5 Days in Maui: The Perfect Itinerary to Explore the Island
As someone who has had the pleasure of exploring this Hawaiian gem, I can’t wait to share my 5 days in Maui itinerary to you.
If you’re like me and have been dreaming of a tropical getaway that combines stunning landscapes, rich culture, and ultimate relaxation, then Maui is the place for you.
*This itinerary has been slightly modified for more of a balance between adventure and relaxation.
Total cost of trip for 3 people: $4,000 estimated including flights, hotel, meals, and rental car.
Keep a lookout for flight deals and packages through CheapoAir.
Why You Should Visit Maui
When it comes to dreamy tropical getaways, Maui always finds its way to the top of the list.
Maui is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches. From the famous white sands of Ka’anapali Beach to the tranquil shores of Wailea Beach, there’s a spot for every beach lover to soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal clear waters.
But Maui isn’t just about beaches. The island is also a nature lover’s paradise, with lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
One of the must-visit spots is Haleakalā National Park, where you can witness the sunrise from the summit of a dormant volcano – a truly unforgettable experience.
And l can’t forget about whale watching, where you can witness these majestic creatures breaching and playing in the warm Hawaiian waters.
What Makes the Hawaiian Culture in Maui so Unique?
When it comes to the Hawaiian culture in Maui, there’s a unique blend of tradition and modernity that sets it apart from other destinations.
The rich history and traditions of the islands are still very much alive in Maui, with hula dancing, lei-making, and traditional luaus being celebrated regularly.
In addition, the breathtaking landscapes of Maui, from lush rainforests to volcanic craters, also play a significant role in shaping the culture of the island.
The connection to the land and sea is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture, with practices like taro farming and fishing passed down through generations.
Best Time to Visit Maui
The best time to visit Maui, Hawaii is typically during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to November).
When I visited Maui in February, there were still crowds from people trying to escape the winter, but the crowds on the beach and attractions weren’t nearly as bad as I thought.
There were also hundreds of whales hanging out in the Maui waters. They will continue to stay until April before migrating to colder waters.
During these times, you can often find better deals on flights and accommodations compared to the peak summer and winter seasons.
Maui enjoys warm weather year-round, but the shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures with less humidity.
You can expect sunny days and comfortable evenings during these times, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the island.
How to Get to Maui
There are usually no direct flights to Maui in less you are flying from a major airport like Los Angeles or Seattle. If you are exploring other islands like Oahu, you will need to take a flight to Maui.
Another option is to take a cruise ship to Maui, as many cruise lines offer stops at the island.
How to Get Around Maui
Once you arrive in Maui, you can rent a car to explore the island at your own pace or use public transportation to get around.
The Maui Bus provides affordable and convenient transportation around the island, serving popular destinations such as Kahului, Kihei, Lahaina, and Upcountry Maui.
The bus routes cover a wide area, making it possible to access many attractions, shopping centers, and beaches without the need for a car.
The bus schedules vary by route, so it’s important to check the timetables in advance.
However, the buses don’t go to the Haleakala Volcano or the Road to Hana.
Cost: daily passes are $4 and general fare is $2
Where to Stay on the Island: 5 Days in Maui Itinerary
When visiting Maui, there are various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.
If you’re looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay, consider booking a resort in Wailea or Kapalua, known for their beautiful beaches and upscale amenities.
For a more laid-back and local experience, explore the charming towns of Lahaina or Paia, where you can find cozy bed and breakfasts or vacation rentals.
If you prefer a central location with easy access to activities and attractions, staying in Kihei or Kaanapali might be ideal.
Do keep in mind that many residents from the wildfires in Lahaina are currently staying in some of these hotels until they build more housing for them.
Day 1: Breakfast at Resort, Pool Day, and Afternoon Shopping
To beat the jetlag, wake up early enough to dine at a restaurant either on or near the resort. On my trip to Maui, we decided to stay at the Maui Kaanapali Villas, which had a cute beachfront cafe where they served Maui staples and familiar classics.
After having a nice breakfast with a view of one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, spend a day at the pool. It’s not hard to fall asleep with the warm temperatures and the sun.
