Maui has a lot on offer for first timers. To me, Maui is more of a "resort" based island, is very family friendly, has some great, unique activities and it's own take on Hawaiian cuisine. Don't forget the banana bread! You could easily spend a week exploring.

I think of Maui from a geographical standpoint and there are 4 key areas to explore: Kaanapali in the north west, Kihei in the south west, Hana in the north east, and Kahului/Haleakala in the middle. The first two are more centralized with hotels/places to stay and the other 2 are easy day trips. 4-5 days is ideal for exploring Maui for the first time!

Maui, Hawaii, USA

Maui for first timers

Kaanapali

Kapalua

Waimoku Falls

Waioka Pond (Venus Pool)

Haiku

Napili Bay

Twin Falls Maui Waterfall

Ke‘anae

Keōpuka Rock

Wailuku

Makena Alanui

Haleakala Crater

Hoapili Trail

Wailua Falls

Kopiliula Falls

Upper Waikani Falls

La Perouse Bay

Kamaole Beach Park I

Honolua Bay

Iao Valley

Seven Pools

Kihei

Puohokamoa Falls

Pua'a Ka'a Falls

Hanawi Falls

Kahului

Kamaole Beach Park II

Hana

Hana Highway

Keonehe'ehe'e (Sliding Sands) Trail

Hamoa Beach

Wailea-Makena

Paia

Lahaina

Kamaole Beach Park III

Maui, Hawaii

From trendy hotels to spa getaways to oceanfront resorts, I’ve got the perfect hotel for you!

Maui Travel Guide

Embark on an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure with this comprehensive guide. Delving into the unique charms of each major island. From the bustling city life of Oahu to the lush landscapes of Maui, the dramatic cliffs of Kauai, and the diverse wonders of the Big Island, we offer Where to Stay, What to Eat & Drink, and What to Do recommendations tailored to each island's distinctive character. Immerse yourself in the aloha spirit, from romantic beachfront resorts to local culinary delights and breathtaking adventures. Make your trip an unforgettable journey through the enchanting Hawaiian archipelago with this expertly curated guide.

Hawaii, USA

Hawaiian Island Guide

My 1 week trip to Maui and Honolulu! For each activity, I will describe the experience, my recommendations/what I ordered, link menus, and denote the cost with dollar signs with $ being the cheapest and $$$$ being the most expensive. Each activity I experienced throughout the trip and further restaurant and bar recommendations are listed below!

Honolulu, HI, USA

The Ultimate Hawaii Trip for Great Food, Great Adventure, and Great Relaxation!

Aloha! As a frequent traveler to the island of Maui I wanted to share some of my favorite places on the island. Every time I go I discover a new gem. Included in the map are restaurants, great places to take a tour with your group, some shopping and even a UPS store near the airport so you can ship a box home of your island goodies (Kona coffee!)

My fav places in Maui, Hawaii

Merriman's Kapalua

$$$$ Very fancy restaurant overlooking the water with live music. We went at sunset and it was stunning! I had the poke and ahi tuna steak and both were some of the best I've ever had. Overall a fabulous restaurant, but it is pricey!

Great for a special night out, especially the prix fixe menu. A nice selection of local food in a great location.

Heavenly spot to eat farm to table food, enjoy wine and the stunning lookout. 

Oceanfront, romantic spot with fantastic cocktails

Merriman's Kapalua

About Merriman's Kapalua

What people say

Mentioned in these guides