Best Things to Do on Maui (Post-Lahaina Fires)

Best Places to Stay on Maui

Before we get into the best things to do on Maui, you’ll likely need to figure out a place to stay. I personally enjoy staying in the South Maui area as it serves as a good home base for easy access to the rest of the island. However, I do have a few recommendations for where to stay in the West Maui area also.

Hotels in South Maui

I’ll be the first to admit that hotels on Maui aren’t usually budget-friendly. However, if you have the funds to spend (or points saved up), there are some phenomenal properties to stay at!

• Hotel Wailea – Best for couples and honeymooners. A bit of a splurge, but this is one of the only true adults-only hotel in Hawaii with spacious suites and a fine-dining restaurant on property. Book at Booking.com, Hotels.com or Direct
• The Grand Wailea – Best for families with kids. The absolute best part of this hotel are the pools – they are so much fun, even for adults! Book at Booking.com, Hotels.com or Direct
• Andaz Maui by Hyatt – Suitable for all travelers (especially Hyatt loyalists). I love the beachfront location and you can utilize those valuable Hyatt points here! They also have one of the best brunch buffets on the island. Book at Booking.com, Hotels.com or Direct
• Wailea Beach Marriott – Suitable for all travelers (especially Marriott loyalists). This is the nicest Marriott property that I’ve seen to date with great pools. It’s also within a short walking distance to The Shops at Wailea. Book at Booking.com, Hotels.com or Direct

Condos in South Maui

For more budget-friendly options, condos are usually your best bet. They include more amenities like a kitchen and often a washer and dryer in the units.

Do keep in mind that lawmakers are trying to ban vacation rentals outside of “hotel zones” to try and ease the housing crisis on the island. Make sure to check in with your vacation rental owners or property management companies for an updated status on this.

Below are properties I’ve personally stayed at when traveling to Maui:

• Wailea Grand Champions – My absolute favorite condo stay to date! We stayed in Unit 152 with views overlooking the golf course and homey, island-inspired décor. Book at Booking.com, Hotels.com, or VRBO.
• Kamaole Sands – The perfect location for those wanting to enjoy being in Kihei with Kamaole III Beach right across the street. Book at Booking.com, Hotels.com, VRBO or Direct
• Waiohuli Beach Hale – Steps from a quiet beach and walkable to Times Market (to fill up on fresh poke) and the Azeka Marketplace. Book at VRBO
• Kihei Ali’i Kai – Great spot located between Kamaole I and II beaches. Also walkable to local restaurants! Book at Booking.com or VRBO

Where to Stay in West Maui

These are my personal favorite places to stay in the West Maui area, including hotels and condo-style accommodations:

• Westin Ka’anapali – The Westin has some of the comfiest beds I’ve slept in on Maui! It’s also an oceanfront property and has a decent luau. Book at Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Direct via Marriott (with points!).
• Honua Kai Resort and Spa – This is my favorite place to stay at on the west side, with units that are condo-style versus a traditional hotel. I love the pools here and there is a Duke’s restaurant onsite. You can read my whole review on my stay there! Book at Booking.com, Hotels.com, Direct, or on VRBO.
• Napili Kai – If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle, book a stay at the quiet Napili Kai where most accommodations include a small kitchenette. There is a great beach fronting the property and also an onsite restaurant. Booking.com, Hotels.com, or Direct.

Best Things to Do on Maui

Even though Lahaina Town was West Maui’s beating heart (and I look forward to the day when it can be rebuilt), there is still so much of the island of Maui to discover!

Here’s a list of some of the best things to do on Maui that you can do right now!

1. Support Local Restaurants

Supporting local restaurants is at the top of my list because it’s the number one thing I love to do when home on Maui! Maui is truly an epic foodie destination, whether you want to experience affordable local eats or elevated Pacific Island-inspired cuisine.

All over the island of Maui, you’ll find so many amazing restaurants, food trucks, and food stands that are ready to serve you some drool-worthy eats.

