The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026): Where to Stay, Eat, & Explore
Kaanapali Beach Views
The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026 Edition)
Planning a trip to Maui and wondering where to stay, what to do, and the best time to visit? After more than a decade of traveling to Maui—and publishing over 20 in-depth Maui travel guides—this is our most complete and up-to-date resource yet.
This Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2026) covers everything you need to plan the perfect trip, whether you’re visiting Maui for the first time, traveling with kids or toddlers, planning a honeymoon or babymoon, or returning to explore more of the island. If you're looking for the best Maui travel guide for families, this post covers where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and how to plan the perfect trip with kids. From choosing between Kāʻanapali vs. Wailea, to the best hotels in Maui, top things to do, and real travel tips you won’t find in brochures, we break it all down in one place.
We’ve stayed all over the island, explored Maui in every season, eaten at dozens of restaurants, road-tripped the Road to Hana, snorkeled with Green Hawaiian Sea Turtle, and experienced Maui both with and without kids—so everything here is based on real trips, not sponsored recommendations.
Inside this guide, you’ll find:
The best time to visit Maui (and when to avoid crowds)
Where to stay in Maui for families, luxury travelers, and first-timers
Our top things to do in Maui, from beaches to waterfalls
A 4-day Maui itinerary you can actually follow
What to pack, how much a trip really costs, and reservations you need in advance
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a full island adventure, this guide is designed to help you plan smarter, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of your time in Maui.
- ✔ First-time visitors
- ✔ Families with toddlers & kids
- ✔ Honeymoons & babymoons
- ✔ Travelers planning 4–10 day trips
- ✔ Visitors looking for 2026 updates
Honua Kai Sunset Views in Maui, Hawaii
None of these recommendations are sponsored. Every hotel, restaurant, and activity is included purely because we love it—and because we believe in supporting local Maui businesses. This is one of the best Maui travel guides for families, covering where to stay, what to do, where to eat, and how to plan the perfect trip with kids.
Quick Facts: Maui
- Best Time to Visit: October–Early December
- Best Area to Stay: Kaanapali (Families), Wailea (Luxury)
- Ideal Trip Length: 7–10 days
- Do You Need a Car?: Yes
- Good for Kids?: Very
Best Time to Visit Maui is in October - Kula Farm Pumpkin Patch Views
Best Time to Visit Maui
We got married in October and after trying a few other months, we think this is the best time of year! The weather isn’t as hot as the summer months but you still get plenty of sunshine, and if you book early, prices are cheaper than the high season of Spring/Summer. It’s also the beginning of whale season!
See what else makes October in Maui the best season to visit!
Quick Seasonal Summary
Here is a breakdown of each month:
January–March (Whale season)
April–May (Shoulder season sweet spot)
June–August (Peak summer travel)
September–October (Best value months)
November–December (Holiday crowds)
When to Visit Maui
Maui is a year-round destination thanks to its warm temperatures and consistent sunshine, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for — fewer crowds, better prices, whale sightings, or perfect beach weather. Understanding Maui’s seasons can help you plan a trip that matches your travel style and budget.
January–March: Whale Season & Winter Escape
Winter is one of the most popular times to visit Maui, especially for travelers escaping cold weather. From January through March, humpback whales migrate to the waters around Maui, making this the best time of year for whale watching.
What to expect:
Peak whale season
Slightly cooler temperatures (still warm by mainland standards)
Larger winter swells on the north and west shores
Higher prices and more crowds, especially in February
This is a great time for whale tours, scenic drives, and enjoying resort amenities, though some beaches may be less calm for swimming.
April–May: Shoulder Season Sweetie Spot
Spring is one of the best overall times to visit Maui. The weather remains excellent, crowds thin out after spring break, and prices begin to drop.
Why this is a favorite:
Warm, sunny days
Fewer crowds than winter
Lower hotel rates compared to peak season
Calm ocean conditions for snorkeling
April and May are ideal for first-time visitors who want a balanced experience without the peak-season rush.
