, a map, and video - Road to Hana Guide

Let someone else drive since you’re on vacation! Book a Road to Hana Tour so you can sit back and enjoy the ride!

Don’t forget to pack your reef safe sunblock and a cute hat!

Think Sport Sunscreen

Our favorite sunblock and reef safe! Buy on AMAZON.COM

Hello Sunshine Sun Hat

On AMAZON.com

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2. Go Snorkeling

The best part about the end of the Kaanapali beach is the Black Rock, which is located right in front of the Sheraton Maui Resort. Where it might seem like a hideous black lava rock, under the sea you can find gorgeous coral, tons of fish, and usually see a Hawaiian sea turtle or two!

Another great spot is Kapalua Bay. Even though the clarity isn't as great as around Black Rock, there are still plenty of fish to see. On one of our swims, we saw 6 turtles! We parked in a free beach parking lot next to Merriman's Kapalua, but make sure you get there early for a spot.

Take a day trip to Molokini Crater for some of the best Hawaiian reef snorkeling! Book this snorkel tour!

See the full list of spots in our Best Snorkel Spots and beaches in Maui post (video included)!

Pro-tip: Ship snorkel gear straight to the hotel! I personally use a Cressi snorkel mask is incredible for snorkeling! You can find more in our Amazon Storefront!

Snorkeling with green Hawaiian Sea turtles in Kapalua Bay

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3. Nakalele Blowhole

As the tide rolls in, the blowhole shoots water over 20 feet in the air! Located North of Kapalua (approx 8 miles), park near mile marker 38.5.

Sad news, as of January 2020, the Heart Rock has washed away and is only half a heart! :(

However, the blowhole is still there and that’s fun! :)

WARNING: DO NOT GET TOO CLOSE TO THE BLOWHOLE, IT CAN SUCK YOU IN! It’s nice to admire from a few feet away.

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4. Catch the Sunrise at the Top of Haleakala Crater

We left our hotel around 3am and went on a crazy drive to the top of Haleakala at 10,000 feet, but it was worth it for this magnificent sunrise above the clouds. Side note - Josh proposed to me here!

YOU MUST HAVE A RESERVATION IF YOU ARE GOING TO THE TOP OF HALEAKALA BEFORE 7AM!

Make Your Sunrise Reservation - Reservations are available online up to 60 days in advance of your sunrise visit on recreation.gov. More info here: Haleakala Sunrise

• A visitor may only purchase one sunrise reservation per three-day period.

• A small number of last-minute tickets are released online two days beforehand.

There are also great Haleakala Tours that will take you to the top (after all, you’re on vacation). If you’re adventurous, there are tours that will take you to the top to see the sunrise, then coast back down to the bottom on a bicycle!

Don’t like to get up early? I don’t blame you! Sunset is lovely too and after it sets you are in the perfect setting for stargazing! Look up for the Milky Way!

Pro-tip: BRING A SWEATSHIRT! It gets really cold at 10,000 feet!

See more details and our full itinerary: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui

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5. Go Scuba Diving

We loved scuba diving with the company, Extended Horizons in Lahaina. Not only do they go to the best spots but also have the best dive guides! The dive site, Cathedral I, was one of my favorite dives - we went in a cave! See our video compilation and reviews here: Best Scuba Dive Sites in Maui

We even achieved our advanced certification with Extended Horizons. We did a night dive which we saw so many crustaceans and fish with the glow of a flashlight while also experiencing the glow from bioluminescence.

Not certified? Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii, is also a great place to go under the sea without getting wet! Located in Maalaea, which you’ll most likely pass to and from the airport, see the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere!

Pro Tip: Whale watching is also fun during the months from November to May! Maui charters will do sunset cruises, or day cruises. Look out for humpback whales!

Please protect the reefs and get reef-safe sunscreen:

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6. Get a Massage

Need I say more? We like to do the couples massages at the Spa at Black Rock at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa, which is also our favorite place to stay. There are many locations around the resort to get a massage – the spa, lawn, or even near the beach, anywhere you go, you won’t regret it. You’re on vacation, you deserve it!

Check out our Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa

We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

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7. Go shopping and have some great food!

Lahaina – The fire in 2023 was beyond devastating to Maui and unfortunately most of the shops on Front Street are no longer there. There is the Lahaina Cannery Mall with a few stores, food trucks in the parking lot, and they often have cultural Hawaiian events!

Make sure you visit the Banyan tree, a gorgeous tree that covers over half an acre! It survived the fires, thankfully!

Whalers Village - Located on Kaanapali Beach right next to the Westin. Here you will find shops you would normally see in most malls (Oakley, Sephora, Tommy Bahama) but also has restaurants (Hula Grill, Monkeypod, Leilani’s, fast food options) and of course, an ABC Store.

Whalers Village - Kaanapali - Maui, Hawaii

Sand People – I have to mention this shop as it is only found in Hawaii. It’s like an Etsy store full of coastal home goods, locally made jewelry and clothing. My FAVORITE! There are a few - Whaler’s Village and Front Street in Lahaina.

The Shops at Wailea - Located among the hotels along Wailea beach, you’ll find restaurants (Lineage, Tommy Bahama, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Cheeseburger in Paradise), clothing shops, a market, and ABC Store.

Related Post - Check out our favorite restaurants here: Best Maui Restaurants

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8. Get Some Hawaiian Shave Ice

Shaved ice + flavored syrups + macadamia nut ice cream in the bottom = YUM!

There are so many locations all over Maui, you really can’t go wrong with any of them! My favorite combo is pineapple and coconut syrup with macadamia nut ice cream in the bottom – pretty much an ice cream pina colada (minus the alcohol)!

Pro-tip: The Shaved Ice location in Whalers Village (Ka’anapali Beach) has spoons that change colors with the temperature!

HAWAIIAN SHAVE ICE MAUI HAWAII

Also, check out my favorite ice cream place, Coconut Glen's Ice Cream!

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9. Go Zip-lining

There are a lot of places that offer zip-lining, yet we went to the original (they even have zipline.com)! We used Kaanapali Zip Line Adventure, known for their award-winning 8-line, and had a blast. Stunning views from Lahaina to Kaanapali and 8 different lines cascading down the mountain! At the end of your last zip line you can drop into a lake! Our guides were so nice and had so much energy that we laughing the whole time! Check out these other great tours as well: Zipline Adventures

Don’t forget your GoPro! You can even get a mount for your helmet!

GoPro HERO7 Silver — Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 10MP Photos

On AMAZON.com

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10. Enjoy a Lu'au

DRUMS OF THE PACIFIC LU'AU HYATT

The Drums of the Pacific Lu'au encompasses Hawaiian traditions with fun! The Rhythms of the Polynesian ritual will have you dancing along at the Hyatt Regency Maui on Kaanapali Beach. A traditional Hawaiian feast is served buffet style with an open bar and is better than the Lahaina Luau. Despite the fact the drinks are a little watered down, I found it highly entertaining and was captivated by the fast-moving hips to the beat of the drum in the traditional Hawaiian dance. Find a luau near you: Best Maui Luaus

How about a festive outfit for the evening:

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

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Need more Hawaii? Here are our latest and greatest:

Maui Babymoon Guide (2026): Best Pregnancy-Safe Things to Do, Tips & 5-Day Itinerary

Updated January 3, 2026

Go on a coastal walk along Kapalua

Babymoon Tips and 10 Things to do in Maui while Pregnant - 5-Day Itinerary Included!

Planning a Maui babymoon and wondering what’s actually safe to do while pregnant? Maui is one of the best babymoon destinations thanks to its relaxing beaches, luxury resorts, gentle activities, and easy island pace. Whether you’re traveling during your second trimester or simply looking for a low-stress getaway before baby arrives, this Maui Babymoon Guide (2026) covers the best things to do while pregnant, where to stay, what to avoid, and a perfectly paced 5-day itinerary designed for rest, comfort, and unforgettable island moments.

We had a trip on the books to Maui, and found out we were pregnant a few weeks prior to take-off! We decided to keep our reservations (which were for a month-long trip) and baby-mooned far in advance!

Being pregnant limited our list of things to do (no zip-lining, scuba diving, or parasailing on this trip), but we still made the most of it! Here’s my best advice for you expecting mothers who need a tropical getaway!

Don’t miss: Must haves for baby - small spaces, budget and travel

Jump to:

• Pregnancy-Safe Things to Do on a Maui Babymoon
• Best Food on Maui for a Babymoon
• Where to Stay for Maui Babymoon
• What to Pack for a Maui Babymoon While Pregnant
• Pregnancy Travel Tips
• What NOT to Do While Pregnant in Maui
• 5-Day Maui Babymoon Itinerary
• Is It Safe to Travel to Maui While Pregnant? (FAQs)

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10 Pregnancy-Safe Things to Do on a Maui Babymoon

Shopping for Baby in Maui

Saslax Lace Off Shoulder Doubly Split A-line Skirt Maternity Dress Soft Stretchy Pregnancy Prop Maxi Gown for Photoshoot Champagne Medium

ZESICA Women's 2025 Boho Sexy Off Shoulder Long Sleeve Smocked High Waist Side Split Flowy A Line Tiered Long Maxi Dress,Coffee,Medium

Sunrise at Haleakala

There is more than you think of things you can do in Maui while pregnant, though you might not want to do all of it! Don’t stress or overwhelm yourself, here is our list of best pregnancy safe things to do in Maui:

1. RELAX BY THE BEACH OR POOL

   We spent a lot of time on the beach! We stayed at Honua Kai and had Tommy Bahama chairs in our room that we loaded with sparkling waters and snacks to spend hours at the beach. Naps definitely happened. The pool is nice too, I do love that resort life! We went in February and I loved watching the whales breach the surface!

2. GO ON COASTAL WALKS

   Whether you’re in Wailea, Kaanapali, or Kapalua, there is a paved beach walk to enjoy! Good for any trimester. You can always walk in the sand but I found it was harder while sharing my oxygen supply!

3. GET A MOCKTAIL

   I love Mai Tais and Lava Flows, so getting my favorite cocktail concoctions in a non-alcoholic, virgin form lifted my spirits!

4. GO ON A (EASY) HIKE

   Depending on what trimester you are in, this one might not be as easy! We went on a few hikes but took them slow and easy! My doctor said the elevation in Maui was ok for hikes, but you may want to check with your doctor too before you go! I did a hike in Iao Valley in my first trimester where it is cooler, covered, and relatively flat unless you want to climb up to the lookout.

5. GO SHOPPING FOR BABY

   We wanted some cute things for the baby for his room and to remind us of this special trip. At the time, we didn’t know if it was a boy or girl but we found some gender-neutral items that we had to have! Goodnight Maui from the Blue Ginger’s Kids at Whaler’s Village was one of our favorite purchases! SoHa Keiki is another great place in Whaler’s Village for baby things!

6. GET A PRENATAL PREGNANCY MASSAGE

   I had a terrible knot in my back and needed a massage desperately! Unfortunately, it is not recommended to get a massage in the first trimester! I had to stretch it out, but for your second or third-trimester moms, get one of those fabulous pregnancy massages by the beach (we love the spa at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa)!

7. GO SNORKELING

   I was sad I couldn’t Scuba dive while pregnant, but could still see the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and plenty of tropical fish while snorkeling! BE CAUTIOUS! Do not go in rough waters and always go with a buddy. Our favorite place to snorkel is around Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach, but check out all of our Favorite Snorkel Spots.

8. GO TO A LUAU

   Live entertainment will have you and baby dancing! I love watching the Hawaiian traditional dances and cuisine (I’m looking at you, Kalua Pig). Just be cautious of the food you’re consuming and make sure it is safe for the baby! The Grand Wailea Luau is gorgeous!

9. GO FOR A DRIVE

   Depending on how you are feeling, the Road to Hana is amazing! However, the windy roads are not great if you are still in the nausea stage. I was super nauseous but I did enjoy the drive from Kaanapali to the Nakalele Blow Hole! We got out and explored a little, taking a quick hike down to the blowhole (it’s about 1/4 mile down from the road). You can see it from up high if you are not in a hiking phase. I also enjoyed the drive up to Haleakala for a walk and sunset! Bring warm clothes and some dinner to enjoy. Once it gets dark you can see the Milky Way depending on the time of year. OR catch the sunrise at Haleakala which is amazing as well, try a guided tour so you don’t have to worry about a thing!

   See more info on Haleakala and the Nakalele Blow Hole in our Things to do in Maui post.

10. TAKE STUNNING MATERNITY AND BABY BUMP PHOTOS

    I didn’t have a bump yet, but check out these gorgeous photos from Baby Hawaii Photography! They even do an underwater photoshoot! Tracy is PHENOMENAL! We had family photos taken and she was so great about getting the right light, pose, my good side 😉, and she is the nicest person. HIGHLY recommend Baby Hawaii Photography for photos!

Don’t miss: Must haves for baby - small spaces, budget and travel

Take Maternity photos in Maui with Baby Hawaii Photography

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Mochiko Chicken Lunch from Tin Roof

Best Restaurants and Food in Maui to have on a Babymoon

While in my first-trimester food aversions and nausea were in high gear, so it was hard to make food choices until I was actually hungry! As much as I love chicken, for about 2 weeks I couldn’t look at, smell, or even think of eating chicken. We had Garlic Noodles at Star Noodle, but once we brought the leftovers back to eat the next day, I just couldn’t do it. I was so sad because they are AMAZING! Things that I actually craved while there:

• ICE CREAM (of course) from Island Cream Co

• Nachos with pulled pork from Maui Brew Co

• Burger and fries from Merriman’s or Duke’s

• Volcano Chicken from Aloha Braised (before the chicken incident)

• PIZZA - I had a fantastic Kalua Pork & Pineapple pizza at Monkeypod with kalua pork, macnut pesto, roasted pineapple, jalapeño, and green onion!

