Planning Your Maui Vacation: What To Include On Your Itinerary

Planning a Maui vacation can be exciting and overwhelming. As the second-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, it shouldn’t be surprising that Maui has plenty to offer. 

The island is famous for its stunning natural beauty, sandy beaches, and incredible sunsets, meaning an unforgettable Maui sunset dinner cruise should be on your list but what else should you include on your itinerary? Here are some ideas to help ensure your Maui adventure is all that you hope for and a whole lot more.

What To Include On Your Maui Itinerary

Whether you love water sports, hiking, golfing, or just relaxing on the beach, you’ll find it and more in Maui.

Catch the Sunrise From Haleakala

You’re going to need to get up early, but the view is worth it. To avoid sleeping through the ridiculously early alarm, you may want to skip any late-night activities the evening before.

Haleakala is the highest point on Maui, and this is where you’re going before the sun starts rising. Your goal is to reach the 10,023-foot summit to catch the sunrise. Since you’re above the cloud line, get ready for a truly awe-inspiring sight.

You’ll want to start heading up Haleakala by 7 AM—and don’t forget to book this excursion a few weeks in advance. You may actually want to book it around the same time as your flight reservations. Thousands of visitors make the hike each year, and the summit can become crowded. 

Something else to think about is you’re hiking above the cloud line, meaning that temperatures are chilly so it’s a good idea to dress warmly. Wearing layers is a good option. As you start descending you can take off a layer or two as temperatures start rising.

Learn How to Surf

Watching the pros catch 50-foot waves is an impressive sight. Maui is home to some of the world’s hottest surfing spots like Peahi, Hookipa Beach, and Honolua Bay. After spending some time watching the pros riding the waves, it might be time for you to learn a bit about hanging 10.

Some of the pros offer lessons, and you can also sign up with a local surf shop. Along with snorkeling expeditions, you can also enroll in surfing lessons. 

Also, don’t worry if you didn’t pack any gear. Everything, except for your swimsuit, is supplied for you. You can rent everything from a surfboard to fins. Lessons range in price and you can find surfing classes catering to everyone from children to adults and even seniors.

Head to Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater is on the south side of Maui, about two miles offshore. Part of the Marine Life Conservation District, the crater forms a natural crescent that attracts thousands of colorful reef fish. You may even be able to catch a glimpse of Maui’s famous green sea turtles. 

Another fun fact. Around 20% of Hawaii’s reef fish are only found in the crater’s waters. In other words, Molokini Crater is the only place in the world to see some of these species of fish.

Visibility in the water frequently averages around 180 feet. On a clear day, you can easily watch the fish darting about in the water from a kayak or canoe. If you’re itching to swim in the crystal-clear water, snorkeling and diving tours make daily stops.

People Watch in Paia Town

When you’re ready to spend a couple of hours relaxing and want to take a break from the beach, Paia Town may be the perfect place to go. However, don’t blink when you’re getting close to the small town. There’s only a single main road and it’s easy to drive straight through without realizing you just passed a town.

The historic town has a hippie-surf vibe so stress isn’t something that exists in the area. However, you can easily spend a few hours people-watching. Paia has some colorful residents and the visitors can be just as eclectic. Grab a bite to eat in one of the town’s casual dining restaurants and browse through the local art galleries. You can even sign up for a yoga class or a relaxing massage.

If you start longing for the beach, Paia has you covered. You can watch the windsurfers at Hookipa Beach or head to Baldwin Beach Park for a leisurely picnic.

Whale Watching in the Winter

There’s nothing quite like seeing a whale breaching the waters and you may have the opportunity to witness the amazing sight in Maui. When you go to Maui will determine if whale watching is something to include on your itinerary.

Every year from December to April, around 10,000 humpback whales head to Hawaii from the Alaskan Gulf. Maui’s warm waters are the ideal place for the whales to birth and nurse their calves before making the journey back to the Gulf of Alaska.

You can grab a pair of binoculars and watch the whales from shore. Another option is to book a whale-watching tour. You can go by boat or helicopter. If the steep price doesn’t put you off and you’re certified, you can also go on a scuba diving expedition with the whales.

Participate in a Luau

Chances are your hotel puts on a luau for guests. You can check for times at the front desk, and you can also book a luau experience with an outfit on Maui. Your hotel can make recommendations based on your preferences.

You may have the option of participating in the cultural dance or you can relax and take in the performance. Don’t be afraid to try all of the various dishes. You’ll probably find each one is more delicious than the next. 

You can even choose your seating arrangements. If you want an authentic experience, we recommend grabbing a seat on the floor.

Have a Slice of Pie

You know the pie has to be delicious if it’s something to include on your Maui itinerary. However, it can’t be just any slice of pie—you want it to come from Leoda’s Pie Shop. 

From more traditional pies like banana cream to something a little more exotic like a pineapple lemon tart. The bakery focuses on local ingredients so their menu is constantly changing.

Hopefully, this list gives you some ideas that will help make your Maui vacation one you can’t stop talking about.