Vacationing on Maui is a no-brainer. From lush bamboo forests and miles of coastline to a national park with a 10,023-foot volcanic summit, the Hawaiian island is easy to fall head over heels for.
It comes as no surprise, then, that nearly 3 million people visit the Valley Isle each year. However, if you are in search of solitude, or at least a little elbow room, you’re in luck. Here are some places to eat, sleep, and play to help you escape the crowds and feel like a local in no time.
1. Explore a volcano
Haleakalā National Park, known as one of the quietest places on earth, should be on your short list. Named for the impressive Haleakalā volcano, this national park is packed with spectacular terrain as far as the eye can see. Moreover, skipping the sunrise crowds (and the permit that goes along with it) means a more peaceful trek with Hike Maui mid-morning when there are fewer people around.
A guide will take you on Halemau’u trail, a rocky path leading to a crater overlook, and Sliding Sands trail (also known as Keoneheʻeheʻe Trail) where you hike into a crater so large that the island of Manhattan could fit inside. Since each hike is about two miles round trip, it’s the perfect introduction to Haleakalā. You may very well want to return for more.
When you do, consider sunset at the summit to take in views reminiscent of the moon’s surface. On clear days, you can see four more Hawaiian islands from there. However, do remember to bring your jacket as it gets chilly at the top. Another option is to head to the summit just after the sunrise crowd leaves. Around 8 a.m. on most mornings, you will have many locations to yourself. Just remember to stay on the trail, as the ecosystem is fragile, and be prepared for high altitudes and potential rainy conditions.
2. Take an oceanside hike
Fairmont Kea Lani, Hawaii’s only all-suite and villa resort, offers a wonderful opportunity for relaxation. With the resort’s commitment to wellness, there are plenty of ways to find quiet time. Join a 4-hour guided hike along King’s Trail, an area that unified Maui’s 12 districts in the 16th century. Besides the occasional resident goats, you’ll almost have the trail to yourself, as the hike runs from 6:30 am to 10:30 am for only two to four guests. This experience offers not only exercise before lunchtime but also a hefty dose of Hawaiian culture.
At the resort, further enhance your day by enjoying a view of Wailea’s Polo Beach, which is rarely crowded, perfect for an al fresco yoga session or deep-tissue massage at the Willow Stream Spa. As evening approaches, consider settling into a Wellness Suite equipped with a vitamin-C-infused shower, sleep-enhancing linens, and diamond-infused facial masks.
3. Visit a lavender farm
Head upcountry to Kula for a peaceful day at Ali`i Kula Lavender farm, where 13.5 acres of beautiful rolling hills await your exploration. Not only is it home to approximately 55,000 lavender plants across 25 varieties, but also allows visitors to wander among juniper, Italian cypress, grapevines, wisteria, citrus trees, sugar cane, and avocado trees.
Enhance your plant knowledge with a short walking or golf-cart tour. Don’t leave without sampling lavender tea and scones. For a more elaborate experience, schedule a gourmet picnic lunch or private tea party. Before hitting the road, stop by their gift shop to pick up lavender-related items like body butter, gourmet seasoning, and shortbread cookies. A pro tip: wear comfy shoes as the farm is located on the slopes of Haleakalā.
4. Breakfast at O’o Farm
Exciting culinary opportunities await when two surfing buddies turned restaurateurs decided to buy a citrus and stone-fruit orchard. The outcome? High-quality local produce now supports their Maui restaurants, including Pacific’O, The Feast at Lele, and Aina Gourmet Market, while also educating visitors about living off the land.
A 3-hour coffee tour at O’o Farm guides guests through fruit trees, garden vegetables, and Hawaiian coffee plants (keep an eye out for chameleons). After sampling herbs and veggies in the meticulously maintained garden, you will enjoy a gourmet breakfast together with fellow travelers. The cool upcountry climate, along with stunning bi-coastal views, is sure to enhance your overall experience.
5. Snorkel with sea turtles
Off the shores of Maui’s Makena Beach lies a prime snorkeling spot. Maui Kayak Adventures takes guests out to a series of underwater lava formations formed long ago by submarine volcano eruptions. Green sea turtles frequent this area, allowing for a truly unique experience as you swim along with them (please remember not to get too close, as it is illegal to pet, chase, or ride them). Through the sun-dappled, turquoise waters, you can easily spot these adorable creatures, along with other marine life like red pencil sea urchins, butterfly fish, and moray eels.
Experience blissful peace below the surface, making snorkeling an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle. Additionally, consider squeezing in some volunteer hours while you’re at it. Both Maui Kayak Adventures and Hawaiian Paddle Sports host beach clean-ups and other opportunities to give back each month.
6. Buy fresh produce at the farmers market
On any given Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, you’ll find a farmers market at Maui Nui Farm well worth the drive upcountry. Thanks to the cooler temperatures, rich volcanic soil, and consistent rainfall in Kula, produce flourishes here, providing market-goers with access to everything from dinosaur kale, dragonfruit, and zucchini to avocados and pineapples.
Be sure to keep an eye out for a lovely lady named Nui, who oversees the 40-acre farm with her son, Kit, six dogs, and seven cats. Afterward, treat yourself to delicious Thai food at Nui’s Garden Kitchen food truck, known for its tasty pad thai, kalua pork, and refreshing smoothies.
7. Visit Hana via helicopter
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Maui by flying with Maverick Helicopters on a 75-minute tour that whisks guests away to the remote Hana rainforest. Soar above Maui’s picturesque north shore, spotting waterfalls, the winding road to Hana, seaside mansions, and the iconic Jurassic Rock. You’ll also pass over Jaws, a renowned surfing spot known for its monster waves. The highlight is landing on a former taro plantation in Wailua Valley, where you can savor fresh mango, stand under a monkey pod tree, and enjoy the stunning views.
