The second largest island in Hawaii, Maui — also known as “The Valley Isle” — is what most of us picture when we imagine an unspoiled paradise. Here, you’ll walk along pristine beaches, journey into teeming rainforests, and discover authentic Hawaiian culture and cuisine. With travel returning to Hawaii at long last, it’s time to start planning that Maui vacation you’ve been dreaming of with RedWeek. There’s so much fun to be had in Maui that it can be overwhelming. We’re here to help you make the most of your time here.
Hawaii’s resorts might be sold out through their own websites — but not through RedWeek’s by-owner rentals. Start planning your Hawaii vacation now!
The Best Things To Do In Maui
The natural world shows off its best side in Maui, with eco-adventures and unspoiled nature along every bend in the road.
The Road To Hana
The ultimate Hawaii road trip. The Road To Hana is an incredibly scenic, 52-mile road that twists and turns around Maui’s northeastern shore. On your journey you’ll see countless waterfalls, cross 59 bridges, and taste Maui’s famed oven-warmed banana bread, which is sold at roadside fruit stands. Getting to takes about two-and-a-half hours to drive but make plans for a full day adventure — you’ll want to stop frequently.
Along the way, visit the Garden of Eden Arboretum, home to a 100-year-old mango tree and the spectacular Keopuka Rock Overlook, which you might recognize from Steven Spielberg’s Jurassic Park. Also be sure to spend a little time at Ho’okipa Lookout, where you’ll be able to watch talented surfers riding Maui’s best waves.
Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii
Maui is one of the world’s best scuba diving destinations. But if you’re not quite ready for the full scuba, Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii is the next best thing, allowing you to discover an underwater world without getting wet.
Located in Ma’alaea Harbor, the attraction’s highlights include a 750,000-gallon shark tank with more than 20 sharks, a 360-degree tank with luminous jellyfish, and the new Humpbacks of Hawaiʻi Exhibit & Sphere — an immersive experience that takes you into the world of humpbacks through 4k imagery, 3D active glasses and an immersive surround sound system.
Makena State Park
Looking for that perfect Maui beach? With 120 miles of coastline, you’ve got plenty of options. But don’t skip Makena State Park. There are actually two beaches here. The almost-mile-long Makena Beach, also known as Oneloa Beach and Big Beach, is one of the largest undeveloped beaches in Maui, offering plenty of space for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.
For a more secluded experience, make your way past a 360-foot-tall dormant volcanic cinder cone to Puʻu Olai Beach, also known as Little Beach. A little word of warning, though — Pu’u Olai is popular amongst nude sunbathers.
Wailea Golf Club
If you’re a golfer, you can’t miss the opportunity to enjoy one of Hawaii’s best golf experiences — Wailea Golf Club. Here, you can choose from three award-winning courses (Gold, Blue or Emerald), each one boasting scenic ocean views and exceptional design. Wailea Gold is the most well-known … and the most challenging. Legends like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Lee Trevino have all played here.
Not a golfer, but you want to soak in the views? Wailea offers Sunset Cart Tours, allowing you to take a ride across Wailea Blue’s grounds to see the sun sink into the sea — Maui romance at its best.
Where To Shop In Maui
Go on a Maui shopping spree at these outdoor malls, offering a blend of local and international flair.
Outlets of Maui
Located in Lahaina, Outlets of Maui is an oceanside open-air spot that is home to outlet offerings from such big brand names as Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Guess, Coach, Michael Kors, Lucky Brand, Kate Spade, and many more. When you’ve shopped to your heart’s content, relax at Waikiki Brewing Co., where the ocean views from the patio are complemented by some of Hawaii’s best craft beer. Oh, and while you’re there, take a free ukulele lesson!
Whalers Village
Another al fresco Lahaina shopping center, the three-level Whalers Village is a must for those in search of retail bliss in Maui. Just steps from the white sands of Ka’anapali Beach, the Village features a mix of upscale brands and one-of-a-kind local shops. Meanwhile, Mauka Food Court features a tasty selection of fast-casual and fine-dining restaurants, including the highly recommended Joey’s Kitchen, featuring traditional Hawaiian and Filipino cuisine.
The Shops at Wailea
Located within the Wailea Resort on the shoreline of southeastern Maui, The Shops at Wailea is home to more than 70 boutiques and art galleries. It’s an eclectic mix, with everything from luxury (Gucci or Bottega Veneta) to classic Hawaiian styles — Canyon Beachwear, Honolua Surf Co., and Maui Clothing Company will all have you looking like a local in no time.
Where To Eat In Maui
Farm-to-table is nothing new in Maui, where chefs take advantage of a bounty of fresh ingredients to create unforgettable dishes.
Hula Grill
Fish-to-fork, Maui-style. Hula Grill in Ka’anapali uses Maui-grown ingredients, line-caught fish, and all-natural meats to create some seriously delicious Hawaiian cuisine. If you’re a seafood lover, don’t skip the Coconut Seafood Chowder, made with lobster, shrimp, fresh fish, bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, peanuts, and coconut cilantro broth. While you dig in, you’ll be entertained by live hula dancing.
Banyan Tree
Located within The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Banyan Tree is a refined and elegant restaurant offering what the chefs like to call “Hawaiian coastal cuisine.” That means fresh fish, sustainable ingredients, rich flavors, and innovative techniques. The open-concept ambiance is outstanding as well, with a hand-crafted wooden bar that wraps around the center of the restaurant, plus cozy outdoor firepits.
Fleetwood’s On Front Street
The Rumours are true. The owner of Fleetwood’s On Front Street is none other than Mick Fleetwood of Fleetwood Mac, who is a longtime Maui resident. Mick is not just an iconic rock drummer, he’s also a gourmand, as shown by the menu at this Lahaina restaurant, which features such enticing items as fresh-shucked oysters, lobster tacos, and Hawaiian swordfish, not to mention an extensive wine and spirits list. Ask for a table on the rooftop for a meal with a view — but don’t forget to check out all the Fleetwood Mac memorabilia inside.
Maui Timeshare Resorts
Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas
Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas delivers ultimate relaxation after your Maui adventures. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian wellness at the 10,000 square-foot Spa Helani by Westin Heavenly Spa. Enjoy a cocktail while unwinding beside one of several lagoon-style pools or retire to your spacious one- or two-bedroom villa.
Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club
Occupying 16 acres of beautiful oceanfront on Ka’anapali Beach, Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club is a special place, with studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom accommodations, a tranquil day spa, and several restaurants. But best of all is the resort’s massive Superpool, offering 3.5 acres of waterfalls, waterslides, and a chilled-out pool bar.
Ka’anapali Beach Club
Another great Ka’anapali Beach timeshare resort option, Ka’anapali Beach Club’s one- and two-bedroom suites are notable for private balconies that provide stunning mountain or ocean views. Beyond your suite, you’ll enjoy a one-acre swimming pool, easy beach access, and a lush landscape punctuated by waterfalls and native greenery.
