Best One Day on Maui

Question

Adults (21 - 60 yo); If you could only do one excursion/day trip while on Maui, what would you do? Give me the whole day's itinerary. Or give me your top two!! Will be staying in West Maui so open to anywhere on the island.

Answer

If you could only do one excursion/day trip on Maui, there are two standout options that will give you a memorable experience of the island. I'll give you my top two suggestions, complete with full itineraries for each, and you can decide which one fits your vibe the best!

Option 1: Road to Hana Day Trip

The Road to Hana is one of Maui's most iconic experiences, offering breathtaking coastal views, waterfalls, beaches, and lush rainforests. It’s a full day adventure, so you’ll want to leave early and pace yourself. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

6:00 AM - Depart from West Maui – Start early to avoid the crowds and traffic. Grab breakfast or pack something light for the road.
8:00 AM - Twin Falls – The first waterfall stop on the Road to Hana. It's an easy hike to the falls, and you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools.
9:30 AM - Hana Town – Head into Hana and explore the town. This is a great spot for a quick snack or lunch. Hana Farms is known for its delicious banana bread, smoothies, and local treats.
11:00 AM - Waianapanapa State Park – This black sand beach is one of Maui's most scenic spots. Take a walk along the shore or explore the caves and coastline.
12:30 PM - Hana Lava Tube – Explore this fascinating underground tunnel formed by volcanic activity. It's a cool stop to stretch your legs and get a glimpse of Maui’s geological history.
2:00 PM - Kipahulu District (Seven Sacred Pools) – The famous Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) is a must-see. If you have the time and energy, take the short hike to the pools for a swim in a picturesque setting.
3:30 PM - Return Trip – Start heading back to West Maui. Depending on the time, you can take a brief stop at some of the smaller waterfalls or beaches on the way back.
5:30 PM - Arrival at West Maui – You’ll get back just in time to relax and unwind from your full day of adventure.

The Road to Hana is a long day but filled with stunning views, interesting stops, and the ultimate tropical vibe. Make sure to pack snacks, water, sunscreen, and a camera!

Option 2: Haleakalā Sunrise & Upcountry Maui Exploration

If you want to experience Maui's diverse landscapes, an early morning trip to Haleakalā National Park and a tour through Upcountry Maui is a fantastic option. Here’s a suggested itinerary for your day:

3:30 AM - Depart for Haleakalā National Park – The sunrise at Haleakalā is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences you’ll ever have. Leave early enough to make the 2-3 hour drive up to the summit (around 10,000 feet) and catch the sunrise from the crater.
5:30 AM - Haleakalā Sunrise – The sunrise over the crater is absolutely magical. Bundle up, as it can be chilly at the summit. Make sure to book your sunrise reservation in advance as it’s required!
7:00 AM - Explore the Crater – After sunrise, take a short hike in the summit area, like the short but beautiful Pa Ka’oao Trail for some stunning views over the crater floor.
8:30 AM - Head to Upcountry Maui – After leaving Haleakalā, head down the mountain to Upcountry Maui, where you can visit the charming towns of Makawao and Kula. Stop by a local coffee farm or a winery for a quick taste of the island’s agricultural side.
10:00 AM - Visit Surfing Goat Dairy or MauiWine – These are two of the more popular stops in Upcountry Maui. Surfing Goat Dairy offers goat cheese tastings, and MauiWine offers wine tastings with a historic plantation backdrop.
12:00 PM - Lunch at Kula Bistro – Head to Kula Bistro for a laid-back lunch with incredible views of the island. Enjoy delicious local dishes made with fresh ingredients from the surrounding farms.
1:30 PM - Explore Makawao – This historic paniolo (cowboy) town has great shopping, local art galleries, and some charming stores that reflect the island’s history.
3:00 PM - Return to West Maui – After exploring Upcountry, start making your way back to the West Side for a relaxing evening. Stop for a coffee or ice cream on the way back, as there are a few great local spots in the towns you’ll pass through.
4:30 PM - Arrival in West Maui – You’ll get back early enough to catch a beautiful sunset at one of Maui's beaches or enjoy a relaxing evening at your resort.

This day trip offers a diverse mix of Maui’s natural beauty—from the mystical summit of Haleakalā to the peaceful vibe of Upcountry Maui. If you enjoy cooler temperatures, hiking, and exploring local culture, this is a fantastic option.

Final Thoughts:

If you're looking for a single day to truly capture Maui’s diverse landscapes, the Road to Hana is the top pick for its combination of coastal beauty, tropical vibes, and adventure. However, if you're more into a mix of mountain and country exploration, the Haleakalā Sunrise & Upcountry Maui trip is a perfect way to see Maui's volcanic landscapes, lush farming areas, and charming small towns.