June–August: Summer Travel & Family Season
Summer brings warmer temperatures and consistent sunshine, making it a popular time for families and school vacation travel.
Summer highlights:
Excellent beach weather
Calmer ocean conditions overall
Great snorkeling and water visibility
Busy resorts and higher demand
While crowds are higher, Maui handles summer tourism well thanks to its spread-out beaches and resorts.
September–October: Best Value Months
Early fall is often considered the best time to visit Maui for deals. After summer travel slows and before the holiday rush begins, prices drop and crowds are lighter.
Why fall is underrated (and our favorite!):
Lower airfare and hotel prices
Warm ocean temperatures
Fewer visitors at major attractions
Great conditions for beach days
September and October are especially appealing for travelers who want a relaxed, less crowded experience.
November–December: Holiday Travel & Seasonal Transition
Late fall brings a mix of quieter travel early in November and busy holiday periods in late December.
What to know:
Early November can be calm and affordable
Thanksgiving and Christmas are peak travel times
Weather remains warm, though slightly more variable
Holiday pricing applies in late December
If you’re visiting during the holidays, booking accommodations early is essential.
No matter when you visit, Maui offers beautiful scenery, warm weather, and unforgettable experiences year-round — it’s just a matter of choosing the timing that fits your travel priorities.
Where to Stay in Maui: Best Resorts and Areas
Choosing the right area is the most important part of planning your Hawaii vacation. Having stayed all over the island, we’ve narrowed it down to the two most popular regions.
Kaanapali vs Wailea: Where to Stay in Maui
| Kaanapali | Wailea | |
|---|---|---|
| Vibe | Lively, walkable, family-friendly | Upscale, quiet, romantic |
| Budget | $ – $$$ | $$$ – $$$$ |
| Best For | First-timers & families with kids | Honeymoons & luxury travelers |
Grand Wailea Mermaid Fountain
Best Locations to Stay in Maui
Choosing where to stay in Maui can completely change your experience. Each area of the island has a different vibe, climate, and pace — and the “best” choice depends on whether you’re traveling with kids, as a couple, or for relaxation.
Kaanapali
Kaanapali offers a lively resort area with a long beachfront walkway, shopping, and restaurants all within walking distance. This is our preferred area to stay!**
Best for:
- Walkability
- Larger resorts
- Group trips and families
Wailea
Wailea is known for luxury resorts, calm beaches, and beautifully manicured grounds. It’s ideal for families, honeymooners, and travelers who want easy beach access without sacrificing comfort.
Best for:
- Families
- Couples
- First-time visitors
Lahaina
Lahaina has more local charm and historic appeal, with a mix of condos, boutique hotels, and oceanfront dining. There aren’t as many options to stay here after the fire in 2023.
Best for:
- Condos
- Budget-friendly stays
- Central access
Kihei
Kihei is one of the most affordable places to stay and offers sunny weather and easy access to beaches.
Best for:
- Budget travelers
- Condo stays
- Long-term visits
Hana
Hana is remote, quiet, and lush — perfect for travelers who want to disconnect. SIGN ME UP!
Best for:
- Adventure seekers
- Romantic stays
- Slower travel
Kaanapali vs. Wailea: Which is better?
Kaanapali: Best for families, first-timers, and those who want a walkable "resort" feel. It is generally more budget-friendly.
Wailea: Best for honeymoons, luxury travelers, and a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere.
Guide to Kaanapali
Kāʻanapali Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in Maui, known for its soft golden sand, calm clear water, and unbeatable resort location.
Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a romantic getaway, or visiting Maui for the first time, Kāʻanapali offers the perfect mix of relaxation, walkability, and activities—all with stunning ocean views. Read our full Kaanapali Guide for more!
