Where Should I Visit on Maui?

One of the amazing things about a Hawaii vacation is the opportunity to enjoy so many different experiences. From amazing beaches to breath taking national parks, historic sites to amazing culture, there is something for everyone on the beautiful islands of Hawaii. Maui offers great opportunities to touch on the beauty and charm of America's 50th state.

West Maui
The sunny northwest coast of Maui was once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty and the capitol of the Hawaiian Kingdom. Today, West Maui is home to amazing resorts, shopping, restaurants and a wealth of activities

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Walk the streets of historic Lahaina and take a whale watching or sunset cruise from Lahaina harbor. Watch the sunset cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock on beautiful Kaanapali Beach. Golf at the championship level courses of Kapalua. Or watch pro surfers at famous Honolua Bay. See why West Maui was the favorite of Hawaiian royalty.

West Maui Highlights:

• Kapalua - Kapalua is loosely translated to "arms embracing the sea," and it is one of Maui’s premier resort areas.
• Kaanapali Beach - Kaanapali Beach is the signature beach of West Maui.

Central Maui

Most visitors will begin their vacations here in Central Maui, arriving at Kahului Airport. 

Home to much of the island's local community, Central Maui offers plenty of off-the-beaten-path treasures to uncover. Browse the small town shops and restaurants of Wailuku. Visit historic and sacred spots like Iao Valley State Park. Discover Maui's thriving arts community at galleries and performance venues like the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. Or explore the streets of Kahului for its unique variety of shops, malls and restaurants. Experience the Magic Isle like a local in Central Maui.

Central Maui Highlights:

• Wailuku - The gateway to Iao Valley, Wailuku is the county seat of Maui’s government.
• Iao Valley State Park - Central Maui’s Iao Valley State Park features one of Maui’s most recognizable landmarks, the 1,200-foot Iao Needle.

Upcountry Maui

Rolling hills and misty mountains unfold as cool breezes carry the scent of eucalyptus throughout Upcountry Maui. Located on the high elevations around Haleakala, the fertile slopes of Upcountry are home to ranches, botanical gardens and farms with soaring views. From early times, Hawaiians farmed the volcanic soil of the Upcountry fields, growing taro and sweet potato. Today, take a farm tour in Kula and see how Maui produces the famous Maui onion and other fresh farm-to-table ingredients for Hawaii’s finest restaurants. Discover small town Makawao, home to the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) and a thriving art scene. And don’t forget to drive beyond Upcountry up to Maui’s highest peak to explore the rare flora and fauna of Haleakala National Park.

Upcountry Maui Highlights:

• Kula  - Upcountry Maui's rustic town of Kula is known for its produce farms and botanical gardens.

East Maui

The lush, East Maui coast is famous for the winding road to Hana. Beginning in the Central Maui city of Kahului, the Hana Highway runs for 52 miles amongst waterfalls, dramatic vistas and flowering rainforests. Hana itself is a small town where Hawaiian traditions are alive and aloha is a way of life. Beyond Hana is the Kipahulu section of Haleakala National Park, the site of the beautiful Pools of Oheo. Go back in time with a day-trip through unforgettable East Maui.

East Maui Highlights:

• Pools of Oheo- The Pools of Oheo, located just past Hana, are beautiful, swimmable pools fed by waterfalls.
• Hana - Hana is a small, untouched town on Maui’s eastern coastline. To get here visitors must travel one of the world’s most scenic drives.

South Maui

You’ll find the sunniest, driest area of Maui on the peaceful southwestern coast. Blessed with miles of sandy beaches and clear views of the islands of Lanai, Molokini and Kahoolawe, South Maui is a place for lazy days and romantic nights. Explore the immersive underwater aquarium at the Maui Ocean Center in the whale-friendly Maalaea Bay. Golf at world-class courses in Wailea and Makena. Shop and dine in some of Maui’s finest restaurants and resorts. Discover Maui’s warm hospitality on its spectacular southern coast.

South Maui Highlights:

• Wailea - Wailea, on the south shore of Maui, is a luxurious resort community known for crescent-shaped beaches and world-class golf.
• Kihei - Kihei, on the southwest shore of Maui, features six miles of beaches.

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About the Author

Jennifer Whitney, Owner and Travel Advisor
Jenn has a passion for travel. She loves helping families create amazing memories while exploring the world.  From fun family road trips through the mountains of California, to climbing Machu Pichu, conquering Disney Parks, and even sailing the seas, she has either been there or helped a family get there! Jenn is an Accredited Cruise Counselor, Hawaii Destination Specialist, Certified Sandals Specialist and graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge. She also holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from the University of North Texas.