We're all after it — the perfect vacation. The vacation that makes others jealous, and that we look back on for years reflecting on what a great time we had. When you visit Maui, it is pretty easy to have a close-to-perfect vacation just by arriving on the island. Maui is beautiful, offers plenty of great activities, and is simply fun. The island is so laid back and the residents make it very easy to enjoy a visit to their home. If you are planning a vacation on Maui, get ready for the time of your life in one of the best places in the world to visit.
Of course, you are going to want to find things to do when you get here, which is where we come in. With so much to do and so many things to see, planning a vacation can feel overwhelming. Should you plan activities for every day, or only a couple of days? Which is the right beach? Which luau should you choose? Where is the best Mai Tai on the island? We can address some of those questions — but some answers you will only discover once you arrive. A bit of spontaneity is always good for a vacation, and it's a great idea to head to your destination with a few happy question marks.
- Plan a day or two on the sand and a day or two on the water — Molokini snorkeling or a sunset dinner cruise.
- If you do one thing, make it a lūʻau.
- Give a full day to either the Road to Hana or the Haleakalā summit.
- Book early. Maui tours sell out weeks, sometimes months, ahead.
- Leave part of the trip unplanned — a few happy question marks are good for a vacation.
Quick Answer
A good Maui itinerary mixes three things: beach and ocean time, one lūʻau, and one big sightseeing day. Plan a day or two on the sand plus a day or two on the water — snorkeling at Molokini Crater or a sunset dinner cruise — then give a full day to either the Road to Hana or the summit of Haleakalā. Book activities well ahead, because Maui tours regularly sell out weeks or months in advance, and leave a little room for spontaneity.
| Part of the trip | How much time | What it looks like |
|---|---|---|
| Beach days | 1–2 days | Sand, swimming and slow mornings on the west or south shore |
| Ocean adventure | 1–2 days | Snorkeling at Molokini Crater, or a sunset dinner cruise along the coast |
| Lūʻau | One evening | Huakaʻi Lūʻau — oceanfront setting, buffet, live music and Polynesian performance, Tuesdays |
| Sightseeing | 1 full day | The Road to Hana through rainforest and waterfalls, or the Haleakalā summit |
| Unplanned | Whatever is left | The part of the trip you will actually talk about afterwards |
Ocean Activities
The ocean is the hub of activity for any Hawaiian island, and is likely a big part of why you chose Hawaii as your destination. The best idea is to plan a day or two at the beach, and a day or two on a fun ocean adventure — like snorkeling at Molokini Crater or a Sunset Dinner Cruise along the coastline. The water around Maui is warm, clear, and endlessly inviting.
Lūʻaus & Evening Shows
If there is one single activity you choose to do while you are here, it should be a lūʻau. These celebrations date back to the earliest days of the islands and the same traditions, cooking methods, and spirit are still found at every lūʻau today. Our favorite Maui lūʻau — the Huakaʻi Lūʻau — takes place at a stunning oceanfront setting, features a delicious buffet, and delivers an evening filled with authentic culture, music, and unforgettable performances.
Sightseeing
Sightseeing is the best way to experience the full beauty of Maui, and you can cover a great deal in a single day — leaving plenty of time for the rest of your vacation. Drive the legendary Road to Hana, winding through lush rainforests and past cascading waterfalls, or head up to the summit of Haleakalā for sweeping natural beauty and a chance to see parts of the island that many visitors never get to experience.
Take advantage of our low price guarantee today. Call our office or book online — either way, our team is here to help you plan the Maui vacation you will be talking about for years to come. We look forward to welcoming you to the islands. Aloha!