Explore the beautiful Maui Island – 3 Day Itinerary

Explore the beautiful Maui Island – 3 Day Itinerary

Last Updated on Jan 1 2024 by Bruddah Ron

Whether you come to Maui for its natural beauty, stellar sunsets, prime whale watching or 81 gorgeous beaches, there’s never a lack of things to do on Maui. With warm waters, swaying palm trees, and the towering Haleakala volcano, Maui is a paradise on earth. Few places can match the island’s postcard-perfect scenery and year-round good weather and Maui packs a lot into a small package. Take a road trip to Hana, dive beneath the waves to observe sea turtles and tropical fish, or get an introduction to traditional Hawaiian culture. And let’s not forget the numerous options for adventure-minded visitors, who can choose among surfing, hiking, zipline courses, and other tropical experiences.  While you may not be able to see and do everything on your first, or even second trip, we’ve broken down some of our favorite activities based on our love for the outdoors and desire to explore one of the world’s most beautiful islands.

Image by Andrew Bain via Unsplash

The island of Maui features an abundance of beaches, especially along the West Coast. Sun is abundant here too, as the volcanoes in the center of the island block the majority of precipitation from ever reaching the leeward side of the island. While portions of Maui’s west coast are often dry and barren, the eastern portions of the island are a lush and green paradise boasting waterfalls in numerous valleys.

More Info

This 3 days in Maui itinerary features the best beaches, hikes and road trips that you don’t want to miss on your first visit to Hawaii.

Best Time to Visit Maui

Maui is a year-round destination, with balmy days and cooler evenings in winter or summer. There are a few differences in the seasons, though, that may influence when you decide to go.

The dry summer season of May through October has highs in the mid-80s and lows in the 70s. Beaches are typically calmer during this time, but always be aware or alerts for strong currents.

The rainier winter season, November through April, sees highs in the high 70s and lows in the high 60s. The wet weather of winter is mostly in the upper elevations and on the windward side of the island, where waves are larger and currents stronger. Most resorts are on the leeward side. Winter is a busy tourist season for Maui and also popular for whale watching.

There is a colder microclimate on Maui in the mountains, which most tourists will experience when visiting Upcountry or the Haleakala National Park Summit District. Temps at the mountain peak drop below freezing at times and it occasionally snows. If you head to the national park for the famous Haleakala sunrise, remember to dress warmly.

Image by Neora Aylon via Unsplash

What to Pack for Maui

You have a swimsuit and sunscreen, but what else should you bring on your island vacation? This packing checklist will help you pick the right clothes and gear for different activities and ensure you don’t leave anything important behind.

  • Swim and Beachwear
  • Sightseeing and Resort Wear
  • Activewear
  • Dinner and Evening Wear
  • Accessories (Hat, Sunglasses, Suns cream, Water bottle, Snorkel set)

Do you need to rent a car in Maui?

More Info

This island promises a memorable vacation, thanks to its stunning beaches and breathtaking scenery. There’s so much to explore that you might need a vehicle to go from one place to another.

While Maui’s local transit system is reliable, fast, cheap, and convenient, you may have your reasons for renting a car.  You won’t have to go through the hassle of buying tickets. There’s no endless waiting at the local transport stops. Cars save your journey time, and you won’t have trouble carrying your luggage around. Plus, there’s the independence of having a car. You get the freedom and flexibility to explore the island at your own pace and convenience. With a rental car, you can easily access beaches, hiking trails, etc., that would otherwise be out of reach.

The average cost to rent a car on Maui varies depending on the type of vehicle and length of the rental. It also depends on the time of year and when you book the rental. Booking in advance will save you a lot of money.

Day 1 – Explore the beautiful beaches and marine life

More Info

If you’ve come to Hawaii for the beaches, Maui certainly won’t disappoint. The South Maui coast is known for its calm waters and pretty sand and you won’t be short on beach parks here. Plus, you can see islands like Lanai and the Molokini Crater off in the distance.

