Maui Overview
Sights, Activities, Accommodations, & More
Planning your first trip to Maui? You're about to visit a place you have only dreamed about! The very idea of soaking up the rays on a tropical island or exploring a bamboo rainforest, especially on an island labeled "the best" by renowned travel writers and guidebooks... it's enough to make anyone jealous.
Once you actually arrive on Maui, you'll quickly discover there's a lot more waiting for you here than you expected. In fact, you might just become one of the thousands of us who find ourselves suddenly addicted to Hawaii. The first time I arrived I remember thinking to myself, I didn't know a place like this existed. That is to be expected; Maui truly is paradise and it's earned its reputation the world over.
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2024 Maui Visitor Guides
Visiting Maui soon? Be sure to grab your copy of one of our updated Maui Visitor Guides.
~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~
I had traveled to 49 of the 50 United States before I ventured to Hawaii. I was 21 at the time, and little did I know what was in store for me. It was the beginning of an adventure that’s taken me on a decade-long ride of adventure and amazingly rewarding experiences and friendships. Now your journey is about to begin.
If you’re like most of us, you’ll arrive at Maui’s main airport – Kahului (OGG). Many flights fly directly to Maui from the mainland, without a layover in Oahu, so try to catch one of those flights if you can. Accommodations wise, you’ll discover there are a plethora of resorts, hotels, condos, B&Bs, and inns to fit nearly any vacation budget. You’ll probably end up staying in Kaanapali, Kihei, Makena, Wailea, or Kapalua; but if you really want to get away from it all, consider staying Upcountry near Kula or in remote Hana town. We also love the Haiku area.
We’ve included an estimate of Maui driving times for you to review before you embark on your trip. On average, expect about an hour drive from the airport to the popular Kaanapali area on the southwest coast.
Once the bags are unpacked and you’ve recovered from your long flight, get your exploring cap on and head out to discover all that is Maui. You'll find an abundance of beaches to visit; especially on the leeward coastline. Or explore the lush tropical and winding highway that is the Road to Hana. At the end is the beautiful Oheo Gulch area which features a 400ft waterfall for those who venture onto the trail to reach it – taking them and their companions through an amazing bamboo forest.
If you’re looking for some amazing shopping, entertainment, or dining, then Kaanapali is your best bet. The Iao Valley is a treat for most visitors, as is exploring the incredible Haleakala Volcano summit inside Haleakala National Park – literally the “House of the Sun.”
As you’ve probably already garnered, there’s a lot to do on this little island. Be prepared… plan ahead. Doing your research in advance will really pay off when the time comes for you to make your visit. And, not to rub it in, but sending a pineapple or postcard to your co-workers and friends back home is always a nice gesture; though some may be quite envious when you return with that vacation glow. But hey… who can blame them!
Maui no ka oi!
Our Recommended Maui Tours & Activities
We won't lie: Your first trip to Maui will be simply unforgettable; there is so much to see and do! That's why booking the right tours and activities for you and your travel party is so very important... you want the best experiences and the best value for your vacation dollars- no matter what your budget is. That's why we have handpicked only the best Maui tours and activities for you and have included them right here- to make planning simple and fun. Book your adventures today and fall in love with Maui, just as we have!