Important note about the 2023 Lahaina fires: While the Lahaina wildfires in August 2023 were devastating for the historic town of Lahaina, the Kāʻanapali resort area was not directly impacted. Most hotels, beaches, and resorts in Kāʻanapali remained intact and operational, and the area continues to welcome visitors. Travelers staying in Kāʻanapali can expect a normal resort experience, while also being mindful and respectful of the ongoing recovery efforts in West Maui.
Guide to Wailea
Exploring Wailea is a vibrant mix of adventure and relaxation, with some of our favorite activities including shopping, snorkeling, and hiking.
The boutique-lined streets offer a perfect blend of high-end brands and charming local shops, ideal for leisurely browsing and finding unique treasures.
When it’s time to dive into nature, snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters reveals an underwater paradise teeming with colorful reef fish and graceful sea turtles. For those craving a bit of sweat and stunning vistas, the nearby hiking trails wind through lush landscapes and volcanic formations, providing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and beyond.
Whether you’re eager to indulge in retail therapy, embrace marine wonders, or chase panoramic panoramas, Wailea effortlessly serves up unforgettable experiences. Read our full Wailea guide here. Wailea effortlessly serves up unforgettable experiences.
Honua Kai 3-bedroom Condo
Our Top Recommended Maui Hotels
Honua Kai Resort & Spa: Our absolute favorite for stays of a week or more. Since these are condo-style suites with full kitchens, it’s the best place to stay in Maui for families. Read our full Honua Kai Review.
Sheraton Maui Resort: Located right on Black Rock, this is a snorkeler’s paradise. We highly recommend booking a room overlooking the bluff for the best sunset views on the island. See our Sheraton Maui Review.
Grand Wailea: If you are looking for the ultimate luxury experience in South Maui, this is it. The pools are legendary. Check out the Grand Wailea experience.
Pro Tip: Looking for more options? Check out our complete list of the Best Hotels in Maui.
Favorite Top 10 Things to Do in Maui
There’s more to Maui than the beaches and pools! Get out and explore the beautiful island! Our top 10:
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is a 64-mile stretch that runs around the northeast side of the island with rainforests, beaches, stunning coastal views, and waterfalls galore! It’s very different (and adventurous) than the rest of the island! Top Stops on the Road to Hana:
Lava Tubes
Twin Falls Waterfall
Black Sand Beach also known as Waiʻānapanapa State Park (you must have a reservation)
Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest) → Waimoku Falls
Coconut Glen’s Ice Cream - obviously we got ice cream!
See more stops and photos and a handy map in our Road to Hana post or our Road to Hana Guide.
🤿 Snorkeling Adventures
We love finding Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles! See our favorite spots including Black Rock, to find our shell friends as well as amazing tropical fish!
Scuba Dive
We are scuba certified and LOVE seeing everything Maui has to offer under the sea! There are so many cool spots like a cave called the Cathedral that even has what looks like an alter and stain glass window! See more Scuba Adventures to be had!
Pro-tip: Get out and snorkel Black Rock during the day and see what lies beneath at night with a guided night scuba dive!
Hiking Trails
There are some amazing hikes in Maui with stunning views for all levels of hikers. I’m more of an occasional hiker so if I can do these, you can do it too! See our favorite Maui Hiking Trail list, including the Kapalua Coastal Walking Trail or Pipiwai Trail (Bamboo Forest) that ends at Waimouku Falls (waterfall)!
All this and more on our full Top 10 Things to do in Maui list.
Hiking with kids in Maui - Pipiwai Trail on the Road to Hana
What to Pack for Maui
Just a swimsuit! Kidding! We used to travel to Maui for a few days with a carryon and snorkel gear before kids. It’s a little different now that we bring 10 pieces of luggage/carryons/diaper bags but I still pack the same things for me!
Packing for Maui is refreshingly simple thanks to the island’s warm weather and relaxed vibe, but a few smart additions can make your trip far more comfortable. Between beach days, scenic drives, and cooler evenings at higher elevations, having the right essentials ensures you’re prepared without overpacking.