Image by Farid Askerov via Unsplash

Nakalele Point – Explore the Nakalele Point Lighthouse and Blowhole

We’ll kick off our West Maui itinerary by suggesting a visit to one of our favorite attractions on the far northwest corner of the region, Nakalele Point, Lighthouse Trail, and Nakalele Blowhole. The Nakalele Blowhole is a geyser that’s located just east of Poelua Bay. Every few minutes, the blowhole erupts, shooting powerful blasts of seawater up to 100 feet in the air. Surrounded by twisted lava formations, steep slopes, and the Pacific’s churning waves, Nakalele is one of only three natural blowholes in the world. It’s both a magical and mysterious sight to behold!

Another must-see is Nakalele Point Lighthouse. Although smaller than your typical lighthouse, Nakalele Point offers incredible views. Visitors can stand on the concrete slab adjacent to the light for expansive vistas of the tide pools, rocks, and crashing waves below.

Kapalua Bay Beach – One Of the Best Beaches for Snorkeling On West Maui

When you think of Hawaii, Kapalua Beach is probably the scene that comes to mind. Several years ago (back in the early 1990s and again in 2018), this beach won the title of ‘America’s Best Beach,’ and it’s not hard to see why once you visit here. With gorgeous scenic views, an abundance of palm trees lining the shoreline, and lots of soft sand with great swimming available, it’s no wonder this is one of the gems of northwest Maui.

Many families enjoy Kapalua Beach because it provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling. Yet, there is no lifeguard on duty here. Come here for great snorkeling, swimming, and even scuba-diving. Sealife like several tropical fish and honu (green sea turtles) gather here. Public restrooms are also available at the beach trailhead.

Image by Meina Yin via Unsplash

Ka’anapali Beach & Blackrock – White Sand Beach and Cliff Diving From Black Rock

When you think of Hawaii, miles of white sand, crystal clear waters, and palm tree-lined coastline come to mind. Well, that’s what you’ll find on Kaanapali Beach, arguably the island’s most popular and beloved beach. Once you’ve been here, you’ll see why it was the location of the island’s very first master-planned resort area. Kaanapali Beach has a gorgeous stretch of coastline filled with powder white sand, gentle waves, and stunning views of the island’s West Maui mountains. You can enjoy endless water activities or just relax on the stunning beach, often named one of the world’s best. Kaanapali Beach includes seven hotel fronts and outdoor shopping at Whalers Village, so you don’t have to go far for things you need!

Snorkeling at the base of Black Rock is one of the best spots to see schools of fish and other water animals. You can rent snorkel gear right off the beach and step right into the clear water to see parrotfish, surgeonfish, chub, octopus, sea urchin, coral, and many more. During the mid-morning hours, you may even spot a sea turtle swimming around! So, head out to this spot earlier in the morning to beat the crowds and get the best views of marine life.

Image by Justin Busa via Unsplash

Kahekili Beach Park –  Pretty Beach With Great Facilities

This beach is the Northern most beach in the Ka’anapali Beach Resort, but is less crowded and commercialized than its sister to the South, Ka’anapali Beach. Pristine waters, excellent snorkeling, and top-notch facilities make this a much-visited beach, though it somehow never feels unreasonably crowded.

You’ll find spacious restrooms, barbecue grills, a gazebo, and an expansive lawn, all of which make it a great spot for picnicking or hanging out with friends and family. And if you’re looking to get in the water, you’ll be pleased to know that Airport Beach is a favorite spot for scuba divers, particularly for intro sessions.

For the best snorkeling, head to the front of the pavilion from the parking lot. Let your feet enjoy the sandy but fabulous beach. Nonetheless, we recommend wearing fins to float over the reef and rocks in the ocean.

