30 Things To Do On Maui

Originally posted in 2017. A update is in the works!

Our recommendations for how to beach, eat, drink, hike, and sleep on this pristine gem of an island over nine days.

1. VRBO views: Nine days in a South Kihei condo was more affordable than moving to different parts of the island during our stay. Our VRBO host welcomed us with fresh fruit, beach chairs, beach towels, and this beautiful ocean view. We like having the space to lounge on the lanai, a comfortable living room for late-night relaxing, and a large kitchen for breakfast prep. We’ve been very happy with VRBOs on all of the Hawaiian Islands.

2. Drive along Kahekili Highway to Julia’s Banana Bread Stand. Julia’s is touted as the best banana bread in the world, so we were prepared to go great lengths (and heights) for it. This is a one-lane road, so pick a driving partner who is focused and patient. Note to passengers: It is your job to stay cool and calm on this drive.

3. Float in the Olivine Pools. It’s a steep, rocky descent to this secret spot, but worth the trek if you’re driving by after surviving the banana stand adventure. Shoes with good tread are a must.

4. Oooh and ahhh at the Nakalele Blowhole from a safe distance.

5. Drive the magnificent Road to Hana. I’m highlighting #6-10 as must-see spots along the way. Tip: We drove it counter-clockwise to avoid traffic.

6. Start your tour at the Pipiwai Trail. The hike was delightfully moderate (the very top was closed off due to the previous week’s storm), and the towering bamboo forest was a beyond whimsical wonderland of Disney dreams. Walked in on a wedding ceremony at Ohe’o Gulch and very glad that I wore my good jean shorts that day. Still waiting on those photos.

7. Red Sand Beach. Major props to our guide book, Maui Revealed by Andrew Doughty (7th Edition), for helping us find this haven. It was a slippery descent as we side-stepped along the shoreline during a downpour, though we made it across the rocky cliffs like pros. This story becomes very dramatic if you hear it in person.

8. Visit Black Sand State Beach. Spend a couple of hours getting lost at this must-visit island treasure. The glittering juxtaposition of charcoal sands and emerald fauna is unreal. Don’t miss the tiny cave that peaks out on to the beach. Restrooms available at time of writing.

9. Coconut Glen’s is the cherry on top of an already rewarding day. Vegan ice cream will hit the spot and give your driver the strength to finish out the drive.

10. Another snack break? Why, yes, I have been a very good passenger! Pull over at Huelo Lookout for the freshest pineapple ever, ever, EVER.

11. Hike Haleakala Crater. If you’re not a 3am-morning person (hi), opt for a mid-morning drive to the top of the crater. The cloud formations are still awe-inspiring at 11am. Trek down into the center of the crater for a good leg workout. Just remember that what hikes down must hike up. Bring plenty of water and trail mix.

12. Reward yourself for being a very good hiker/car passenger with lunch at Kula Lodge.

13. Swim with sea turtles. Floating with a huge honu in the shallow end of Kaanapali Beach was such a unique experience. Our new friend was hanging out for half an hour with us.

14. Jump off Black Rock. Looks terrifying? Yes. Looks like the best? Also yes. What they don’t tell you is that you have to climb up said rock first. It doesn’t have little path footie holders from the millions of climbers before you. You’re stronger than you think when you’re 100% sure that your life depends on it. Next time: Water shoes.

15. Sign up for a Molokini Express snorkel tour with Kai Kanani. The crystal clear waters at Molokini made the early wake up incredibly worth it for this not-a-morning girl. The 6:30am tour ensures that your boat is the only one on the water, so we didn’t have to fight for swimming space. Includes snorkel, fins, and light pastry breakfast are all provided. Wonderful guides. Easily my favorite excursion during the trip.

16. Brunch at Kihei Caffe. The sweet Hawaiian French toast with bananas, macadamia nuts, and coconut is a must MUST.

17. Watch the sunset and a special Hawaiian ceremony while dining at Fleetwood’s. Top the evening off with a shared shaved ice from Ululani. This is clearly the food portion of the post.

18. Dine at Monkeypod in Kihei. Their drinks are strong and their pumpkin squash raviolis were delicious. Also recommend the truffle pizza and banana cream pie for dessert.

19. Pina Coladas (yes, plural) at Mama’s Fish House. Make a reservation before you leave for your trip – it books up fast. We planned our Hana day around this reservation, so our end point at Pa’ia was perfect and the drinks so necessary.

20. Purchase fresh fruit at the local farmers markets. You haven’t had real papaya/lilikoi/guava until you’ve them in Hawaii.

21. Come for the tropical gelato but stay for the waffles-with-a-view at Maui Gelato.

22. Shop! The few souvenirs I purchased were from Anthropologie-meets-Hawaii shop SoHa Living in Wailea.

23. Quench your thirst with a fresh coconut from the side of the road.

24. Taco time: Paia Fish house lives up to the hype. Head to Fred’s Mexican Café for Taco Tuesdays.

25. Make feathered friends while snorkeling at Honolua Bay.

26. Tour the Maui Brewing Company and taste ’em all with a beer flight. Make sure to sample the coconut beer.

27. Meet friendly Hawaiian locals, appreciate the easy highways, and remember sunscreen.

28. Waterproof all the things. Stop by an ABC store to pick up a sealable case for keys when on water adventures.

29. Sit on your patio and watch the sky change colors.

30. Lean into gas station POG.

Mahalo for reading!