Maui

The Best Tour Operators for Biking Down Haleakala (Maui’s Dormant Volcano)

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One of the most popular tourist attractions on Maui is Haleakala, a large dormant volcano whose slopes are the heartland of Maui. While tons of people ascend to the summit each morning to watch the sunrise, the lucky ones get to follow it up with a downhill bike ride from summit to sea.

In my opinion, biking down Haleakala is one of the best ways to experience the crater and Upcountry Maui while getting a little dose of excitement (van tours can be sooooo boring!). You don’t even need to be in great shape to do the bike ride…it’s all downhill! When I’ve done it, I probably pedaled less than about 10 rotations the entire time (this might vary depending if you’re ending in Paia or Haiku).

There used to be dozens of companies that offered some version of a sunrise/bike tour down Haleakala, but in efforts to minimize the impact of visitors to the National Park, starting in 2018 only four companies where awarded permits to operate road tours within the park.

So while many companies used to take you up to the summit in a van so you could see sunrise, and then put you on your bike at the entrance to the National Park (no bike rides are available WITHIN the park), the options are now much fewer. There’s only one company that offers sunrise tours at the summit with the option to bike down. There’s another company that offers the same but it also includes ziplining. And there’s also the option of going with a company that will take you up midmorning (no sunrise), and put you on bikes just outside of the National Park entrance. Depending on what you’re looking for (and what your budget is), all three can be good options. I’ll detail the three companies I recommend below, but first I would caution to look out for companies who promise sunrise at Haleakala with a bike tour but don’t have a permit. If you go with them, you’ll be watching sunrise from about 6,700 feet (outside the National Park entrance), not the summit. And if you’re going to go through the trouble of getting up that early and trekking all the way up there, you really ought to see it from the top.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Maui? Read up on the lay of the is(land) and where to stay plus my favorite beach resorts, budget hotels, Airbnbs, honeymoon resorts, family friendly resorts, luxury resorts, and boutique hotels plus my area specific guides (including where to stay, eat, and things to do) for Wailea and Ka’anapali.

Bike Maui: Bike Maui is the only company that has a permit to offer van tours to the summit for sunrise in conjunction with a bike ride down. They’re pretty much the easiest route if you want to see sunrise (as a tour) and bike down. They have options for either self-paced or group tours. For me, I knew I didn’t want to ride down the mountain with a pack of people and be confined to where the guide chose to stop and their time constraints. So I definitely prefer a self paced tour. Many people pick the group led tour because they think they’ll be on their own if something happens along the way on a self-paced ride. Don’t let that be a deciding factor. Bike Maui will provide you with DETAILED instructions for how to contact them if you need roadside assistance (this covers everything from a flat tire to being too tired to finish to having one too many margaritas at lunch). They’ll also provide you with everything you need (i.e. full-face helmets, rain suits, backpacks, locks, and maps). I would suggest bringing water, sunscreen, and a jacket (especially if you’re doing the sunrise tour, in which case you’ll want PLENTY of layers). The only thing I dislike about Bike Maui is that on the self guided tour you end your ride in Haiku instead of Paia. It’s a cute little town on the north shore (more inland), although not as walkable and appealing as Paia. Guests must be at least 12 years old for this tour. Pickup from resort areas in West and South Maui is included in guided tours and is an additional $25/person for self guided tours. Self guided sunrise tours can be booked starting at $160/person (with an online early booking discount). Guided tours (with stops at Kula Marketplace and Paia) can be booked starting at $200/person. Read more reviews and search for discounts here.

Top 20 Adventure Activities on Maui

If sitting on the beach and soaking up the sun is not your idea of fun, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy on Maui. From water sports to full day adventure excursions, here are some of the top adventure activities to do on Maui:

1.Snorkel Molokini & Turtle Town. Molokini Crater is Maui’s famed snorkeling spot and a short boat ride away from South Maui. This crescent shaped crater creates a protected refuge and ideal spot for snorkeling with countless species of fish and some of the most impressive coral formations in Hawaii. Boat trips to Molokini usually also include a stop at Turtle Town close to Makena. I suggest going with Kai Kanani on their sunrise cruise. They leave from Makena Beach, which is the closest point to Molokini so they’ll get you there fast and you’ll have plenty of time in the water before the other big boats start showing up for the day. Read more about snorkeling on Maui here.

2.Snorkel Honolua Bay. During the summer months, Honolua Bay (north of Kapalua in West Maui) has some of the best snorkeling in Maui (during the winter, it’s one of Maui’s most legendary surf spots). While the bay is accessible from the shore (more on that below), a lot of snorkeling excursions leaving out of West Maui (especially those that operate from Ka’anapali Beach) will include stops here. If you come by car, check out the overlook before you pull off down the trail and park. The entrance to the bay is rocky so you’ll need water shoes for sure. Read more on Maui snorkeling here.