Image by bobbsled via Flickr

Old Lahaina Luau – Hawaiian Luau Dinner & Show

More Info

A lūʻau is a traditional Hawaiian party or feast that is usually accompanied by entertainment. It may feature food such as poi, kālua puaʻa, poke, lomi salmon, ʻopihi, and haupia, beer, and entertainment such as traditional Hawaiian music and hula.

Finish your day by enjoying the Maui’s most popular and highly-rated authentic Hawaiian luau, and have the best oceanfront luau experience with delicious food and a traditional luau show at the Old Lahaina Luau.

Highlights include:

  • Five-course menu including imu roasted pork, Maui style fish, BBQ chicken
  • Seating choice of table and chairs or traditional seating
  • Premium open bar
  • Flower lei and tropical drink greeting

DAY 2 – Road Trip to Hana (Hana Highway)

More Info

Rent a car or Jeep to the make the drive yourself or book a guided sightseeing tour to focus on snapping photos of waterfalls and taking in the cliffside views. pack a lunch for the Road to Hana, there are several great locations to stop for a scenic picnic.

The Road to Hana produces some of the island’s best scenery. The winding drive along the east coast follows the Hana Highway from the beachside town of Paia to remote Hana on the tip of the island. Along the way, the coastal path curves along dozens of hairpin turns surrounded by rainforest and traverses one-way bridges over streaming waterfalls.

Image by Don Stouder via Unsplash

When it comes to driving the Hana Highway on Maui, it’s the journey, not the destination. Few words can describe the beauty of this drive. Cliffs cloaked in lush valleys dot this road. Since the curvy Hana Road hugs the coast, see the fantastic ocean that stretches to the Alaskan coastline. Take this highway through ‘paradise’ where sandy black, red, and white beaches pepper the coast. Many beautiful trails and gardens sprawl across this road of ‘paradise.’ Additionally, expect to encounter several overflowing waterfalls.

Twin Falls Trail – Scenic Waterfall Hike

More Info

The distance of the Twin Falls hike in Maui is approximately half a mile (0.8 km) one way, making the round trip hike around 1 mile (1.6 km).  

Twin Falls Maui is an epic waterfall adventure nestled deep in the jungle of East Maui, Hawaii. Jaw-dropping waterfalls, lush scenery, colorful plants, and multiple stream crossings are just a few of the things that you can expect to experience along this trail. Easily accessible from the popular Hana Highway, visiting Twin Falls is the perfect way to kick off your Road To Hana day trip!

Image by Tuva Hoyer via Unsplash

Twin Falls is a popular waterfall and swimming area located on the north shore of Maui, Hawaii. Experience a stunning combination of natural beauty and heart-pumping fun! The journey through the lush tropical jungle, the sound of cascading waterfalls, and the cool water of swimming holes will surely awaken your senses. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers who crave the rush of cliff jumping or for those who simply want to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Waikamoi Forest Ridge Trail Loop – Easy Short-Stop On The Road To Hana

If you’re searching for a hiking trail in Maui that’s perfect for all ages, try the Waikamoi Ridge Nature Trail is for you. This trail begins near the mile 9 mark, about a half-mile past the mile marking. Keep your eyes open for the parking lot as you approach the path. Many overlook the parking lot because it’s around a bend in the road.

The out-and-back Waikamoi Ridge Nature Trail is ranked as moderate with 255 feet of elevation. The Waikamoi Trail is a beautiful, short nature walk through trees, bamboo, and ferns with scenic overlooks at various points along the way. The primary loop trail is 0.9 miles long and has two lookout locations. There is a trail extension on the loop that leads to a picnic area. If you add this to your trek, your total distance will be 1.5 miles. Depending on your pace and how often you stop to snap pictures, the loop should take approximately thirty minutes. If you add the extension, then plan on hiking for an hour.

