Maui Itinerary: The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide

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I’m so happy to finally be sharing a Maui itinerary on here! Last year I was lucky enough to go to Maui three times, so it’s high time I got a travel itinerary for this amazing island up on the blog.

I receive a lot of questions about where to eat and what to do in Maui, and this Maui travel guide blog post covers all of my recommendations and travel tips

The Valley Isle is probably one of my favorite places in the world (definitely my favorite place in the U.S.) and I truly think it should be on everyone’s travel bucket list.

It’s just so special and I feel so good when I’m there. It’s never enough time and whenever I have to leave I always wish I could stay longer.

This travel guide is full of activities and all the info on what to do in Maui, but of course part of enjoying a paradise like the Hawaiian islands is just relaxing on the beach or at the pool with a tropical drink in hand.

So if you’re looking for a travel guide to Maui, feel free to take bits and pieces, or single days from this itinerary and make it your own!

Sprinkle in days of total rest and relaxation in-between days of adventuring however you feel like. It’s your vacation, after all.

Also, sometimes I receive messages from people trying to choose between a trip to Kauai or Maui, so if you’re interested, my Kauai Travel Guide is here—take a few day trips between both.

Of course, my opinion is that you should go to both and decide for yourself which is your favorite because they are both incredible. 🙂

This Maui itinerary is for 7 full days, and you can also check out my other Maui guides that cover top beaches to visit, best restaurants, and where to stay here:

Best Beaches in Maui
Best Sushi in Maui
15 Best Restaurants in Maui
Where to Stay on Maui

Where to Stay:

People always ask me where to stay in Maui.

The two most popular areas for tourists are Kaanapali and Wailea.

You can check out my more detailed guide on where to stay in Maui here.

How to Get Around:

Hawaii is a lot bigger than you think! So, I definitely recommend checking out some car rental companies to arrange a car to get around the island.

Having a car will definitely make traveling a lot easier and you’ll be able to fit in more in one day.

This post was written pre-panny so make sure locations are still open and be aware of all travel guidelines and restrictions. Check out Maui’s travel information here.

7 Day Maui Itinerary

Day 1: Maui Itinerary

Maui Helicopter Tour

We did one of Air Maui’s helicopter tours over the West Maui Mountains and Molokai and it was freaking awesome!

I definitely recommend doing the doors-off chopper. It’s thrilling and you don’t have to worry about any glares from windows when you’re enjoying the views or snapping pictures.

Lunch at Tinroof

Since we were in Kahului for the helicopter ride, we stopped at Tinroof for lunch.

It’s a mom-and-pop that works closely with local farmers and fishermen for their food.

We had their mochiko chicken, which is their specialty, and the chicken is marinated overnight and then fried in a mochiko batter.

The miso sauce and aioli on top are the finishing touches that make it super delicious.

Slaughterhouse Beach

We made our way back to Kaanapali and went to hang out at one of my beaches over on the west side of the island.

Slaughterhouse Beach can have awesome snorkeling (I’ve seen dozens of humongous sea turtles there), but it can also be super rough with giant waves and surfers.

On the day we went, it was crazy rough and there was no way we’d be able to snorkel, so we just relaxed on the beach—don’t forget to bring your reef-safe sunscreen.

If you want to see more turtles, Ho’okipa Beach Park is known to have flocks of them soaking in the sun on the sand.

Dinner at Star Noodle

For dinner, we went over to Star Noodle, which is a super popular spot in the Lahaina area.

We had reservations, but for people who didn’t the wait was two hours!

Some of my favorite dishes of theirs are the Vietnamese crepes, pork buns, bacon & eggs, and garlic noodles.

Day 2: Maui Itinerary

Hike at Waihe’e Ridge Trail

When we were on our helicopter ride we flew over the Waihe’e Ridge Trail, and our pilot mentioned that it was one of his favorite hikes on the island.