• Decaf Mac Nut Latte from Island Press Coffee

• Mac nut pancakes with coconut syrup from Gazebo

• Donuts from Lahaina Bakery

Check out all of our Favorite Restaurants in Maui with great food and spectacular views!

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Where to Stay in Maui for a Babymoon: Best Hotels in Maui

You pretty much want to stay in Wailea or Kaanapali on your Maui Babymoon. We love Kaanapali because there are more restaurants, hotels, and things to do in the area, and Lahaina is a 10 min drive (if that)! Wailea is nice and relaxing and more upscale, so that might be more accommodating to your needs while growing a human! You can always drive to Kaanapali or Wailea, they are just about 45-60 mins from each other.

We love the Sheraton Maui and Grand Wailea or Honua Kai if you’re looking for a condo!

We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

Looking for a complete Maui resource? Our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide brings together hotels, activities, food, and travel tips in one place.

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FAQs

Is Maui a Good Babymoon Destination?

Yes — Maui is one of the best babymoon destinations, especially for couples looking to relax before baby arrives. The island’s laid-back pace, warm weather, and beautiful beaches make it easy to unwind without overexertion. Maui also offers plenty of pregnancy-safe activities, luxury resorts with on-site dining and spas, and short drive times between attractions, which is ideal when energy levels fluctuate. With excellent healthcare facilities, clean beaches, and a strong focus on wellness, Maui is a stress-free and memorable choice for a babymoon.

Is Maui safe to visit while pregnant?

Yes, Maui is generally safe to visit while pregnant, especially for healthy pregnancies with your doctor’s approval. The island offers excellent medical care, pregnancy-safe activities, and a relaxed pace that makes it an ideal babymoon destination.

What trimester is best for a Maui babymoon?

The second trimester is the best trimester to have a babymoon in Maui! With the long flight, I highly recommend going after the nausea (hopefully) subsides from the first trimester and before you get into the fatigue and no fly zone of the third trimester.

Can you snorkel in Maui while pregnant?

Yes, always consult with your doctor and check the surf conditions before you enter the water. You don’t want rough waters and ALWAYS snorkel with a buddy, don’t snorkel alone.

Should you come back to Maui with kids?

YES, you should absolutely come back to Maui with kids. Start planning now with our Maui with Kids Travel Guide breaks down family-friendly hotels, beaches, and easy activities.

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What to Pack for a Maui Babymoon While Pregnant

Pregnancy brain gets the best of us! Here is a list of what to pack for your perfect baby moon:

• Comfortable, breathable clothing (loose dresses, linen shorts, soft tops)

• Supportive walking shoes or sandals with arch support for beach walks and exploring

• Compression socks for flights to reduce swelling and improve circulation

• Pregnancy-safe sunscreen (reef-safe and mineral-based)

• Wide-brim hat and sunglasses for sun protection

• Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in Maui’s warm climate

• Prenatal vitamins and any doctor-approved medications

• Snacks (protein bars, crackers, or nuts) for flights and day trips

• Swimsuit with bump-friendly support (consider high-waisted or maternity styles)

• Light cover-up or sarong for beaches and poolside lounging

• Travel pillow or lumbar support for flights and long drives

• Anti-nausea essentials (ginger chews, motion sickness bands, or prescribed remedies)

• Travel-sized toiletries including pregnancy-safe skincare

• Copy of your medical info and OB contact details, just in case

• Flip flops or water shoes for beach showers and rocky shorelines

• Light cardigan or wrap for evenings and air-conditioned spaces

Shop our Maui Babylon Pregnancy Packing list on Amazon

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Pregnancy Travel Tips (Perfect for a Maui Babymoon)

Always consult your healthcare provider before traveling while pregnant. Activity recommendations may vary based on individual health and pregnancy stage.

• Travel during the second trimester (weeks 14–27) when energy levels are higher and morning sickness is usually gone

• Get your OB’s approval before flying, especially if you have any pregnancy complications

• Choose nonstop or short flights when possible to reduce fatigue and swelling

• Wear compression socks on flights to improve circulation and reduce leg swelling

• Stay hydrated and bring a refillable water bottle for flights and beach days

• Avoid overly strenuous activities like long hikes, cliff jumping, or rough ocean conditions

• Stick to pregnancy-safe activities such as snorkeling in calm water, prenatal massage, scenic drives, and beach walks

• Schedule frequent breaks and rest time—plan no more than one major activity per day

• Book resorts with easy beach access and on-site dining to minimize walking and driving

• Pack pregnancy-safe sunscreen, medications, and prenatal vitamins in your carry-on

• Listen to your body and slow down—a babymoon is about relaxation, not checking off a list

• Purchase travel insurance that covers pregnancy-related cancellations or changes

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Flamingos at the Hyatt Maui

What NOT to Do While Pregnant in Maui

I’m not a medical professional, so always follow your provider’s guidance, but here are a few things that are not recommended to do while pregnant in Maui:

• Don’t over-schedule your days — heat, walking, and time changes can cause fatigue faster than expected

• Avoid strenuous hikes like steep sections of the Road to Hana or summit hikes without shade

• Don’t snorkel or swim in rough ocean conditions—always check surf reports and choose calm beaches

• Avoid cliff jumping or waterfall jumping, even if others are doing it

• Don’t sit in hot tubs or overheated spas; opt for warm pools or pregnancy-approved spa treatments

• Avoid long periods in direct sun—Maui’s sun is intense and can lead to dehydration or overheating

• Don’t skip meals or hydration—always carry water and snacks when exploring

• Avoid activities with high fall risk like horseback riding, ziplining, or ATV tours

• Don’t eat raw or undercooked foods such as sushi, poke, or runny eggs

• Avoid driving the Road to Hana without frequent stops—motion sickness and fatigue can sneak up quickly

• Don’t book boat tours without confirming pregnancy guidelines, especially for rough-water excursions

• Avoid alcohol-centric activities like wine or brewery tours

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Kapalua Coastal walk views - Pregnancy Safe thing to do in Maui on babymoon

5-day Babymoon Itinerary in Maui, Hawaii

If you’re looking for an itinerary and staying in Kaanapali, I would do something like this:

DAY 1:

Morning/Early Afternoon: Arrival, rent car, pick-up lunch at Tin Roof near airport and enjoy at the beach, check into hotel

Afternoon: Relax in hotel room or by the pool

Dinner: Monkeypod - try the Kalua Pork & Pineapple pizza (make a reservation in advance)

Dessert: Pie at Monkeypod or Ono Gelato next door

Don’t miss: Must haves for baby - small spaces, budget and travel

DAY 2:

Morning: Breakfast at Gazebo - Get some mac nut pancakes with coconut syrup (get there early or go to the back and get it to go to enjoy on the beach!)

Late Morning/Early afternoon: Snorkel Kapalua Bay or take a coastal walk

Lunch: Maui Brew Co - get the Nachos with pulled pork or the chicken wings!

Afternoon: Go shopping in Lahaina for baby things!

Dinner: Try out a Luau or go to Kimo’s Maui - get a virgin lava flow and some prime rib!

Dessert: Hula Pie at Kimos or Cookie ice cream sandwich at Banyan Treats

Road to Hana - Waimoku Falls

DAY 3:

Breakfast: Stop at Island Press Coffee for a breakfast sandwich and decaf Mac Nut Latte and head towards the Road to Hana (full day trip) or Iao Valley (1/2 day trip)

Afternoon: Relax or sleep in the car

Dinner: Star Noodle - get the garlic noodles (if you don’t have any food aversions)

DAY 4:

EARLY Morning: Haleakala Sunrise - Guided tour

Afternoon: Rest and get a prenatal massage

Late afternoon/Sunset: Maternity photos with Tracy at Baby Hawaii

Dinner: Hula Grill/Barefoot Bar - Get an ice cream sandwich for dessert!

DAY 5:

Morning: Get another decaf Mac Nut Latte and croissant breakfast sandwich from Island Press Coffee and enjoy on Kaanapali Beach. Then walk over to the Hyatt and visit the penguins and flamingos (it’s free and they’re always out)!

Afternoon: Head to the airport and start planning your next trip back!

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Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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5-Day Itinerary for Babymooning in Maui, Hawaii

5-Day Itinerary for Babymoon in Maui, Hawaii

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More Maui Blog Posts:

40 Things You Must Pack for Hawaii (Plus Printable List) Don't forget the...

A curated collage of Hawaii outfit ideas featuring summer dresses, neutral sandals, and travel-friendly accessories suitable for island days and evenings.

Packing Essentials for Maui or any Island in Hawaii, Plus a Pretty Printable Packing Checklist - 2026 Update

Update: January 9, 2026

We’ve gone to Hawaii so many times I’ve become an expert on packing! We’ve been to almost all of the islands and they are relatively the same when packing. If I don’t have my list, I will forget things, so I always keep it handy since we venture to Hawaii at least once a year!

Related Post: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary

Maui Sunrise looking over Lanai

Download our Hawaii Packing Essentials Checklist

Since I love to organize things, I sorted my list by category so it is foolproof not to leave something behind. Granted Hawaii does have shops and anything can be bought there, but I’d rather save my money to come back!

Great Budget-friendly finds on Amazon for Hawaii Packing!

Want a FREE downloadable pretty Hawaii travel packing essentials printable checklist with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii 

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2026? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

Here we go…

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My favorite Hawaii Outfit - dress with pockets!

CLOTHING FOR HAWAII AND HAWAII OUTFIT IDEAS - What to Pack for Hawaii Vacation

1. Dresses - Short and Maxi (Hawaiian themed is always fun). I usually wear dresses for dinner and wandering around. See more Hawaii Outfit ideas here

2. Light Sweater - for cooler nights

3. Workout Clothes - Hikes, Road to Hana, Runs on the beach, Zip-lining, golfing, etc.

4. Sneakers - great to have if you’re walking around or going on adventures - I LOVE Asics Gel Venture shoes! The gel is so squishy and comfortable. Must HAVE!

5. Plane Outfit - I love a good oversized top and leggings since it is usually a long-haul

6. Basics - Socks, Underwear, Bras, Sports Bras, PAJAMAS!

7. Small Purse - to hold an ID, Credit card, cash, phone, lipstick, gum and maybe a car key

8. Accessories/Jewelry - Earrings, Necklace, Bracelet, Watch

Looking for a complete Maui resource? Our Ultimate Travel Guide for Maui 2026 brings together hotels, activities, food, and travel tips in one place.

Lilly Pulitzer Women's Kailua Smocked Maxi, Resort White Just a Pinch Engineered Knit Dress

Lilly Pulitzer

ASICS Women's Gel-Venture 9 Running Shoes, 9, Indigo Blue/Papaya

Asics

Hawaii outfit ideas with comfortable, breathable clothing and simple accessories designed for warm weather travel.

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BEACH ITEMS FOR HAWAII - Hawaii Packing List for 5 Days

1. Flip-flops - I love Havianas! They are the only flip flop brand I’ve bought for 15 years.

2. Sandals - To wear to restaurants and shopping, unless you want to wear your flip flops

3. Swimsuit - I bring a couple so one is always dry

4. Swimsuit Cover Up - Great to wear around the resort or to get a drink at the pool bar! Hat - Sun hat and baseball hat for hikes/outdoor activities

5. Sunglasses - Sojo Sunglasses on Amazon are budget-friendly, great quality, and trendy!

6. Towel - or use the resort towels

7. Beach or tote bag - to throw towels, sunscreen, magazine, clothes, etc.

8. Water Bottle - Stay hydrated! Collapsable bottles are great!

9. Snacks - We like to have granola bars, gummi bears, and M&M’s on hand for the plane or for the room

10. Crossword Puzzle - This is our FAVORITE puzzle! Travel terms and countries! https://amzn.to/4lVixuR

CATCHY & CRAFTY Swimsuit Coverup for Women Kimono Cardigan Beach Floral Boho Print Resort Wear Cruise Gift (Nude Pink Floral)

CATCHY & CRAFTY

Tempt Me Women Green Floral Ruched Slimming One Piece Swimsuits Tummy Control Vintage Bathing Suits L

Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii  or see our list of things to buy straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

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Swimsuit coverup and hat perfect for Hawaii Travel

TOILETRIES FOR HAWAII

1. Reefsafe Sunblock - Save the reef! Buy reef safe! I noticed the Sheraton Maui had dispensers around the resort - check with your hotel ahead of time or bring your own!

2. Aloe Vera - I don’t know about you, but I always miss a spot.

3. Basics - Shampoo, Conditioner, Shower Gel (if you prefer your own, most hotels have these)

4. Deodorant

5. First Aid - I pack a few bandaids, Neosporin, aspirin… just in case!

6. Manicure Set - Manicure scissors (small TSA friendly ones), Nail clipper, tweezers, small nail file

7. Makeup! - I forgot my makeup bag once. It wasn’t pretty.

8. Hairbrush and Comb

9. Hairspray/Gel

10. Hair ties and Bobby pins - don’t forget, it gets windy on the beach!

11. Curling Iron or Flat Iron - Beachy waves are cool too!

12. Feminine Products

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Body Lotion | Broad Spectrum Moisturizing Sunblock with Vitamin E | Hawaii 104 Act Compliant (Octinoxate & Oxybenzone Free) | 8 oz

Sun Bum

Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel, 2 oz (56 g) (Bundle of 3)

KT Travel

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Maui Hawaii Beach

ELECTRONICS FOR HAWAII

1. GoPro - Get those adventure shots while swimming, snorkeling, zip-lining, surfing, waterfall hiking, or parasailing

2. Camera - We love our DSLR for a higher quality shot

3. iPad - load it up with shows and movies for the plane before you go and refresh the apps the day before you leave Hawaii as some downloads won’t work after 24 hours.

4. Mobile Phone - I mean I can’t go 10 minutes without mine. I also bring an old iPhone in a waterproof case for snorkeling and swimming!

