Recommended Stay Time
7-10 days in Maui, HI.
Currency
| EUR | USD |
| 1 | 1.12 |
Transportation
Based on my personal experience, I recommend renting a car in Maui. I visited Maui with my family, and for the 5 of us the best option was to rent a car for the 10 days we were visiting. Renting a car was a phenomenal decision as we really got to see a lot of Maui, thanks to our ability to drive anywhere. However, if you are travelling with only 2 or 3 people, renting a car could be too expensive. So instead, there is public transit systems in Maui which have many, many stops and is incredibly inexpensive.
Hotel
As usual, I recommend living in a non-touristy area, in an airbnb or hostels. I believe this is the best way to live in Maui as living among locals was one of the highlights of my trip here. We were able to meet some incredible neighbours, and stumbled upon beautiful farmer’s markets and received great recommendations and tips on how to properly visit Maui.
Activities
- Haleakala National Park
This national park is the highest point on this island. Haleakala is the world’s biggest a dormant volcano, standing at about 10,000 feet above sea level. Traveling by foot or by bike costs $12 per person, for $25 a vehicle. This is why I recommended renting a car, as driving to and from this park is the best option. However asking any travel guide, or concierge will provide alternate means of transportation to the park.
Haleakala is an absolutely breathtaking experience and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone. A local told my family that the greatest way to see Haleakala is to catch the sunrise at the top of the volcano. This truly was one of the greatest views I’ve ever seen, as you have a clear few of the 30,000 acres of the national park, the ocean, and a breathtaking sunrise.
- Traditional Luau (Old Lahaina Luau)
When in Hawaii, it is a great idea to learn about the history and culture. A great way to do this is by attending a traditional luau, like the one I attended was called the Old Lahaina Luau. Although some luaus can be slightly expensive (they usually include some drinks and a dinner), there are discounts with some travelling companies, or within hotels. Depending on the Luau, there is normally a traditional Hawaiian dancing performance, a traditional Hawaiian dinner, and other presentation.
- Snorkeling tour
With or without a tour, you must head to the beach with some snorkels masks and goggles. Massive turtles and fish of every colour are filled in these waters and they love some fresh fruits. Pretty much every single beach will provide a great experience with these sea creatures. However, if you’re looking for a more intense experience snorkelling, you can take a boat tour to the coral reef and see the incredible colours of the coral reef, as well as hundreds and hundreds of fish and other sea creatures.
- Banyan Tree Park
This activity is one of my favourite memories in Maui and it just so happens to be free. Located in Lahaina, you can take a walk through this huge market place which is under the canopy of a tree which is a nearly 1 acre long. In this market are beautiful one-of-a-kind shop, traditional food restaurants, and gift shops. This area is a must see when visiting maui.
Food
- Aloha Mixed Plate
This restaurant was my family and I’s personal favourite – as we ate here several different times throughout our stay here in Maui. A mixed plate is a typical meal for Hawaiians, it is normally a few scoops of rice, two different meats of choice, macaroni salad, and green leaf salad. These meals are made perfectly with traditional Hawaiian flavouring and spices, and there relatively inexpensive – one full mixed plate is about $12USD. Additionally, this restaurant is beautifully placed directly beside to the ocean, giving an amazing view of the sunset over the water.
2. Da Kitchen
Located on the other side of the island from Aloha Mixed Plate, is Da Kitchen. Similar in style, it’s traditional hawaiian food will blow you away. With a great portion of food, for a phenomenally good price – you must check out Da Kitchen.
3. Coconut Fish Cafe
If you are looking for a more relaxed restaurant, I definitely recommend visiting this beautiful cafe. It’s speciality is its fish and chips menu, which is always a great idea. Another great recommendation is the fish tacos. With either of these dishes you get a choice of a few different homemade sauces which are all equally incredible.
Packing Tips
For a week in Hawaii, I recommend packing a few different types of outfits. Definitely bring lounge-wear for travelling to different beaches and laying in the sun. It would also be smart to pack 1-2 fancier outfits for nights out in the town, and fancier dinners. Also bring a few different bathing suits as many of the days you will probably be at the beach. Finally – SUNSCREEN! I personally got a horrible burn here on my first first day due to not applying enough sunscreen. Apply and reapply as the sun rays are extremely harsh in Hawaii. And last but not least, don’t forget your lei.
Written by: Mackenzie Bryan
Kat Avantur 