Since the West Maui Mountains were so spectacular by air, we decided to come back and get a view of them on a hike. It’s about two miles to the top of the ridge, so four miles round trip, and fairly steep.

Also, be careful about hiking here if it’s going to be raining—things got super slick and muddy quickly and it was especially tricky coming back down on the slippery slope.

If you’re looking for a different hike, the Iao Valley Trail (the entrance fee for this state park is only $5 per vehicle) or the Kapalua Coastal Trail are also both very beautiful.

Shave ice at Ululani’s

Ululani’s is my favorite shave ice place on Maui!

They have several spots on the island including Kahului and Lahaina.

Since I’m a coconut gal, their Haleakala flavor combo is my fav, but honestly, all of their flavors are delicious.

Poke bowls from Tamura’s

I looove to grab poke bowls from Tamura’s!

It’s a liquor store, but it also has a poke bar where you can sample their different pokes.

Their sunrise and hamachi pokes are my fav.

We picked up a couple of poke bowls for dinner and had them out on the lanai while we watched the sunset.

Pie from Leoda’s Pie Shop

On our way back to Kaanapali after hiking earlier in the day, we stopped by Leoda’s Pie Shop.

We always pass this place across the street from Olowalu and I’d been wanting to try it.

Omg, their pies are sooo yummy. The coconut cream pie was the bomb, and the chocolate macadamia nut pie was also fantastic.

Next time I want to try their key lime pie and their haupia chocolate pie. Yum!!

And if you love banana bread make sure to try the banana cream pie.

Day 3: Maui Itinerary

Whale watching

If you’re in Maui during whale season, you absolutely have to go whale watching!

Peak whale season is February, but they start to show up around mid-December and you can still see them until May.

The humpback whales come down from Alaska to have their babies here, and it is absolutely incredible to see them!

I’m going to write up a whole in-depth post about whale watching tips in Maui, but for now, my tips are: don’t go out on a huge whale watching boat.

Go out with Hawaii Ocean Rafting, specifically with Captain Jeff.

He’s able to zip around on a much smaller zodiac raft and get you much closer to the whales, plus he’ll let you “whale dunk,” which is when you stick your face in the water to look at the whales.

This was such a bucket list experience for me and I legit bawled my eyes out after seeing this mama and her brand new baby underwater!!

Cabana day at the Hyatt

Rent out a cabana at the Hyatt and hang out beach and poolside. You don’t have to be a guest to rent one. Make sure to get a coconut smoothie, and shave ice from the Ululani’s stand at the pool later.

Maui Gold Pineapple Tour

Maui is known for the Maui Gold Pineapples! There’s really nothing like them.

Enjoy fresh, sweet, and juicy pineapples all day long while touring the plantation. You’ll get a one-of-a-kind experience visiting.

You can even visit the distillery section to see how they make Hawaiian brand spirits.

Molokini Crater

If you can definitely pay a visit to the Molokini Crater—it’s one of three of the only volcanic calderas in the world.

You can book tickets online to go on a magical snorkeling tour. What makes this snorkeling spot so special is the quality of water surrounding Molokini.

The water is so so clear because there’s no soil to wash down into the water since Molokini is a rock.

The water is so so clear because there’s no soil to wash down into the water since Molokini is a rock. You also don’t need to worry about waves or surges since the snorkeling spot is located in the middle.

The shallow and calm water is really unbeatable. It’s going to be so hard to leave this snorkeling spot.

Pupus and dinner on the deck

We spent the rest of our evening relaxing on our condo’s lanai, watching humpback whales breach.

It is so incredible to see these huge creatures slapping their fins and breaching out of the water.

Staying in a condo means you get to grill up and enjoy Maui’s incredible fish! In Kaanapali, Safeway is the best for fish for grilling, like mahi mahi or ono.

Omied perfectly grilled up some mahi mahi and we made seriously amazing fish tacos.

For sashimi-grade blocks of ahi tuna, we like to go to Foodland.

