Close your eyes. Now imagine yourself sipping a piña colada on the beach as the waves crash and fall back. Crash, and fall right back. It’s the perfect day with the sun shining, and as you rush into the water, you can’t help but realize it’s a surreal shade of bright blue—something the Atlantic Ocean could never deliver. You, my friend, are in Hawaii. While each of its islands has something to offer, if you’re looking for a balance of pure serenity mixed with activities, as well as a place that also counts Oprah as a resident, we’ve got to talk Maui. After all, the second largest of the islands is most famous for its immaculate beaches, caves, and coves that offer opportunities to explore at every turn. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or are hoping to have a kid-friendly vacation, Maui is the answer. Below, here’s everything to see and do on the most-treasured island.
What to See
Bike Haleakala
Calling all daredevils! Let us paint a picture: It’s 6 A.M., and you’ve been dropped off at the 10,000-plus-foot-high Haleakalā summit to watch the sunset from the crater’s edge. From there, you’ll bike down another 20ish miles to base, where you are again greeted by a sea breeze. Not for the faint of heart, this is the ultimate expedition to see Maui’s natural beauty and wonders, with a bit of a challenge. You can rent bikes from Bike Maui and opt for a self-guided or group tour (shout-out to Cruiser Phil!). Bring layers of clothes, closed-toe shoes, water, snacks, alertness, and a sense of adventure.
Road to Hana
If biking isn’t your thing, but you still want to see the real Maui, may we suggest the road to Hana? It’s best to leave before the sun is up (sorry about that, again!) and drive down some very curvy and windy roads with views you can’t fathom are real. You’ll get breathtaking coastline vistas, rainforests, lagoons, and trees so tall the weather will change. The biggest draw is the black sand beach called Pa’iloa, which offers one of the most stunning natural wonders that you are welcome to swim in. Also, those who are familiar with the Road to Hana know that it leads to the seven sacred pools, featuring lush greenery, waterfalls, and wonders the metaverse can only dream of. And although the name mentions seven, there are actually many more pools for climbing and swimming around in during your visit. This will take up a whole day, but it’s well worth it.
Ali’i Kula Lavender
Bored of countless hours at the pool or beach and craving a change of scenery? Head to Maui’s countryside. It’s a cottagecore dream: over 50,000 lavender plants that you can stroll aimlessly through (or take selfies in!), as well as small shops, chicken coops, and ocean views galore. Lavender isn’t native to Maui, but because of the island’s climate, the lavender on the farm blooms year-round in the cool, dry temperatures.
Bydee Crochet Sarong
Where to Eat
The Kitchen Table
Tucked behind the scenes at The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea, The Kitchen Table is where the magic unfolds—literally. Set inside the kitchen, this exclusive, reservation-only experience invites just two guests to enjoy a front-row seat “on the pass,” where you’ll witness the culinary team in action as they prep, plate, and send dishes into the dining room upstairs. The five-course menu, thoughtfully curated with the freshest local and seasonal ingredients, evolves with each dish. During our dinner, we not only enjoyed incredible dishes thoughtfully paired with a wine selection, but also chatted with executive chef Ryan Cruz, who shared insights into the techniques behind each course. It’s part fine dining and part live theater! For a moment, we felt like we were part of a cooking show, surrounded by a pristine, perfectly organized kitchen. It was a rare and magical opportunity to step behind the curtain and witness a true culinary wizard at work.
Huli Huli Chicken
If you’re driving the Road to Hana, make sure to stop by Huli Huli Chicken—a no-frills, open-air spot right on the beach, serving up some of the best BBQ in Maui. The service is first-come, first-serve, so no need to make reservations—just show up, grab a seat, and dig in. It’s a favorite among locals for its authentic Hawaiian food and laid-back vibe. We ordered the chicken with rice and a side of macaroni salad, and let us tell you, it didn’t disappoint. Be sure to arrive early, as they often sell out by the afternoon!
Star Noodle
Chef Sheldon Simeon won Top Chef and decided to open up a restaurant in Hawaii. (Dream life?) Though the kitchen is now helmed by Cesar Perez, the Asian fusion restaurant still serves up the perfect garlic noodles, ahi avo, and, unfortunately, long lines. It’s best to make a reservation in advance, but completely worth the wait if you don’t.
