The island of Maui is characterized by a delicate balance of lively nightlife, esteemed restaurants, and mai tais on the beach, contrasted against secluded adventures, rugged terrain, and rich Native Hawaiian culture.
Maui has been through a lot historically. In 1898, the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi was annexed by the United States and later became a state, putting an end to the Hawaiian monarchy and Native Hawaiian autonomy on their own homeland. In the years that followed, foreign businessmen exploited the lands through plantations, development, and tourism. Tragically, on August 8, 2023, Maui experienced wildfires that killed more than 100 people and destroyed over 2,200 structures, including significant historical and cultural sites.
Tourism to the island has been a long-debated subject, with inhabitants striving to find the most sustainable way to preserve the land while also supporting the economy. The most important things to remember when visiting Maui and its neighboring islands are to educate yourself on the culture, respect the land and its people, and spend your money wisely by supporting local businesses.
When Should I Go to Maui?
Maui is beautiful all year long, so there really isn’t a wrong time to go. Many people plan their vacations during Maui’s whale-watching season, which takes place in the wintertime from November to April. However, certain water activities like jet skiing and parasailing aren’t available during this time to protect these aquatic visitors. Additionally, even though rain can occur anytime, wet weather may be more prevalent during these months, potentially causing hiking trails to be inaccessible. For surfers, winter presents the best conditions.
The high season, when Maui is busiest and most expensive, occurs during winter, summer, and spring break, while the low season spans spring (excluding spring break) and fall, offering generally less crowded and cheaper experiences. However, keep in mind that Maui tends to be comparatively expensive throughout the year.
Hurricane season runs from June to November, so checking a weather forecast before your trip is advisable.
How Much Time Should I Spend on Maui?
The duration of your stay in Maui depends on several factors, including your budget and travel distance.
You can enjoy a solid trip in three days: one day for shopping and sightseeing, another for an adventure (such as driving the Road to Hana), and a final day for relaxation at the beach or pool, with plans for fine dining later.
More adventurous individuals might prefer to stay for up to a week, exploring popular hiking trails like the Waihe‘e Ridge Trail, trying water activities such as surfing lessons, venturing into different parts of the island, and indulging in local dining experiences.
Staying longer than a week can become costly, so plan accordingly.
Top Things to Do on Maui
A common saying in Hawaii is “mauka to makai” – mauka refers to the mountains, while makai designates the ocean. A great way to experience the island includes engaging in activities on both ends.
Driving up to the Haleakalā summit to watch the sunrise is one of Maui’s top mauka activities. This mountain rises to about 10,000 feet, showcasing breathtaking views. Moreover, it holds significance in Hawaiian culture, and the Haleakalā National Park preserves the environment, home to unique plants and animals.
Venturing out on a boat is a delightful makai experience. Whether it’s a whale-watching charter, a snorkeling trip, or a dinner cruise, you’ll enjoy your time on the water and gain unique views of the island.
Favorite Activities on Maui
As a Native Hawaiian born and raised on Maui, I can confidently say there isn’t just one favorite activity to do. Yet, what I find myself missing the most while I’m away at college is the food.
My first mission upon arriving is to grab some poke (pronounced poh-keh, not po-kee). I often pair it with laulau (pork or chicken with salted butterfish, wrapped and steamed in taro and ti leaves), lomi salmon, and poi (steamed, mashed taro).
Maui boasts a thriving food truck scene, so you’re likely to encounter parking lots filled with food trucks offering restaurant-quality meals. The variety of cuisine ensures there’s something for everyone.
Is It Easy to Get Around Maui?
The easiest way to navigate Maui is to rent a car. Public transportation options are limited, rideshare services can be unreliable, and the island isn’t very walkable. With a car, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your leisure.
Maui’s roads are generally straightforward, featuring few multi-lane freeways, with the highest speed limit at 55 mph.
Winding roads, like the Road to Hana, or very narrow, one-lane roads can present challenges; in these cases, proceed slowly and drive cautiously.
How Much Money Do I Need?
Hawaii is notably an expensive destination. Purchasing a plane ticket to Maui can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars based on your departure location.
Costs accumulate once you’re on the island. For one perspective, a gallon of milk typically ranges from $7 to $10, and a carton of eggs costs around $6. A plate lunch generally runs between $15 and $25, while gas prices hover around $4–5 per gallon.
Basic hotels and rentals can range from $100 to $200 per night, while luxury hotels and resorts can surpass $1,000 per night.
Plan to budget over $1,000 per person, contingent on your length of stay and intended activities. Spending between $2,500 and $3,000 per person for a one-week trip is common, especially if you stay in average accommodations and participate in various activities. Couples or families might spend less per person by sharing accommodations.
What Should I Pack?
Maui can feel quite humid for first-time visitors, so consider packing cool clothing. However, if you plan to visit Haleakalā National Park or stay in the upcountry, warmer clothing might also be necessary. Due to the island’s breezy conditions, a windbreaker could be beneficial.
Be mindful of your attire for dining at restaurants; despite the island’s relaxed ambiance, casual beachwear may not be appropriate everywhere.
Bring suitable footwear, including activity shoes and sandals, to get the most out of your Maui experience.
Consult the state’s requirements regarding prohibited items when packing.
Is It Okay to Visit Maui After the Wildfires?
The wildfires significantly impacted the town of Lahaina, located on the west side of Maui, displacing many residents. Visiting Maui after the wildfires is permissible, but there are essential considerations for visitors.
Avoid burn sites unless necessary for transit and refrain from gawking or exploiting such areas. The burn site covers only a small portion of the island, so there are numerous other attractions to explore.
Support local businesses by choosing farmers’ markets and local eateries instead of grocery stores. Generously tipping service workers and donating to local charities is also encouraged.
Opt for hotel accommodations instead of home rentals to ease the housing burden on local communities. Avoid purchasing properties, as housing for locals is already scarce.
Consider learning about the area’s recovery efforts and the impact of recent events by referring to updated resources.
How Can I Be a Good Visitor?
Hawaiʻi is rich in cultural heritage; showing respect is crucial. The “aloha spirit” must be earned, not simply assumed.
To gain richer insights into the culture and history, study topics such as the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi, its overthrow, Native Hawaiian culture, and current sovereignty issues.
Engaging with locals can enhance your understanding; however, avoid trivial inquiries that demonstrate a lack of awareness.
Practice courtesy by allowing others space and minimizing noise levels.
Respect marked cultural sites and maintain appropriate distances when necessary. Acknowledging the kindness of locals with a wave or a friendly gesture is welcomed.
Understanding Hawaiian Identity
“Hawaiian” describes those of Native Hawaiian descent, the Indigenous peoples who inhabited the islands long before foreign contact. It does not refer to any resident of Hawaii.
Hawaiians possess a unique language, traditions, and beliefs that date back centuries, reflecting a deep connection with the land and mastery of navigation across the Pacific Ocean. Earlier Hawaiian monarchs established the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi in the 1800s, recognized as an independent nation until its overthrow by the United States. Interestingly, ʻIolani Palace was the first royal residence globally lit by electricity.
However, Hawaiian culture faced near eradication in the early 1900s due to policies enforcing language and cultural bans, diminishing the population and cultural practices.
Though the Hawaiian population has seen growth, achieving a full, Native Hawaiian identity remains rare.
In recent decades, Hawaii has undergone a cultural renaissance led by activists and organizations advocating for Hawaiian rights, reflecting ongoing struggles for recognition and sovereignty.