Pro tip when you’re looking for ahi tuna for sashimi: try to find the brightest, ruby red block with the least amount of white-ish fibers.

Ice cream from Island Cream Co

This place serves up a mix between gelato and ice cream and has all of the Hawaiian flavors you could dream of, plus traditional ones too.

I got the chocolate caramel turtle with a scoop of coconut (I know, again with the coconut! I like what I like) and it was the best sweet treat to end our night on.

Day 4: Maui Itinerary

Snorkeling at Lanai

We booked the Half Day Dolphin + Snorkeling from Maui to Lanaī with Hawaii Ocean Rafting and it was awesome.

Do note that the snorkel spot locations are going to be based on the weather/wind.

If it’s too choppy, they’re not going to take you out to Lanai. We were able to go to one snorkel spot at Lanai, but the other spot on the other side of Lanai was too rough.

We did see dolphins, which is, of course, the best. And the coral reef over at Lanai is incredible. So, so beautiful.

Big Beach

If you’d rather have a relaxing day and are opting out of the Lanai snorkeling trip, head to Wailea in South Maui (about an hour drive from Kaanapali) for a beach day.

Big Beach is probably my favorite beach park on the island for just relaxing.

The sand is soft and white and the water is so turquoise and gorgeous.

Dinner and drinks at Ka’ana Kitchen

If you’d like to stay in Wailea for dinner, Andaz Maui’s beautiful Ka’ana Kitchen is a great option.

Be sure to request a table outside for gorgeous views of their multiple infinity pools, the ocean, and Molokini.

Their cocktails were delicious and I loved their ahi tuna dishes.

Day 5: Maui Itinerary

Brunch at Gazebo Restaurant

This little restaurant is super duper popular and they don’t take reservations.

But if you go on a random weekday, your wait shouldn’t be too bad.

Be sure to get the macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup. It’s legit the best.

Snorkeling at Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay is another favorite snorkeling spot of mine on the west side of the island.

I love that you walk through a beautiful, lush jungle to get to the beach. It’s pretty protected and usually calm enough for snorkeling.

I like to venture off to the right of the cove where there is beautiful reef.

We almost always spot sea turtles here and this time saw at least a dozen.

Lunch at Monkeypod

Snorkeling always works up a huge appetite, so we went over to Whaler’s Village to try Monkeypod, which just recently opened there.

They have really great eats at affordable (for Maui) prices.

Their mai tai is the best on the island! I’m not really a mai tai kinda girl (because pina coladas, duh), but the creamsicle foam that they add to the top of their mai tais really does it for me. 

Hula Grill or Leilani’s are also great choices for casual but yummy restaurants at Whaler’s Village, but we were excited to check out a new spot.

Black Rock Beach

Since Monkeypod is right by the beach, we strolled along and found a spot at Black Rock to take in the sunset.

Day 6: Maui Itinerary

Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is one of those things that people are pretty torn on.

While it does take you to some serene, beautiful places, it’s a very long drive (especially if you are based in Kaanapali, on the opposite side of the island), and it’s also very windy.

But I say you should find out for yourself!

You don’t have to do the whole road or see everything; in fact, most guides will recommend you pick and choose a few destinations along the way rather than trying to cram everything in.

A few favorites of mine are the twin falls, black sand beach, Wailua falls, Seven Sacred Pools, and the bamboo forest.

If you make it all the way to the end, go to Maui Tropical Plantation for dinner.

Honokowai Okazuya

If you don’t do the whole road to Hana (or don’t stop for dinner), grab Hawaiian plates from Honokawai Okazuya when you’re back in Kaanapali.

My favorites are any of the mahi mahi dishes, the katsu don, or the chicken teriyaki. So good.

Day 7: Maui Itinerary

Lunch at Mama’s Fish House

Mama’s is located on the north shore and is known for being one of the best (if not THE best) restaurants on Maui.

The setting on the beach is absolutely stunning, and their freshly caught fish is to die for.