Clothing & Footwear
Maui’s dress code is casual, breathable, and beach-friendly. Think dresses with pockets!
Bring lightweight clothing you can easily mix and match, including shorts, tanks, sundresses, and swimsuits. It’s a good idea to pack more than one swimsuit so you always have a dry option. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring towns, short hikes, and sightseeing, while sandals or flip-flops are perfect for beach days.
Even though Maui is warm year-round, a light jacket or sweater is helpful for evenings, ocean breezes, or trips to higher elevations like Haleakalā.
Beach & Sun Protection Essentials
The Hawaiian sun is strong, so sun protection is one of the most important things to pack.
Reef-safe sunscreen is required in Hawaii and should be applied generously throughout the day. A wide-brim hat and UV-protective sunglasses provide extra protection, while a reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated during long beach days or sightseeing.
If you plan to explore rocky beaches or snorkel directly from shore, water shoes can be very helpful.
Day Trips & Adventure Gear
Many Maui activities involve being out all day, so having a few practical items on hand makes exploring easier.
A small backpack or beach tote (my fave) is ideal for carrying sunscreen, water, snacks, and electronics. A portable phone charger is especially useful on longer drives like the Road to Hana. Motion sickness remedies are also worth packing if winding roads affect you.
For those planning outdoor adventures, a camera or action camera is a great way to capture Maui’s scenery, waterfalls, and underwater views.
Packing for Families & Kids
Traveling to Maui with kids means packing with sun protection and comfort in mind.
Rash guards or swim shirts help reduce sun exposure, and water shoes protect little feet on rocky beaches. Snacks, refillable containers, and favorite comfort items can make long days and travel transitions easier.
Many accommodations provide baby gear, but it’s always best to confirm ahead of time if you’re relying on items like cribs or high chairs.
Good news: there is a Target and Costco right by the airport if you forget anything!
Toiletries & Practical Items
Most hotels and vacation rentals provide basic toiletries, but it’s helpful to bring travel-size essentials you prefer. After-sun care like aloe vera can be a lifesaver after long days outdoors, and a small first-aid kit is useful for minor scrapes or blisters.
Bug spray is optional but recommended if you plan to visit lush or rainy areas. I always bring it because I often get bites no matter where I go!
What You Can Skip
To save luggage space, you can leave heavy jackets, formal clothing, and bulky beach gear at home. Maui is casual, and most items can be rented or purchased locally if needed.
Want a Full, Printable Packing List?
Don’t miss my favorite outfits for Hawaii as well as my FULL list of must haves- a detailed, printable checklist that covers every category — including electronics, toiletries, and family-specific items!
New Kaanapali Beach Location for Maui Brewing Company
Best Restaurants in Maui: Where to Eat
After a decade of visits, we’ve narrowed down the absolute best places to eat in Maui. From high-end dining to the best food trucks, these are our non-negotiable stops.
1. Monkeypod Kitchen (Kaanapali & Wailea)
Famous for its Lilikoi Foam Mai Tai, Monkeypod is a must-visit. It’s vibrant, family-friendly, and has a great happy hour. Read our Monkeypod Kitchen Review.
2. Merriman’s Maui (Kapalua)
For the best fine dining in Maui with a view, Merriman’s is unbeatable. It’s located right on the point in Kapalua and offers a true "farm-to-table" experience. It’s also our pick for the best Mai Tai on the island.
3. Star Noodle (Lahaina)
While it has moved locations over the years and after the Lahaina fires in 2023, Star Noodle is back home to Lahaina and remains a staple for Asian-fusion fans. Be sure to book your reservations weeks in advance—this is one of the hardest tables to get! See what to order at Star Noodle.
4. Local Favorites & Quick Bites
Aloha Braised Food Truck: For an authentic, local taste of the islands.
Burger Shack at the Ritz: The best casual lunch spot with a view of DT Fleming Beach. Don’t forget to save room for a milkshake!
