Maui

The second-largest Hawaiian island known for stunning beaches, the dramatic Road to Hana, and Haleakalā volcano. It offers diverse experiences from water sports to mountain landscapes and charming towns.

Things to do

• Haleakalā National Park — Visit the massive shield volcano summit at 10,023 feet for sunrise views above the clouds and a otherworldly volcanic landscape.
• Road to Hana — Drive the famous winding coastal highway past waterfalls, bamboo forests, and black sand beaches with numerous scenic pullouts.
• Snorkeling at Molokini Crater — Experience pristine coral reefs and abundant tropical fish in this protected marine reserve accessible by boat tour.
• West Maui beaches — Relax and swim at Wailea Beach and Kaanapali Beach, known for calm turquoise waters and resort amenities.
• Ocean Center Aquarium — Explore interactive exhibits featuring Hawaiian marine life and reef ecosystems in Wailuku.
• Iao Valley State Park — Hike through lush valleys to see the iconic 1,200-foot Iao Needle rock formation surrounded by verdant cliffs.
• Whale watching — Observe humpback whales from December to April during their migration season from boat tours departing Lahaina and Maalaea.

Food to try

• Kalua Pork — Slow-roasted pork traditionally cooked in an underground imu oven, served as a staple at local restaurants and plate lunch shops.
• Ahi Poke — Cubed raw ahi tuna marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and local seaweed, served as a fresh appetizer or over rice.
• Maui Onion — Sweet, mild onion variety grown locally and celebrated in dishes ranging from burgers to soups throughout the island.
• Shave Ice — Finely shaved ice topped with colorful tropical syrups and condensed milk, a beloved treat at beachside stands especially in Lahaina.
• Laulau — Taro leaves wrapped around pork and salted fish, then steamed in ti leaves, representing traditional Hawaiian comfort food.
• Plate Lunch — A local casual meal of two scoops rice, macaroni salad, and protein like kalua pork or teriyaki chicken, found at informal eateries island-wide.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect sacred sites — Many locations hold spiritual significance to Native Hawaiians; ask permission before entering restricted areas and never remove rocks or plants.
• Learn Hawaiian pronunciation — Make an effort to pronounce place names correctly (like Ha-lay-ah-kah-LAH) as a sign of respect for Hawaiian culture and language.
• Observe aloha spirit — Embrace the local values of kindness, respect, and community—greet locals with genuine interest and support small local businesses rather than chains.
• Ocean safety and etiquette — Always swim at designated beaches, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and never touch or feed sea turtles or monk seals you encounter.