The Best of Maui

• Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm: A lovely place to visit after you’ve seen the sunrise at Haleakalā. Explore the gardens at your leisure and be sure to stop by the gift shop for some lavender scones or tea.

• Drive the Road to Hana: Take your time and enjoy this winding road through paradise and be sure to stop at some of the tasty roadside stands along the way. Consider staying the night at the Hana-Maui Resort to fully experience the area and all it has to offer.

• Haleakalā National Park: Force yourself out of bed and enjoy a beautiful sunrise at this otherworldly national park. I recommend staying in Kula the night before so that you don’t have to get up quite as early or drive as far. Be sure to book ahead and dress for warmth!

• Kāʻanapali Beach: A picture-perfect golden sand beach that is an absolute must visit. Park at Whaler’s Village Shopping Center and walk down to Black Rock, where you can experience great snorkeling and a nightly cliff diving ceremony that commences at sunset.

• Makawao: This charming Upcountry cowboy town is worth a stop on your back from Haleakalā. Explore its boutique shops and be sure to pop by Komoda Store & Bakery for a sweet treat or two.

• Snorkeling at Molokini Crater: Enjoy some of the best snorkeling in Maui by taking a boat tour to this crescent-shaped crater located just a few miles off the coast.

• Paia: This quirky town is well worth a stop on your way to Hana. There is a bevy of restaurants and shops to explore, but beware that parking can be a bit of a pain.

• Pipiwai Trail: A fantastic hike located past Hana town on the backside of Haleakalā National Park. It is a bit more restricted than it used to be, but still takes you through some beautiful scenery along the Ohe’o Gulch Stream and through a bamboo forest to Waimoku Falls. Four miles round trip.

• Waiʻānapanapa State Park: An absolutely gorgeous and glistening black sand beach located just before Hana. You can (and should) now reserve a space ahead of time via the park’s website.

Day trips:

You can easily take a day trip to Lanai or even Molokai if you're up for a bit of an adventure.

• Cinnamon Roll Place: This place serves up some of the best cinnamon rolls I’ve ever had. Located in Kihei and well worth a stop. They’ll also ship out of state if you decide that you simply can’t live without them.

• Flatbread Pizza Company: Great option in Paia that is randomly part of a very small chain in New England. Stop on your way to Hana and try the Mopsy’s Kalua Pork pizza. It is so good, and you can take any leftovers with you on the drive.

• Hula Grill: A casual spot offering good food and live music right on Ka’anapali Beach. You can dine inside or out with your toes in the sand.

• Mama’s Fish House: Treat yourself to the most amazingly prepared fish at this beautiful restaurant located just outside of Paia. Be sure to make a reservation as tables book up months in advance!

• Merriman’s Kapalua: Merriman’s is always a good idea and offers an outstanding farm-to-table dining experience. This location also has a beautiful Oceanfront Point deck that is a great choice for a casual dinner or drinks. Reservations are highly recommended.

• Monkeypod Kitchen: A more casual option from award-winning Chef Peter Merriman, Monkeypod is my go-to for a great meal. They also serve hands-down the best mai tai anywhere. Two locations in Wailea and Ka’anapali.

• Spago: Splurge at Wolfgang’s Puck’s fantastic Hawai'ian fusion restaurant located within the Four Seasons Resort at Wailea. Book ahead to secure a table at sunset and enjoy the panoramic ocean views.

• Ululani’s Hawai'ian Shave Ice: Simply the best shave ice that I’ve had in Hawai'i. I recommend the Lahaina with Roselani’s mac-nut ice cream and a snowcap, but feel free to try them all! There are currently four locations in Maui.