Island Cream Co: You cannot leave Maui without trying their chocolate macadamia nut ice cream!
Hungry for more? See our Full Guide to the 10 Best Restaurants in Maui.
Best Ice Cream in Maui
We’ve enjoyed a whole lot of delicious ice cream and refreshing shave ice during our time in Maui! Over the course of our trip, we’ve discovered a few favorite spots that we find ourselves returning to again and again:
Island Cream Co - chocolate macadamia nut ice cream is a must!
Maui Gelato - options of gelato, Roselani ice cream, affogato, floats, shakes, mochi ice cream, shave ice, and waffles, you won’t be disappointed.
Burger Shack Shakes - Not only do they have amazing burgers, but fantastic milkshakes (and some boozy shake options too!). The view of the beach at Kapalua doesn’t hurt either!
Hula Pie at Duke’s Beach House Maui - A giant slice of Macadamia Nut ice cream pie and chocolate drizzled on top! Do you need more of an explanation?
Hula Pie at Duke’s Beach House
Mai Tai at Merriman’s Restaurant
Best Mai Tai In Maui
Merriman’s makes the absolute best Mai Tais in all of Maui! But being the dedicated taste tester that I am, I’ve also tried Mai Tais from several other spots across the island, just to be sure there isn’t an even better one hiding somewhere. See where to get all the Best Mai Tai’s in Maui.
Our Favorite 4 Day Maui Itinerary
How do you plan your days in Maui? It’s definitely not easy, but hey, someone’s got to take on the challenge! When traveling with toddlers, we tend to go with the flow and follow the mood of the day, since little ones can be unpredictable. However, back when it was just us adults, we’d carefully map out what we wanted to see and do ahead of time because some popular spots require permits or reservations well in advance. Don’t get me wrong, we still do some planning with the kids, but these days it’s mostly about balancing a bit of adventure with plenty of relaxing pool and beach time to keep everyone happy!
This detailed 4-day Maui itinerary is designed specifically for first-time visitors who want a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly activities.
See our full 4-day Itinerary post.
How Many Days Do You Need in Maui?
You need at least 4 days in Maui! We’ve done extended weekend trips (Thursday to Sunday) and we’ve also stayed in Maui for a month (live like a local!), either way I was still crying all the way to the airport on our last day.
Here is a simple breakdown of how many days you need in Maui and what you should do:
3–4 days: Beaches + resort time only
5–6 days: Add Road to Hana or Haleakala
7–10 days: Ideal for first-timers
10+ days: Slow travel + repeat favorites
7-10 days is typically the best amount of time in Maui to get the most out of adventures and relaxation!
Iao Needle Hike in Maui
How Much Does a Trip to Maui Cost?
Is Maui expensive? It doesn’t have to be! Here’s a real breakdown of how much our Maui trip cost, including flights, hotel, rental car, food, and activities.
See what a mid-range Maui vacation actually costs and plan with confidence.
Babymoon in Maui
I’ve been pregnant twice in Maui and still managed to have an absolutely wonderful time! Even though I was super cautious during my pregnancies and preferred to spend a lot of time just relaxing and taking it easy, there were still so many amazing activities and beautiful spots to explore around the island.
Maui truly offers a great balance for anyone looking to enjoy themselves gently while soaking up the stunning scenery and island vibes! See more in our Babymoon in Maui post.
Honeymoon and Romantic Things to do
For a truly romantic getaway, start your evenings with candlelit dinners at seaside restaurants where the ocean breeze pairs perfectly with gourmet cuisine.
Follow that with a sunset cruise, drifting gently on the water as the sky bursts into a palette of pinks and purples—a picture-perfect moment made for two.
After soaking in the sunset, indulge in a couple’s massage to melt away any lingering stress, leaving you both feeling blissfully connected and relaxed.
And for a splash of adventure, snorkeling hand-in-hand among vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish lets you explore a dreamy underwater world together, making memories as deep as the ocean itself.