Leave the resort and spend the rest of the day shopping. Since I stayed in the Lahaina area, I went to the Whalers Village, which is a beautiful outdoor mall with boutique shops, restaurants, and even a wildlife center.
Then I finally got to try Hawaiian pizza at Pizza Paradiso, a top restaurant in Kaanapali.
One last thing I did before going to sleep was watch the stunning sunset on Kaanapali Beach.
Day 2: Visit Honolua Bay and Go Whale Watching
Only a few miles from Lahaina, Honolua Bay is a prime snorkeling spot on the island with breathtaking cliffside views. There are several outlooks that you can stop at on the mountain.
On the way up the mountain, you will find a hidden area in the rainforest that leads you down a path towards a rocky shore. If you don’t go early, you can run into the issue of not finding a parking spot.
Keep in mind if you decide to snorkel that there are signs everywhere to practice caution as there are high levels of bacteria in the water. You may even see chickens wandering about.
Once you’ve explored this area in Honolua Bay, it’s time to catch your whale watching excursion. There are plenty of tour agencies in Wailuku, Wailea, and Lahaina that you can book to see the whales up close.
We booked our tour on Viator from Maalaea Harbor for around $50 per person for 2 hours.
Tip: If you are prone to seasickness, make sure to pick up some Dramamine as the waves can be super choppy.
Day 3: Road to Hana
The reason why we only included the Road to Hana for our third day in Maui was because this adventure takes all day.
If you don’t get up early enough (talking like 8-9am) it will be too late to do everything that the Road to Hana offers.
One of the most scenic drives in the world, this road is not for the faint of heart with one lane roads and super high cliff drop-offs. But to get to Hana, the road to get there is the journey that you will remember above all else.
From Lahaina, the drive takes about a 1 hour and 30 minutes. Be prepared for winding roads, possible hazards like fallen trees, and make sure to let the locals pass you.
Not every place on the Road to Hana will allow visitors, so it’s important to pay attention to the Road to Hana GPS guide for the best places to stop.
Since we had a reservation time slot for Waianapanapa State Park (reservations required), we couldn’t waste a lot of time exploring other attractions along the way.
But if you have time, stop for banana bread or a meal at one of the restaurants if they are open. You can also explore the Garden of Eden Arboretum and the Twin Falls.
Day 4: Visit Paia and Ho’okipa Beach
The North Shore of Maui is a gem for surf lovers as the waves can be gigantic. But surfing season only runs between October and March.
After visiting Paia, which is a small, historic town on the way to Hana, spend the day at Ho’okipa Beach.
You might even catch a bunch of turtles resting on the beach.
Tip: If you decide to stop in Paia for lunch or to buy souvenirs, be mindful of your valuables and don’t leave them in the car.
Day 5: Visit the Haleakalā National Park
Many people have recommended to do the sunrise tour for Haleakalā Volcano, and I wish we did as the day we went had little visibility with the fog with intense wind.
If you decide to do the sunrise tour, you will have to drive up more than 10,000 feet on a mountain in the dark. (Which we weren’t confident enough to do for our first time.)
It is also more expensive to do the sunrise tour, but it might be worth it. I will let you find that out for yourself.
Once you are inside the park, there is a place to stop for bathrooms with a few exhibits to read regarding the species of animals and plants that can only thrive in such high elevations.
There are two places that overlook the volcano, depending on visibility if you don’t want to climb or hike. The volcano summit gave us the best views of the volcano.
Tip: Make sure to bring your jacket and walking shoes.
General cost of admission is $30
Bonus Recommendations to Add to Your 5 Days in Maui Itinerary:
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1. Visit Mama’s Fish House
This popular restaurant requires reservations and is often sold out. If you’re wanting a chance to dine at this famous place, you will need to plan months in advance.
Located in Paia, this upscale seafood restaurant is a local landmark with delicious food and beautiful views.
2. Spend the Night in Hana
If you don’t want to feel rushed by having to do all of the attractions in one day on the Road to Hana, consider splurging a little on a night in one of these resorts and cabins:
3. Arts and Crafts Fair in Lahaina
A great way to support the locals is to go out and buy directly from them.
Only on Sundays, the Maui Gift & Craft Fair inside the shopping mall offers everything from handmade bracelets to unique things like wooden carved signs.
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