If you need some additional foodie-themed ideas for your visit to Maui, check out these food-related Maui posts for some inspo:

• Support Central Maui’s small, locally-owned establishments (Central Maui Takeout Food Tour)
• Taste some of Maui’s best desserts (Must-Try Desserts & Sweet Treats on Maui)
• Track down some of the best fish tacos on the island (The Search for Maui’s Best Fish Tacos)
• Go on a poke crawl! (Where to Find the Best Poke on Maui)

2. Visit Upcountry Maui (including Haleakala)

Upcountry Maui is my favorite part of the island of Maui, though I am a bit biased because this is where I grew up! Bias aside, the beautiful, green landscape and cooler temperatures are a welcome change from the beach and resort areas.

In addition to visiting the epic Haleakala National Park, visitors can stop by numerous restaurants, farms, distilleries, restaurants and even a brewery and winery!

There are three distilleries in the Upcountry area, including Maui Ocean Vodka, Hali’imaile Distilling Co., and the new Waikulu Distillery (for agave spirits) that offer tours and tastings, giving plenty of fun options for boozy travelers.

I also highly recommend stopping at Mahalo Ale Works for a flight of beers and making a tasting reservation at MauiWine.

For more ideas on what to do in Upcountry Maui, check out Best Things to Do In Upcountry Maui for a full list of recommendations.

3. Drive the Road to Hana

Driving the Road to Hana is one of Maui’s most famous activities. It’s also one of the most scenic drives in the world! Kick off your trip by driving through Pa’ia Town on Maui’s North Shore. Then, make your way along the coast of East Maui, enjoying scenic stops at numerous waterfalls and historic sites.

As part of the whole experience, you’ll also want to stop at many of the food and fruit stands along the way. Some well-loved spots include the famous Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread in Ke’anae, the Halfway to Hana stand for some shave ice and snacks, and Coconut Glen’s for some unique coconut ice cream.

If you want to kick back on your drive to Hana, consider purchasing a digital guide to help with planning or book a fully-guided tour.

4. Visit South Maui’s Beaches

Even though I grew up Upcountry and spent a lot of time at the North Shore beaches, I always love to visit the beaches that line South Maui. In South Maui, you’ll find a lot of what I like to call “beginner beaches” where you don’t have to worry about big waves as much (hotel-area beaches like Ulua and Wailea Beach are some of my favorites).

There’s also Kamaole I, II, and III which give beach park feels with grassy areas above the beaches. These are perfect for picnicking when you want to avoid getting sand in your food! For more advanced beachgoers, check out Makena Beach (aka Big Beach) which has more shore break but is also quite spacious.

You can also rent snorkel gear from hotels or shops like Snorkel Bob’s for Boss Frog’s if you want to snorkel straight off the beaches. Some condo owners even supply gear so be sure to check with your hosts.

Check out this site for a guide to all of South Maui’s beaches to find the best fit for you.

5. Take a Sail Excursion

When visiting Maui, a sail cruise, whale watch (in winter months) or snorkel cruise are always activities I recommend! Even though Lahaina Harbor was sadly destroyed in the recent fire, Ma’alaea Harbor is open for boat tours to launch from. Some companies even launch straight off the beaches (benefits of catamaran sailing!).

Some of my favorite sail excursion companies:

• Pacific Whale Foundation for whale watching (check out my post about why I like to sail with them)
• Trilogy or Kai Kanani for Snorkel Excursions
• Sail Maui for an awesome sunset cruise experience

6. Attend a Maui Luau

I’m not ashamed to admit that going to a luau never gets old! It’s one of those quintessential Hawaiian experiences where the food comforts you and the dancing makes you smile. I don’t look at them as gimmicky – I find them to be a great opportunity to educate guests on Polynesian culture and history through song, dance and food. Even as someone who grew up in Hawaii, I still very much enjoy attending luaus, especially when it comes to the food.

