Maui, the Valley Isle
A volcano topping 3,000 meters, a waterfall-lined road through the rainforest and the channel where humpback whales spend the winter.
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Maui hotels and resorts
Resorts in Kāʻanapali and Wailea and condos in Kīhei, with rates that refresh automatically.
Volcano, rainforest and reef
Five experiences that define Maui, from the summit of Haleakalā to the sunken crater of Molokini.
- 3,055 mHaleakalā summit elevation
- Dec–AprHumpback whale season
- ≈ 5 h 30 minNonstop flight from Los Angeles
- ≈ 40 minFlight from Honolulu
Maui sunsets and rainforest
Pink skies over the west coast, Road to Hana waterfalls and plant life on the slopes of Haleakalā.
- Pink sky on the coast · dronepicr (CC BY 2.0)
- Golden sunset · dronepicr (CC BY 2.0)
- Blue hour on Maui · dronepicr (CC BY 2.0)
- Haleakalā plant life · Forest and Kim Starr (CC BY 3.0 us)
- Waterfall on the Road to Hana · Frank Kovalchek from Anchorage, Alaska, USA (CC BY 2.0)
- Maui's west coast · dronepicr (CC BY 2.0)
Maui travel FAQ
Answers to help you plan a relaxed trip to Maui that respects the island.
What documents do I need to visit Maui?
Maui is part of Hawaii, a US state, so US citizens only need a valid ID for domestic flights. Mexican travelers need a valid passport and a US visa, and usually connect through Los Angeles, San Francisco or another West Coast city.
Can I visit Maui after the Lahaina fire?
Yes. In August 2023 a wildfire devastated Lahaina in West Maui, and the community is still rebuilding. Kāʻanapali, Nāpili, Kapalua and the rest of the island welcome visitors, while parts of the historic town remain restricted. Travel with care: stay out of closed areas, do not photograph damaged properties and support local businesses.
When is the best time to visit Maui?
April, May, September and October usually bring good weather and fewer crowds. December to April is humpback whale season, with more visitors and higher rates. The windward side toward Hana is rainy year-round, while Kīhei, Wailea and Kāʻanapali are much drier.
Do I need a reservation for sunrise at Haleakalā?
Yes. To drive into the summit area before sunrise you must book a per-vehicle reservation online in advance, on top of park entry. Slots sell out fast. It is cold up top, often near freezing before dawn, so bring a warm jacket. Guided tours hold their own permits.
Which airport do I fly into, and how do I get around?
The main airport is Kahului (OGG). Wailea is about 30 minutes away and Kāʻanapali close to an hour. Public transit is limited, so a rental car is almost essential for Haleakalā and the Road to Hana.
What is the Road to Hana like?
It runs about 100 km from Kahului on a narrow road with hundreds of curves and many one-lane bridges, past waterfalls, pools and lookouts. Start early, drive patiently, park only in legal spots and respect private property. Plan a full day.
Where should I stay on Maui?
Kāʻanapali and Kapalua in the west have resorts on long beaches with big sunsets. Wailea in the south is upscale and sunny, with calm swimming beaches. Kīhei has condos at friendlier prices, and Paʻia or upcountry Kula offer a more local feel.
What is Molokini and how do I get there?
It is a crescent-shaped, partly submerged volcanic crater and protected marine area with exceptionally clear water for snorkeling. You can only reach it on a boat tour, usually leaving early from Māʻalaea or Kīhei when the sea is calmest.
How many days do I need?
A week is ideal: a day for Haleakalā, another for the Road to Hana, a morning snorkeling Molokini, a whale-watching tour in winter and beach days. With fewer than five days you will have to choose between the volcano and Hana.
What should I eat on Maui?
Poke, fresh fish such as mahimahi and ono, plate lunch, shave ice and banana bread from stands along the Road to Hana. Upcountry Kula has farms and local produce, and Paʻia has popular fish restaurants.
Keep your flights, hotel and Maui bookings in the app, handy even when you lose signal on the Road to Hana.