5. Headphones/Airpods - don’t forget the little jack for Apple devices if you don’t use bluetooth

6. External battery - keep your electronics charged! We like the Mophie brand with built-in cables so you aren’t searching for them.

7. Cables - don’t forget your charging cables for your phone, headphones, tablet, watch…

GoPro HERO13 Black Accessory Bundle - Includes The Handler, 2 Enduro Batteries, 2 Curved Adhesive Mounts, 64GB SanDisk MicroSD Card, and Carrying Case

GoPro

Mophie Powerstation Plus 10,000mAh Power Bank - Has Integrated USB-C and Lightning Cables, Fast Charging for Smartphones, Tablets, and iPhones

mophie

See more plane tips here: Flying in 2019: Tips and Trick for the Airport and Airplane 

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Dive the Cathedral

Snorkel with Turtles

SCUBA DIVERS OR SNORKELERS PACKING LIST

We bring our own fins and masks so we can not only scuba dive but also snorkel whenever! Pro tip - buy a set and carry them on in a mesh bag!

1. Masks - I’ve tried so many masks and the Cressi Pano 3 is my personal favorite. At a budget-friendly price, it has one big window, fits well, and does not leak!

2. Fins

3. Baby Shampoo - use as defogging for the mask!

4. Rash Guards! Great for protecting your skin in the water! We forgot ours one year, so we bought new ones at our favorite store in Hawaii, Honolua Surf Shop

5. Dive Book and PADI/Dive Certification - for divers

6. Diver Essentials - Dive Watch, BCD, Wetsuit, etc. We usually make sure the dive shop has the basic package.

7. Scuba Mesh Bag to carry all of the above! We carry this mesh bag on the plane with our gear.

Cressi Liberty Triside Spe Diving Mask, Black/Black/Pink

Cressi

IUGA Rash Guard for Women UPF 50+ SPF UV Protection Long Sleeve Workout Tops with Pockets Dry Fit Hiking Swim Shirt Green

IUGA

Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii 

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CARRY-ON LUGGAGE RECOMMENDATION

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Carry on Luggage with 4 Spinner Wheels, Lightweight Suitcase, Men and Women, Orchid Pink Purple, Carry On 21-Inch

Travelpro

Would you believe me if I said I fit everything on my list for a 4-5 day trip in a carry-on and personal bag? We have the best carry-on that is spacious and seriously compacts all of our clothes - Travel Pro. Most pilots and plane attendants carry this Travel Pro model as well. Although I love the ease of steering my suitcase with 4 wheels, having 2 wheels you get an extra couple of inches!

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What NOT to Pack for Hawaii

Skip these items to pack lighter and enjoy Hawaii’s relaxed island lifestyle:

• Heavy jackets or bulky layers – Hawaii is warm year-round; a light sweater is enough for evenings. ONLY pack these if you are going to a higher elevation early in the morning or late at night.

• High heels or dressy shoes – Most places are casual; sandals and sneakers are best.

• Too many outfits – You’ll live in swimsuits, shorts, and casual dresses.

• Full-size toiletries – Easily available at Target, Walmart, and local stores.

• Non-reef-safe sunscreen – Hawaii restricts certain chemicals to protect coral reefs.

• Expensive jewelry – Swimming and beach days increase the risk of loss.

• Hair styling tools – Humidity and beach days make them unnecessary.

• Large beach gear – Chairs, umbrellas, and snorkel gear are often provided or rentable.

Pro tip: If you won’t use it more than once, leave it at home.

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Doing my dance in my Hawaiian Lilly Pulitzer dress with a mai tai at the Grand Wailea.

FREEBIES AND DISCOUNTS! Free Hawaii Packing Essentials Printable Checklist Download

Want a FREE printable/downloadable list with everything in this post? Click here: Packing Essentials for Hawaii  or see our list of things to buy straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

Find the best rate to visit paradise by booking your room through Booking.com Not only will you find the best rate out there but by clicking this link and booking a night, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link! :-) Thanks! 

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Hawaii Packing Checklist FAQs

What should you definitely pack for Hawaii?

Pack lightweight clothing, swimsuits, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a light jacket for evenings or higher elevations.

What should you NOT pack for Hawaii?

Avoid heavy jackets, high heels, too many outfits, non-reef-safe sunscreen, bulky beach gear, and full-size toiletries. Hawaii’s climate and casual style make most of these unnecessary.

Do you need a jacket in Hawaii?

Usually no. A light sweater or windbreaker is enough for cooler evenings or breezy areas. The only exception is visiting higher elevations like Haleakalā or Mauna Kea.

Can you buy essentials in Hawaii instead of packing them?

Yes. Stores like Target, Walmart, CVS, and local markets are widely available, making it easy to buy sunscreen, toiletries, and beach items after you arrive.

Is reef-safe sunscreen required in Hawaii?

Yes. Hawaii restricts sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate to help protect coral reefs. Always bring or buy reef-safe sunscreen.

What shoes are best to pack for Hawaii?

Sandals, flip-flops, and comfortable walking shoes are ideal. Most travelers don’t need dress shoes or heels due to Hawaii’s relaxed dress code.

How many outfits should I pack for Hawaii?

Fewer than you think. Plan to rewear casual outfits and focus on swimsuits, cover-ups, and breathable clothing rather than packing a new outfit for each day.

Do hotels in Hawaii provide beach gear?

Many hotels and resorts provide beach towels, chairs, umbrellas, and sometimes snorkel gear. Check your hotel amenities before packing large items.

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Guide: How to Spend 3 days in Kauai, Hawaii

Where to Stay, Restaurant Recommendations, and things to do in Kauai, Hawaii

Hi friends! It’s been awhile since I’ve done a blog post! I now have 2 little ones and a full time job which leaves little time to blog. A friend reached out about Kauai recommendations which I realized I didn’t have a post for! So here we go! Josh and I went to Kauai (just us) in January 2020 after ringing in the New Year in Maui.

Similar Post: HAWAIIAN ISLANDS: Oahu vs Maui vs Kauai - which island is best?

We liked Kauai but I think Maui is still our favorite! Here are some things that we did the I recommend and a few restaurant recommendations! I also included a mini review of the Sheraton Kauai.

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Sheraton Kauai Room Views

Where to Stay: Sheraton Kauai

We stayed at the Sheraton Kauai because we had free nights and points to spare! The hotel was a little older but they recently renovated the rooms. Our room was a good size! Plenty of room for activities, the bathroom was really big too with a shower/tub combo.

My complaint: The air conditioner was really loud and obnoxious which when we called they said they would send maintenance to look at it and we never heard back from them, nor was the AC any quieter.

The pool was nice and we spent some time in the jacuzzi which was really hot! The beach is pretty rocky in front of some of the rooms, but there’s a good beach right in front of the pool if you want to go for a swim. The water was pretty rough from a storm so always beware of the conditions.

Sheraton Kauai Beach

I really liked their restaurant on site called RumFire Poipu Beach, where we had prime rib and a creme brûlée cheesecake. The sunset ocean views aren’t bad either!

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

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Where to Eat / Great Restaurants

A short drive or walking distance there is a shopping center called The Shops at Kukui‘ula with lots of restaurants and shops!

Merriman’s Kauai (2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St, Koloa, HI 96756)

Merriman’s Kauai is one of our faves! We love the Maui Kappalua location and Kauai did not disappoint! They have the BEST Mai Tais! I dream of that pineapple foam. Make reservations ahead of time or get there around 5p to walk in with no wait.

Bubba Burgers Poipu (2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St Building L, Koloa, HI 96756) is great for a burger and fries!

Lappert’s Ice Cream (2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St, Koloa, HI 96756) What would a Sweetest Escapes post be without ice cream! I LOVE Lappert’s ice cream! They have tons of amazing flavors with ingredients like coconut, macadamia nuts, ube, Lilikoi, pineapple, chocolate, fudge, and more! There’s always a line out the door but it’s worth the wait! My fave is Kauai Pie (Kona Coffee Cold Brew + coconut flakes + dark chocolate fudge + Hamakua macadamia nuts + Vanilla cake crunch)!

Lappert’s Ice Cream

Kalaheo Coffee and Cafe (2-2560 Kaumualii Hwy, Kalaheo, HI 96741)

This is a great stop on the way to Waimea Canyon. We grabbed a quick bite and got some treats for the road since there weren’t a lot of options. Macnut lattes are a must have!

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Things to do:

Helicopter Ride

Go on a helicopter ride if you can! We tried to go a few times but it was too windy and unsafe to fly so we never got to go! 😟 Most of tours take you to areas where they filmed Jurassic Park and gorgeous views of Napali Coast. I would book your ride earlier in the trip so if they have to cancel you still have a chance to reschedule.

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Hike Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon - mile Marker 10

A good day trip is Waimea Canyon. There are waterfalls, hikes, and gorgeous views.

What to pack for the day: Bring map or save to your phone offline (spotty cell service), drinking water, antibacterial (no soap in the bathrooms), jacket, towel, rain gear (optional). Make sure you pack warm clothes it was 60ish and I needed layers as I got warm while hiking. It rains a lot so there is mud, lots of mud. I may or may not have slipped and fallen in the mud.

Red Dirt Falls

See the Red dirt waterfall between mile marker 2-3. It was dried up when we went but still neat to see the red dirt.

Waimea Canyon Lookout has big vistas (see panoramic photo above) and located at mile marker 10. Parking was $5 in 2020 but good for all lookout spots. Note, it was credit card only. There were bathrooms but no soap at the sink so bring antibacterial.

Mile Marker 12 - Heart Shaped Waterfall

Right before mile marker 12 there was a perfect spot to get the heart shaped waterfall and is a great spot to have a sweet escape (brownie from Kalaheo Coffee and Cafe)!

Two lookouts, the Puu ka Pele and Puu hinahina, have parking and provide breathtaking views:

Waimea Canyon

Trails to note from research:

• Cliff Trail – A 40 minute, 2 mile return hike from the main road (the turnoff is just before the Kokeʻe State Park sign) to a viewpoint overlooking the canyon. You could also drive most of the way here if you have a 4WD or do the longer Canyon Trail to a waterfall. This was quieter than the more accessible viewpoints.

• Pu’u Hinahina Lookout – Another fantastic viewpoint just a short walk from the car park. Toilets available.

• Waimea Canyon Lookout – The busiest but best view of the canyon and waterfall. At midday we were able to shoot away from the sun so got better photos than at the other viewpoints. There are toilets and a fruit and drink stand.

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Take a drive along the coast!

We drove to Princeville where there are some nice beaches, it felt more private the further north you drive! We made a lot of stops. Just take your time, the earlier you go the less crowded everything is!

We had a great lunch at Tropical Taco in Hanalei! I had a carne asada burrito and it was fantastic. Took awhile to get it but it was tasty. I’m sure the fish tacos are equally amazing but I don’t eat fish so I couldn’t say.

Tropical Taco in Hanalei

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Shipwreck Beach Cliffs

Explore your backyard!

There are lots of places to just stop and enjoy the views! This was a short hike up, but great place to watch the sun start to set. The photo above was taken near our hotel at Shipwreck Beach. We drove over and parked on Ainakoa street then walked down to the beach.

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Wailua Falls

Rainbows at Wailua Falls

We stopped at Wailua Falls on our way to the airport because it was less than 15 mins from the airport. This beautiful double waterfall is easily accessible (just drive up and park, you’ll see it from the road) and often features a rainbow.

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Hawaiian Monk Seal on Poipu Beach

Keep your eyes open! Look out for turtles and seals on Poipu Beach! We saw a Hawaiian Monk seal on the beach, which was protected by the rangers who put a barricade around him to let him take a nap in peace.

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We had a great trip to Kauai and would definitely go back!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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More Hawaii posts…

6 Great Hiking Trails with Beautiful Views in Maui, Hawaii (Maps included)

Haleakala Crater - Halemau’u Trail views

Where to Hike and find Gorgeous Views in Maui, Hawaii

We’ve spent a lot of time on Maui at sea level, deep under the sea (see scuba), and at high elevations! Let’s be clear, I’m not the most outdoorsy experienced hiker, but I do love a nice hike and killer views! Try a coastal walk, hike to a waterfall or walk along a volcanic crater! Most of these hikes are free unless you are in a national park. Here are some hike suggestions for novice, intermediate, and experienced hikers!

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

This guide is part of our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide, which covers everything from family travel to honeymoons and first-time visits.

Haleakala Crater - Halemau’u Trail

1. Haleakala Crater - Halemau’u Trail

• Address: Halemau'u Trailhead, Halemauu Trail, Kula, HI 96790

  Follow Haleakala Highway east for 7.8 miles and turn left on 377 to continue on Haleakala Highway, which will travel south another 6 miles to a junction with Crater Road (378). Turn right and follow Crater Road 20.7 miles to the Haleakala Visitor Center.

• The Hike: Haleakala offers a few hikes at various elevations. We opted for the Halemau’u Trail.

  Haleakala National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are $30 per vehicle or $25 per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot or bike the fee is $15 per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass for $55. You need a reservation if you want to start before 7am because of the sunrise crowd.

• Duration: The Halemau’u Trail is a 7+ mile hike at 3000 ft along the rim overlooking the summit basin. From the rim you can extend your hike taking the trail switchbacks down a thousand feet to wilderness grassland, then crosses a volcanic landscape of cinder cones and lava fields. I was 6 weeks pregnant and we did a shorter 2 mile hike along the rim that took us almost 2 hours.

• What to pack: water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, rain gear (the weather can change very fast)

• Pro tip: Plan the hike about 2 hours before sunset, so you can hike and then head up to the top of the summit to watch the sunset. Pack some sandwiches for dinner and then stargaze! You can see the Milky Way most nights!

