Curator’s statement
They say “Maui no ka ʻoi” (Maui is the best), and I can’t argue with that. I first arrived in 2005 as a wide-eyed visitor and, by 2011, I’d packed up and made the leap to stay. Over the years, I’ve tracked down little gems—places, flavors, and experiences—that turn every day into a new adventure. Here’s a peek at the Maui I love to share.
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Things to do in Maui
Maui humpback whale breech
Maui whale watching: Visiting Maui between mid-December and mid-May? That’s whale season—with February at its peak—the perfect time to head out on a whale watch and witness these gentle giants up close. Go for Maui Ocean Adventures, a small, locally owned business founded and run by Maui fire survivors.
Road to Hana while listening to Shaka Guide: 52 miles of twisty curves of lush rainforest, waterfalls, and scenic ocean views.
Visit Haleakalā, a dormant volcano at 10,023 feet.
Hike Pipiwai Trail to see Waimoku Falls in the morning after spending the night in Hana. It's less muddy in the summer—be prepared for a hike in a remote part of the island.
Visit the black sand beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park to see the amazing diversity of Maui’s beaches. Make a reservation a few weeks in advance.
Helicopter tour of Maui and Molokai. A splurge for sure, but seeing the cliffs of Molokai and hidden waterfalls are astounding.
Join Kiehi Canoe Club for an early morning outrigger canoe paddle, or join the Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society for a paddle under the stars or moonlight.
Visit Upcountry Maui and the towns on the slopes of Haleakalā. See the art exhibit at Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center, visit Ali‘i Kula Lavender Farm and try to find a Jackson chameleon, partake in a distillery tour at Ocean Vodka, or taste goat cheese at Surfing Goat Dairy.
Appreciate the art of hula at a class for visitors or a luau. As Kalākaua Rex said, "Hula is the language of the heart. Therefore the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people."
Join a guided tour of Waiheʻe Coastal Dunes & Wetlands Refuge to learn the area’s history, geology, and ecology.
Places to eat & drink in Maui
Wailuku-style saimin; photo courtesy of Tiffany's Restaurant Maui
Momona Bakery And Coffee Shop, Kahului: Freshly baked Argentinian- and European-style pastries with a touch of island aloha, all made from scratch with love. Perfect for a sweet morning treat or an afternoon coffee break.
Tin Roof Maui, Kahului: Chef Sheldon Simeon’s (Top Chef) local counter spot serving crave-worthy Hawaiian comfort food. I’m all about the Mochiko fried chicken, garlicky noodles, and his daily specials—simple, flavorful, and always satisfying.
Tiffany’s, Wailuku: Chef Sheldon Simeon’s sit-down spot serving up “Hawai‘i classics”—a soulful blend of Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, and Portuguese flavors that truly reflect the real food of Hawai‘i. Named a top place for tropical cocktails by Sunset magazine in 2025. Try the li hing margarita, Wailuku saimin, and ube cheesecake.
Balai Pata, Kahului: Local Filipino–American fusion that hits the spot with bold, flavorful dishes. I keep coming back for the garlic Malungay noodles, adobo pork, kale caesar, and crispy Brussels sprouts. It’s BYOB, so bring your favorite drink and settle in.
Kula Bistro, Kula: Casual, family-style dining with a homestyle feel and a touch of Italian flair. My pick? Fresh mahi mahi pasta in pomodoro sauce. It’s BYOB and walk-in only, so go with island time on your mind—it’s worth the wait.
Mama’s Fish House: A true Maui icon with an oceanfront Polynesian vibe, impeccable service, and fresh island entrées. Don’t skip the legendary Polynesian Black Pearl—a chocolate mousse with liliko‘i that stole the spotlight on The Best Thing I Ever Ate. Book months ahead; it’s worth planning your trip around.
Flatbreads, Paia: A chill spot in the heart of Paia serving wood-fired pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients and dough prepped fresh daily. Show up on a Tuesday and your pizza helps support local organizations—a slice that truly gives back.
Foodland, Pukalani: The poke counter is your one-stop shop for local-style pūpū (Hawaiian appetizers). From classic ahi to inventive daily varieties, there’s something for every poke lover. My favorite? The crispy onion ahi.
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice: A fluffy mound of shave ice over creamy Roselani macadamia nut ice cream, drenched in passion-orange, mango, and guava syrups, and crowned with soft fresh mochi—pure perfection.
Mahalo Ale Works, Pukalani: A local favorite for craft beer enthusiasts, offering a rotating lineup of inventive brews in a laid-back, welcoming space. Grab a pint, enjoy some live music, or pair it with a tasty bite like Marlow Pizza next door—it’s the perfect spot to relax after exploring the island.
Need to know
Renting a car is a must. Public transportation and relying solely on Uber or Lyft doesn’t let you experience all Maui has to offer. Maui is bigger than most people realize.
There is a reason we call 9 pm "Maui midnight." Maui's sights are magical, but you can only see them in daylight. Get out and enjoy our beautiful mornings—very few places open past 9 pm.
The ocean waters are powerful, and conditions can change rapidly. Heed any local warnings. If you don't see local families swimming, don't go. If the weather or surf isn’t great where you are, chances are another part of the island is perfect—stay flexible.
Support local businesses. It goes a long way. Maui is still on the long road of recovery after the Lahaina fires.
Stay on the trail and respect the aina (land). Don’t hop fences where it is posted to private property. "Kapu" means keep out.
When you visit Maui or anywhere in Hawai‘i, you’re stepping into a place with deep history, sacred spaces, and a living culture. Come with an open heart, a little humility, and respect for the land and the people—and you’ll find aloha.
Hawai‘i isn’t just a vacation spot; it’s home to generations of families and traditions. Please treat it like someone’s home—be kind, patient, and respectful—so everyone can enjoy what makes these islands so special.
Travel Advisor
Sally Bowles
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