Bru Eyewear Echo
Eterne Cropped Rib Tank Top
Silk Laundry Clip Silk Wrap Skirt
Where to Drink
South Shore Tiki Lounge
Remember the bar in Forgetting Sarah Marshall? Well, it was fictional, but this one is as close as you will get. The tiki vibe includes bamboo walls and surfboard ceilings; you’ll get a good mix of tourists and locals. Bonus: the drinks are cheap and the music is loud, so you know you’re in for a good time.
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
Though technically not a bar, this shaved ice spot is just as refreshing and mouth-watering. The OG stop of shaved ice in Hawaii, the store now has seven locations across the island. Ulalani’s is famous for its over 55 flavors of syrups that let you mix and match to your tastebuds’ desires. BYO booze, we don’t judge.
Maui Brewing Company
Grab a beer at Hawaii’s largest local craft brewery to get a taste of real Hawaiian nightlife. The location boasts an array of beers you can only find on the grounds of the brewery and also a full gastropub if you’ve worked up an appetite. (Our recommendation is to order a beer and fries with house-made ketchup and mustard, infused with beer.)
Meshki Teagan Floral Hand Crochet Midi Dress
Simon Miller Shelly Mercado Tote
Khaite Loop Flat Sandal
Where to Stay
Hotel Wailea
Perched above the Pacific on a hillside of tropical gardens and winding stone paths, Hotel Wailea is more than just a retreat—it’s a whole mood. With only 72 suites spread across 15 acres, the ambiance feels less like a typical resort and more like your own private Hawaiian villa, offering a level of privacy and style that’s hard to beat. As Hawaii’s only locally owned luxury hotel, it stands apart from the beachfront properties below, trading crowds for curated, intimate experiences—plus, it’s adults-only, ensuring a peaceful environment. During your stay, indulge in activities like aerial yoga with ocean views, mixology classes by the pool, or enjoy a happy hour at The Treehouse, where you can mingle with other guests. But what truly sets Hotel Wailea apart is its quiet humanity. (Take, for instance, the warmth of the bartender, who, after a long day of travel, introduced us to the staff as if we were family.) Our hour-long conversations at the pool bar, discussing Hawaii, local food, and island life, become some of the highlights of our visit. Evenings were spent watching the sky transform into shades of coral over The Birdcage’s open-air bar, and for a while, the hotel truly felt like home.
Fairmont Kea Lani
If you’re looking for the full package, head to the Fairmont Kea Lani. This luxury resort comprised of newly renovated suites and villas features a full-service spa, award-winning restaurant, and a White Lotus-esque canoe experience. Whether traveling with others or solo, it’s the perfect place to recharge and reset with the best accommodations and services at your fingertips. Book your stay here.
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
If you’re looking for the real Maui experience, post up at this classic property, which recently underwent a $100 million renovation, complete with lanais, hammocks, sun decks, and fire pits (no big deal). Visitors are greeted by the gorgeous Kapalua bay, plus views of the nature and mountains of the island’s western tip. The biggest draw is the Plantation golf course, home to the PGA Tour’s opening event of the year. It also has hiking and arguably the best breakfast buffet we’ve ever seen. Breakfast ramen, anyone?
Mohala Eyewear Kea Polarized Rectangle Sunglasses
Alohiwai Oversized Boyfriend Shirt
Beauty Picks
Dior La Mousse ON/OFF Foaming Cleanser
Double cleansing has its benefits, but carrying multiple types of cleansers can be a drawback for overpackers. Dior’s La Mousse is mighty enough to break down even the toughest formulas, from sunscreen to makeup.
Good Weather Skin The One Daily Sun Cream SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen
This mineral sunscreen has an elegant, lightweight texture that melts into the skin easily without a ghostly white cast.
Kosas Hotliner
One lip liner with many functions, Kosas’s Hotliner can be used to outline the lips or as an all-over shade for the lipstick-averse. Thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid, the lips are left nourished and primed for subsequent products. When you need a touch-up, simply uncap the sharpener to create your desired look.
Additional reporting by Leah Romero.
