Aloha!

My Maui guide is here! I’ve been to Maui the most times of all the Hawaiian Islands — throughout my PR career when I repped a resort in Ka’anapali, on my honeymoon, and recently this past spring as a celebratory trip for both me and Alex (a career move for me and earning an MBA for him, so proud!). There is a reason why Maui is beloved by so many people and is often the first island travelers to Hawaii will choose to visit. There’s just so much to do, eat, explore, and the weather is nearly perfect throughout the year. Maui feels modern with its high-end dining experiences, resorts and shopping, and you can also get off the beaten path and experience true Hawaiian culture. It really has everything and will continue to be a place Alex and I return to over the years. These are my top experiences worthy of Maui itineraries!

+ Stay (There is truly an abundance of luxury resorts to choose from in Wailea, Ka’anapali and Kapalua, so I’m sharing some boutique experiences where I’ve stayed that are a bit more unique).

Paia Inn in Paia - Hip boutique hotel with private beach access
Kula Lodge in Kula - We stayed here when we needed to wake up really early to see the sunrise at Haleakala. The grounds and views around Upcountry Maui were stunning!
Luxury condos in Wailea Ekolu Village (VRBO or Airbnb) - Walking distance to everything in Wailea, ocean views, can’t say enough good things

+ Eat

Hali'imaile General Store in Makawao for history with Maui farm-to-table eats
VANA at Paia Inn - hip vibe and delicious sushi and cocktails
Mama’s Fish House in Paia - touristy but super tasty and beachside views can’t be beat
Lineage in The Shops at Wailea for farm to table fare and excellent service and cocktails
Coconuts Fish Cafe in Kihei for yummy fish tacos
Miso Phat Sushi in Kihei for fresh and delicious sushi
South Maui Fish Company in Kihei for classic and super fresh fish plate lunch
Monkeypod in Wailea has an amazing happy hour and dinner menu - a must!!
Akamai Coffee in Wailea/Kihei for iced coffee/latte fix
Kihei Cafe for excellent breakfast with island flavors
Ae’s Thai Kitchen food truck in Hana - we were obsessed with this place
Honu Oceanside in Lahaina - great lunch spot
Japengo at Hyatt Regency Maui - romantic dinner date with panoramic sunset views, and the best sushi
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice

+ Beaches

Wailea - Wailea Beach, Ulua Beach, Makena Beach
Hana - Black Sand Beach, Hana Bay Beach Park
Paia - private beach at Paia Inn
Ka’anapali - Ka’anapali Beach, Black Rock Beach

+ Activities and Hikes

Waihee Ridge Trail in the West Maui Mountains
Iao Needle State Monument (combine a quick visit with the Waihee Ridge Trail hike)
Drive the Road to Hana - recommend renting a convertible for this bucket list experience since the nature is literally all around you and you don’t want to miss it!
Pipiwai Trail in Hana
Sunrise at Haleakala
Drive through the rock lava fields to Hoapoli Trail near Makena Beach
Wailea Beach Path - oceanside ~3 mile paved walking path, a great way to start or end the day!

+ On My List for Next Time