East Maui for 3 Days

Question

My husband and I have been gifted the opportunity to see Maui mid March. At 70 yrs, we dabble in photography, nature hikes, wildlife and experiencing new culture. We shy away from crowds but given this once in a lifetime gift we want to make the most of it- so yes we will be another tourist. Respectfully , we could use your help. We are renting a car at the airport Kahului arriving around noon. We have three nights set aside to see East Maui. Looking at a map , the Road to Hana on the North side (rt 36 to 360 ) to Haleakalā National Park turn off looks to be a natural start. In reading other posts, the road south of there is currently subject to closures and precarious road conditions not conducive to rental cars. This means we turn around and head back to Rt 36 area, rather than making that loop. Looks like we need to find a place/ area to stay that will accommodate day trips. We also would like to see the coast to Wailea area. We like small towns, botanical gardens and are not attracted to resort type stay , but don’t exclude possibilities.

Since this gift is last minute we may be in trouble regarding accommodations but any advice as to where a good central location would be is welcomed. Thoughts and recommendation would very much be appreciated.

Thank you! Donna

Answer

Aloha Donna,

What a wonderful opportunity to experience Maui! It sounds like you have a fantastic trip ahead. Given your interests in photography, nature hikes, wildlife, and avoiding large crowds, I’d suggest focusing on a few key areas in East Maui that offer the beauty, culture, and tranquility you’re looking for. Here’s a suggestion for your itinerary and advice on accommodations:

1. Exploring the Road to Hana
Since you’re arriving around noon and planning to focus on East Maui, starting with the Road to Hana (Route 36 to Route 360) is a great idea. The journey itself offers plenty of opportunities for photography and exploration, with natural beauty around every turn. The drive is breathtaking, with waterfalls, lush rainforests, and coastal views. However, you are correct that the road south of Hana may not be ideal for rental cars, so your plan to turn around at Haleakalā National Park makes sense. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time for the drive, as it’s a winding, slow-going road that’s best enjoyed without rushing.

2. Hana and Nearby Areas
If you want to stay closer to Hana, there are several small, non-resort-style options that can give you a more authentic, laid-back experience. Consider staying in a bed-and-breakfast or a cottage rental in or around Hana. These options will provide a more intimate, local feel, while still allowing you to explore the area’s natural beauty. Hana is known for its slower pace and offers some great hikes, including the Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park (home to the famous Pipiwai Trail and the stunning Waimoku Falls). You can also visit the Seven Sacred Pools (Oheo Gulch) for some wonderful photography opportunities.

3. Staying Around Kula or Upcountry Maui
If you want to avoid the more touristy parts of Maui but still be centrally located for exploring East Maui, consider staying around Kula or upcountry Maui. Kula is located above the town of Makawao and is a great base for day trips to both the Hana side and the slopes of Haleakalā. You’ll find small guesthouses, bed-and-breakfasts, and boutique accommodations that offer a peaceful atmosphere. Staying in this area also puts you near the stunning botanical gardens in the area, like the Kula Botanical Garden, and gives you access to scenic hiking trails. This option will allow you to easily access Haleakalā National Park, the Hana Highway, and still be close to the Wailea area for your last day of sightseeing.

4. Exploring the Coast to Wailea
Since you’re also interested in seeing the coast toward Wailea, I recommend driving from your accommodation on the Hana Highway toward the southern part of the island, passing through towns like Kihei and Wailea. These towns are a bit more developed than Hana but still offer scenic beauty and some small-town charm. Wailea itself is more of a resort area, but you can still enjoy the beaches and coastal views without staying in a resort. You might consider a short visit to the Wailea Beach Path for a peaceful walk along the coastline and some quiet time at the beach.

Accommodations:
Since your trip is last-minute, it’s understandable that finding accommodations might be a challenge, especially during the busy winter season. However, here are a few ideas for places to stay in East Maui that are central for your day trips and align with your preference for smaller, more local experiences:

Hana: Look into Hana’s small bed-and-breakfasts or cottages like the Hana Maui Resort (formerly the Travaasa Hana) or private vacation rentals. These options will give you a more personal experience while being right in the heart of the area.
Kula/Upcountry Maui: Consider staying at Kula Lodge or a private vacation rental. Kula offers beautiful views, cooler weather, and is within reasonable driving distance to Haleakalā and the Road to Hana.
Makawao or Paia: If you want a little more access to restaurants, small shops, and galleries, the towns of Makawao and Paia might be good options. They’re a little closer to central Maui but still offer a relaxed atmosphere and are great places to enjoy local culture.
Airbnb/VRBO: You may also want to check for private vacation rentals in smaller towns near Hana or Kula for more secluded, peaceful lodging. Many hosts offer homes with incredible views and easy access to hiking and local attractions.

5. Dining and Food Recommendations:
Maui offers some incredible local food, and you’ll find delicious spots along your journey:

Hana: Stop by Hana Farms for a quick bite and enjoy their fresh, local produce and picnic-style meals.
Makawao: If you’re in Upcountry Maui, check out Casanova for delicious Italian food or Upcountry Cafe for a more casual meal.
Kula: You can visit The Kula Lodge for lunch or dinner with panoramic views of the island.

Final Thoughts:
Given that you have 3 days, you’ll have a good amount of time to explore East Maui’s natural beauty without feeling rushed. I recommend focusing on the Hana Highway, Haleakalā National Park, and Wailea while avoiding the more touristy areas. Staying in Hana or Upcountry Maui will provide a more relaxed, authentic experience that fits your preferences. And with your interest in nature and photography, you’ll be surrounded by stunning landscapes that will make for a memorable trip.

Enjoy your adventure in Maui, and mahalo for choosing such a beautiful and peaceful part of the island!