Haleakala Crater - Halemau’u Trail Hike map

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Waimoku Falls at the end of Pipiwai Trail

2. Road to Hana - Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest)

• Address: Kīpahulu Visitor Center, Hana, HI 96713 (Parking lot)

• Haleakala National Park charges a fee to enter. Fees are $30 per vehicle or $25 per motorcycle. If you are entering on foot or bike the fee is $15 per person. You can also purchase a park-specific annual pass for $55.

• The Hike: We’ve done this hike quite a few times and it never disappoints! You’ll find this near the end of the Road to Hana in Haleakala park. First you’ll hike on a trail through the trees (around the big banyan tree), then through a bamboo forest, and you’ll end up at Waimouku Falls!

• Difficulty: Fairly easy - Pipiwai Trail is great for families and kids. It can get muddy in spots so wear proper shoes and watch where you step!

• Duration: It’s about 4 miles round trip and takes at least 2 hours. The elevation is about 650 ft and the trail is moderately easy.

• What to pack: water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, snacks, towel and swimsuit if you want to dip in the waterfall or ‘Ohe’o Gulch
  
  Check out what else you can do on the Road to Hana

Pipiwai Trail - Bamboo Forest - Road to Hana - Maui

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3. Wailea Trail - Hoapili Trail

Address: 8650 Must Hold Block Boundary, Kihei, HI 96753

The Hike: After you pass the fancy resorts in Wailea, if you continue down Makena road, it dead ends with a nice hiking trail along the water. Sometimes you can see dolphins early in the morning - look at the wakes of the boats! We were lucky enough to find a Hawaiian Monk Seal that had just given birth days prior and was on the shore with her pup. This hike begins at La Pérouse Bay. We took the Hoapili Trail to the Hanomanioa Light House where at the end of the trail is one of those natural pools that you often see influencers float in on Instagram. If you’re lucky, you’ll come across some black mountain goats along the way! There are also great little spots along the beach to stop and have a small private beach area all to yourself!

Difficulty: Moderate - the first mile is easy and shaded along the beach. The lava field can be a little slippery with loose lava gravel and is in full sun. Hoapili Trail is good for families, I wouldn’t take toddlers on the lava field unless you are carrying them in a carrier. It gets hot - bring WATER!

Duration: To get to the lighthouse and natural pool it’s about 3 miles.

What to Pack: water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (the trail is shaded at first, but the lava fields are in full sun), towel and swimsuit

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

Wailea Natural Pool - Hoapili Trail

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Kapalua Coastal Trail

4. Kapalua Coastal Walking Trail

• Address: 99 Coconut Grove Ln, Lahaina, HI 96761

• The Hike: Looking for an easy stroll along the beach with fantastic views? This is your trail! This path is pretty much paved the entire way and a great coastal walk if you’re not in the mood to walk in the sand. We parked near Merriman’s in the public parking lot. Get there early for a spot or park along the street.

• Difficulty: Easy! Great for families, a lot of it is paved. Kids and toddlers can walk themselves!

• Duration: Per my Apple Watch, we walked 37 mins for 1.57 miles from the parking lot to Oneloa Bay and back.

• What to Pack: Flips flops or tennis shoes (shoes are better for your feet), water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses

See our shopping list (with some great budget-friendly dresses and tons of Hawaiian outfit ideas) straight from Amazon: Hawaii Packing Essentials

Kapalua Coastal Trail Map

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Iao Needle in Iao Valley

5. Iao Valley Hidden Trail

• Address: 54 S High St, Wailuku, HI 96793

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• Parking Prices: Non-Commercial Vehicles

  • Residents = No Charge w/ID or DL

  • Non-Residents = $10

  • Entrance fee - $5 for non-residents

• The Hike: This hike is fun through the jungle and shaded almost the entire way.

  If you’re looking for a very short hike, there is a paved trail to the Iao Needle viewpoint. There is a lookout with a gazebo to hike to that has some benches with views of the needle. It was an easy hike, only .6 miles, 200 ft in elevation, and a quick 10-minute walk from the parking lot.

  There is a trail behind the gazebo, but there are signs to not pass the barriers. This trail is dangerous and should be avoided. However, if you head down to the stream and hike up the mountains you’ll end up on the same trail just past the steep dangerous part. See the screenshot map below.

• Difficulty: Fairly easy - it was nice and cool under the trees! There is a steep incline the last quarter mile but otherwise it was pretty smooth. There was some mud because there is often rain on this part of the island.

• Duration: I did this hike at 6 weeks pregnant! We took it a little slower so it took us an hour and 45 mins to get to the top of the lookout which was about 2 miles and an elevation gain of 1061 feet. It was a little muddy at times so be careful! The trail doesn’t have any markers, but the path is pretty well-traveled so just stay on that which will take you to the top.

• What to pack: Water, snacks, and a towel/swimsuit if you want to jump in the stream

See more in our post: Exploring Iao Valley

Iao Valley Secret Trail Map

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Views from Waihee Ridge Hiking Trail

6. Waihee Ridge Hiking Trail

• Address: Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793

• Directions: Drive along the north shore to the trailhead. Parking is free but get there early for a good spot. There are Porta potties in the parking lot.

• The Hike: The hike is in mainly in the sun along a mountain ridge. The view stays pretty much the same as you hike up, you are just higher in elevation.

• Difficulty: Moderate - there is a pretty steep incline in some spots. We took a few breaks on our way up.

• Duration: It was a nice sunny hike that took us about 2 hours round trip, over 2 miles, and almost 1500 ft in elevation per my Apple Watch.

• What to pack: water, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, snacks, towel

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Exploring Iao Valley and seeing the Iao Needle - Maui, Hawaii

Iao Valley State Monument - Iao Needle

Iao Valley State Park Guide and hiking around the Iao Needle

Iao Valley is a fun place to spend the day exploring! There are walking and hiking trails, streams to swim in, plenty of wildlife to check out, and the iconic Iao Needle. I went to Iao Valley with my family when I was a kid so I was excited when we were able to go back this past trip! We tried to go in October 2020 but the park was still closed.

Note: The mountains tend to keep in moisture and Iao Valley is known as the second wettest spot in Hawaii. It’s not always sunny, which is nice when it keeps it cool. Be prepared for a little mud if you’re hiking.

This guide is part of our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide, which covers everything from family travel to honeymoons and first-time visits.

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How to Get to Iao Valley and Where to Park

Address: 54 S High St, Wailuku, HI 96793

Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Parking Prices: 

Non-Commercial Vehicles

• Residents = No Charge w/ID or DL

• Non-Residents = $10

Commercial PUC vehicles:

• 1-7 passenger vehicles: $25

• 8-25 passenger vehicles: $50

• 26 + passenger vehicles: $90

Entrance Fee:

As of April 19th, 2021, all non-Hawaii resident visitors to ʻĪao Valley State Monument will be required to purchase an entrance pass as well.

Individuals – Walk-In

• Residents = Free w/Hawaii DL or ID

• Non-Residents = $5

• Children 3 and Under = Free

Iao Valley State Park is located in Wailuku which is on the north side of Maui. Coming from Kaanapali, you can drive around to the valley from the North or South. The drive coming North is scenic but comes down to one lane in certain spots, let’s face it, the south drive is pretty too and a bit faster taking the highways. If you’re heading there from Wailea, just head towards the airport and keep going a bit!

There’s a parking lot that tends to fill up around 10/11am. There is a fee to park on the lot, but if you can find a free spot on the street just before you enter the parking lot. The best time to go is around 8am to get a clear view of the Needle, clouds can form around it in the afternoon obstructing the monument.

There are public restrooms just off the parking lot, although when we went in February they were closed and port-a-potties were set up in the parking lot.

Kahalawai is an old extinct volcano, eroded over the last million years into the West Maui Mountains. Its highest remaining point is Mount Kukui at 5,788 feet above sea level. The head of ‘Iao Valley stands at what remains of the summit crater of Kahalawai in the West Maui Mountains. Over time, wind and water worked at Kahalawai, digging deep into areas of softer rock, eventually collecting into streams and forming deep valleys. Today four major streams, the Nakalaloa, the Poohoahoa, the Kinihipai, and the Ae, make their way down the West Maui Mountains to converge into Iao stream. The ‘Iao stream then travels to the ocean through the valley we see today. The 1200 foot tall Iao Needle, known to Hawaiians as Kuka’emoku, is what remains of a ridge that used to run down the length of Kahalawei.

What to Bring:

Bring some water if you’re hiking and make sure you wear sneakers. If you’re planning on going for a swim bring your suit and towel! There isn’t a place to get food on premises unless you eat the fallen fruit from the trees, so you might want to pack snacks.

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Exploring Iao Valley

There are a few things to do in the park:

1. Go for a hike! Hike along stream or up in the mountains, there’s a trail for everyone!

2. Take in the Iao Needle! There is a short paved trail with a small incline with a few steps to see the famous 2250-foot-tall Needle.

3. Catch up on some Hawaiian History. Did you know one of the biggest battles in Hawaiian History was fought in this valley?

4. Explore the Botanical Garden.

5. Go for a swim! After our hike, we were a bit muddy and warm. The stream water is cool and soothing!

Warning: Maui is known to have flash floods, especially in the West Maui Mountains. Just beware of the weather, sometimes it’s raining high in the mountains but not in the valley. Be cautious when swimming, and if you notice any change at all in the color or level of the water, seek higher ground immediately.

Should we bring kids? Sure! Kids would enjoy the stream and climbing on rocks!

Iao Valley Stream

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Hiking obstacles along the hiking trail!

Hiking Iao Valley

Whether you are an advanced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there’s a trail for you!

Off the parking lot, there is a paved trail to the Iao Needle viewpoint. As a kid, I thought we did a long hike up to see the needle but now there seems to be a lookout with a gazebo to hike to that has some benches with views of the needle. It was an easy hike, only .6 miles, 200 ft in elevation, and a quick 10-minute walk from the parking lot. What’s so special about the Needle? It’s an interesting rock formation that is really the vertical edge of an eroded ridge.

There is a trail behind the gazebo, but there are signs to not pass the barriers. This trail is dangerous and should be avoided. However, if you head down to the stream and hike up the mountains you’ll end up on the same trail just past the steep dangerous part.

I did this hike at 6 weeks pregnant! We took it a little slower so it took us an hour and 45 mins to get to the top of the lookout which was about 2 miles and an elevation gain of 1061 feet. It was a little muddy at times so be careful! The trail doesn’t have any markers, but the path is pretty well-traveled so just stay on that which will take you to the top. Here is the trail we took starting along the stream:

Hiking Stats for Iao Valley

2 mile hike path to lookout - Iao Valley

Iao Valley Fern - Vegetation and Plant life

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A Landmark of Hawaiian History

Iao Valley was the location of one of the bloodiest battles in Hawaiian history! Per our friends at MauiGuide.com:

In 1790, King Kamehameha I of the island of Hawai’i (the Big Island) battled army leader Kalanikupule of Maui. The armies were evenly matched, and the battle raged for days. Kamehameha was only able to overcome Kalanikupule when he obtained access to a cannon. Many people from both sides died in the battle, their bodies clogging the waters of ‘Iao stream, and giving the battle the name Kepaniwai, “Battle of the Damned Waters of ‘Iao.”

People of Maui considered ‘Iao stream to be of great importance. They built homes along its edges and used the water for drinking and agriculture, particularly growing taro. Certain areas in the valley were revered as sacred burial sites for chiefs of Maui.

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Visiting the Iao Needle is a fun place to explore and great way to spend the day! Hope this guide helps you enjoy the park!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

Exploring Iao Valley and seeing the Iao Needle

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Maui Restaurant Review: Star Noodle - Don't miss this spot!

Star Noodle Restaurant Views - Front Street

Updated January 12, 2026

Star Noodle

Location: 1287 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761

When we got married in Maui (or when we got Maui’d) in 2014, our friends were all telling us how great Star Noodle was! We didn’t have time on that trip but wanted to try it if we ever came back. We came back every year since 2014 , but finally made it to Star Noodle in 2019 because we remembered to make a reservation in advance! We learned why everyone was raving about this place… the garlic noodles had us coming back the next day!

RELATED POST: See more like this in our post, BEST RESTAURANTS IN MAUI

Pork Buns at Star Noodle

Star Noodle Location in 2026

In 2020, Star Noodle moved locations to occupy the old Aloha Mixed Plate spot right on Front Street. We dined three times during the month we were there and tried many items on the menu.

We even had the perfect table right by the water at sunset! How lucky! Since Star Noodle is located next to the Old Lahaina Luau, we could hear and kind of see the show!

2026 Update - After the Lahaina fires, Star Noodle closed and reopened in 2024 right nextdoor (1287 Front St) to their old location which Aloha Mixed Plate (1285 Front St) moved back into!

For a complete breakdown of where to eat, stay, and what to do, see our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide.

Reservation Recommended

Reservations can be made on YELP, I suggest making them at least 1-2 weeks in advance and check what time sunset is! Once you arrive, the host will take your temperature, then take you to your table. Masks must be worn at all times, except while at your own table.

Star Noodle Menu

Most dishes are fairly large portions and perfect for sharing so you can try more things!

Star Noodle Menu

Don’t miss these Appetizers at Star Noodle

We ALWAYS start with an order of pork buns (see photo above)! They come with 3 or 4 and the pork belly in that sweet bun is pure perfection.

We also are huge fans of the Nuoc Cham Wings! The sweet glaze with a slight crisp makes a delicious chicken wing!

Nuoc Cham Wings - Chicken Wings at Star Noodle

Entrees You Must try at Star Noodle

Always ask if there are any specials!

Our new favorite ramen dish is the Star Udon - Roast pork in a rich pork broth served with thick udon noodles! The pork is perfect and melts in your mouth and the broth will have you sipping your bowl by the end!

We LOVE the garlic noodles and HAVE to order them EVERY TIME we go. Our waiter taught us a neat trick, ask for the thicker udon noodles for the garlic noodle dish - game changer!

The Rib Eye was delicious and savory, smothered in delicious grilled onions. The market price changes based on how the chef is preparing the meat that day.

