Maui
United States, North America
Volcanic peaks, jungle waterfalls, and whale breaches. Hawaii's most diverse island.
Hawaii's second-largest island is a paradise of diverse landscapes, from the lunar summit of Haleakalā volcano to the lush Road to Hana rainforest and the golden beaches of Kaanapali. Maui consistently ranks among the world's best islands.
Our honest take
Maui is paradise but it's American paradise, expensive, car-dependent, and resort-heavy. The Road to Hana is spectacular but exhausting (do it over 2 days with a night in Hana). Haleakalā sunrise requires a reservation months ahead. Skip the resort pools and get in the ocean.
Why go
- Haleakalā sunrise above the clouds is a spiritual experience
- Road to Hana has more waterfalls per mile than anywhere in the US
- Whale watching (Dec-Apr), humpbacks breach right offshore
Skip if you can
- Lāhainā town, devastated by 2023 wildfire, still recovering (respect the community)
- Molokini snorkel tours on large boats, overcrowded; go with a small operator
- Resort luaus, touristy and expensive; find a local community event instead
Things to do
Where locals eat
The Hawaiian working meal: two scoops of rice, mac salad, and a protein (kalua pork, teriyaki, mochiko chicken). A blend of the islands' immigrant plantation cultures, not tourist food.
Tin Roof in Kahului (chef Sheldon Simeon), a take-out window, lunch only, expect a line
Cubed raw fish (often ahi) seasoned with shoyu, sesame, seaweed, and onion, a Hawaiian staple long before the mainland trend, best from a local fish counter.
A local poke counter or fish market (Wailuku has good ones)
A local noodle soup born of Hawaii's plantation era, blending Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino influences, comfort food unique to the islands.
An old-school local diner or noodle spot
Portuguese-origin sugar doughnuts (malasadas) and fluffy shave ice with local syrups, the island sweet treats.
A bakery for malasadas; a shave ice stand in the afternoon
Costs
Per person, per day on the ground, lodging, food, local transport and activities. Excludes international flights (see Getting there).
Rental car: $80-150/day. Snorkel tour: $100-200. Haleakalā reservation: free but required.
Getting there
Where to stay
South shore, sunny, affordable condos, beaches
Luxury resorts, manicured beaches, expensive
North shore surf town, Road to Hana start, bohemian
Northwest, quieter, golf, snorkeling bays
Good to know
- Ocean currents are strong, check conditions before swimming
- Road to Hana: narrow, winding, one-lane bridges, don't rush
- Respect sacred Hawaiian sites, don't stack rocks or take lava
- Sunburn is severe at altitude (Haleakalā). SPF 50+
Prices, visa rules, and transport details may change. Always verify with official sources before booking. Last updated: July 2026.