2 days in Maui

Question

We booked a last minute trip cruise in Hawaii for end of Feb. It is our first time in Maui- ( or Hawaii at all) three adults - my husband and I and a grown daughter. We have two full days as the ship is docked overnight in Kahului. Most of the ship excursions are already full so we are venturing out on our own,

My question is if you had two full days in Maui as first timers what would you do? I've been researching but its always nice to ask this question and gather some suggestions from experts. We thought to maybe book Road to Hana tour one day. We don't really want to rent a car because we all want to just be able to chill and enjoy the scenery. We are pretty open to most ideas.

Second question is does anyone have a recommendation for a tour company or a Road to Hana Tour ? Our ship docks at 8:00 AM. Thank you in Advance!

Answer

For your two full days in Maui, you’ve got plenty of options to make the most of your time without feeling rushed. Here are some ideas that cater to your interests and your desire to relax and enjoy the scenery:

Day 1: Road to Hana Tour

The Road to Hana is a classic Maui experience, offering stunning views, waterfalls, lush greenery, and coastal scenery. If you prefer not to drive, booking a guided tour is a great option. Many companies offer small-group or private tours that allow you to sit back and relax while someone else drives, so you can fully enjoy the views without worrying about the winding roads.

Consider a guided tour: Some highly rated tour companies that provide Road to Hana tours with pick-up from Kahului include Valley Isle Excursions and Hana Tours of Maui. These tours typically start early in the morning (around 7:30-8:00 AM), and you’ll return to the ship by early evening. They usually include stops at waterfalls, beaches, local food stops (such as the famous banana bread stands), and scenic viewpoints.
Optional stops: Some tours may include stops at spots like Wailua Falls, Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa State Park, and the Seven Sacred Pools (Oheo Gulch), depending on the route and time available.
What to bring: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring sunscreen, water, and snacks. It’s also a good idea to have a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can vary along the route.

Day 2: Relaxed Day and Maui Highlights

After your adventurous day on the Road to Hana, take it easy on your second day with a mix of scenic, cultural, and relaxing activities.

Visit Lahaina: This historic whaling town offers a laid-back vibe with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. It’s perfect for a relaxing day out. You can stroll along Front Street, enjoy the views of the harbor, or take a short walk to the Banyan Tree Park, which has the largest banyan tree in the U.S.
Snorkeling or Beach Day: If you enjoy the beach, consider visiting Kamaole Beach Parks or Wailea Beach for a relaxing day on the sand. If you’re interested in snorkeling, these beaches offer calm waters and plenty of sea life. Molokini Crater is also a popular snorkeling spot, but it requires a boat ride, so if you’re short on time, sticking to the beaches is your best bet.
Upcountry Maui: If you want to experience a different side of Maui, drive up to the Upcountry area. The scenic drive up to Kula offers beautiful views, and you can visit local farms, wineries, and botanical gardens. Stop at the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm for a relaxing walk and stunning views of the island.
Maui Ocean Center: If you’re interested in marine life, consider visiting the Maui Ocean Center aquarium. It’s a great spot to learn about the ocean and marine life around Maui and offers a calm, educational way to spend the afternoon.

Tour Companies for Road to Hana:

As for booking the Road to Hana tour, here are a couple of reliable companies to consider:

Valley Isle Excursions: Known for their friendly guides and great customer service, they offer comprehensive tours of the Road to Hana with scenic stops and local insight. Their tours typically run for around 9-10 hours and include stops at top destinations.
Hana Tours of Maui: They provide a more personalized experience with small-group tours. Their itineraries often include plenty of time for sightseeing and breaks, making the drive more relaxed and enjoyable.
Maui Hana Tours: Another great option for small-group tours, with a focus on a more leisurely, relaxed experience. They offer a more intimate way to enjoy the scenic journey with a knowledgeable guide.

General Tips:

Book the tour early, as the best ones can fill up quickly, especially since your ship is docked overnight. It’s ideal to book with a company that offers pick-up directly from your cruise port.
While the Road to Hana is a full day trip, it’s worth it for the views and experiences along the way. However, if you feel like you need a shorter alternative, consider a half-day tour of a few select spots.

Enjoy your time in Maui! There’s so much to see and do, and with two full days, you’ll get a great taste of the island!