The Adobo Ribs are good, but we prefer the chicken wings. The meat falls right off the bone!

Clockwise from top: Star Udon, Garlic Noodles, Adobo Ribs

These Star Noodle Desserts are the BEST

Don’t forget dessert (I never do)! One of the nights we went, their ice cream choices included Ube Oreo, Mint mango, and Pineapple lichee. The consistency was interesting on these, but the flavors were outstanding.

Ice Cream at Star Noodle - Ube Oreo, Mint mango, Pineapple liChee 

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Star Noodle has us coming back again and again! Let us know in the comments below if you’ve tried it!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

If you liked this post please share it on your favorite social media site using the Share button below because we’d love to get the word out! Feel free to pin this to your favorite Pinterest board:

Star Noodle Restaurant Review

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More Maui posts

Traveling to Maui in 2021: How to prepare, have fun, or even WFH (Work From Hawaii)

Updated Dec 26th, 2020

WFH - Work from Hawaii

How to Travel to Maui after October 2020, what it’s like, and WFH - Work from Hawaii!

We go to Hawaii every year and not even 2020 can stop us. We had booked our trip back in February before the shutdown and even in March, we figured we’d have no problem taking our annual trip in October. Boy were we wrong! Luckily our timing was perfect, the 2-week quarantine requirement was lifted (as long as you come with a negative test) for Hawaii on Oct 15, 2020, and our trip was booked for the following week.

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2021? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

The vibe was different, as it was less crowded than usual and we were on high alert taking all precautions. It was still relaxing and fun as we tried new adventures, a new place to stay, and a couple of different restaurants. Less worrisome than running around Los Angeles.

Here is everything you need to know about getting to Maui and what it’s like there during the pandemic…

PLEASE check the Hawaiian Government Health site for the latest protocols and procedures.

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What you need to do to get into Hawaii

The hardest (and most stressful) part of our trip was getting tested to go to Maui.

Per the Hawaiian government site:

The pre-travel testing program for COVID-19 began Oct. 15, 2020. Pre-travel testing enables travelers to avoid a mandatory 10-day quarantine if they are tested within 72 hours before their flight to Hawaii departs with an FDA-approved nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT).

Passengers must receive and have proof of their negative test result prior to the flight’s departure. The State of Hawaii will ONLY accept test results from TRUSTED TESTING AND TRAVEL PARTNERS. Please see the list of partners at https://hawaiicovid19.com/travel-partners/ Upon arrival in Hawaii travelers will have their temperature checked as the exit their aircraft. Passengers unable to provide proof of an approved negative test from a trusted testing and travel partner will be required to quarantine for 10 days or the duration of their trip, whichever is shorter. For more information and an FAQ please visit https://hawaiicovid19.com/travel/

Passengers must receive and have proof of their negative test result prior to the flight’s departure. The State of Hawaii will ONLY accept test results from TRUSTED TESTING AND TRAVEL PARTNERS. We looked at all the options and were nervous about the self-administered test as we hadn’t had any COVID tests at all, this was not the time to botch a test. We had 72 hours to get tested and get our results. None of the tests were covered by insurance and were all in the $140 range.

We went with CVS since there was a location close to us in Santa Monica. We booked at midnight 3 days prior to get the designated time and day we wanted. It’s tricky since you need need to be within 72 hours prior to departure and most places say they’ll have results between 2-5 days. We tested on a Monday at 10a at CVS and got our negative results on Weds around 8pm, which was less than 12 hours until we had to be at the airport.

Again, PLEASE check the Hawaiian Government Health site for the latest protocols and procedures.

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Stopped and had lunch

Air Travel October 2020

LAX was a breeze! We’ve never seen it so empty, except for the line at the Hudson News for bottled water.

We had extra legroom seats booked so we thought we’d board first. Nope. United was boarding back to front to eliminate less exposure to people walking by. I guess that makes sense. We were worried about overhead bin space since we had 2 carry-ons and the snorkel gear in a mesh bag but flight attendants were keeping them clear.

As soon as we stepped on the plane, the United flight attendant handed us a sanitizing wipe for your tray, seat, armrest, seatbelt, window, etc. After takeoff, the flight attendants came through handing out a baggie with another sanitizing wipe, water bottle, and snacks. Don’t worry there was still a beverage service.

During the flight, masks were required unless you were eating or drinking. May I suggest getting a comfortable adjustable mask like the Travleisure Adjustable Reusable Mask.

Once we landed in Maui, we were required to show our QR code from the mandatory State of Hawaii Travel and Health form. Make sure you fill everything out ahead of time and take the questionnaire. Our status said “manual approval was required,” but that was because we didn’t complete all the steps! We answered the questions, and voila, QR code appeared. After we showed we had the QR code we had to hop in a line to check-in with an agent who needed our ID and the QR code. After a few questions, they handed us a piece of paper and said ALOHA!

We picked up our Jeep from Alamo (where there was NO line) and proceeded on our merry way. Also, Alamo has a fleet of BRAND NEW Jeeps! Pro tip: We got a padlock to attach to the door handle (or undercarriage) for the electronic car key so if we both got in the water the key wouldn’t break or get stolen if unattended.

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2021? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

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Sunset views from our Airbnb condo at the Papakea Resort

Where to Airbnb Stay in Maui

We typically stay at the Sheraton Maui, but it wasn’t opening until November and they canceled our reservation! We booked the Hyatt Regency Maui (that’s where the penguins and flamingos are), but thought we’d try something different and stay in an Airbnb condo in Kaanapali.

The condo at the Papakea Resort had EVERYTHING we needed - from boogie boards to any pot or pan or kitchen utensil you can think of to laundry, this place was like being at home. We loved spending time on the patio with the gorgeous waterfront views!  We had a few questions and the host responded right away. The bed is a little firm, but definitely not a deal-breaker. There is a grocery store, food trucks, and a few restaurants are within walking distance. Kaanapali Beach and Lahaina are just a quick drive down the road. There's a little bit of beach to hop in the ocean and wasn't too crowded during the day.

The wifi was great, good enough for us both to work, so we decided to extend our stay a week and WFH - Worked From Hawaii!

Hawaii is even offering a remote work program called Movers and Shakas which includes free flights and discounted hotels or lodging, as well as restaurant discounts. This is a great way to stimulate the economy in Hawaii and help their community! Currently, it looks like Oahu is the only option for this offer.

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Things to Do in Maui Right Now

With fewer people on the island, take advantage of the following:

• Snorkel Black Rock - there were more fish than usual and fewer people than any trip. Some of the hotels are still closed or at a lower capacity so the beach is pretty empty!

• Go Diving! We did a shore dive with Extended Horizons and had our very own guide! Normally we go out on a boat and there are a ton of people but it was so nice to have our own guide and feel safe from exposure. We did a twilight and night dive with Dave at Black Rock and saw a ton of fish, lobsters, turtles, nudibranchs, and even a shark!

• Road to Hana - Not all stops are open, but there are fewer tourists and tour buses! Take advantage of some Hana beach stops!

• Go for a hike! Some trails are closed, but we hiked the Waihee Ridge trail and it wasn’t too bad. The view stays pretty much the same, you just are higher in elevation. It was a nice sunny hike that took us about 2 hours round trip, over 2 miles, and almost 1500 ft in elevation per my Apple Watch. Lots of parking, easy in and out, and porta-potties.

  Waihee Ridge Trail - Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793

Waihee Ridge Trail

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Duke’s Beach House Hula Pie

Where to Eat in Maui

Some of our favorite restaurants weren’t open or tough to get in. A lot of them offered to-go options so we often picked up food and ate it on our balcony with ocean views. See ALL of our favorite restaurants here:

Map provided by Wanderlog, a travel map. See how to embed a map on your blog

Best Food Trucks and Restaurant Take-out Options in Lahaina/Kaanapali

• Lunch at Tin Roof - We ALWAYS stop at Tinroof after we land and pick-up a pork and chicken plate to take to the beach to enjoy! Don’t forget to order the babinga cake for dessert!

  Address: 360 Papa Pl Ste 116, Kahului, HI 96732

• Breakfast at Island Press Coffee - You can’t go wrong with an egg, cheese, and bacon croissant with a Mac nut latte! They also have other croissant variations as well as other pastries (try the crumb cake). We went here twice, taking our breakfast to go to enjoy on the beach!

  Address: 2580 Kekaa Dr STE 104, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Breakfast at Java Jazz - Within walking distance of the Papakea resort, we picked up breakfast to go a few times here. Our favorites were Coconut Mac Nut lattes, Hawaiian Omelette (ham, pineapple, onion, cheese) with potatoes, and pancakes with apple cinnamon topping. Indoor seating also available.

  Address: 3350 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Breakfast or Lunch at TaquerEATa Food Truck - Gina serves up some mean tacos Texan style so they are jam-packed tacos, perfect for any appetite! I had the chicken fajita which was amazing! We also made a few build your own breakfast tacos with a combination of egg, cheese, bacon, and pork! There are lots of salsa options from mild to hot to complete your perfect taco.

  Address: 737 Waine'e St, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Lunch at Aloha Braised Food Truck - We went here two days in a row we liked it so much. It’s a little off the beaten path but also conveniently located next to a grocery store and near our favorite dive shop, Extended Horizons! If you like spicy, you must try the Volcano Chicken (fried chicken with spicy mayo) served with rice and mac salad! Josh liked the pork belly! Get a side of fries to share!

  Address: 58 Kupuohi St, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Dinner from Sale Pepe - Best pizza in Maui! An Italian and New Yorker teamed up to create the perfect menu of Italian food in Lahaina. We liked the pasta, but we loved the PIZZA! We ordered 2 pizzas and a pasta dish and got 3 meals out of it for the 2 of us. Our favorite pizza was the Tomato, Fior di Latte, Red Onion, Pecorino, Maui Cattle Co. Meatballs Pizza. They cut their slices in 4ths, so if you want smaller pieces I suggest you request it when you order! Indoor seating also available here.

  Address: 878 Front St #7,8, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Lunch or Dinner at Maui Brew Company - We picked up some brews for the condo and took food to go, but you could sit and enjoy a meal at a table or at the bar.

  Address: 4405 HI-30 Ste 217, Lahaina, HI 96761

Sunset at Merriman’s October 2020

Restaurants to eat at with open-air seating

• Dinner at Merriman’s Grill - Merriman’s is offering dinner service on the patio and it is the perfect place to go for a sunset dinner and Mai Tais! The tables are all outdoors and spread apart. Try and get there an hour and a half before sunset if you want a table to see the sun go down! Check their website for their daily specials but I have to say the perfect dinner was the house burger, garlic truffle fries, and homemade Klondike bar!

  Address: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Lunch or Dinner at Duke’s Beach House Maui - The iconic Duke’s is now open and we enjoyed a lovely sunset dinner here complete with Mai Tais and Hula Pie!

  Address: 130 Kai Malina Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Lunch or Dinner at Kimo’s Maui in Lahaina - After a long WFH day, I needed a Mai Tai! We ended up at Kimo’s and I had a delicious prime rib, while Josh had the fish and chips. We completed the meal with a huge slice of Hula Pie!

  Address: 845 Front St a, Lahaina, HI 96761

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Overall, our trip was fantastic! The test was the hardest part, but once we got there, it was nice to spend 10 days and live like a local!

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2021? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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More Maui Posts:

HOW TO SPEND 4 DAYS ON YOUR MAUI VACATION - COMPLETE ITINERARY WITH MAP

Kaanapali Beach - Black Rock

Updated: January 12, 2026

What to do for 4 days in Maui, Hawaii - FULL ITINERARY AND MAP

Maui is our absolute favorite place in the world! We got engaged, then married there a year later. Now, we return EVERY year to celebrate our anniversary and relive our favorite memories.

This itinerary is part of our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide, where we cover hotels, food, activities, and travel tips.

Hawaii is calling and I must go sign in our apt!

Do as our sign in our apartment says, "Hawaii is calling and I must go!" We got this sign at Sand People in Maui, my favorite shop!

There are so many different things to do in Maui, but here is our favorite itinerary! Whether this is your first trip to Maui, or tenth, we hope you love our suggestions.

This post may contain affiliate links of services that we love! If you book anything through these links, we get a commission at no cost to you! Help support the blog by saving and using these links.

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii - includes a helpful list of items you can buy straight from Amazon!

Here is a map made with the Wanderlog Travel Planner, so you can follow along, add to your Google maps account, or create your own personal map! Wanderlog allows you to create great maps and guides for any vacation!

Map courtesy of Wanderlog travel planner

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DAY 1

FLIGHT & CAR RENTAL

Front Street - Lahaina

We take the 8:30a American flight from LAX and the airport to fly into Maui is known as OGG. It's about 5 hours to get there and with the time difference, we arrive at the hotel around noon and have almost a whole day to do something fun on the island.

It's hard to get around the island without a car. We always rent a Jeep through Costco Travel to save money and get the best car to tour the island. We love the ones with the removable roof!

Don't have a Costco membership? That's ok, Booking.com also has great deals on car rentals or you can get a fairly decent rate on an airport transfer (if you don’t want to drive)!

What does Maui mean? Fun fact: This name belongs to a trickster god in Polynesian mythology!

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

Maui Rainbows are everywhere!

BEST MAUI RESORT HOTELS

We like to stick the Kaanapali stretch of hotels mainly because there is a lot to do and you can walk (or swim) everywhere. We love the Sheraton Maui Resort, which is located at the end of the Ka’anapali hotel stretch, against the black rock. We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! If you are looking for a place to stay with more people, they even have offers for apartments and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO!

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

Sheraton Maui Resort Pool - Lagoon

Check out our entry for more on the Sheraton:  Hotel Review: Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa

Check-in is normally 3p, so we try and check-in to see if our room is ready early, and if not we head to get lunch at one the pool bars (Cliff Dive Bar or Mai Tai Bar) and a Mai Tai! YUM!

