Adventure Seekers’ Ultimate Guide to Maui, HI

Wailea: This is my favorite area to use as a base location. The hotels and grounds are exceptional, and the beaches are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s a great base if you want to explore the island.

Kihei: Most of my favorite food spots are located here. It’s close to Wailea and is filled with locally owned small businesses, restaurants, and cafés.

Ho'okipa Beach Park: One of the best spots for surfing if you’re experienced. This is one of my favorite places to watch surfers, enjoy the sunset, and breathe in the fresh ocean air. If you come in the evening, you’ll see lots of turtles coming ashore for the night.

Haleakalā Summit (Crater Hike): This is a must! You do need to reserve a spot if you want to watch the sunrise, so visit the website and obtain a permit in advance. No permit is required for sunset. It’s an incredible place to watch the sunrise. To fully enjoy the experience, bring very warm clothing (think down parka). I know that sounds crazy, but trust me—it’s worth it!

Ali i Kula Lavender Farm: A great place to relax, and they have excellent scones, coffee, and tea.

Road to Hana: Download the tour guide app—it talks you through all the stops and is quite entertaining! The backside of Hana is incredible. I recommend giving yourself two days to truly experience Hãna. It’s beautiful, and taking your time is well worth it.

South Maui Gardens: A growing food truck garden with plenty of options for everyone. I found myself going here almost daily because the variety is extensive, the food is delicious, and you get to support local businesses.

West Maui Loop: Not for the faint of heart. If you do it, drive clockwise and give yourself plenty of daylight. This is arguably the most beautiful-and most dangerous—road on the island. Proceed at your own risk if you’re an adventure seeker.

Pa'ia: A fun, artsy town full of restaurants and shops. Some of my favorites are Cafe Mambo, Paia Fish Market, and Paia Coffee Co.

Hawaiian Moons Natural Foods: One of my favorite grocery stores for organic and local food. They also have a great deli for a quick bite or a freshly squeezed juice.

South Maui Fish Co: Best food truck on the island.

Bacon and Blossom: B runch/lunch/dinner.

Sweet Hula: Hands down best açaí bowls on the island.

Paia Fish Market: Fish plates.

Koiso Sushi bar: Make reservations one month in advance.

Nuka: Local Japanese cuisine.

Cafe Mambo: We like this one for brunch more than dinner (Paia).

Paia Coffee Co: Great for lunch or dinner. They often have live music in the evenings!

Ka'ana Kitchen: Farm-to-table Hawaiian restaurant at the Andaz Maui.

Homestead Maui: Sourdough bakery in Kula.