Maui's stunning coastline with turquoise waters and lush mountains

The Best Things to Do in Maui

From Road to Hāna Adventures to Hidden Beach Treasures

Written by a Local Expert

Aloha, and welcome to my island home! My name is Jade Kawanui, and I've been lucky enough to spend my entire life here on Maui, the Valley Isle. I remember learning to surf on the gentle waves in Kīhei, the scent of plumeria after a morning rain, and watching the sunset from Haleakalā, feeling like I was on top of the world. Maui isn't just a place to me; it's a part of who I am.

I know that when you plan a trip here, the sheer number of options can feel a little overwhelming. You see the glossy photos and the top-ten lists, and you want to do it all. But here's a little secret from someone who grew up here: a common mistake I see visitors make is treating Maui like a checklist. They rush from one spot to the next, but they miss the magic in between. The secret to a truly unforgettable trip is to embrace 'Maui time.' Breathe, slow down, and let the island reveal its wonders to you.

In this guide, I'm going to be your friend on the inside. We'll go beyond the surface of the iconic "must-dos," giving them the depth and detail they deserve. I'll also share some of my favorite secrets that will help you connect with the real Maui. This is more than just a list of things to do; this is my invitation to experience the island with the true spirit of aloha. Let's begin our journey.

Aerial view of Maui's coastline with lush mountains and turquoise waters

The Heart of the Valley Isle: Maui's "Big Three" Experiences

To truly understand Maui, you have to experience its three most defining features: the legendary Road to Hāna, the sacred summit of Haleakalā, and our world-famous shorelines. Other travel sites often just scratch the surface, but we're going to dive deep, giving you the insider knowledge to experience them like someone who calls this place home.

The Road to Hāna: More Than a Drive, It's a Journey

Many people think of the Road to Hāna as a simple road trip, a way to get from point A to point B. But as someone who has driven it countless times, I can tell you the road is the destination. It's a pilgrimage through a living, breathing rainforest, a journey across 64.4 miles, over 50 one-lane bridges, and around more than 600 curves.

The road's famous challenges are precisely what have preserved its wild, untouched beauty. Navigating it with patience and respect isn't just good advice; it's an essential part of the experience, allowing you to connect with the land and the community that calls this incredible place home.

Pre-Trip Essentials: The Smart Way to Prepare

Your Hāna adventure begins long before you hit mile marker 0. Proper preparation is the difference between a stressful day and a magical one.

Vehicle Choice

Leave the big SUV or minivan at the rental lot. I always recommend a smaller, more nimble vehicle like a compact SUV, a Jeep, or even a convertible to feel the wind and smell the flowers. The roads are narrow, the turns are tight, and parking at the best spots is extremely limited. A smaller car is far less stressful to maneuver.

When to Start

This is the most important tip I can give you: leave before sunrise. I'm talking about being on the road from Pāʻia no later than 6 a.m. This isn't just a suggestion; it's the secret to a great day. By starting early, you'll beat the notorious traffic jams that build up by mid-morning and you'll actually find a parking spot at popular early stops like Twin Falls.

Road Etiquette (The Aloha Way)

This is a critical point that many guides miss. The Hāna Highway is the lifeline for the residents of East Maui. It's how they get to work, school, and the store. Please drive with aloha. The unwritten rules are simple but so important: if someone comes up behind you, find a safe pullout and let them pass. They aren't being rude; they're just on a different schedule. Yield to oncoming traffic on one-lane bridges, and please, never honk your horn. It's considered very "un-aloha". Driving respectfully makes the journey safer and more pleasant for everyone.