The Valley Isle,
start to finish.
Everything you need to understand Maui before you go — its coasts and climates, when to come, how to get around, and what not to miss.
About Maui
The Valley Isle,
The island
One island, many islands.
Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island, formed by two volcanoes joined by a green valley — which is why it is nicknamed the Valley Isle. That shape gives it astonishing variety: you can watch a 10,000-foot sunrise above the clouds and be snorkeling a warm reef by lunch. Most visitors split their time between the sunny leeward coasts and a few big day trips.
South & West
The sunny coasts
Kihei, Wailea, Makena and the Ka'anapali side catch the most sun and the calmest water — which is why nearly all of Maui's beaches, resorts and vacation rentals line them.
Photo: Frank Kovalchek from Anchorage, Alaska, USA / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Know before you go
Five things to get right.
1
When to visit
Maui is good year-round. April–May and September–October bring great weather and lower prices. Winter is whale season and the biggest surf; summer is hottest and busiest.
2
Rent a car
There is no real public transit for visitors. A rental car is essential — book early, as supply is tight and prices climb in peak season.
3
Where to base
South Maui (Kihei/Wailea) and West Maui (Ka'anapali/Napili) are the two main hubs. Pick one and take day trips rather than moving around.
4
Respect the 'aina
Use reef-safe sunscreen, keep 10+ feet from turtles and seals, don't stack rocks, and tread lightly in Native Hawaiian and recovering communities.
5
Reserve ahead
Haleakala sunrise, Wai'anapanapa and 'Iao Valley all require advance online reservations for non-residents. Plan these before you arrive.
6
Slow down
Island time is real. Distances look short but roads are slow and winding — build in more time than the map suggests, and enjoy it.
Up high
Haleakala, above the clouds
The dormant volcano that built half the island rises past 10,000 feet — a sunrise pilgrimage, a stargazing summit and a Mars-like crater to hike.
Photo: National Park Service Digital Image Archives / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
What not to miss
The big experiences.
The Road to Hana
Waterfalls, one-lane bridges and rainforest along the wild east coast.
Read the guide →
East Maui
The road to Hana
Sixty-four bridges and six hundred curves of waterfalls and rainforest — the most famous drive in Hawaii, and a full, unforgettable day.
Photo: Jonathanking / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Ready to plan
Find your place on Maui.
From Wailea resorts to Kihei condos, here are the ten best places to stay — with direct links to every booking platform.