Curator’s statement
Maui is the sweet spot between adventure and laidback luxury. You can chase waterfalls and volcano sunrises one day, then chill at the pool with a mai tai the next. It’s one of those places where you can bring the whole crew: kids, grandparents, everyone...and still feel like you’re on a dreamy getaway. If it’s your first time to Hawaii, Maui makes the best first impression.
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Day 1: Arrival & a taste of Maui
Grounds of Andaz Maui
Arrive in Maui, pick up your rental car (a Jeep Wrangler is perfect for the island terrain).
Check into the Andaz Maui at Wailea, settle in, and freshen up.
Head to Paia for some boutique shopping and a laid-back introduction to the island’s surf town vibes.
Dinner: Mama’s Fish House (reserve well in advance). Don’t miss the Haleakala beef—a local specialty.
Turn in early tonight—tomorrow starts before sunrise.
Day 2: Sunrise above the clouds
Monkeypod's Banana Cream Pie
3 am wake up to drive to Haleakala National Park for sunrise. Tip: Tickets are required and should be booked exactly 60 days out.
On your way back down, grab coffee and pastries at Momona Bakery & Coffee Shop.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure: nap, enjoy the pool, or relax on Wailea Beach.
Dinner: Monkeypod Kitchen (the bulgogi tacos and Mai Tais are legendary).
Day 3: Road to Hana
Red Sand Beach in Hana
Early start for the Road to Hana, one of Maui’s most iconic drives.
Head to Twin Falls for a quick waterfall hike and swim.
Indulge in fresh roadside banana bread.
Vsit Waiʻānapanapa Black Sand Beach (reservations required).
Chec out Hāna town and the hidden Red Sand Beach (Kaihalulu).
Hike Pipiwai Trail in Haleakala National Park, ending at the Seven Sacred Pools.
Depending on road conditions, either continue around the backside of Haleakala through Kaupo (check if the route is open) or return the same way.
Tip: Food options in Hana can be unpredictable—pack snacks, plenty of water, and don’t count on a set dinner stop.
Day 4: Snorkeling adventure
Morning coffee and malasadas at Sugar Beach Bake Shop (the Ube and Lilikoi are must-tries).
Head out on a Molokini Crater & Turtle Town snorkel excursion (4–5 hours, lunch included).
Afternoon at leisure to unwind at your resort.
Dinner: Kō Restaurant at the Fairmont Kea Lani, known for its plantation-era-inspired dishes.
Day 5: Surf & street eats
The food trucks in Kihei (we loved Thai Me Up)
Start the day with coffee at Da Green Coffee Bar.
Surf lessons in Kihei—one of the best beginner-friendly spots.
Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach.
Lunch or dinner at Kihei’s food truck park for casual island eats.
Day 6: West Maui explorations
Island critters (it was about as big as my finger)
Day trip up to Kāʻanapali Beach for sun, sand, and people-watching.
Lunch: Miso Phat Sushi (a local favorite).
Return to Wailea for dinner at Koast—a chic spot to end your evening.
Day 7: Farewell Maui
Day time atop Haleakala
Depending on your flight time, start with coffee at Akamai Coffee.
Lunch at Koholā Brewery & Restaurant for one last taste of Maui.
Return your Jeep and head to the airport.
Aloha for now!
Need to know
There are no private beaches in all of Hawai'i, so nothing is off limits!
Travel Advisor
Meghan Irle
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For more travel inspiration and insider recommendations, check out our Maui page.