They even have opakapaka (pink snapper) on the menu right now which I rarely see restaurants serve these days, and it’s my favorite Hawaiian fish.

Definitely make reservations weeks in advance for this one.

Hike and sunset at Haleakala National Park

Haleakala crater is pretty mind-blowing to see.

You can hike down a bit (or all the way if you’re feeling super adventurous), and just admire how it looks more like Mars than Earth.

Real go-getters will go to watch the sunrise over Haleakala, which I’m sure is amazing, but I’m more of a sleep-in and watch the sunset kinda gal.

Dinner at Sansei Sushi or Paia Fish Market

Sansei is another favorite restaurant of mine on Maui.

They have a location in Kihei and Kapalua.

A couple of my must-have dishes there are the panko-crusted ahi sashimi and the crab ramen with truffle broth.

Seriously drooling right now thinking about those dishes!

If you’re looking for something more casual, Paia Fish Market in Lahaina is one of my absolute favorite spots to grab a delicious and reasonably priced meal.

They always have opakapaka (pink snapper) which is hard to find these days.

I love getting the sauteed ‘paka over their home fry potatoes. SO. GOOD.

I ask for it with half as much salt/seasoning as it can get a little on the salty side.

But seriously, you won’t regret it. We usually eat here multiple times during our trip.

Waiʻanapanapa State Park

You can find Black Sand Beach here at Waiʻanapanapa State Park. Enjoy the sunset and go for a walk along the most picturesque sand.

This spot is located near Road to Hana and has a lot of historical significance. If Black Sand Beach peaks your interest, I also highly recommend Red Sand Beach.

A gorgeous hidden cove that feels unreal! Just make sure to do research before going it can be a dangerous location to get to.

What to do in Maui with Kids:

I thought it would be helpful to include some fun activities to do in Maui with kids especially if you’re traveling with family.

Maui Ocean Center

The Maui Ocean Center is a great place to learn about Maui’s marine life. It’s a fun place for parents and kids.

Be sure to check out their amazing 3D humpback whale movie!

Kula Botanical Garden

Explore 8 acres of beautiful botanical gardens and Maui’s native plants.

Full of color and beautiful pathways that lead you through gardens and ponds. This would honestly make a great photo op!

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

You might be surprised to learn that Maui has a lavender farm with 45 varieties of lavender, which you can explore at the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm along with other beautiful tropical flowers and plants.

You’ll also get to enjoy the stunning views of West Maui as you make your way to the top of the hill. Also, enjoy a number of delicious desserts and coffee with infusions of lavender.

Old Lahaina Luau

If you’re looking to do a luau in Maui, the Old Lahaina Luau is the best.

It’s less kitschy than some of the hotel luaus, and they do a great job of sharing Maui’s history.

Hawaii Mermaid Adventures

Let your inner mermaid shine and take a mermaid swimming lesson, complete with a mermaid tail and underwater photos.

Hawaii Mermaid Adventures does lessons in the ocean or at the Hyatt pool, and adults can join in the fun too.

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That’s it for my Maui travel guide! Did I miss anything?

Maui is one of my favorite places in the world! Nothing beats clear blue waters and sunshine almost all year long.

No matter the occasion, be it a honeymoon, vacation, girls’ trip, or babymoon (whenever people ask me for suggestions for babymoon destinations, Maui is always high up on my list), Maui never disappoints.

I’m always looking for new spots to check out in Maui, whether it’s a new hike or a restaurant, so tag me (@wtfab) if you think of anything else!

Heading to Maui? Check out my other Maui content:

15 Best Restaurants in Maui
Best Beaches in Maui
Best Sushi in Maui
Where to Stay in Maui
Maui Airbnbs
Best Restaurants in Lahaina
How to Tie a Sarong
9 Best Hikes in Maui for Epic Views
75 Hawaii Instagram Captions
Spending the Day at Hyatt Regency Maui
Best Breakfast in Maui: 8 Can’t-Miss Restaurants

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