Maui Island Travel & Vacation Guide

This museum will give you an interesting insight into the local sugar industry, the history of Hawaiian sugarcane plantations and its influence on life in Maui, from technical and geographical aspects to the lives of people working in the industry.

Just west of Haleakalā National Park, Ali'i Kula Lavender farm has 45 types of lavender plants, many of which bloom year round to always ensure a breathtaking purple view. Browse the gift shop and join a guided tour or a gourmet picnic, where you can enjoy a light Mediterranean lunch.

As Maui's only clear-bottom kayaking experience, Clear Kayaks Maui gives you the unique opportunity to enjoy South Maui’s coral reefs and marine life. New to kayaking? The kayaks are durable and easy to maneuver, so fun is guaranteed for beginners as well as the more seasoned.

Located in the heart of Maui, this center with its vibrant atmosphere, exciting video games and impressive prizes is a go-to destination for the whole family, with a party area dedicated to special occasions.

Spreading across Maui's Southeastern coastline, Haleakalā National Park is where the island's highest point, the top of the dormant volcano is found — the place where, as legend has it, demigod Maui lassoed the sun. Challenge yourself with one of its peaks (the highest, Puʻu ʻUlaʻula or Red Hill, rises to 10,023 feet above the sea), and enjoy the breathtaking view. Visits in rental or private cars are subject to pre-reservation, which is available online.

This gem of the lush Iao Valley park is an education center organizing rainforest walks, and fun educational programs for children, all aimed at showing visitors the rich flora and fauna of Maui.

Indulge in a coconut milk bath, or take a detoxifying sea clay bath, and top it all with a four-hand massage. You can also take a class to learn the indigenous Lomi Lomi massage, to make it a longer-lasting experience.

On the eastern side of the West Maui Forest Reserve, Iao Valley State Park is a pedestrian-friendly valley with a paved walk and scenic views of the 2250-feet tall 'Iao Needle. For an easier alternative, visit the botanical garden showcasing the plants brought by the settlers into ‘Iao Valley, which, as the site of the battle of Kepaniwai, is also rich in cultural and spiritual heritage.

The Alaloa Lounge at the Ritz-Carlton is a premium bar breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, a fine selection of wines, cocktails and spirits, accompanied by light fares and live performances every night.

Named for Fernando Botero's dark sculptures adorning the bar, Botero's provides daily entertainment in an exclusive setting. Enjoy sushi and elaborate cocktails in this art-filled lounge.

Kahale's Maui's is a relaxed local hangout for beers and cocktails. Enjoy the live music at the bar with the longest happy hour in Maui, plus sports on big screens.

Live Hawaiian music, hula, fresh sushi, and artisan cocktails are all found at the Lobby Lounge. Its contemporary, streamlined decor beckons guests to enjoy an evening together. Neighboring Ferraro's Bar and Ristorante is also recommended for its Italian cuisine and stunning views.

The only Irish pub in Maui features an open-air bar, fresh food, and the unmissable Guinness pints, live music, and Willie K dinner shows.

There is always something going on at South Shore Tiki Lounge. Enjoy a relaxed meal of burgers, pizza and seafood, or try everyone's favorites like the calamari pu pu and the cocktail that is simply nicknamed Oh My Goddess.

The casual Three's Bar & Grill features local live music twice a day with popular happy hours, and exotic Hawaiian fare.

While the store is famous for its vintage tees, Alice also carries a lovely mix of Hawaii-inspired gift items and casual wear for the whole family. Best sellers include Burnout Tank tees, Goorin Bros hats and Havaianas slippers.

Gecko Trading Co. Boutique is the place to go to shop for accessories, jewelry and fragrances, all inspired by life on the island.

Lahaina Cannery Mall is the island's only fully indoor shopping center with more than 50 retail stores and restaurants, and a 24-hour Safeway grocery store. The center often hosts free hula shows and other cultural events.

Maui Antique Freak specializes in clothes, jewelry, collectibles and home accessories, and is the perfect place to sell your old and find your newest treasures.

As Maui's own Town Square, Queen Ka’ahumanu Center is also the island's premier shopping and entertainment hotspot. The Center features Maui’s only department stores, Sears and Macy’s, along with over 100 shops and restaurants. Find familiar stores like American Eagle Outfitters, Pacific Sunwear, Foot Locker and Forever 21.

The Shops at Wailea combine internationally recognized brand names with traditional Hawaiian selections in over 70 shops, with an addition of local art galleries, diners and shows for those with a cultural interest. Luxury brands include Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co. and Coach. For a Hawaiian specialties, look for Island Market, Martin & MacArthur, Lahaina Galleries and Na Hoku.

Whalers Village has over 90 stores featuring several swimwear chains and diners like the popular Hula Grill and Monkeypod. You may also join a ukulele or hula class held on the spot.

Maui always welcomes visitors with its warm tropical climate, with winter lows not dropping below 70 degrees. The island is a highly sought-after holiday destination in the summer months from June to August, with plenty of things to do and see. For those looking for a quiet getaway with still pleasant weather, the months of April, May, September and October are the most recommended ones.

When visiting Maui, the general U.S. entry requirements apply. Citizens of the Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the Kingdom of Brunei can visit the United States for up to 90 days without applying for a visa (as well as citizens of Andorra, Lichtenstein, Monaco and San Marino). Citizens of these countries must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before traveling. All other travelers must obtain a visa before visiting the United States. International travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the country.

While most inbound flights originate from Honolulu International Airport, Kahului Airport also receives several international ones. An airport shuttle service is available, and Maui Bus operates airport routes, too.

The Maui Public Bus Transit System consists of 12 bus routes operated by Roberts Hawaii, linking Kahului with all the major hotspots on the island, excluding Haleakalā National Park and other out-of-the-way places. Daily passes are available. Car rentals are found at the airport.

Recommended cab companies in Maui area are CB Taxi Maui (+1 808 243 8294), Maui Airport Taxi Shuttle (+1 808 877 2002), Royal Sedan & Taxi (+1 808 874 6900), Maui Happy Taxi (+1 808 385 6909). Ride-sharing services Uber and Lyft also operate in Maui.

All power sockets in the United States provide a standard voltage of 110–120V with a standard frequency of 60Hz. Plug type A has two flat parallel pins.

Chain pharmacies — CVS Pharmacy, Safeway, Walmart, Costco, Longs etc. — as well as smaller neighborhood stores operate on Maui, and while working hours may greatly vary, a few are open 24/7. Pharmacy signs are often in red and white, and they are often located inside department stores. Most of the pharmacies sell both prescription as well as over the counter medicine.

Sending parcels and letters in the US is a relatively straightforward process. The most common method is through the United States Postal Service (USPS). The USPS offers a variety of services for sending mail, including First-Class Mail for letters and postcards, Priority Mail for packages, and Priority Mail Express for overnight delivery. To send a parcel or letter, you will need to take it to a USPS post office or use a USPS blue collection box. Use the USPS website to find the nearest post office or collection box to your location. Additionally, you can also use private couriers such as FedEx and UPS, which often provide a wider range of services and faster delivery times, but generally at a higher cost.