Find more love on Maui.
Maui with kids
Maui with Kids
Traveling to Maui with kids is absolutely worth it—and we say that after visiting the island with babies, toddlers, and young kids.
Maui is one of the easiest Hawaiian islands to do as a family, with calm beaches, stroller-friendly resort areas, kid-loving restaurants, and plenty of low-stress activities.
From choosing the best area to stay to planning nap-friendly days and finding beaches that feel more like shallow pools, our complete Maui With Kids guide breaks down everything you need to know to plan a smooth, memory-filled family trip.
🧃 Easy Snacks for Kids (That Don’t Melt in Hawaii)
The best snacks for kids in Hawaii are no-melt, mess-free, and easy to pack. Top options include:
Gummies – Lightweight, individually wrapped, and won’t melt in the heat.
Fruit snacks – Easy to portion and perfect for quick snack breaks.
Pouches – Shelf-stable, refreshing, and ideal for on-the-go eating.
These snacks hold up well during beach days, road trips, and sightseeing in warm Hawaiian weather.
Jeeps are the best Rental Cars in Maui, Hawaii
First-Time Maui Tips and FAQs
Do you need a rental car?
ABSOLUTELY! It is very hard to get around the island without one.
Is Maui expensive?
Yes, but there are many things you can do to cut some costs.
How many days is enough?
4 days at least! I always cry on the way to the airport no matter how long we stay.
What not to skip on your first visit?
SNORKELING is a must! Find a turtle!
What part of Maui is best to stay?
Wailea and Kaanapali are the most popular for first-time visitors.
Kula Country Farms - Maui, Hawaii
Reservations You Need in Advance for Maui
Road to Hana park reservations
Haleakalā sunrise permits
Popular restaurants
Snorkel tours
🌺 The History of Hawaii
Is Hawaii Part of the United States?
Yes — Hawaii is one of the 50 United States.
Hawaii became the 50th state on August 21, 1959, after residents voted overwhelmingly in favor of statehood.
But Hawaii’s history stretches back long before it joined the U.S.
Early Hawaiian Kingdom
Hawaii was originally settled by Polynesian voyagers around 1,500 years ago. Over time, independent chiefdoms developed across the islands.
In 1810, King Kamehameha I unified the Hawaiian Islands into a single kingdom — the Kingdom of Hawaii.
The islands remained an independent nation for nearly a century.
The Overthrow & U.S. Annexation
In 1893, the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown by a group of American and European business interests. In 1898, Hawaii was formally annexed by the United States during the Spanish-American War, largely because of its strategic Pacific location.
Hawaii later became a U.S. territory in 1900.
When Did Hawaii Become a State?
After decades as a U.S. territory, Hawaii officially became the 50th state on August 21, 1959.
More than 90% of Hawaiian voters supported statehood at the time.
Why Hawaii Is Unique
Hawaii remains culturally distinct from the mainland United States. Native Hawaiian traditions, language, and culture continue to play an important role in daily life across the islands.
Visitors often notice:
The Hawaiian language on street signs
The spirit of “aloha”
Strong local identity and community pride
Understanding Hawaii’s history adds meaningful context to your trip — from visiting ʻIolani Palace in Honolulu to exploring historic Lahaina (before the 2023 wildfires) or paying respects at Pearl Harbor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Maui worth visiting in 2026?
Yes, Maui is absolutely worth visiting in 2026. Maui offers world-class beaches, incredible snorkeling, lush rainforests, luxury resorts, and unforgettable scenery. The island has reopened many beloved restaurants and attractions, making it a wonderful time to visit.
2. What is the best time of year to visit Maui?
The best time to visit Maui is October through early December. You’ll enjoy warm weather, fewer crowds, better hotel prices, and the beginning of whale season—without the peak-season crowds of summer and spring.
3. How many days do you need in Maui?
A minimum of 4–5 days is recommended to experience Maui, but 7–10 days is ideal. This allows time for the Road to Hana, snorkeling, beach days, and relaxation without feeling rushed.