Image by Jakob Owens via Unsplash

Garden of Eden – Arboretum & Botanical Garden

The Garden of Eden is a natural paradise that promises to enchant and delight visitors from all corners of the world. This breathtaking botanical garden boasts a diverse array of tropical plants, flowers, and trees, set against a backdrop of majestic waterfalls, verdant rainforest, and expansive ocean vistas. Meandering trails and tranquil ponds invite guests to discover the wonders of the Garden of Eden at their own pace, taking in the serene ambiance and stunning natural beauty of this magical destination.

Wai’anapanapa State Park – Volcanic Black Pebble Coast & Outstanding Panoramic Views

Waianapanapa State Park, on the outskirts of Hana, is known for its black-sand beach and rocky surrounds, where bright green plants pop against the background. There are spots to walk along the jagged coast here, spotting sea arches and blowholes along the way. The little cove generally has a small crowd of beachgoers and waders admiring the dark sand.

Image by William Zhang via Unsplash

Hamoa Beach – Beautiful Crescent Beach With a Reliable Surf Break

Surrounded by stunning cliffs, Hamoa Beach has very limited access. This remote location adds to the exclusivity of this gorgeous beach. There is a small service road at one end, where you can park and then walk. Hamoa Beach isn’t protected by offshore reefs like many of Maui’s calm, tame beaches near Kihei and Lahaina. Thus, oftentimes, you’ll arrive to find crashing waves and the potential for riptides. Even so, in the morning, the waves can calm down quite a bit, giving way to good swimming and snorkeling. What Hamoa is truly known for, though, is its surfing. It has been renowned as a top-notch surf spot for centuries—since the native Hawaiians were “belly boarding” on long, hardwood boards.

Image by Katie Musial via Unsplash

Wailua Falls – 80′ Waterfall And Plunge Pool

If you’ve ever fantasized about seeing a double-tiered waterfall, then get ready to turn your fantasy into reality at the gorgeous Wailua Falls. Like other spectacular spots on Kauaʻi used as film locations, Wailua Falls is most recognized in the opening credits of the long-running television show “Fantasy Island.” Unlike many other Kauai waterfalls, Wailua Falls is easily accessible, as no hiking is needed to reach it and appreciate its beauty up close. In fact, the parking lot basically overlooks the falls.

Image by Zane Persaud via Unsplash

Pipiwai Trail – One Of The Best Hikes On Maui

More Info

Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 4-5 hours to complete, so it is recommended to look at the majestic bamboo forest and wrap up the stop.

The Pipiwai Trail- with its stunning waterfalls, huge bamboo forest, idyllic stream, and more beauty than you can imagine- is simply one of the best hikes on Maui. The Pipwai Trail hike in Haleakala National Park is one of the best hikes on the Maui island of Hawaii! With just a little effort the hike rewards you with several amazing features like a stunning bamboo forest, several waterfalls, and a huge Banyan tree.

Image by Genevieve Perron-Migneron via Unsplash

Campgrounds on the Road to Hana

From official campgrounds to more informal roadside camping spots, there are several camping options on the road to Hana.

  1. Waianapanapa State Park campground
  2. Kipahulu campground
  3. Camp Keanae campground

Must-Have Items For Camping

  • A sturdy tent and sleeping bag
  • A camp stove and fuel
  • A cooler with food and drinks
  • Water containers or a water filter
  • Insect repellent and sunscreen
  • Warm layers for cool nights
  • A headlamp or flashlight
  • A first aid kit

Day 3: Discover Haleakala and Upcountry Maui

More Info

On day 3 we will explore the incredible sights, attractions, and hiking trails of Haleakala & Upcountry Maui, on the eastern side of Maui.

The term Upcountry Maui refers to the towns, ranches, vineyards, parks, farmlands, and visitor attractions on the upper slopes of Haleakala volcano, including Haleakala National Park. Enchanting and rural, Maui’s Upcountry is the heart of the island’s agricultural industry, as well as a thriving artists’ community.