It is true that prices of luaus have gone up significantly in the past couple of years, making this a very luxury activity. However, I always recommend that people experience at least one luau in their lives.

As of March 12, 2024, the Old Lahaina Luau has reopened to visitors! It’s one of my all-time favorite luaus to attend, and the staff can really use the support this year. If you’re wanting to stick closer to South Maui, here are some of the most popular South Maui luaus to book:

• The Feast at Mokapu (Andaz)
• Te Au Moana (Wailea Marriott)
• Luau at Grand Wailea
• Gilligan’s Island Luau (budget-friendly in Kihei)

7. Cruise Through Paia Town

Paia Town is a small, historic town located on Maui’s North Shore, which you’ll pass through if you end up doing The Road to Hana.

Stop in at one of the many great restaurants and feast on delicious eats like fish tacos at Paia Fish Market; an acai bowl from Choice Health Bar; a li hing mui margarita from Milagros; poke, shave ice and chili and rice at Tobi’s; gelato made with local ingredients from Paia Gelato; or a wood-fired pizza at Flatbread!

Paia is also home to many little boutiques, shops and galleries perfect for browsing Hawaii-inspired clothing, jewelry, trinkets and art.

Book Maui Adventures with Get Your Guide!

8. Explore ‘Iao Valley in Central Maui

‘Iao Valley is a beautiful, peaceful park located in the Wailuku area of Central Maui with scenic mountain views, flowing streams, and an abundance of plant life. As the second wettest spot in Hawaii (behind Mt. Waialeale on Kauai), it’s no wonder why the landscape remains so green and lush!

Visitors can take an easy 0.6-mile paved walking trail once at the park, which includes views of the ‘Iao Needle – one of Maui’s most recognizable natural landmarks. It’s also a sacred and historically-significant site where visitors can learn about the brutal battle of Kepaniwai.

Important: Pre-reservations are required online for out-of-state visitors and entry cost is $5.00 per person plus a $10.00 parking fee.

After your visit, check out one of the many locally-owned eateries in Wailuku, like Tiffany’s or Sam Sato’s!

9. Visit the Lava Fields at La Perouse Bay

The Lava Fields at La Perouse Bay display views of an undeveloped landscape, showcasing the remnants of the last known lava flow from Haleakala. To get here, drive through the South Maui towns of Wailea and Makena until you reach the end of the paved road in the parking lot at La Perouse Bay.

If you’re a hiker there for more than just the views, you can plan to hike the Hoapili Trail – also known as King’s Highway, originally built as a path for Hawaiian royalty. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear that can take a moderate beating from the harsh lava rocks.

As a reminder, lava rocks are not to be taken as souvenirs. Not only is it illegal, in Hawaiian lore, it’s believed to bring bad luck from Pele’s Curse.

10. Take a Horseback Riding Tour

Equine lovers might appreciate a unique perspective on the island with a horseback riding tour! Try the Mendes Ranch Tour (which some friends of mine enjoyed recently) or this tour from Maui Mountain Activities as an alternative. Both offer sweeping views of Maui’s North Shore.

If you’re traveling Upcountry, consider horseback tours with Triple L Ranch that offer views of Kaho’olawe and Molokini.

11. Visit South Maui Gardens

South Maui Gardens is not just a plant nursery and community garden space – it is also is host to numerous food trucks, a weekly artisan market, and rotating events (like movie nights and hula shows) happening throughout the week. They are also available for larger events and celebrations such as showers, company parties, and even weddings!

It’s here you’ll find one of my favorite food trucks on the island called Kitoko, serving up gourmet food in this serene corner of Kihei. Grab a bite to eat and wander!

12. Get Educated at Maui Ocean Center

The Maui Ocean Center is a facility dedicated to education and conservation of marine animals from Hawaiian waters and is a great place to visit for families traveling with kids. Here, you can learn about Hawaii’s coral reefs and marine life, as well as learn about the culture and history of Hawaii and first Hawaiians and their connection to the sea.