4. Where should you stay in Maui for the first time?
First-time visitors should stay in Kaanapali or Wailea.
Kaanapali is best for families, walkability, and value.
Wailea is ideal for luxury, romance, and quieter resorts.
5. Is Maui good for families with kids?
Yes, Maui is extremely family-friendly. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs, calm beaches are perfect for swimming, and activities like snorkeling, whale watching, and easy coastal walks are great for all ages.
6. Is Maui expensive?
Maui can be expensive, but it’s possible to plan a trip on a moderate budget. Staying in condo-style resorts, booking activities early, renting a car, and mixing restaurants with food trucks can significantly reduce costs.
7. Do you need a rental car in Maui?
Yes, renting a car is highly recommended in Maui. Public transportation is limited, and many of the island’s top attractions—like the Road to Hana, Haleakalā, and hidden beaches—require driving.
8. Do you need reservations for Maui attractions?
Yes, several popular Maui attractions require advance reservations, including:
Road to Hana state parks
Haleakalā sunrise
Popular restaurants and snorkel tours
Booking early helps avoid disappointment.
9. Is the Road to Hana worth it?
Yes, the Road to Hana is absolutely worth it. It’s one of Maui’s most scenic experiences, featuring waterfalls, rainforests, black sand beaches, and dramatic coastal views. Planning your stops ahead of time makes the experience much more enjoyable.
10. Is Maui good for honeymoons and romantic trips?
Maui is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. With luxury resorts, sunset cruises, beachfront dining, couples’ massages, and breathtaking scenery, it’s perfect for romantic getaways.
Common Maui Planning Questions
Is Maui better than Oahu for a first trip?
Maui is better for travelers who want beaches, scenery, and a relaxed pace, while Oahu offers more city life and nightlife.
What is the cheapest month to visit Maui?
September and October typically offer the lowest prices for flights and accommodations.
Is Maui walkable?
Some resort areas like Kaanapali are walkable, but most visitors need a car to explore the island.
Are there free things to do in Maui?
Yes — many of Maui’s best experiences are free, including beaches, scenic drives, hiking trails, and sunrise or sunset viewpoints.
Can you visit Maui without doing the Road to Hana?
Absolutely. While it’s popular, many travelers prefer beaches, snorkeling, and resort time instead.
Is Maui good for a relaxing vacation?
Yes — Maui is ideal for slow travel, beach days, and unwinding, especially in Wailea and Hana.
Black Rock at Kaanapali Beach - best for snorkeling
Planning Mistakes to Avoid
Maui trip planning can be overwhelming as there is so much to do and see! Here are a few mistakes to avoid when booking your Maui vacation:
Not booking Haleakalā sunrise early - make sure you get your reservation well ahead of time!
Skipping reef-safe sunscreen - let’s all do our part in preserving and protecting the reef!
Underestimating drive times - Maui is bigger than you think!
Overpacking activities with kids - don’t plan too much for little ones to prevent tired meltdowns!
Not renting a car - you’ll definitely want a car, Uber and ride shares are available but limited.
Whether this is your first time visiting Maui or you’re returning to experience it in a new way, we hope this guide helps you plan a trip filled with unforgettable moments, stress-free days, and plenty of sunshine. Maui has a way of slowing life down—in the best possible way—and with a little planning, it becomes the kind of trip you’ll talk about long after you’ve unpacked. If you found this Ultimate Maui Travel Guide helpful, we’d love for you to save it for later or share it with friends and family who are planning a trip too.
Pin this guide to Pinterest so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to start booking, and feel free to share it on social media to help other travelers plan their perfect Maui escape 🌴
More Maui Posts:
Looking for the best restaurants and places to eat in Maui, Hawaii? Check out our favorite Restaurants in Maui from Lahaina to Wailea! | Where to go in Maui | Where to eat in Maui | Food in Maui