Usually, our room is ready right after lunch, giving us time to move in and get ready for our first adventure. 

AFTERNOON: SNORKELING

The best part about the end of the Kaanapali beach is the Black Rock, in front of the Sheraton Resort. Where it might seem like a hideous black lava rock, under the sea you can find gorgeous coral, tons of fish, and usually see a turtle or two. We’ve even seen a few octopuses but you have to look hard for them! Also, try a different spin on snorkeling and take sailing and snorkel trip to Honolua! Their catamaran is a BEAUTY!

Snorkeling in Maui - Turtle sighting

Another great spot is Kapalua Bay. Even though the clarity isn't as great as around Black Rock, there are still plenty of fish to see. On one of our swims, we saw 6 turtles! We parked in a free beach parking lot (or there is street parking) next to Merriman's, and walked through the tunnel near the valet for beach access.

RELATED POST: See more in our 5 Best Snorkel Spots in Maui

Kapalua Bay

 Don’t forget to pack a hat!

Hello Sunshine floppy hat

on Amazon.com

EVENING: DINNER AT MAUI BREW CO BREWPUB

NEW Location: 2525 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

Note: the Maui Brewing Company Kahana Gateway Shopping Center location permanently closed in 2025.

This is a perfect place for good brews and bar food especially if you are coming back from a swim in Kapalua! The Maui onion dip and buffalo chicken wings are our favorite items on the menu! They put all of their beers on menu chalkboards in the restaurant and switch them out occasionally. You can also purchase beers there and take them home! We had them package up a few cans of beers we couldn’t buy on the mainland - all beers made it home just fine in our checked bag. There are also TV's throughout the restaurant if you are looking to root for your favorite sports team.

Fun fact: Did you know Maui Brew Co is independently owned? Garrett Marrero is a Poway native and the owner and found of the Maui Brewing Company, with local production on Maui itself! You can even tour the brewery for $20 in Kehei.

RELATED POST: Want more dinner options? Check out our post for our Top 10 Restaurants in Maui, Hawaii

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DAY 2

ROAD TO HANA - FULL DAY TRIP

We’ve done the Road to Hana a few times since there are so many different things to do and see along the way. Some of our favorite stops include:

1. Black Sand Beach 

2. Lava Tubes 

3. Red Sand Beach 

4. Coconut Glen's ice cream

5. Haleakala National Park (2 hours - if you do the long hike)

Don’t want to drive the windy roads? I don’t blame you! Book a seat with this Road to Hana Tour as recommended by a local!

Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide with a map of our favorite stops: Guide to the Road to Hana

Don't forget to stop to try some of Coconut Glen's homemade ice cream! They serve organic, vegan, dairy free ice cream, using coconuts from the jungles of Maui. Don't let "organic, vegan, dairy free ice cream" scare you. TRUST ME, you won’t regret it.

See my full review here: Coconut Glen's Homemade Ice Cream

Mai Tai at Mama’s Fish House

EVENING: MAMA'S FISH HOUSE

799 Poho Pl, Paia, HI 96779

On our way back from the road to Hana adventure, we stopped at Mama's Fish House for dinner. Make sure you make a reservation in advance, we used Opentable. Parking is valet only. 

I'm not a fish person particularly, but I did try some of our friends Mahi Mahi dish and it was the best fish I’ve ever had. I enjoyed their short rib and a couple of Mai Tai's (love that it's served in a tiki glass)!

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DAY 3

MORNING: SCUBA DIVING

Since we are scuba certified, we love to go diving at different locations in Maui. 

We loved the company, Extended Horizons in Lahaina, they go to the best spots and have amazing diving instructors. The dive site, Cathedral II, was one of my favorite dives! We went through a lava tube which was basically a cave with holes in the back, creating a fun place to explore! Check out the weird-looking slipper lobsters we found on the dive in our video! Some other great spots include Molokini Crater, the Carthaginian shipwreck, and Olowalu Reef, also known as turtle reef!

Extended Horizons trips depart from Lahaina, which is very convenient for staying on Kaanapali beach!  Whale season runs from November to May, which you can often see the humpback whales breach above water and you can often hear them while diving underwater.

They lost their shop and their boat in the Lahaina fire but still offer dives!

Want to set sail but not scuba? You can always rent a boat from our friends at Get My Boat, which is like Airbnb for boats!

Related Post: BEST SCUBA DIVE SITES IN MAUI

AFTERNOON: MASSAGES

We book our massages at the hotel typically the day we check-in, and look forward to them every day. 

We love getting our annual couples massage at the resort, especially after a few scuba dives or doing a trip to Hana. We usually get a basic full body massage for 50 mins, but this last time we went for the 80 mins and it was worth every penny. The rooms are patio like with natural sunlight peaking from the top, complete with soothing Hawaiian tunes. Ahhh.. relaxing just thinking about it. 

POOL SIDE

Grab your flip flops! We like to bring a book, a magazine, cards, or scroll through Instagram by the pool. This is where I started my research to start a travel blog! I may have ordered a few drinks to think it was a GREAT idea!

Havianas Slim Flip Flops

Various colors and prints available on Amazon.com

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

EVENING: SHOPPING & DINNER

We walked down to Whaler's Village for some shopping and grab dinner at the Barefoot Bar. 

The Barefoot Bar is more casual ($$) serving burgers, fish and chips, pizza. The fun part about the bar, your feet are in the sand. Usually, they have live music and entertainment. 

I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella! Presentation is everything to me. You MUST try the Hula pie! It’s vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top! OR try their enormous brownie ice cream sandwich. It’s a hard choice… just get both!

Need more options? There is also the Monkeypod Kitchen Restaurant in Whaler's Village that opened from the owners of Merriman's. We’ve literally tried everything on the menu and can’t recommend it enough - don’t skip out on the chicken wings or the mai tai with the honey foam! Check out our full review for more on Monkeypod: Restaurant Review: Monkeypod Restaurant

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DAY 4

MORNING: HALEAKALA SUNRISE

Sunrise at Haleakala

Parking: Haleakala Summit Parking, Kula, HI 96790 - You MUST make a reservation in advance as parking is limited! Reservations can be secured two months in advance and up until 6pm the day before your visit. See more information and tips on visiting Haleakala here: HALEAKALA CRATER

We got up at 2am and hit the road by 3am to drive about 2 hours to the top of Haleakala Summit. Check the sunrise times and try to arrive about an hour beforehand for a spot in the lot.

It gets pretty chilly at almost 10,000 feet. I wore layers including exercise clothes with sweatpants and sweatshirt on top. Bring snacks and water (and coffee) too!

If you don't want to drive (the roads are very windy up and down the mountain at very early hours), take this guided tour with Roberts Hawaii where they will pick up, take you to the top, feed you 2 meals, and bring you back. You can rest easy and even take a nap!

Since the sunrise viewing in atop of a mountain, there are many spots to watch the sunrise from and not a bad view. As the sky starts to change cameras come out, and the sun rises through the clouds. It's one of the best sunrises I've ever seen in my life. Fun Fact: Josh proposed to me here!

Mauimosas at Kula Lodge

BREAKFAST @ KULA LODGE

15200 Haleakala Hwy, Kula, HI 96790

On the way down from Haleakala, we stopped at Kula Lodge for spectacular views, a delicious breakfast (eggs benedict was my fave), and a Maui-mosa - they use pineapple instead of orange juice.

AFTERNOON: NAP AND POOL-TIME

By the time we got back to the hotel, it was time for a nap and relaxation. We took a quick nap, then went to hang out by the pool and snorkel in the ocean.

Black Rock Jumpers

EVENING: DINNER AT MERRIMAN'S KAPALUA

Address: 1 Bay Club Pl, Lahaina, HI 96761

We made a reservation about a month in advance to make sure we could get there for some cocktails and sunset. 

This fine-dining restaurant ($$$$) is the perfect spot in west Maui for sunset drinks and dinner. Located right on the water, you’ll overlook the waters of Kapalua Bay. Their cocktails are superb, made with fresh ingredients. The farm to table menu has a variety of Hawaiian fish and my favorite is the chimichurri savory steak.

Don’t forget about ordering some dessert! I enjoyed their homemade ice cream and cones (of course).  It's about a 15 min drive from the Kaanapali resorts.

Wwoof, what a trip. But how amazing did it look?! :) Let us know what you think or if you have any suggestions in the comments below!

We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

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Here are some other posts we have about Maui:

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10 FUN things you must do in Wailea - Maui, Hawaii

Top Ten Things to do and See in Wailea, Hawaii

First or sixth trip to Hawaii? Doesn’t matter, check out these fun things to do in Wailea! It’s a pretty coastal drive if you’re staying in Lahaina or a great place to stay for a few nights! We stayed at the Grand Wailea and fell in love with Wailea!

Not sure which area is right for you? Our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide compares Kaanapali, Wailea, and other regions.

Here’s a list of what to do in Wailea, Maui:

1. Go for a Hike in Wailea

   Wailea hikes are the best way to start the day! At the end of Makena Road just past Wailea, there is a trail to hike around old lava fields. We were lucky enough to find a Hawaiian Monk Seal that had just given birth days prior and was on the shore with her pup. We took the Haopili Trail to Hanomanioa Light where at the end of the trail is one of those natural pools that you often see influencers float in on Instagram. If you’re lucky, you’ll come across some black mountain goats along the way!

Hike to the natural pools in Wailea

2. Find a Secret Beach in Wailea

Maybe it’s not such a secret if I’m telling you. Again, At the end of Makena Road just past Wailea, if you’re not in the mood to hike (see #1), there are little beach coves that only fit a few people so you can jump in the water, do yoga, read a book, have a picnic lunch, or take a nap! It’s a private beach all to yourself! Pro Tip: Claim your spot early.

Secret Beaches in Wailea

3. Enjoy a day by the beach!

Beach chairs are provided by most hotels, you just have to get there early to nab one. We stayed at the Grand Wailea and would grab a few chairs around 8am to be in the front row.

4. Snorkel around Turtle Town

Wailea has some great spots for snorkeling, but you have to check out Turtle Town. Turtle Town is where the turtles come to have the cleaner fish pick off the algae and other parasites living on their backs! We also saw quite a few turtles right near our hotel (Grand Wailea).

Related posts: Best Snorkel Spots in Maui and Best Scuba Spots in Maui

Snorkel around Turtle Town in Wailea

5. Visit the Turtles in Wailea

Right off the back of a Makena Landing parking lot (5083 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753), you’ll often find turtles resting in the sand/rocks. Don’t disturb them, but admire them from the trees! Also, there were tons of chickens chasing each other in the parking lot.

Resting Turtles in Wailea

6. Go Shopping in Wailea!

I always love shopping! The Shops at Wailea have everything you need from high-end stores like Louis Vuitton to the ABC Store! Lappert’s ice cream can be found here and you’ll smell the fresh waffle cones wafting in the air when you get close! Soha Living has the cutest coastal decor, which makes great souvenirs! The Island Gourmet Markets is the best Wailea grocery store and their coffee shop brews a delicious coconut macadamia nut latte!

7. Pineapple Wine Tasting

There is a vineyard on Maui and it’s not far from Wailea! Have a taste of Maui Wine’s famous pineapple wines, exclusive small production estate wines, and sparkling wines.

FUN FACT: The King’s Cottage was originally built in the 1870s to welcome King Kalākaua himself, the last reigning king of Hawai’i. He would come to ‘Ulupalakua to enjoy a little royal vacation time with lavish dinners, dancing, champagne, and celebration. Maui wine continues that celebration today, this time inviting all of you! Complimentary guided tours of the historic estate, production area, and wine cellar.

8. Golf in Wailea

Josh loves to golf and there is a fantastic course (Wailea Golf Club) with gorgeous views in Wailea. The Wailea Gold Course is not only gorgeous but one of the top 100 courses in America!

Wailea Golf Club

9. Restaurants in Wailea

Do some fine dining - you’re on vacation! Monkeypod Kitchen is a MUST, their mai tais are my favorite on the island (food is fantastic too)! We also really liked Lineage (Top Chef, Sheldon Simeon’s restaurant), conveniently located in The Shops at Wailea shopping center.

10. Spa Day in Wailea

You’re at the beach in Hawaii, RELAX! Go for a nice massage and then grab a drink by the pool. Many of the resorts have spas, don’t be afraid to try them. This is the ultimate vacation life!

Grand Wailea Luau - Best in Wailea

BONUS TIP: Don’t miss the Grand Wailea Luau!

If you walk along the pathway at night, you’ll hear the drums and luau music play. You can kinda see what’s happening on the luau stage as you stroll by, but you should experience the show along with a traditional Hawaiian dinner! The Marriott Wailea luau puts on a good show too. Get a great price on luau tickets with Activity Authority!

Maui is part of ListForAll.com’s TOP 25 TROPICAL VACATIONS and I think these are some good reasons for Maui to make that list!

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Things to do in Wailea - Maui, Hawaii

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Best Scuba Dive Sites in Maui, Hawaii - Reviews and video included!

I’ve always loved swimming and have a love for marine creatures. Maybe it was watching the Little Mermaid hundreds of times when I was little! I was so happy when Josh wanted to get scuba certified so we could explore what is really under the sea. 5 years later and with over 35 dives all over the world, we can’t get enough! We go scuba diving every time we visit Maui, and have discovered some great dive sites. We’ve also encountered some great dive shops which make it easy for us to just show up and they bring the gear! We usually bring our own fins and masks so we can also snorkel around the hotel - See BEST SNORKEL SPOTS IN MAUI if you’re interested in snorkeling!

Let’s get into the reviews and don’t miss our video of these sites at the end!

For a complete breakdown of where to eat, stay, and what to do, see our Maui Travel Guide.

