Dreaming of a vacation in paradise? Maui is well known to be one of the most beautiful, tropical islands in the world. Outdoor (and underwater) activities are plentiful, as are the sightseeing opportunities and amenities. We’ve answered some of Maui’s most common questions to help you plan your ultimate vacation to Hawaii.
Your Maui Questions Answered!
Let us know in the comment below if you have more questions.
Where in Maui can I find sea turtles?
The green sea turtle (honu) is native to Hawaii so it is very realistic to find one either on the sand or in the ocean during your Maui vacation. Turtles tend to hang out along the reefs close to shore and since they breathe air, can be spotted when they pop their heads above the surface. A snorkel tour will get you to areas frequented by turtles including the appropriately named ‘turtle town’. You may find sea turtles perched along the rock walls of Koieie Fishpond in north Kihei. Ho’okipa, on the north shore of Maui, is an almost guaranteed place to see green sea turtles resting on the beach. A reminder to give sea turtles plenty of space in the water and on land.
What’s the annual weather like in Maui?
Maui is beautiful year-round and experiences very subtle changes in the perfectly comfortable temperature and seasons. What makes the Hawaiian islands especially unique is the abundance of sub-climates. Meaning, if it is raining where you are, drive ten minutes in either direction and you’ll likely find sunshine! If you get too hot, jump in the water or drive up the side of the volcano to gain elevation and lower the temperature.
What are the must-do activities in Maui for a one-week trip?
For such a small island, there is a lot to see on Maui. Your ideal itinerary will depend on your interests, travel companions, and vacation goals. Get in or on the water with a snorkel tour to Molokini Crater, an exciting whale watch, or a relaxing sunset cocktail cruise. Learn something new, like surfing or paddle boarding. Soak in island views from a helicopter tour or from the top of the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala.
Is Road to Hana in Maui, Hawaii overrated?
The winding road through lush jungle, past cascading waterfalls, and above cliff lines with vast ocean views is what has made the road to Hana so popular. While the drive continues to be incredibly beautiful, we recommend reducing stress and going with an organized tour. Small, comfortable minibusses and vans provide optimal viewing of all the best sights and stops along the way. Tour drivers are well versed in local history and culture which adds substance to the area. Keep the experience but skip the stress, research, and reservations for places like the black sand beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park.
What are some fun places to visit in Maui?
A fun vacation tends to be in the eye of the beholder. Kids love viewing sharks, turtles, and other Hawaiian marine life at the Maui Ocean Center and riding the ‘tropical express’ train through Maui Tropical Plantation. Ziplining through the jungle is an exhilarating activity, as is biking down the volcano or jumping from the famous Black Rock in Kaanapali. Other fun places to visit on Maui include the Nakalele Blowhole, Haleakala, and Molokini Crater.
Can you drive from Honolulu to Maui?
Honolulu is located on Oahu, which is one of the 8 main Hawaiian islands. While there is no ferry service between the islands, there are numerous airlines offering daily flights between Honolulu and Kahului, Maui.
Is Hawaii or Mexico a better vacation spot?
Hawaii being America’s 50th state comes with some ease of travel for US visitors. It also means that you’ll find familiar stores and amenities similar to the US mainland. Hawaii is more expensive than Mexico so while the flight cost may be the same or less, things like rental cars, accommodation and meals will require a higher budget than in Mexico. Both Hawaii and Mexico have very warm and welcoming cultures. A second language (English) is not required in Hawaii.
What are the cheapest places to visit in Maui?
There are plenty of free activities and adventures to have on Maui. Visit Maui’s best beaches, hike ridgelines and lava fields, look for whales, or snorkel with turtles from the shore. Some of the parks on Maui require a small entry fee, such as Haleakala National Park, Wai’anapanapa State Park, and Iao Valley State Park.
What is the best hotel/resort in Maui?
The main resort areas on Maui are Wailea in the south and Ka’anapali on the west side, near Lahaina. Here you’ll find all the amenities for a perfect vacation in paradise, including shopping, dining, and activities. Resorts range in price, all of them are near the beach and have swimming pools so it is hard to go wrong!
What is the best kid-friendly beach in Maui?
Kids love playing in the sand, bodyboarding in shorebreak waves, and exploring the tidepools at Maui’s best beaches. Hanakaoʻo Beach near Lahaina, Ka’anapali Beach, and Napili Bay are all kid-friendly beaches on the west side of the island. In south Maui, the three Kamaole Beach Park beaches as well as Wailea Beach are great options. Morning hours will always be the best time of day to visit the beach as afternoons tend to bring in the trade winds and higher temperatures.
Maui is where vacation dreams come true. Relax, unwind and explore the best island in Hawaii. You’ll never see or do it all in one visit, but with some pre-planning, it is easy to satisfy even the most ambitious vision of an idyllic getaway to paradise.