3.Sunrise at Haleakala. Haleakala’s summit hits 10,000 feet making it an excellent place to watch the sunrise. Actually, this is one of THE most popular things to do on Maui, but it’s not for the faint of heart. The summit is a good 2-hour drive from most of the Maui resort areas and you’ll need to be up there well before sunrise to stake out a spot so depending on the time of you, you may need to leave your resort in the wee hours of the morning to make the trip. But it is spectacular. And soooooooo cold. Like seriously cold, not just cold by Hawaii standards. Bundle up. You must make reservations to go up for sunrise 60 days in advance (they sell out in minutes) through the National Park. Seriously, create an account and get logged in before spots become available or you may miss out. They also release a hand full of last minute tickets at 7AM (HST) two days in advance. Once you have your tickets, you still have to pay the entrance fee ($25/vehicle) at the gates.

4.Hike the Crater. The summit of Haleakala offers a landscape that is quite “other worldly.” You may think you’re on Mars instead of Earth. There are many hiking trails that traverse the landscape of the crater. From the visitor’s center, you can hike down into the crater on the Sliding Sands trail. It’s 11 miles all the way across, but you come to the first overlook after ½ mile. Find more information on hiking in the national park here.

5.Drive the Road to Hana. Tales of the harrowing drive along narrow and windy roads along cliffs, through jungles, and past waterfalls have only built up the folklore surrounding Hawaii’s most popular drive, the Road to Hana. And taking part is practically a right of passage when visiting Maui. Set out early, stopping to grab a picnic lunch in Paia town and see all the sights along the way. Your journey past rainbow eucalyptus trees, bamboo forests, black and red sand beaches, 400 foot waterfalls, and Hana town itself will give you a taste of the real Hawaii. Old Hawaii. Of all the things to do in Maui, you really shouldn’t miss this one. Read this post about my favorite stops on the Road to Hana.

15 Things to Do on a Maui Honeymoon

While some Maui honeymooners choose to see and do it all like a normal vacation, for many, a honeymoon is a chance to slow down or indulge in the finer side of what the island has to offer. Here are some of the top romantic things to do on Maui as well as some pretty luxurious experiences:

1.Stay at the Four Seasons. Nothing sets the mood for a once in a lifetime vacation like a luxurious place to stay, and nobody does luxury like the Four Seasons. Spend afternoons lounging around the adults only infinity pool that overlooks the ocean being pampered with five star service. Read about my 5 favorite Maui honeymoon resorts here.

Photo from Thomas Hawk via Flickr.

2.Have dinner at Mama’s Fish House. Mama’s Fish House, the epitome of relaxed fine dining, is a don’t miss for all visitors to Maui, but especially those on their honeymoon. Located beachfront on the north shore, the setting, service, and food all contribute to an unbelievable experience at Hawaii’s most memorable restaurant. Read more about Mama’s here.

3.Get a couple’s massage. The classic honeymoon activity. The Grand Wailea has the most impressive spa facilities, but treatments at the Andaz, Fairmont Kea Lani, and Four Seasons are all phenomenal. On the west side, the Ritz Carlton and Montage are the lap of luxury.

4.Go beach hopping. Honeymoons are mostly about relaxing and there’s no better place to do that than at the beach. Read about my favorite Maui beaches here.

Photo from dronepicr via Flickr.

5.Take a tour through the upcountry. I think Maui’s most unexplored region is its most special. You might think you were in the hill country of Texas or the high meadows of Colorado if you couldn’t look out and see the ocean. Maui’s upcountry (mostly cowboy country and ranchland) is full of special drives, epic views, and local spots to explore. Read my full upcountry guide here.

Photo from John Morgan via Flickr.

6.Watch sunset at Haleakala. Watching a sunset anywhere is super romantic, but watching one atop a 10,000-foot dormant volcano is pretty special. Most people come for sunrise, but sunset has its own beauty and it’s less of a hassle than going up for sunrise (i.e. no 2AM wakeup call, 60 day in advance reservation, or sub arctic temperatures).

16 Best Breakfast Spots on Maui

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, and with the time difference in Hawaii, I ALWAYS find myself ready for a big breakfast early in the morning. Here are some of my favorite breakfast spots on Maui, divided up by each part of the island. Also check out my post on my favorite local spots to eat on Maui as many of them serve food all day long and have great breakfast menus.

West Side

808 Grindz: If you want to chow down on some local Hawaiian favorites, you’ve got to come to 808 Grindz. Their menu features a selection of local favorites that are $8.08 all day long. It’s definitely the place to try a loco moco…in fact there’s a whole menu with variations of them.

