Simple Maui Itinerary

Question

We will be visiting Maui the first week of April, '26. We have five full days. I'm trying not to overplan - we're in our late 60's, and will still have a week in Oahu after Maui. I really want to do the Road to Hana, and our daughters insist we go on a doors-off helicopter tour. We're RV'ers on the mainland, and are trying to visit as many national parks as possible, so Haleakala is on the agenda! Here's what I have so far. This is not going to be a go go go vacation. Some adventure, some relaxation. We are looking at a VRBO/AirBnB in Kihei as a central location for lodging.

Day 1 - Rest & beach day

Day 2 - Road to Hana (as a tour? We don't want to have to worry about driving those roads! Just enjoy the scenery & stops)

Day 3 - Snorkeling/Beach Day (Molokini Crater?)

Day 4 - Haleakala NP & upcountry, maybe sunset at summit

Day 5 - Helicopter Tour, maybe something else too. Not too much though.

A luau is planned for Oahu. Is there anything else that would be a must-do on this island?

Thanks in advance!

Answer

Your Maui itinerary looks very well balanced — a mix of adventure and relaxation. Here’s a more detailed look at what you can do each day and a few extra suggestions that won’t feel rushed:

Day 1 – Rest & Beach Day: Kihei is a great central spot. Enjoy the calm beaches here like Kamaole Beach Parks I–III. These have gentle waves, good facilities, and nearby restaurants if you want a casual lunch.

Day 2 – Road to Hana: Taking a guided tour is a smart choice, especially if you prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about the winding roads. Tours usually stop at:

Twin Falls – easy short hikes to waterfalls
Waianapanapa State Park – black sand beach and coastal trails
Seven Sacred Pools / Oheo Gulch – great for photos, short walks
Various scenic viewpoints and roadside fruit stands

Since you’re not driving, you’ll also be able to take in the lush landscapes and waterfalls without stress.

Day 3 – Snorkeling / Beach Day: Molokini Crater is excellent for snorkeling and usually very accessible via boat tours from Maalaea Harbor. These tours often include Turtle Town, where you may see sea turtles. If you prefer a shorter or more relaxed day, you could also explore Wailea Beach or Big Beach in Makena.

Day 4 – Haleakala National Park & Upcountry: Visiting the summit is a must. Options:

Sunrise tour (very early, but spectacular; requires reservations)
Daytime visit for panoramic views, hiking short trails, or seeing the crater
Upcountry Maui – towns like Makawao and Kula offer farms, local markets, and lavender farms

If you enjoy wineries or small farm tours, this is a good day to stop by MauiWine or Surfing Goat Dairy.

Day 5 – Helicopter Tour: Doors-off helicopter tours are thrilling and give a full view of waterfalls, valleys, and the island’s rugged coastline. Companies like Blue Hawaiian or Air Maui are reputable. Depending on timing, you could also:

Relax at a nearby beach (Kapalua or Napili) for a final swim
Take a short hike in Iao Valley – easy, scenic, and historic
Explore Lahaina town for lunch, art galleries, and a stroll along Front Street

Additional “must-do” suggestions:

Luau – you mentioned you’re doing one in Oahu, but if interested, Old Lahaina Luau is highly recommended on Maui
Sunset at Lahaina Harbor or Ka’anapali Beach – beautiful and relaxing
Local farmers market in Upcountry or Lahaina – great for fresh fruit and souvenirs

Overall, your plan balances adventure and downtime nicely. By staying in Kihei, you’ll have central access to most points without feeling rushed. Your itinerary leaves flexibility for scenic stops, local eats, and spontaneous relaxation at beaches along the way.

Simple Maui Itinerary

More Maui Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions