OlyaMaui, a tropical paradise island in the Pacific, lures you in with its stunning beaches, endless waterfalls and the rain forest, amazing wild life, volcano views and more. It is a true bucket list destination for both beach lovers and adventure seekers. Come to Maui to hike scenic trails, laze on the beach, surf, swim in waterfalls and embrace the aloha spirit.
THINGS TO DO
ROAD TO HANA
Driving up the 64.4 mile long Hana Highway with its 620 curves and 59 bridges is an iconic road trip that you simply must experience when in Maui. This road will take you through the most luscious part of the island that looks like a movie set for Jurassic Park or King Kong. There are over 15 waterfalls along the road to Hana, explore some jungle trails that take you to waterfalls for a refreshing float. You will also find some of the most unique Maui beaches while on this road trip, a black sand beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park is worth special mention since it requires making a reservation through the government website beforehand (link: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/maui/waianapanapa-state-park/ ). One of my personal favorite stops on the road to Hana is Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread located at another stunning location called Waialohe Park.
BEACH HOPPING THROUGHOUT THE ISLAND
With 30 miles of beaches, Maui has a lot to offer to surfers, sailors, snorkelers and divers. You can be surfing some of the best waves at Ho’okipa beach or floating at the beautiful Kapalua Bay, laying on black sand at Wai’anapanapa. If you have the time, explore and enjoy as many beaches as you can.
Special mention: Ho’okipa beach park – My personal favorite is Ho’okipa located next to the famous Jaws surf break and a small surf town Paia. Being a fantastic surf spot, Ho’okipa also seems to be a magnet for turtles. Many of them can be spotted lazying on the sand and when you’re in the water, it feels like a turtle freeway with a big turtle swimming past you every ten minutes.
HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK (VOLCANO)
Haleakala happens to be one of the tallest volcanoes in the world standing at 10 023 feet. The drive to the peak is really stunning, especially once you reach the point where you’re above the clouds. There’s something so serene and peaceful about watching the sky turn golden as you stand on top of the volcano watching the clouds stretch for miles under your feet.
WAIHEE RIDGE TRAIL
Hiking this trail definitely feels like entering the King Kong land, the views of towering, green mountains and endless jungle will take your breath away.
Special mention: Nakalele Blowhole – After our hike in Waihee Ridge trail, we wanted to drive up the coast towards Nakalele Blowhole which required taking Kahekili Highway going into Honoapiilani Hwy. Be warned that this road is even more narrow and has more hairpin turns than Hana Hwy but it’s absolutely stunning and the whole experience of driving up this coast line all the way down to Lahaina is truly unforgettable.
LAHAINA
The original capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Lahaina is a quaint, small town filled with art galleries, local shops, restaurants and bars. This is definitely the most happening place on the island. In Lahaina, you will also find the famous Banyan tree that’s over 150 years old.
WHERE TO STAY
Lahaina – For more social vacation, stay in Lahaina to be close to many restaurants, bars and other fun activities. There are plenty of luxury resorts nearby to the North of Lahaina, that way you can enjoy some peace and quiet and yet be close to action when you choose to go out.
Paia and Haiku – If you’re going on a surf trip to Maui, then Paia or Haiku should be on your list of places to stay. Ho’okipa beach is right there and it’s the perfect surf spot on the island. The vibe here is even more laid back and local. The road to Hana starts very close from here as well. We stayed in a lovely Airbnb in Haiku nestled in the jungle a short walk from Baked cafe. I absolutely loved being close to Ho’okipa beach, waterfalls and Paia but I did miss the buzzy feel of Lahaina. If you can spend a few nights on this side of the island and then stay close by Lahaina, that seems like a perfect combination to me.
FOOD
Thai Spice LLC (In Paia) – a hole in the wall with the most amazing Thai food
Baked (In Haiku)- fantastic Canadian place. We loved having our breakfast here every morning.
Peahi Farmstand – Serving delicious smoothies and acai bowls
Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread (On the Road to Hana)- delicious banana bread at one of the most stunning places on the island.
Lahaina Fish Co (In Lahaina) – This fun spot sits right above the water and has great vibes at night. We snagged a table for two right by the water and really enjoyed our dinner while listening to live music coming from Lahaina yacht club next door.
Paia Fish Market – Great for fresh local seafood
Foodland Farms Lahaina – If you’re spending long hours at the beach, make sure to grab some delicious poke at this local store (close to Baby Beach).
