Maui 6 nights from UK - ideas and suggestions please

Question

We are flying into Maui on thanksgiving and leaving the following Wednesday. Coming from the uk as part of a California/Las Vegas trip. We have accommodation booked in Wailea and hiring a car from/to the airport. Looking for ideas/suggestions on what to do/see/eat etc? Late 50’s, fairly active, like food etc. Many thanks

Answer

Flying into Maui for six nights around Thanksgiving offers a wonderful opportunity to experience both the natural beauty and culinary delights of the island. Since you’ll be based in Wailea with a rental car, you’ll have the flexibility to explore beaches, scenic drives, and nearby towns at your own pace.

Here are some ideas and suggestions for your stay:

Road to Hana: Plan a full day for this iconic drive. Start early in the morning to enjoy waterfalls, black sand beaches, and lush rainforests. Key stops include Twin Falls, Wai’anapanapa State Park, and the Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe’o Gulch. Pack snacks or stop at roadside stands for fresh fruit and banana bread.
Haleakala National Park: Consider sunrise or sunset at the summit. It’s a surreal experience with dramatic volcanic landscapes. Make a reservation for sunrise if possible. Layered clothing is recommended as it can be chilly at the summit.
Beaches near Wailea: Relax and swim at Wailea Beach, Makena Beach (Big Beach), or Polo Beach. Snorkeling is excellent at Ulua Beach and nearby Molokini Crater (book a half-day snorkel trip).
Upcountry Maui: Explore Makawao and Kula for charming towns, art galleries, and farms. Stop at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm or Surfing Goat Dairy for a unique local experience.
Lahaina Town: Walk the historic Front Street for shopping, galleries, and dining. Consider an early dinner at a seafood restaurant or a traditional Hawaiian luau in the area.

Food and dining suggestions:

Try local Hawaiian cuisine such as poke, fresh seafood, and shaved ice at small eateries.
Upscale dining in Wailea includes Morimoto Maui, Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante, and Spago for excellent views and food.
Casual options include local taco trucks, beachfront cafes, and the Maui Tropical Plantation café.
Farmers’ markets are great for fresh fruit, local baked goods, and artisan products.

Additional activities:

Whale watching (if in season, generally November through April) via boat tours from Lahaina.
Hiking in Iao Valley State Park or along coastal trails for moderate activity and scenic views.
Kayaking or paddleboarding in Maalaea Harbor or Wailea.
Evening strolls along Wailea Beach Path for sunset views.

Tips:

Book popular tours and sunrise visits in advance, especially around Thanksgiving.
Start your day trips early to maximize daylight and avoid traffic on scenic routes like the Road to Hana.
Layered clothing is essential for varying temperatures in upcountry or at Haleakala.
Allow some downtime at the beach to relax and enjoy the island pace.

With six nights, you can comfortably mix scenic drives, beach relaxation, and culinary experiences, creating a balanced and memorable Maui trip.