Plantation House: Head to the Plantation course at Kapalua, for breakfast with a view. With an ocean view and set back into the quiet resort community, this is a spot for a special celebration or just a leisurely breakfast.

Gazebo: Located right on Napili Bay overlooking the beach, this is probably the most popular breakfast spot on the west side. It’s tiny and there’s always a line for a table (they don’t take reservations) but the food is delicious and it has a good ole mom and pop vibe. This place wins for best breakfast on the west side.

Leoda’s Pie Shoppe: Actually it’s located in Olowalu (next to a roadside fruit stand and across from one of Maui’s best snorkeling spots). This is a great little all around restaurant but they’re known for their pies. The chocolate mac-nut one is my go to. Also, they’re mini sized get several different kinds and make your own sampler.

South Side

Kihei Caffe: This is my favorite spot for breakfast on the beach. It’s a total dive but the food is GREAT and you can’t beat the location. Go early or be prepared to wait in line. The pancakes are amazing and you can get them with a variety of toppings. This place wins for best breakfast on the beach.

WowWow Lemonade: I cannot rave enough about this place! Locally made, fresh to order lemonade in a mason jar??? Yes please. But I think the real star here are the acai bowls. This is the best smoothie bowl I’ve had anywhere in Hawaii. They’re made fresh (not frozen!) so they’re very accommodating to both allergies and tastes.

11 Best Fine Dining Restaurants on Maui

If you’re anything like me, your vacations may occasionally (alright, often) revolve around food. There’s nothing wrong with planning your days around meals right? Right?? Anyways, if you’re going to be on Maui, you’ve got to squeeze in at least a couple of nice dinners. So here are my 11 favorite fine dining restaurants on Maui:

West Side (Lahaina/Ka’anapali/Kapalua)

Merriman’s: THE spot for fine dining in West Maui. Merriman’s overlooks Kapalua Bay and if you’re there around sunset, you’ll more than likely witness a wedding or two. The cuisine is farm to table Hawaii regional cuisine.

Lahaina Grill: Located on Front Street, Lahaina Grill is one of the best restaurants in Lahaina. It’s not on the water and its atmosphere is simple but elegant but what you’re really coming here for is the food. It’ll cost you a pretty penny but it just may be one of the best meals of your trip.

Pacifico: This seafood restaurant is about as beachfront as dining gets on Maui. It’s conveniently located in Lahaina just off Front Street, but it’s tucked away a bit so it feels miles away from the noise of all the bars and restaurants further down. This is a great spot of a nice sunset dinner and then a stroll through town.

23 Best Local Restaurants on Maui

Are you heading to Maui and looking for some off the beaten path local spots? I’ve rounded up some of the best places to eat in Maui including my favorite places for plate lunches, seafood, loco mocos, and more! They’re sorted by different parts of the island, and not only do these places have good grub, but they’re high on local charm as well.

West Maui

Aloha Mixed Plate: Located right on the water (and right next to the Old Lahaina Luau), this is the perfect spot to try local style food, but with an atmosphere that’s more appealing to tourists.

Star Noodle: Star Noodle is one of the most popular restaurants in Lahaina and gets consistently good ratings for the quality of the food. It’s also not located on Front Street (the touristy part of town) so the prices are decent. This is a great place to experience local food in a classy but low key environment. This place wins for best food in Lahaina.

Joey’s Kitchen at Whaler’s Village: Most of the best local food spots on Maui aren’t in touristy areas which means if you’re staying at a resort, it’s hard to find options nearby. Joey’s is the answer to that problem on Ka’anapali Beach. Find local favorites to go at this spot at Whaler’s Village.

Ono Kau Kau: One of the best spots for a quick plate lunch in West Maui. Hawaiian, Chinese, and seafood specials are all served at this counter service spot that’s open all day.

808 Grindz Café: If you’re looking for good, hearty food at a reasonable price, you’ll find it here in Lahaina. Think fluffy pancakes in a variety of flavors and plenty of local plates (like loco moco). It’s in a little strip mall and there’s no view, but it’s definitely one of Maui’s top breakfast spots (they’re also open for lunch).

Down the Hatch: It’s hard to find a restaurant on Front Street (Lahaina) that’s not a total tourist trap, but this spot combines great island inspired seafood specialties with a fun atmosphere. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus they have good happy hour and late night specials. Also check out Breakwall Shave Ice next door which is home to the first “adult” shave ice in Hawaii.

The Best 6-Day Maui Itinerary

You probably think that after you book your flights, your accommodations, and your rental car, you’ve got it made in the shade, right? Not so fast. Surprisingly, many people find laying out a daily itinerary for their trip the trickiest part!