The Maui Ocean Center also participates in conservation activities such as their sea turtle program where turtles are raised and released into the wild, and also offers beach cleanup days for those looking to volunteer their time.

You also will not find any whales or dolphins at this aquarium (yay!). The waters of Maui are an amazing natural habitat to observe these creatures in the wild. Also, the County of Maui prohibits exhibition of captive cetaceans (whales and dolphins). I wish this was instituted worldwide!

13. Go Brewery Hopping

For beer lovers visiting the island, head over to Maui Brewing in Kihei for a flight of beers and delicious pub-style grub. The Kihei location is also a great space for gathering with larger groups of families and friends!

I also recommend heading to Upcountry Maui and checking out Mahalo Aleworks for some laid-back taproom vibes, great beer, and island views from their upstairs patio. They partner with Upcountry Sausage Co. and Marlow for food options that are excellent companions to beer!

Kohola Brewing also opened up a new spot at Wailea Village. They lost their original location in Lahaina in the 2023 fires, and I’m so excited that they found a new home in South Maui!

Lastly, Waikiki Brewing has a location in South Maui at The Shops at Wailea. I haven’t personally tried their beer, but it’s an option nonetheless! They also lost their West Maui location in the Lahaina fires

14. Take a Helicopter Tour

Helicopter tours are such a popular activity for many Hawaiian islands, but I admit I have not actually done this myself. As someone who fears heights and easily gets motion sickness, this activity has eluded me! It’s on my husband’s bucket list though so I’m sure we’ll make it happen one day.

Everyone I know who has taken a helicopter tour, however, has absolutely zero regrets. While I can’t make a personal recommendation on this, here’s a list of tours to start planning with.

15. Plan a Wedding or Event

Support for the island should also be extended to the event industry. Maui is such an incredible destination for a wedding or celebration. Speaking from firsthand experience from a wedding I was in just weeks after the 2023 fires, the amazing humans from the wedding vendors did everything in their power to ensure one of my best friends had the most incredible wedding experience (with some even losing family homes themselves).

If you’re thinking about having a destination wedding, below are the vendors that made sure an unforgettable wedding week was had.

• Wedding Venue: Gather in Maui (formerly Gannon’s)
• Wedding Planning & Officiant: Maui Aloha Weddings
• Hair & Makeup: MeiLi Autumn Beauty
• Photography: Gamze Smith Photography
• Pre-Wedding Nails: Natural Nails by Mimi
• Videography: No Ka Oi Films
• Music DJ: Maui DJ Services
• Wedding Favors: Maui Cookie Lab
• Post-Wedding Sunset Cruise: Sail Maui
• Wedding Rehearsal Dinner: Maui Ocean Vodka

16. Volunteer

For those looking to contribute by volunteering time, you can start by reaching out to local organizations like the Maui Humane Society, the Maui Food Bank, Maui Ocean Center, and Maui Rapid Response.

17. West Maui Love

Even though Lahaina town was largely destroyed, there are still businesses that survived. There are also towns north of Lahaina were not damaged by the fires such as Ka’anapali, Napili, Honokowai, and Kapalua.

Visit West Maui Restaurants

Some of my favorite Lahaina restaurants survived and some have reopened in new locations! These businesses need our support, so it’s definitely worth it to put a visit to a few on your itinerary. Here are a few to check out:

• Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop
• Mala Ocean Tavern
• Star Noodle

Maui kuia Chocolate

Maui Kuia Estate Chocolate has a facility in Lahaina where visitors can take tours to learn about the chocolate growing and making process. They also have an amazing bar on the second level where you can listen to live music and get chocolate pairings with wine or spirits flights!

We’ve done both the spirits and wine flights and loved the pairings with all the different-flavored chocolates (the calamansi was one of my favorites).

West Maui’s residents are still recovering and figuring out how to move forward. If you choose to visit West Maui on an upcoming visit, please remember to be respectful and kind!

I hope this guide on the best things to do on Maui gave you some great ideas for your upcoming trip!