8 Days in Maui Itinerary

  • Day 1: Road to Hana and Paia
    1 hour and 15 minutes (42 miles) from Kahului Airport

    Start your trip with a scenic drive along the Road to Hana, stopping at various points of interest including waterfalls and beaches. Afterward, explore the charming town of Paia with its unique shops and cafes.

  • Day 2: Haleakala National Park
    1 hour and 30 minutes (57 miles) from Paia

    Witness the otherworldly landscape of the Haleakala Crater at sunrise or sunset. Hike one of the many trails in the park or take a guided horseback ride.

  • Day 3: Lahaina and Kaanapali Beach
    45 minutes (30 miles) from Haleakala National Park

    Explore the historic town of Lahaina with a walking tour of its colorful buildings and landmarks. Enjoy the white sands and turquoise waters of Kaanapali Beach or take a snorkeling excursion to see sea turtles and tropical fish.

  • Day 4: Molokini Crater and Wailea
    30 minutes (17 miles) from Lahaina

    Experience some of the best snorkeling in Maui at Molokini Crater before heading to the luxury resort town of Wailea for shopping and dining.

  • Day 5: Iao Valley and Upcountry Maui
    20 minutes (9 miles) from Kahului Airport

    Discover the lush greenery and dramatic peaks of the Iao Valley before exploring the charming towns of Upcountry Maui, like Makawao and Kula, known for their artists, ranches, and farms.

  • Day 6: Makena State Park and South Maui
    25 minutes (14 miles) from Upcountry Maui

    Spend the day at Makena State Park with its beautiful coastline and tide pools. End the day with a visit to the town of Kihei for some beachside cocktails and dining.

  • Day 7: Wailuku and Maalaea Harbor
    20 minutes (8 miles) from Kahului Airport

    Take a walking tour of the historic town of Wailuku, including its charming shops and cafes. Then, head to Maalaea Harbor for a whale watching excursion, visiting the humpback whales that migrate to Maui's waters every year.

  • Day 8: Paia and Haiku
    15 minutes (8 miles) from Kahului Airport

    Spend your last day exploring the quaint beach town of Paia and the lush landscapes of Haiku. Visit the stunning twin waterfalls at the Garden of Eden Arboretum or hit the waves for some surfing lessons.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kaanapali Beach (1 day, free)
  • Molokini Crater snorkel (1/2 day, $100)
  • Maui Horseback Riding (1/2 day, $135)
  • Whale watching (1/2 day, $60)
  • Surfing lessons (1/2 day, $100)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $395

Transportation

While staying at the resorts in Wailea or Kaanapali, travelers can take advantage of the complimentary shuttle buses. Renting a car is also a good option for exploring other parts of the island. Expect to pay about $50-70 per day for a rental car, and keep in mind that parking can be limited at popular attractions.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to the neighboring island of Lanai or spending a night in Hana to fully enjoy the Road to Hana. If you have less time, prioritize the activities and attractions that interest you the most and plan accordingly.

Airports

Kahului Airport (OGG) is the main airport on Maui, located in Kahului about 8 miles from Wailuku and 25 miles from Lahaina. Alternately, visitors can fly into Kapalua Airport (JHM) in West Maui, which is mainly serviced by commuter flights from other Hawaiian Islands.

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