Sunrise on Haleakala – Watch 360-Degree Views Of Sunrise From The Top Of Haleakala

Haleakala, a massive shield volcano that rises 10,023 feet above Maui’s coastal areas, is an enormously popular and easily accessible visitor destination. It has become almost a ritual, in fact, for visitors to rise before dawn and trek to the mountaintop to watch the sun come up from the “House of the Sun,” as it was named by early Hawaiians. (Reservations required between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m.) Given the frosty mountaintop chill, visitors planning to summit for sunrise should pack a jacket or three, especially since the sunrise, in all of its phases, can last for up to an hour.  

Image by Satty Singh via Unsplash

Haleakala National Park Summit District – Crater View With Colorful Cinders And a Bright Blue Sky

While you’re up here, you might want to do some hiking and sightseeing in the summit district of Haleakala National Park. Pause at the Haleakala Visitor Center just below the summit to stare into the crater and check out a few exhibits. Trailheads dot the road back down the mountain and you’ll be able to see both sides of the island from scenic lookouts, too.  

The Haleakala Visitor Center is a small stone building perched right at the edge of a cliff. The Center sits at Mile Marker 20.5, at 9,740ft. Since 1936, the Center opened itself to park visitors. Park staff begin their shift from sunrise to 3 pm daily. They assist park visitors with planning their Haleakala visit and answer questions. Ask about any interpretive programs that they often offer.

Just a few steps from the Visitor Center, you’ll find the Pa Kaoao Trail. It leads to a 100 ft. (30 m.) overlook with a remarkable view. Be sure to trudge up the 0.4 mi. (0.6 km) trail, as the change in altitude is very noticeable!

Image by Georgia de Lotz via Unsplash

Upcountry Maui – Stunning Views & Laidback Vibes

Upcountry Maui, on the western slopes of Mount Haleakala, is a truly beautiful area of the island and offers plenty of attractions to fill a full-day excursion. Its elevation on the mountainside offers cool temperatures and stunning panoramic views, and Upcountry Maui is loaded with wonderful little eateries, unique farm tours (from vodka to goat cheese), lovely botanical gardens, serene pastures with grazing animals, and small, charming communities. These four major components include the towns of Pukalani, Makawao, Kula, and Ulupalakua. Pop by Kula to visit a lavender farm and botanical garden or Makawao for a cowboy town turned arts hub with an old-timey downtown district full of galleries and boutiques.

Image by John Morgan via Flickr

More Info

We hope that this 3 days in Maui itinerary helps you plan the most epic of trips! If you have any questions about how to spend your time in Maui, Please leave a comment below! Thanks and have an awesome trip to Maui!

3 thoughts on “Explore the beautiful Maui Island – 3 Day Itinerary

  1. Absolutely love the tips on exploring Hawaii! Your recommendations make me want to book a trip ASAP.

    Unlock your child’s full arithmetic potential with our premier abacus online course. Recognized as the best abacus online classes, our comprehensive curriculum is designed to enhance mental arithmetic skills, enabling students to perform calculations faster than calculators. Our abacus training online is more than just learning to use the abacus; it’s about mastering mental arithmetic to boost brainpower and arithmetic prowess. Explore our abacus lessons online to see why our program stands out and discover our competitive abacus pricing for the best value in online education.

    Visit abacustrainer

  2. “Love the detailed itinerary in ‘The Hawaii Plan’! Your tips and recommendations are a perfect guide for planning a dream trip to Hawaii.

    A99 Real Estate is a leading name in the real estate sector in India, specializing in a wide array of properties in Hyderabad. Whether you are looking for a luxurious home for sale, commercial property in Hyderabad, or apartments in Hyderabad, A99 Real Estate offers unparalleled options to meet your needs. Our portfolio includes exquisite villas, houses, and farm lands, ensuring a perfect match for diverse preferences. With our expert real estate agents and insight into residential projects in Hyderabad, we are dedicated to helping you find the ideal property in Hyderabad. Explore our offerings and discover why we are a trusted name in real estate for sale in Hyderabad.

    Visit a99realestate

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.