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Maui is a tropical Hawaiian island offering beaches, road-to-Hana drives, Haleakalā sunrise, snorkeling, and a relaxed aloha culture. Plan for weather variation, permit-based experiences, and respect for local customs and environment.
Visa & entry requirements
- U.S. citizens: No visa required for travel to Hawaii; valid government photo ID and proof of vaccination not required. For domestic travel, bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license or REAL ID/Passport for airport security).
- International visitors: Hawaii is part of the U.S.; follow U.S. entry rules. You must have the appropriate U.S. visa or ESTA if from a Visa Waiver country and a valid passport. Ensure passport validity meets U.S. requirements.
- Travel docs: Keep digital and printed copies of passports/IDs, travel and accommodation confirmations, and any required permits (see Activities).
Best time to visit
- Peak season: December–March and June–August — higher prices and more crowds.
- Best balance: April–May and September–November — milder crowds, good weather, lower rates.
- Whale season: December–April (best for humpback-watching, especially Jan–Mar).
- Weather: Warm year-round; trade winds keep conditions pleasant. Maui has microclimates—coastal, upcountry (cooler), and rainier East/Molokai-facing sides.
Safety tips
- Ocean safety: Heed posted warnings. Rip currents are common—swim at lifeguarded beaches, know how to escape rip currents (swim parallel to shore). Use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Driving: Narrow, winding roads (Road to Hāna, Upcountry, switchbacks to Haleakalā). Drive defensively, watch for one-lane bridges, local farmers, tourists stopping suddenly.
- Haleakalā safety: Altitude ~10,000 ft—dress warm; acclimate if you have health issues. Reservations may be required for sunrise viewing—book in advance.
- Wildlife: Do not touch or feed monk seals, sea turtles, or marine life; maintain distance as required by law.
- Crime: Maui is generally safe, but use common-sense precautions—lock valuables, avoid isolated areas at night.
Local customs & etiquette
- Aloha spirit: Greet with a friendly “Aloha.” Respectful behavior and patience are appreciated.
- Land and culture: Show respect for sacred sites (heiau), cultural practices, and native Hawaiian place names. Don’t climb on petroglyphs or cultural monuments.
- Clothing: Casual dress is fine; cover up when visiting churches or formal sites. Bare feet or swimwear are fine on beaches but not appropriate in restaurants or stores.
- Tipping: Standard U.S. tipping practices — 15–20% in restaurants, more for exceptional service; tip guides and drivers.
Currency & money
- Currency: U.S. dollar (USD).
- Cards and cash: Most places accept cards; carry cash for small vendors, tip jars, farmers’ markets, or remote areas.
- ATMs: Available in towns; rural areas may be cash-limited—plan accordingly.
Transportation
- Getting there: Kahului Airport (OGG) is the main airport. Inter-island flights and ferries connect to other islands (ferry service limited).
- Car rental: Recommended for exploring; book early (especially peak seasons). Expect higher rates and limited supply during busy times.
- Public transport: Maui Bus operates routes in central areas but is limited for full-island touring.
- Rideshares/taxis: Available in towns, but remote or early-morning pickups may be limited. Plan transport for sunrise Haleakalā trips.
Must-know practical tips
- Book popular activities early: Road to Hāna tours, snorkeling trips, whale-watching tours, Luau reservations, and Haleakalā sunrise reservations can sell out.
- Respect nature: Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid stepping on coral, and pack out trash. Maui enforces environmental protections to safeguard reefs and wildlife.
- Packing: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, reef shoes, light rain jacket (for East Maui/Hāna), layers for Haleakalā, reef snorkel gear if you prefer your own, insect repellent for rainforest areas.
- Cell & connectivity: Coverage is good in towns and resorts but spotty in remote East Maui and upcountry areas.
- Waste and water conserving: Some resorts and communities use water conservation and native planting initiatives—follow guidance, reuse towels, and minimize water use.
- Respect private property: Many beautiful drives or viewpoints cross private land—use public access points and respect signage.
Activity-specific notes
- Road to Hāna: Allow a full day, start early, refill gas before you go, and respect private property and narrow roads.
- Haleakalā: Reservations may be required for sunrise; alternative is a daytime visit. Dress very warmly for sunrise; bring headlamp for pre-dawn walks.
- Snorkeling & diving: Molokini, Honolua Bay, and Kapalua are popular spots. Choose reputable operators and follow marine-protection rules.
- Whale watching: Book a certified operator and dress warm (mornings can be windy/cool).
Final local insights
- Be patient and courteous—Maui’s pace is relaxed and locals appreciate visitors who respect the land and culture.
- Consider staying in different parts of the island (West Maui, South Maui, Upcountry, East Maui) to experience varied landscapes.
Safe travels and aloha!