Lanai’s First Cathedral

Best Dive Sites in Maui

Maui Reef Fish Guide

The great part about Maui is that you can hop on a boat and get to a great dive site anywhere from 20-45 mins. Some hotels and dive shops will do beach dives where you can walk right into the water and start exploring right off the shore! When traveling to sites by boat, we typically stay on Kaanapali Beach and prefer to depart from Lahaina, but if you stay in Wailea there is another marina that is nearby.

Click HERE to check dive conditions in Maui for the day before you head out. If the visibility is poor and the current is strong, the dive is not pleasant. It’s often warm enough that we can just wear a rash guard and not need a wet suit!

Molokini Dive Sites

Molokini is a small inactive volcano visible from the south end of Maui. There are relatively shallow areas to snorkel as well as deeper areas to dive down to. Here are some great Molokini Snorkel Charters.

Molokini Crater was once used as a practice area for bombing in World War II! Learn more about the crater history and check out their really cool infographic HERE!

On our first trip with Lahaina Divers, we went to dive sites known as Aquarium and Reef’s End. We disembarked from Lahaina and it took us about 45 mins to get there. There were many vibrant colors of coral and fish, including angelfish, butterflyfish, Moorish idol (black and yellow banded fish), Hawaiian Whitespotted Toby, White Spotted Pufferfish, Barred Filefish (‘O’ili), Parrotfish, and a spotted eel. We even saw reef sharks and a barracuda - catch it at the end of the Molokini section of our video below!

On our second trip, we decided to check out the Backwall and had two dives with Maui Diamond Sea Sports. We were staying in Wailea and took off from Maalea Harbor (behind the Aquarium) which took around 25 minutes to get there. Once we jumped in, the water was so clear and so blue! We caught a white-spotted eagle ray swim by, a spotted eel, and many beautiful fish including white-spotted puffer and spotted butterflyfish - both native to the area.

Molokini Backwall - Spotted Eagle Ray

Lanai Dive Sites

From Kaanapali Beach and Lahaina, you look directly across to the island, Lanai, which looks like it is so close! With a quick 20-30 min ride from Lahaina Harbor, there are quite a few dive sites to explore at the south tip of Lanai.

My favorite site is the First Cathedral. Crafted from a lava tube, once you swim through a tunnel there is a large area, about 2 stories high with holes in the back that look like stained glass of a cathedral and a rock in the middle that is known as the alter. Within the “cave,” you will often find lobsters on the sidewalls and pufferfish swimming around.

Wash Rock is also a great site that has gorgeous coral formations and a lava tunnel called the ‘Tunnel of Love.‘ Within the tunnel, we found a sponge crab, as well as sculptured and regal slipper lobsters. Look out for giant moray eels and tiny nudibranch, they’re both in this ecosystem! See all of this in our video below!

Wash Rock - Regal Slipper Lobster

The Secret Cove dive site was buzzing with tons of fish when we visited! Plenty of long nose butterflyfish, yellow are typical, but the all-black long nose butterflyfish are native to the area. We swam around the cove and through it!

Lahaina and Kaanapali Dive Sites

Carthaginian II Shipwreck is a great site to explore! There is a long history to the ship, it was originally built in 1920 in Germany and after a few rebuilds over the years, it was eventually named the Carthaginian and was even featured in the 1966 movie, Hawaii. After filming, Carthaginian was purchased by the non-profit "Lahaina Restoration Foundation" (LRF) and in 1967 was flipped to a whaling ship museum and tourist attraction. However, Carthaginian was destroyed after it ran aground on the Lahaina Reef on Easter Sunday 1973. A replica was made of the Carthaginian from the ship, Komet. After installing 15 short tons (14 t) of cement and steel ballast to balance the rigging, it was renamed Carthaginian II and restored over several years. In 1980, the ship was opened again as a floating whaling museum. However, the addition of ballast allowed moisture to seep into the inside of the steel hull, which rusted to a point where it nearly split in half. As it was too expensive to keep it afloat, the LRF decided to sink it and make it a tourist attraction. On December 13, 2005, the boat was towed and sunk to create an artificial reef in the water at a depth of approximately 97 feet (30 m), 1⁄2 mile (0.80 km) off the coast near Puamana Beach Park. 

When we dove the Carthaginian, we saw an undulated moray eel under the ship, a small white tip reef shark lurking around, butterflyfish, endemic cleaner wrasse, yellow fingeat fish, and Spongebob attached to the side of the ship.

Carthaginian II Shipwreck

We love to stay at the Sheraton Maui beach resort and we’ve heard the night dive is pretty great on Black Rock. We have yet to do it, but we did a night shore dive at the site, Airport Beach, and saw bioluminescence glow at the bottom! Once we went shore diving during the day, Airport had a pretty Hawaiian coral reef, an abundance of fish, and a few eels that we encountered.

Olowalu

Just south of Lahaina is Olowalu and a long stretch of beach. Just off the shore is a great dive site Olowalu Reef, also known as turtle reef, where turtles often come in to have their shells cleaned by other fish. Rumor has it that there is a rare manta ray cleaning station and a blacktip reef shark nursery, but we didn’t see them. We did see a turtle swimming around and precious corals that were very vibrant with plenty of tropical fish to see.

Olowalu Reef Turtle

Best Dive Charters and Shops in Maui

Great dive shops and companies make it easy to just show up to the boat and they provide all of the dive gear along with great dive guides: Extended Horizons, Lahaina Divers, and Maui Diamond Sea Sports.

We’ve had the most dives with Extended Horizons, and we even got our advanced certification on one of our trips! We love their crews and guides! The guides would group us into small groups with those at a similar caliber that can keep up with each other. There are usually 2-3 groups with 3 pairs in each group. Water is provided and a light snack between and after dives. At the end of each trip, they put everything we need for our dive book on a board so we can easily remember and document our dives! If you’re looking for a dive school to get your certification, contact Extended Horizons or click here for more!

Lahaina Divers and Maui Diamond Sea Sports are very similar to Extended Horizons, but their boats are a little bigger and usually have more people. They also provide gear, water, snacks, and have great dive guides.

Extended Horizons always makes it easy to remember our dives!

Whale Watching in Maui

If you dive between November and May, you have a chance of seeing or hearing the blue whales as they migrate past Hawaii. Usually, you can see them spout water then after a few minutes if you’re lucky you can catch them breach or a glimpse of their tail come up and out of the water! If you listen to the beginning of our video below, you can actually hear them in Molokini! We didn’t see them underwater, but they did come up and breach the water a few times when we were on the boat! Book your whale watching tour with one of these tours on Activity Authority - recommended by a local!

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BEST SCUBA DIVE SITES IN MAUI VIDEO

Most of the dive sites and tropical creatures mentioned above can be found in this video:

Scuba Diving Packing Essentials for Maui Divers

Don’t forget to pack the following for your dive:

1. Sunscreen

2. Towel (we take the pool towels from the hotel)

3. GoPro or underwater camera - with batteries

4. Sunglasses

5. Fins

6. Mask - I love the Cressi Pano 3, finally a mask I can see out of and it doesn’t leak for a fairly inexpensive price

7. PADI or dive certification card

8. Dive book

9. Tote to hold all of these things!

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Please note, this is not a sponsored post, and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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See all Hawaii Posts, or the latest and greatest:

Guide to Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii: Where to stay, things to do, and best restaurants

Sheraton Maui Kaanapali Beach Resort

Everything you need to know about Kaanapali Beach in Maui, Hawaii: best hotels, what to do, and great restaurants

If you’ve booked your trip to Maui, I’m jealous already! We got engaged, married, and have celebrated our anniversary there every year since 2014! Maui is our favorite place and we ALWAYS stay on Ka’anapali Beach. If it’s your first time or sixth time, this guide will help you navigate the beach to make sure you have the best trip possible!

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

Not sure which area is right for you? Our Maui Travel Guide compares Kaanapali, Wailea, and other regions.

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How to get to Kaanapali Beach - Map, Airport Transfers, and Parking Information

The best way to get to Kaanapali Beach from the airport is to rent a car. You’ll probably want to drive around the island at some point, it’s best to have your own vehicle. If you are planning on spending all of your time at the beach, check with your hotel to set up airport transfers. Uber and Lyft are available as well, it’s about $50-ish each way.

We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

You can always park at a hotel but if you’re just coming for the day, there are a few lots but they are pretty pricy. There are 2 free parking lots but you have to get to them early - one is just before the Sheraton on Kaanapali Pkwy and the other is on Nohea Kai Drive before the Hyatt. See our Google Map for more info!

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Where to Stay on Kaanapali Beach

Here are some of the best resorts on Kaanapali beach! All resorts are literally located right on the beach and walking distance from each other. We often use our travel credit card rewards for FREE nights! Check out this helpful article from Money Magazine to see which card would be best for your needs. 

Sheraton Maui Room Views

Budget-Friendly:

Royal Lahaina Resort - great for your wallet and NO RESORT FEES! Rooms are spacious and a quick trot to the beach. This hotel is located north of Black Rock, so it is typically less crowded, but a bit of a walk to the other hotels.

Kaanapali Beach Club - might need an update, but the rooms are clean and the pool is huge! Located closer to Black Rock.

Mid-Range:

Flamingos and swans at the Hyatt Regency Maui on Kaanapali Beach

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa - our favorite resort on Maui Kaanapali Beach! Located right in front of Black Rock, which is the best place on the island for snorkeling. See our full review: Sheraton Maui Hotel Review

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa - recently renovated rooms and an adult pool to have some quiet time! One of the best Kaanapali accommodations! There are multiple pools that families can enjoy as well, there’s even a waterslide! Their spa is the ultimate relaxation destination.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa - lovely resort with penguins and flamingos (yes, I mean it). The Hyatt also has the best Lu’au on Kaanapali Beach. Their pool is pretty great too.

Condos and club hotels are also available in the area if you are looking to house more people! See booking.com for more options in Kaanapali, HI!

Need help packing? See our Hawaii Packing List for everything you’ll need! Check the weather before you go!

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Top 10 things to do on Maui Kaanapali Beach

Black ROck Jumping

1. Snorkeling at Black Rock Beach

   Black Rock is our FAVORITE place to snorkel! We’ve seen turtles, octopus, rays, and tons of tropical fish! See more snorkel info and our video here: Best Snorkel Spots in Maui 

2. Jump off Black Rock!

   Jump from the top of Black Rock to the plunge into the depths below! Do this at your own risk as it is hard to climb up Black Rock and it is, well, rocky.

3. Go Shopping at Whalers Village

   My favorite shop in Whaler’s Village is Sand People that is like Etsy in person, loaded with coastal decor, souvenirs, clothes, and jewelry. Other shops include Sephora, Honolua, Quiksilver, Kate Spade, and other designers.

Need a snack, beer or wine, souvenirs, macadamia nuts? The ABC Store is the best for all of those things!

Penguins at the Hyatt Regency Maui

4. Visit the Penguins and Flamingos

Yup, you heard that right! At the Hyatt Regency Maui, they have a menagerie of birds all over the resort. In the morning they have a penguin feeding and it’s just the cutest thing! You can hang out with the one-legged pink friends on the other side of the resort.

5. Go to a Lu’au

Drums of the Pacific Lu’au at the Hyatt Regency puts on a great show on Kaanapali Beach! With traditional Polynesian dances and a feast, you’ll be sure to have a great night! The Royal Lahaina Luau, Myths of Maui, will also have you dancing in your seat - it could be the music or the free drinks! Get a great deal on luau tickets with Activity Authority.

6. Have a drink at the pool bar (and maybe even whale watch)

We love to sit at the bar, have a drink, and enjoy the view! If you come between December and March, you are likely to see whales! If you look hard enough, you can usually see the whales come up and spout water. Keep a close eye because after they spout, they usually breach out of the water or you can catch a glimpse of their tales. There are tours you can take to get closer to them, and if you scuba dive or snorkel, you can often hear them!

7. Spa Day at Black Rock Spa

The massages at Black Rock Spa are my favorite. Get hot stones, and enjoy some relaxation! We usually get a basic full body massage for 50 mins (about $130 each), but this last time we went for the 80 mins (about $180) and it was worth every penny. The spa rooms are patio like with natural sunlight peaking from the top, complete with soothing Hawaiian tunes.

Water Activities on Kaanapali BEach

8. Water Activities - Go parasailing, take a surf lesson, rent a jet ski, or go paddle boarding!

You can arrange with your hotel or go to a stand on the beach to get your adventure on! Fly high in the sky and enjoy looking over Kaanapali Beach while parasailing, or skim the water with a surf board! Learn how to surf like a pro with Maui Surfer Girls. You can even learn how to scuba dive right on Kaanapali beach! See related post for scuba: Best Scuba Spots Maui

9. Golf at Kaanapali Golf Courses

You’ll pass this golf course as you arrive and want to take a swing with your club. I don’t know which one but Josh does. You can see the ocean from most holes!

10. Zipline with Skyline Hawaii - Kaanapali Zipline Tours

Just up the hill from the golf course is Kaanapali Zipline Tours! Check-in at the shop, then they will drive you up to the zipline course with breathtaking views - high in the sky! See related post, Best Maui Ziplines, for more!

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Best Restaurants on Kaanapali Beach

Here are a few of our favorites right on the beach that are fan favorites! See our full list here: Best Restaurants near Kaanapali and Lahaina

Monkeypod Kitchen - Kaanapali Beach

1. Monkeypod Kitchen ($$$)

Kaanapali Location: Whalers Village - 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Bldg I-1, Lahaina, HI 96761

See our full review: Best Restaurant in Maui: Monkeypod Kitchen

We first discovered Monkeypod in Wailea and were overjoyed when they opened a second location in Whalers Village, Kaanapali! We’ve found that it is the perfect spot for drinks and dinner. Get a Monkeypod Mai Tai with their fabulous honey foam! We love the Wood Roasted Chicken Wings (kiawe-roasted free range chicken, garlic, kula farm rosemary, tzatziki sauce) and the Bulgogi Pork Tacos (handcrafted kimchee, jalapeño, asian pear, sriracha aioli, locally-made corn tortilla). Jalapeño mashed potatoes ARE A MUST. They are green, but don’t let that scare you!

