Maui 5-6 nights

Question

My family and I are in the early stages of a Maui-Kauai next March. We're thinking 5-6 night starting in Maui and the same for Kauai. I like the idea of staying in a hotel condo in the Lahaina area and whale watching in the morning and evenings. We plan on taking the road to Hana, my question is should we stay our entire time in Lahaina or stay 1 night in Hana or close to it?

Answer

For a 5-6 night stay in Maui, starting in Lahaina is a great choice, especially if you want convenient access to whale watching, local restaurants, shops, and West Maui beaches. Lahaina is also well-located for exploring the nearby beaches of Kaanapali, Napili, and Kapalua.

Regarding the Road to Hana, it’s a full-day adventure if you do it as a round trip from Lahaina, especially when stopping at multiple waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints. Doing it in one day is possible but can feel rushed and long, particularly if you enjoy taking photos, hiking short trails, or having meals along the way.

Option 1: Stay all nights in Lahaina. Drive to Hana as a long day trip. This keeps your base consistent, which is convenient for whale watching in the mornings and evenings. You’ll be returning late, which can be tiring, but it’s doable if your family is comfortable with long driving days.
Option 2: Stay 1 night near Hana. This allows a more relaxed experience, with time to explore the Hana area, Twin Falls, Wai‘anapanapa State Park, and the Seven Sacred Pools without the pressure of driving back the same day. You can then drive back at a leisurely pace the following day.

Practical considerations:

Road conditions: The Hana Highway has many curves and one-lane bridges. Driving it twice in a day can be exhausting.
Accommodation options near Hana are limited and tend to be more rustic or small boutique hotels, so book early if choosing to stay overnight.
Weather and sightseeing: Staying near Hana lets you enjoy sunrise or sunset stops along the coast without backtracking, and gives flexibility if rain affects the drive.

Recommended approach: If your family prefers a more relaxed experience with the chance to explore Hana thoroughly, consider staying one night in Hana. If you prioritize whale watching in Lahaina or want the convenience of a single base, staying all nights in Lahaina is fine but prepare for a long driving day.

Additional tips:

Start the Road to Hana early in the morning to maximize daylight and reduce traffic.
Pack snacks, water, and a change of clothes if planning to swim at waterfalls.
Check whale-watching tour schedules in advance — early morning or late afternoon tours are popular in March.

Overall, both approaches are valid; it depends on whether you prioritize convenience in Lahaina or a more leisurely, immersive Hana experience.