While Maui has some of the best beaches you’ll find anywhere, it’s too far to go and too expensive to just lay around and work on your tan the whole time. Most visitors want to get out and really explore the island. But how do you know how much you can you do in a day? What are the “don’t miss” spots and what’s overrated? Do you need to do organized tours or can you see everything on your own? And how can you see it all and still have time to lay on the beach (because you need to come home with a tan, right?)???

Don’t panic! ; ) I’m going to break down everything you need to know so you can plan the perfect Maui itinerary!

Island Breakdown

First up, you need to know a little bit about how Maui is laid out. Maui is the second largest Hawaiian Island and it’s a lot bigger than most people think. It has a lot of unique geographical areas as well. It’s divided into five areas:

West Side: The west side is the largest (and oldest) resort area and includes the historic whaling town of Lahaina, the resort complex of Ka’anapali, and the planned golf resort community of Kapalua. This side has plenty of gorgeous beaches and so many shops and restaurants but can feel a little isolated from the rest of the island.

South Side: The south side is the driest and sunniest part of the island, and it’s home to Kihei (an area with a boat load of affordable condos), and Wailea (Maui’s most upscale resort area). This side has plenty of swimmable beaches and shops and restaurants, yet feels a bit quieter than the west side.

Central Maui: Most tourists don’t see much of central Maui besides the airport and Costco (both in Kahului) since until recently the valley has mostly been used for sugar cane production.

North Shore/Upcountry: Maui’s north shore and upcountry towns (Paia, Makawao, Haiku, and Kula) feel very “local” but are a still a big draw for tourists wanting to see the “real Maui.” These former plantation and ranch towns are full of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.

East Maui: Mostly jungles and waterfalls, east Maui is typically experienced via the Road to Hana. While some choose to stay overnight in Hana (or for a few days), it’s very “off the grid” and most visitors see east Maui on a day trip.

Guide to Ka’anapali, Maui: Where to Stay, Where to Eat, & What to Do

Ka’anapali is a resort area in West Maui that’s anchored by the ultra nice Ka’anapali beach. Originally developed in the 1960s, it remains the most popular place to stay and play on Maui. The old whaling village of Lahaina is nearby so you’ll be right in the middle of the majority of dining and accommodation options on this side of the island. It’s about a 45 minute drive from the airport (in Kahului) to the Ka’anapali resort area.

If you’ve just started researching where to stay on Maui and you’re stuck between whether south Maui (Wailea and Kihei) or west Maui (Ka’anapali/Lahaina/Kapalua) is better, read this post.

Where to Stay

Ka’anapali Beach

Westin Maui Resort & Spa: This is my number one hotel recommendation for families visiting Maui (especially if you want to be on the west side). It’s located right on Ka’anapali Beach (which is great for swimming and snorkeling) next door to the Whaler’s Village, which has a lot of shopping and dining options. There are also snorkel catamarans that pick up right on the beach. The resort has a huge “aquatic complex” with five pools (one for adults only) and a great waterslide. There are parrots and flamingos on the grounds and there’s a kid’s club as well. Pricing starts at $250/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Sheraton Maui: Most Sheraton resorts are pretty family friendly and this one is no different. It’s located on Ka’anapali Beach (just a few doors down from the Westin) right in front of Black Rock (one of Maui’s most popular snorkeling spots). It has a nice pool area and several dining options. You can also walk down the bike path to the Whaler’s Village for shopping and dining. Pricing starts at $240/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort: This recently renovated resort also sits on Ka’anapali Beach (the opposite end of the Sheraton) and has a lovely pool area and kids club. The real selling point of this resort though are the penguins! Seven African black-footed penguins have taken up residence in the hotel’s atrium lobby and they’re a sight to see! They have feedings every day. Stop by and check them out if you’re in the Ka’anapali area. Pricing starts at $250/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Marriott Ocean Club: The Marriott has a great location on Ka’anapali Beach that will keep you in the middle of the action while still staying at a familiar property (if you track points through Starwood or Marriot, that may be of interest to you). Click here to check pricing and availability.

Ka’anapali Beach Hotel: Located right on bustling Ka’anapali Beach, the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel is the perfect place to stay on Maui’s west side. Located on the Ka’anapali beach walk nearby the Sheraton, Westin, and Hyatt, you’ll enjoy being in west Maui’s gorgeous resort area at a fraction of the price. This charming “old Hawaii” hotel starts at $149/night. Click here to check pricing for your dates.

The Whaler on Ka’anapali: This condo resort is right on the beach and has all of the amenities of the big resorts (nice pool area, gardens, beach rentals) at a fraction of the price with the added bonus of getting much more space. Check individual rentals through Airbnb (use this link for $40 off your first stay) or Vrbo.