Get to DSM 90–120 minutes before departure for checked bags/security for mainland-to-Hawaii flights; recommend mobile boarding passes and printed itinerary. (DSM domestic TSA hours; arrive early on holiday travel days).
Book an early morning flight with one connection (typical carriers: Alaska, Delta, American or United) to maximize time in Maui; total travel time including connection is roughly 8.5–11 hours door-to-door — you cross time zones (HST is 4 hours behind CST).
Collect reservation at OGG rental center (book a midsize SUV or compact for comfort; expect ~15–25 minutes from arrival gate depending on shuttle). Rental counters are typically open 6:00am–11:00pm but confirm your vendor and holiday hours. Recommended: midsize SUV for flexibility on island roads.
Drive ~20–35 minutes from OGG to South Maui (depending on hotel). This puts you close to beaches and many restaurants — great base for the trip and shorter drives to activities.
Check-in typically after 3:00pm; Wailea Beach Resort is a luxury beachfront option for pools and on-site dining, while Aston at The Maui Banyan is an excellent value in Kihei. Book early for holiday dates.
Popular island bistro known for local ingredients, craft cocktails, and live music; open typically 11:00am–9:00pm but hours can extend on holidays — reserve in advance for Dec 24. Great first-night relaxed meal after travel.
Short walk to the beach or relax at the hotel pool/spa; many resort pools and lounges run late but confirm specific hotel hours. Unpack and rest — tomorrow is full.
Local favorite for hearty breakfasts; open early (typically 6:00am–2:00pm). On Christmas, some locations may have special hours — call ahead or confirm your hotel's holiday breakfast service.
Half-day snorkel to the clear waters of Molokini and Turtle Town — tours depart early (often 6:30–8:00am departures) and return late morning; book in advance (holiday dates sell out). Operators usually have check-in 45–60 minutes before departure.
Casual fresh seafood and local favorites; usually open 11:00am–9:00pm but confirm holiday hours. Big portions and fast service — good after a morning on the water.
Relax, swim, or snorkel from shore; Wailea Beach has calm waters and amenities. Public access is 24/7 but lifeguard coverage and facilities have daytime hours (typically 8:00am–5:00pm).
Drive along the south shore to see Big Beach (Makena) and find a viewpoint for sunset; parking and access are free but some lots close at sunset — leave time to return before dark if unsure.
Mama's Fish House is iconic for fresh local fish and oceanfront dining — often fully booked, especially on holidays. Fleetwood's provides sunset views and live music. Reserve well in advance and confirm Xmas hours/menus.
Lahaina's historic town and Banyan Tree area offer shops and galleries; some stores close early on Christmas, so verify; otherwise enjoy a quiet evening at the resort.
Pack a hearty breakfast or pick up sandwiches/fruit — Road to Hana is best done early to avoid crowds and get parking at popular stops. Many food stands open by 7:00am; check vendor hours on holiday weekends.
Start early to visit Twin Falls, Ke'anae, Wailua Falls, and Hana town — the road is winding with single-lane bridges and many viewpoints; allow the whole day and plan for slow driving and stops. Road is accessible 24/7 but services and shops along the route have limited hours (usually 8:00am–5:00pm).
Hana Schoolhouse offers local fare (check holiday hours) or pack a picnic to enjoy black-sand beaches at Waiʻanapanapa State Park (park hours typically 8:00am–5:00pm; parks may have entrance fees or require reservations — verify before you go).
Part of Haleakalā National Park's Kipahulu area; hours often 8:00am–4:30pm and accessibility can be limited due to weather — check the National Park Service for reservations/closures before visiting. Beautiful coastal pools and short hikes.
It’s a long day; allow plenty of time for the return drive and fading light. Road conditions and traffic can slow you, so start back to arrive safely before dark if unfamiliar with the route.
After a full day on the road, choose a relaxed dinner — many locals' favorites are open later but holiday hours vary; call ahead or choose your hotel's on-site dining as a fallback.
Enjoy one last sunrise walk or hotel breakfast; many beaches are pleasant early and hotels often offer grab-and-go or buffet options (hotel breakfast service typically 6:30am–10:30am).
Drop off at the rental center; allow 30–45 minutes for return processing and shuttle time to terminal if needed — confirm vendor holiday hours for drop-off and shuttle frequency.
Midday flights typically route via LAX/SEA and land back in DSM late evening or next morning depending on routing; book an afternoon departure to arrive back in Des Moines the same calendar day/evening or late night depending on connections.
Return home with roughly three nights on island; allow time to retrieve checked luggage and drive home. Exact arrival times depend on chosen flights and connections.