Nature lovers pick Maui for its wildlife, volcanic craters and rolling hills, while active people come here for hiking, golfing and watersports. No matter what your interests are, Hawaii’s “Magic Isle” is a dream destination. The 80 or so beaches are inviting, the water is warm and the countryside is lush.
Maui is serviced by the Honolulu International Airport. Shortly after landing, you can start exploring Maui’s nearby capital of Wailuku. This quaint commercial center is the gateway to 'Iao Valley. If you visit in winter, travel west to visit historic Lahaina for whale-watching. This time of year, surfers flock to Honolua Bay in the northwest for big barrel waves and professional competitions. Relax in award-winning resorts, such as Kaanapali Beach, to make the most of the ever-pleasant weather in this tropical paradise.
In summer, when the water is calmer, enjoy snorkeling and diving off Kapalua Beach, which also has attractions for kids. Head south to Keawakapu to find another family-friendly beach, or continue to the beaches of Maluaka or Wailea to spot green turtles. Nearby Makena State Park has three very distinct beaches and a volcanic crater. Set sail to the crescent-shaped atoll of Molokini for bird-watching or scuba diving.
From Makena, travel east and get above the clouds at the Haleakalā Crater (House of the Sun). Visit at dawn for one of the best views in the whole of the U.S. The diverse ecosystem of forest and volcanic rock that unfolds in front of you is where Maui originated. Before heading back to Wailuku, make the epic coastal journey with hairpin turns, waterfalls and bridges all the way east to Hana.
A vacation in Maui can be expensive, but many people feel it is a small price to pay for paradise. Whether you are honeymooners seeking romance, families with energetic kids, hard-working couples looking to relax and youthful thrill-seekers, Maui shares its magic with everyone.
Maui, HI
Maui Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Maui
Wailea
Wailea is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Shops at Wailea and Ulua Beach.
Ukumehame Ahupuaa
While visiting Ukumehame Ahupuaa, you might make a stop by sights like West Maui Mountains and Maalaea Bay Beaches.
Halama Street
If you're spending some time in Halama Street, Kihei Town Center Shopping Center and Coast Guard Beach are top sights worth seeing.
Downtown Lahaina
Check out the seaside views, live music, and theaters while spending some time in Downtown Lahaina. Though there might not be many attractions in the neighborhood, you won't need to go far to find top spots like Puamana Beach Park or Kaanapali Beach.
Haiku
Though Haiku might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Haleakala Bike Company and Haiku Park.
Wailuku Heights
When in Wailuku Heights, you can plan a visit to Iao Valley State Park and Maui Arts and Cultural Center, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
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Popular places to visit
Kaanapali Beach
As one of the highest-ranking luxury beaches in the U.S., this stunning stretch of sand with crystal-clear water is lined with high-end hotels and shops.
Napili Bay
This vacation accommodation hotspot has everything you need. Its protected waters attract swimmers and snorkelers in summer, and surfers and body boarders in winter.
Wailea Beach
This stretch of powdery sand is part of an upscale resort community and is an ideal place to sunbathe, snorkel, and dive with Hawaiian green turtles and manta rays.
Whalers Village
You can do some window-shopping at Whalers Village during your stay in Kaanapali. Amble around this romantic area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Haleakala National Park
From mountain peaks to forested valleys, from the Pacific coastline to a volcanic crater, this national park encompasses a great diversity of natural habitats.
Maui Ocean Center
Make time to visit the sea animals who live in Maui Ocean Center during your trip to Maalaea. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its seafood restaurants.
