Maui

Introducing Maui

Maui , the second-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, is composed of two plates, east and west, connected by a bottleneck of land. West Maui is centered on the West Maui Mountains, while East Maui is dominated by the extinct volcano Mount Haleakala, a 10,000-foot peak. All roads wind around these two impassable mountain ranges.

Maui offers a wealth of tourist activities for tourists, with ample room for choice. Outdoor sports enthusiasts can participate in the most exciting surfing, horseback riding, cycling, golf and tennis, or hike in the world's largest extinct volcano.

The island's scenery offers an endless variety, from sun-soaked beaches to drenched rainforests, from lush, fertile valleys to desolate, barren volcanoes. From the picturesque slopes of Upcountry Maui to beaches consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful, a visit to Maui Island reinforces this feeling. But like every magic trick, it has to be seen to be believed.

West Maui is the drier side of the island. It features world-renowned beaches, including beautiful Kaanapali Beach, which boasts a cliff diving ceremony each evening at sunset. West Maui is also home to historic Lahaina, where you'll find excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment.

To the east lies the lush Iao Valley and the picturesque highway to Hana. The cooler slopes of Haleakala offer the farms and gardens of Upcountry Maui and the soaring peaks of Haleakala National Park .

Climate and best time to travel

Maui generally has two seasons. Winter ( November to April ) typically sees temperatures ranging from 21 to 29 degrees Celsius, while summer highs can reach just over 32 degrees Celsius. Whale watching season runs from late November to early May . The best months for whale watching are from January to early April. Winter is the season for big wave surfing on Maui's North Shore.

The trade winds keep you comfortable year-round, making Maui a great place to visit any time of year.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Stroll the oceanfront streets of Lahaina and the beautiful beaches of Kaanapali and discover your own reasons to love Maui. Experience the magic of Haleakala National Park or explore the arts and culture of Kahului and Upcountry Maui.

From championship golf courses to the picturesque road to Hana, your vacation on the " Valley Isle " is sure to be unforgettable. It's no wonder that thousands of humpback whales migrate to Maui's warm waters year after year.

Stand in the sea of ​​clouds atop Haleakala volcano and watch a 45- foot ( 13 -meter) whale breach off the coast of Lahaina . While navigating the sharp curves of the Highway to Hana , you'll lose count of the number of waterfalls you'll see along the way. With just one visit, it's easy to see why Maui is called the " Magic Isle . "

Recommended play time: 2-3 days

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Maui

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Maui is one of Hawaii's most famous islands, known for its stunning natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural history. It was once the seat of Hawaiian royalty and is now a popular tourist destination.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Maui is located in the Pacific Ocean, part of the Hawaiian Islands. The best way to get there is by flying into Kahului Airport (OGG), which is the main airport on the island. Once there, taxis, buses, and rental cars are available to explore the island.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most outdoor activities are open year-round. The best time to visit Maui is from April to October, as the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for beach activities and hiking.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary depending on the activity:

• Haleakalā National Park: $30 per vehicle (valid for 3 days).
• Molokini Crater snorkel tours: Prices range from $100–$200 depending on the tour provider.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue, depending on the activity.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For popular activities like the Haleakalā sunrise, it's recommended to book tickets in advance, preferably 1–2 weeks ahead. Tours like Molokini Crater also benefit from early booking, especially during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully experience Maui, you'll need at least 4–7 days. This allows time to explore the beaches, hike volcanoes, and enjoy the island’s various activities.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see areas on Maui include:

• Haleakalā National Park, especially for sunrise views.
• The Hana Highway, a scenic drive with waterfalls and coastal views.
• The beaches of Wailea and Kaanapali.
• Iao Valley State Park, home to lush rainforests and the Iao Needle.
• Molokini Crater for snorkeling.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are widely available on Maui, including van tours, helicopter tours, and snorkeling excursions. Tours are typically offered in English, with some also available in Japanese and other languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots on Maui include:

• The summit of Haleakalā for breathtaking sunrise views.
• Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa State Park.
• The scenic Hana Highway, with multiple waterfalls and coastal vistas.
• Iao Needle in Iao Valley for lush, dramatic landscapes.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary is:

• Day 1: Explore the beaches and towns of Wailea and Kaanapali.
• Day 2: Drive the Hana Highway, stopping at waterfalls and hiking spots.
• Day 3: Visit Haleakalā for sunrise and explore the park’s hiking trails.
• Day 4: Snorkel at Molokini Crater or take a boat tour.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are available at Haleakalā National Park, where you can stargaze at one of the clearest skies in the world. Some resorts also offer evening luaus with traditional Hawaiian music and dance.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Maui can be crowded during peak tourist seasons (December–March and June–August). To avoid crowds, visit during the shoulder seasons in April–May and September–November.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most tourist areas, parks, and beaches on Maui have restrooms, water fountains, and food vendors. Larger towns like Lahaina and Kihei offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Maui is accessible for visitors of all ages. Many popular attractions like Haleakalā National Park, beaches, and the Hana Highway offer accessible facilities. However, some hiking trails may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted in most places. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for small vendors or in more remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are many excellent restaurants and cafes on Maui, particularly in Lahaina, Wailea, and Kaanapali. Popular options include:

• Monkeypod Kitchen (Wailea and Lahaina).
• Lahaina Grill (Lahaina).
• Fleetwood's on Front St. (Lahaina).

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many restaurants on Maui offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal options, especially in tourist areas like Lahaina and Wailea.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Some top hotels near major attractions on Maui include:

• The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.
• Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.
• Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kaanapali.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include:

• Molokai Island for a day trip to a more remote and traditional Hawaiian experience.
• Lahaina Historic Town, a charming former whaling village.
• Lanai Island, accessible by ferry, known for its secluded beaches.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, you can find souvenir shops in Lahaina, Wailea, and Kaanapali. Typical souvenirs include Hawaiian jewelry, tiki carvings, locally made clothing, and traditional Hawaiian quilts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Maui, the best options are to take a flight to another Hawaiian island or mainland USA. Rental cars are also available for further exploration on Maui.