Dessert is a must! We loved the rich Chocolate Cream Pie, but they have other cream pies, such as Banana, available as well. Make a reservation in advance; we used Opentable.

Ice Cream Sandwich at Barefoot Bar

2. Hula Grill/Barefoot Bar ($$$/$$)

Location: Whalers Village - 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

Located in Whalers Village with outstanding ocean views, these two restaurants are not only owned by the same company, they are connected to each other. Hula Grill is a little more pricey with delicious traditional Hawaiian entrees including many fish dishes (crab, snapper, shrimp) and land dishes (chicken, steak, short rib, emu).

The barefoot bar is more casual ($$) serving burgers, fish and chips, pizza. The fun part about the bar, your feet are in the sand. Usually, they have live music and entertainment. Regardless of which restaurant you try, I love their Mai Tai's which are served in tiki glasses topped with the umbrella!

Also, you MUST have dessert! Try the Hula pie - vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top (served at both restaurants)! OR get the ice cream sandwich (pictured). No words on that one other than YUM!

3. Cliff Dive Bar and Grill

Location: Sheraton Maui Resort

Located by the pool, great for lunch or an afternoon snack. Can’t go wrong with their burger or chicken sandwich. At sunset, the cliff diver lights all the torches around the pool and along the top of black rock, then jumps into the water. 

3. Ono Gelato Company ($)

Location: Whalers Village

Try some handmade artisan gelato by the beach! When in Rome… err, or Maui!

More restaurants can be found in our post: Best Restaurants in Maui

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We hope you enjoy Kaanapali Beach as much as we do! It’s the perfect vacation destination for families, couples, or a group of friends. Kaanapali vacations are the best vacations! Hope you didn’t miss our Maui Hotel Map Kaanapali Beach

RELATED POST: How much does it cost to go to Maui in 2021? - Itinerary, budget, and more!

Black Rock Snorkeling with a Turtle

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More Maui posts to help plan your trip:

Hotel Review: Grand Wailea, A Luxury Waldorf Astoria Resort - Maui, Hawaii

The Lucky Mermaid Fountain - Grand Wailea

The Grand Wailea is the best hotel on Wailea beach!

Where to Stay in Maui

We typically stay at the Sheraton Maui in Kaanapali because it holds a special place in our heart, it’s where we got married! We stayed at the Andaz Wailea once, but we loved our most recent stay at the Grand Wailea a Waldorf Astoria Resort! Sitting atop 40 acres in Wailea, It was the perfect location to walk to other hotels and shops, but also had amazing views with large rooms!

Related Post: Packing Essentials for Hawaii

Getting to Wailea

Wailea is located on the southwest shore of the island of Maui in the state of Hawaii (United States). The Grand Wailea is a quick 35-minute drive from the Kahului Airport and only a 20-minute flight if you’re coming from Honolulu. We took a direct flight from Los Angeles to Maui. We rented a car and had to valet every night, there isn’t any self-parking.

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Grand Wailea Ocean View King Rooms

These rooms are 640 sq. ft. with gorgeous pacific ocean and garden views. The private balcony is large, and a wonderful place to have a cup of coffee in the morning or drinks in the afternoon on. You can also see what looks like a little island straight ahead, which is the Molokini crater. It is an excellent place for snorkeling and scuba diving! Also, if you look closely, you can catch a whale swimming by!

Note: Whale watching season is between November and May in Maui.

Ocean View Room - Private Balcony

The room had a nice plush, comfortable, king-sized bed, a private balcony, and a spacious bathroom with oversized bathtub and separate glass-enclosed shower! It’s large enough that you could do cartwheels in the bathroom (although I wouldn’t recommend it).

Grand Wailea Ocean View Room Bathrooms

In the room, there was also a Kurig with better than average coffee and tea options. There was also an empty mini-fridge, which was perfect to put our water bottles, leis, and Maui Brew Co beers! ;-)

Pro tip: Upgrade to the exclusive Napua Tower, so you can enjoy the best panoramic ocean views available! Napua has a private club lounge and other luxurious benefits.

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The Grand Wailea Resort

Just walking around the resort was lovely. There were ocean views everywhere you looked and for being open-air, the resort was spotless.

Other amenities with the Daily Resort Charge: guest internet access; beach umbrellas; admission twice-daily scuba clinics and daily snorkel lessons; 45-minute photography session; beach cruiser bikes; yoga classes; scheduled cultural, garden, and art tours; local/toll-free calls

Pro-tip: Get to Wailea beach around 7a to get a front-row covered beach chair to spend the day by the water. It’s free of charge for guests! We would jump in the water, go for a walk, snorkel, play cards, or even take a nap. It’s a nice way to spend the day! Just make sure you head back to the chairs every hour.

RELATED POST What to do in Maui?: 10 FUN THINGS TO DO IN WAILEA

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The Grand Wailea Pool

The Grand Wailea is like a waterpark and is known as Wailea Canyon including four jungle pools, five intertwining slides, a whitewater rapids slide, a Tarzan rope swing, a sand beach, six waterfalls, caves, three Jacuzzis, a water elevator, and a swim-up bar! Good enough for me and great for kids! The pool has the world’s first water elevator that takes you up to the waterslides! It’s technically the only one in the world, built for the owner’s son, who was disabled, this million-dollar elevator keeps you in the water the whole time!

Grand Wailea Maui Pool

There are quite a few water slides that connected smaller pools creating a lazy river feel! There were a few longer slides that went really fast, feeling like you were at a water park. The Tarzan rope swing is great for the kids to swing and jump into the water - big kids can do it too (I did!). The adult-only pool is the best way to keep splashing to a minimum and wade in the pool or spa with a tropical drink.

Grand Wailea Pool

Our favorite part of the pool was the swim-up bar! You can sit at the bar or there were a few booths where you can sit waist-high in the water! The boys liked the Grotto Bar to have a drink and watch sports without getting out of the pool. I liked it for the lava flows and cool pool booths!

Grand Wailea Grotto Swim-up Pool Bar

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Grand Wailea Luau - 'Aha'aina Wailea

No trip to Hawaii is complete until you have checked a luau off your list! Enjoy a Hawaiian feast while watching traditional Hawaiian dances and there is an amazing fire dance performance you cannot miss! Get a great deal on the best luau in Wailea with tickets from Activity Authority.

Grand Wailea Luau

Restaurants and Shops

Just off the lobby, there were beautiful shops for resort wear, home goods, art, a market, and more! You wouldn’t need to leave the resort. However, if you like shopping there is a shopping center next door (the Shops at Wailea) with an ABC Store, restaurants, and some of your favorite retail shops.

Breakfast at the Grand Wailea

Since we were Gold Hilton Honors members, we were able to get a free continental breakfast or upgrade to the buffet breakfast for $19 which was totally worth it! The Grand Dining Room offers an omelet bar, fresh fruit, waffles, vegetables, potatoes, parfaits, rotating breakfast dishes including favorites like eggs benedict, pretty much EVERYTHING! Breakfast is my favorite meal, and this spread did not disappoint.

HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A

Easy for you to say! This was our favorite place to get a drink a fancy cocktail in the bar and watch the sunset. Humuhumnukunukuapua’a means triggerfish with a snout like a pig (it’s a reef triggerfish). Make reservations ahead of time for dinner here, the menu is fantastic!

HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUAPUA'A Sunset Drinks Views

VOLCANO BAR & GRILL

Located in the middle of the pool area, we had lunch at their poolside tables one day with sandwiches, quesadillas, and burgers on the menu! They also have a full bar menu.

Bistro Molokini

We had drinks and dinner at Bistro Molokini. Located near the adult pool and above the other pools, there are great ocean views, drinks, and food. We liked their pizzas and sandwiches but I wouldn’t get anything beyond that. Their Mai Tai was good, but see our Favorite Maui Mai Tai list if you’re looking for the best Mai Tai on the island!

Bistro Molokini at Grand Wailea

Botero Lounge

The most beautiful lobby bar surrounded by fountains and garden sculptures, it’s nice to relax and have a drink here.

Spa Grande

Don’t forget to relax! There are 40 treatment rooms in this 50,000 square-foot award-winning spa, which is the largest spa in Hawaii (that’s including all of the islands)! Enjoy services such as the Exclusive Healing Waters of Maui, a Hydrotherapy Circuit, and a unique haven of water therapies featuring a Roman tub, saunas, cascading waterfalls, Swiss jet showers, a Japanese furo, and five specialty baths. AHHHHHH…

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New Years in Maui, Hawaii

Directly in front of the hotel on Wailea Beach, fireworks shot off for about 20 minutes from a barge in the ocean at midnight! It was a perfect celebration to ring in the New Year!

New Years in Maui - Wailea

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Bring the kids? GREAT!

There is a 20,000-square-foot “Recreation Outlet Center for Kids” for children ages five to twelve. The qualified staff (also offer nighttime supervision so you can have that one on one time), Camp Grande is equipped with a children’s restaurant, craft room, theater, game room, and outside play area. The kids won’t miss you when they are distracted by activities such as hikes, nature walks, special workshops, such as lei making, ukulele lessons, and t-shirt dyeing.

Final Thoughts

Overall, we enjoyed our stay at the Grand Wailea Maui and would recommend you to stay here! We loved the rooms and the staff was very accommodating. This is a Hilton property so keep that in mind for your points!

We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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Guide to the Best Ice Cream and Dessert in Maui, Hawaii - Ranked with Map

I love Maui and I love dessert, especially ice cream. I have ranked my favorite desserts below after much extensive research! 😋Don’t miss these great dessert options around the island see our handy map! You can even save it to your Google map app!

Although I’m not vegan, I’ve also included some options for my vegan friends!

Related Post: How to Spend 4 Days in Maui - Complete Itinerary

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Coconut Glen’s - Road to Hana

#1 Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

• Address: Mile Marker 27 1/2 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708

• Website: http://coconutglens.com/

• Pricing/Value: Good size scoop for the value

• Vegan Options?: All vegan options!

While on the Road to Hana, make sure you stop for some ice cream! Coconut Glen makes all his ice cream from the coconuts from the Maui jungles!

See our full Ice Cream Review here: Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream

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Maui Hula Grill Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich

#2 Ice Cream Sandwich at Hula Grill

• Location: Hula Grill/Barefoot Bar in Whaler’s Village - 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Menu: Hula Grill Menu

• Pricing: $11 for a giant dessert!

A monster ice cream sandwich taller than a salt shaker! Try this on for size - Hawaiian vanilla ice cream, macadamia nut brownies, whipped cream, fudge, and raspberry sauce.

See more restaurants in our 10 Best Restaurants in Maui Post

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Island Cream Co - Maui, Hawaii

#3 Island Cream Co

• Location: 305 Keawe St #511, Lahaina, HI 96761

• Website Menu/Flavors: Island Cream Co

• Value: Large scoops for under $10

• Special Options?: Non-dairy sorbets available

I'm not sure Island Cream Company just tastes better because it's in Hawaii (everything is better in Hawaii) or if it's their original recipe with the perfect mix of gelato and ice cream.

See more in our full ice cream review: ISLAND CREAM CO

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Maui Gelato Ice Cream

#4 Maui Gelato

Location: 2395 S Kihei Rd #120, Kihei, HI 96753

• Website: Maui Gelato Facebook

• Menu: Hard to find an updated menu online. See our full post here: Maui Gelato

• Pricing: Big helpings for a great price

• Non-Dairy options available

Located along the water just above Wailea in Kihei, Maui Gelato has everything ice cream you can imagine! Gelato, ice cream, affogatos (espresso poured over ice cream), floats, shakes, mochi ice cream, shave ice, waffles.

See our full review and the life lesson I learned here: Maui Gelato

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#5 Hula Pie

• Multiple Locations all over Hawaii: Hula Grill/ Barefoot Bar/ Dukes/ Leilani’s/ Kimo’s

• Pricing: Around $11 for a huge slice!

You MUST try the Hula pie! It’s vanilla or macadamia nut ice cream with an Oreo crumble pie crust, with whipped cream and fudge on top!

Hula Pie

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Shave Ice

#6 Shave Ice

A Hawaii classic! There are plenty of places to get shave ice and even food trucks on the side of the road have them! Make sure you get ice cream in the bottom, I love a good macadamia nut ice cream at the bottom of shaved ice with pineapple and coconut on top!

Favorite:

Ululani's Hawaiian Shave Ice (multiple locations) - 790 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761

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CHocolate Cream Pie at Monkeypod Kitchen

#7 Pie at Monkeypod Kitchen

• Locations/Menu: Kaanapali and Wailea

• Pricing: Around $11 per slice

I normally go for ice cream any chance I can get, but the Chocolate Cream Pie at Monkeypod is pretty phenomenal. Want something other than chocolate? Try their Strawberry, Banana, or Coconut Cream pies!

You can also try their Tropical Dreams Gelato & Sorbet for $7.95 with options of Tahitian vanilla, chocolate, island-hop Kona coffee, or featured flavor sorbet.

See our full Restaurant Review here: Monkeypod Kitchen

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#8 Tin Roof Chocolate Birthday Bibingka Cake

• Location: 360 PAPA PLACE STE Y, KAHULUI, HI, 96732

• Open: Monday - Saturday for lunch only

• Pricing: Cheap eats!

Chocolate Birthday Bibingka Cake 🌈💗🎂 is filled with chocolate, peanut butter, sprinkles and pop rocks! AND it’s fun to say!

TIN ROOF is a new generation mom & pop shop, owned by Internationally recognized Chef Sheldon Simeon & his wife, Janice. Raised in Hilo, Hawaii rain is a part of everyday life. Farmers markets keep buzzing, errands roll along, and garage kani ka pila never ends.

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Don’t forget these dresses!

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