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Maui is something else. The beaches are beautiful, National Parks are amazing, and it’s home to the iconic Road to Hana. Whether you’re just passing through or seeking an epic adventure, Maui has something for every traveler. This guide offers budget-conscious travelers bucket list ideas, recommendations, and tips for exploring Maui.

14 Maui Experiences You Can’t Miss

1. Conquer Haleakalā National Park

• Haleakala National Park is an absolute highlight on Maui. The unique national park offers various hiking trails, stunning overlooks, and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Plan for a full day and get ready for an epic adventure in Haleakala.

• TIPS:
  • Haleakalā offers a wide range of hiking trails. To find the perfect hike for you, explore the trail options on the National Park website.
  • Start the day early and come prepared with hiking gear, water, and snacks.
  • Make sure you stop at the visitors center before your hike. The rangers can give you the inside scoop and answer any questions you have.
  • There’s an entrance fee to enter Haleakala National Park, which you pay before entering the park. This gives you access to the trails, overlooks, and visitor center.

2. Sunrise or Sunset at Haleakala National Park

• If you’re hiking Haleakalā, you’ve got to see the sunrise or sunset. It’s the perfect ending (or beginning!) to your day. You cannot miss it! Just remember that reservations are required for sunrise and need to be booked in advance.

• KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
  • You only need a reservation between 3am and 7am. There’s also a fee to enter the park.
  • Make your sunrise reservation on the Haleakala National Park website.
  • Make sure to get there at least 30-45 minutes before sunrise!
  • Bundle up! It gets chilly up in the clouds!

3. Explore the Road to Hana

• Make your Maui dreams a reality with the iconic Road to Hana! The Road to Hana 55-mile adventure that takes you through the rainforest, past waterfalls, and along some of the most stunning coast cliffs.

• UNMISSABLE HIGHLIGHTS:
  • Ho’okipa Beach 
  • Twin Falls
  • Pua’a Ka’a Falls 
  • Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread
  • Nua’ailua Lookout
  • Upper Waikani Falls 
  • Black Sand Beach
  • Hana Town
  • Pull over and catch the sunset on the way back to town

4. Hit the Beach in Kihei

• Kihei is located in southwest Maui offering beautiful beaches! There are plenty of opportunities for surfing, swimming, and snorkeling in Kihei. Start your day with coffee from Java Cafe before heading to Kamaole Beach Park. I recommend packing a lunch and chilling there the whole day! Afterward, head to Maui Brewing Company for a few pints and nibbles. Then, return to the beach for a beautiful sunset!

5. Immerse Yourself in Maui’s Mountains on Waihee Ridge Trail

• You absolutely can’t miss this hike in Maui! The hike is about four miles round trip and offers unbelievable views of the northern Maui mountains.

• KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
  • Directions: The parking lot coordinates are: 20°57’11.2″N 156°31’56.4″W. Alternatively, you can search for “Waihee Ridge Trail” on Google Maps, and it should appear.
  • Trailhead: Located near the parking lot.
  • Distance: 4 miles out and back 
  • Duration: Approximately 3 hours
  • Tip: Visit AllTrails.com for a map and more details! 

6. Spend the Day In Paia

• Paia is a cute town on the north shore of Maui. Its main street is filled with cafes, cool shops, and a great vibe! After exploring the town, head to Baldwin Beach for a chance to spot sea turtles.

• RECOMMENDATIONS:
  • CAFES
    • Flatbread Company
    • Pa’ia Acai
    • Pau Fish Market
    • Island Fresh Cafe
    • Belle Surf Cafe & Lounge
  • COFFEE
    • Paia Bay Coffee & Bar
    • Story Maui
  • SHOPS
    • By the Bay
    • Honolua Surf Co
    • Heart in Paia
    • Loveup Boutique
    • Acacia Flagship
    • Lele by Adelina A Mare

7. Unwind All Day at Big Beach

• Big Beach, also known as Makena Beach, is a must-visit destination in Maui! You can easily spend the entire day here. Make sure to bring your snorkels, boogie boards, and a good book!  

• KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
  • Beach Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM
  • Cost: $10 per car

8. Find Hidden Adventure on the Lahaina Pali Trail

• This hike is a real hidden gem! It takes you up to Maui’s windmills, providing stunning views of the valley, ocean, and neighboring islands. It’s a perfect way to start the day. The trail offers two starting points: an eastern and a western trailhead. For a shorter outing, hike to the windmills and back. To experience the full trail, coordinate parking cars between the two trailheads.

• KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
  • Trailhead: Plug whichever Trailhead you’re starting at into Google Maps. It will take you to a parking area and the trailhead is located nearby.
  • Distance: 4 or 6.5 miles
  • Duration: Between 3-5 hours.
  • Tip: Visit AllTrails.com for a map and more details! 

9. Take a Surf Lesson

• No trip to Hawaii is complete without trying surfing! There are many surf companies based in Kihei to choose from.

• Here are some options:
  • Maui Waveriders
  • Surf Club Maui
  • Swell Maui Surf Lessons

10. Cliff Jump at Black Rock Beach

• If you’re looking for adventure, Black Rock Beach is your spot! Cliff jumping is a blast, and the snorkeling and beach are awesome. It’s a perfect way to spend the afternoon!

• TIP: The beach is located behind a resort. You can find parking on the road and follow the paths to the beach.

11. Go to the Thrift Shops

• Maui has some of the best thrift shops, no matter where you go! It’s a great way to snag a few souvenirs without breaking the bank.

12. Escape the Tourists at Honolua Bay

• Honolua Bay is a great spot for snorkeling, relaxing, and enjoying beautiful views along the way. The water is crystal clear show colorful fish, coral, and sea turtles perfectly! The fact that it’s less crowded with tourists is a definite plus!

13. Find the Needle at Iao Valley State Park

• ʻĪao Valley is a State Park located in West Maui. It is home to the 1,200-foot ʻĪao Needle and offers great hiking and sightseeing opportunities. You can also explore the botanical garden and the area near the river.

• KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
  • Park Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM
  • Fees: You must pay an entrance fee and parking fee. 
  • Hikes: There are several hikes to choose from that offer stunning views of the lush National Park. You can plan your hike by heading National Parks website or AllTrails to pick one. 
  • Tip: Stop at the visitors center before you head out to get more detailed information and advice from the rangers.

14. Spot Sea Turtles at Maluka Beach

• Want to spot sea turtles? Maluaka Beach is the place to be! The beach is gorgeous, and the snorkeling is amazing. It’s the perfect way to spend the afternoon!

Transportation

CAR RENTAL

• The best way to get around Maui is by renting a car. The best rental car deals are Turo, Sixt, Maui Car Rental.
• TIP: Check Skyscanner or Kayak for deals! But then book directly with the rental company you chose. 

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

• Public Transportation in Maui has 12 bus routes that run through the Central, South, West, Haiku, Kula and Upcountry Maui areas of the island. It’s an affordable way to get around the island, however it’s not known to be quick. You can find the bus schedule and routes on Maui Bus.

WHERE TO STAY

• Maui might be a small island, but it offers a variety of accommodation options. If you’re looking for a high-end experience, head to West and South Maui, for resorts. If you’re looking for convenience, stay in Kahului where the airport is located. If you’re looking for budget-friendly options, head to Kihei, in South Maui. If you’re looking for a remote experience, head to the West Maui Mountains.

HOW MANY DAYS?

• There’s so much to see in Maui! I recommend at least a week, but you can easily stay longer.

Favorite Coffee Shops

• Lava Java Coffee Roasters of Maui
• Maui Coffee Roasters
• Wailuku Coffee Roasters
• Bad Ass Coffee
• Akamai Coffee Company

Tips from a Budget Backpacker

• There are only a few hostels on the island, so if you’re looking for budget accommodation make sure you book a bed well in advance before it’s sold out.

• Eating out in Hawai’i can quickly add up. Staying somewhere with a kitchen allows you to cook your own meals, giving more flexibility and control over your spending.

• If you’re planning on taking the bus, check the timetables and routes the day before. The bus is slow moving, so you need to plan your schedule around the bus times.

You’re all set for your adventure to Maui!

Have the best time and make sure you do one thing that makes you say “I love my life” each day! 

– G