What to Do in Maui, Hawaii—a 6-Day Itinerary When Visiting the Island
For good reason, Maui is a popular vacation destination. Despite having gone several times, I always find new things to do. So where to start? Below are suggestions of what you can do and where you can visit in the form of an itinerary, based on my own years of going to the island.
Transportation
Rent a small car, not an SUV (the roads can be tight around the mountains, so a big car will be hard to drive around in if you don't have experience).
Where to Stay
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Island Drive
Drive around the island, starting in Wailea/Kihei area, take Honoapiʻilani Highway, also Hawaii Route 30. Go to Honokohau Lookout. Take Kahekili Highway all the way around to Paia. Drive carefully as there are a lot of turns, no guardrails, rock walls and cliffs. The views are stunning!
Day 2: Road to Hana
Drive the Hana Highway, stopping to do hiking around the bamboo forest. Relax in Black Sand Beach (you have to reserve at least a day before), eat at Hana Farms, drive all the way back up to Paia or where you're staying.
Day 3: Helicopter Tour & Luau
Relax and take a helicopter ride around the island (with the landing!). Go to a Luau in a big hotel.
Day 4: Boat Tour & Paia
Take a nice boat tour around the island. Go eat pizza at Flatbread Company in Paia.
Day 5: Plantation Visit
Relax, go get sushi for lunch, and then head to the Maui tropical plantation--take a tram tour, and have sunset dinner there.
Day 6: Sunrise & Fine Dining
Watch the Haleakalā Volcano Sunrise! Important notes:
- Bring coats and scarves--it gets cold up there!
- Wake up early and depart around 2:30 AM
- It's about a 30-minute drive to the top after entering the park
- Bring snacks and coffee
- Make reservations up to 60 days in advance
End your trip with a sunset dinner at Mama's Fish House—one of the best restaurants in Hawai'i! It's right on the beach, with a fun atmosphere and excellent food. Reserve as early as possible.