Guides & stories
from the island.
Twelve in-depth reads on driving the Road to Hana, snorkeling Molokini, catching the Haleakala sunrise, whale season, the best beaches and more — written to help you plan the trip.
The Maui Journal
Guides & stories
Road trips · 7 min read
Driving the Road to Hana: A Mile-by-Mile Guide
Sixty-four bridges, six hundred curves, and a day you will not forget. How to drive Maui's most famous road the right way.
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In the water · 6 min read
Snorkeling Molokini Crater: What to Know Before You Go
A sunken volcanic crescent with 150-foot visibility and a wall of tropical fish. Everything for a great morning on the water.
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Above the clouds · 6 min read
Sunrise at Haleakala: How to See It Right
Watching the sun climb out of a 10,000-foot crater is a Maui rite of passage. How to reserve it, what to wear, and an easier alternative.
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Wildlife · 5 min read
Maui Whale-Watching Season: When and Where to See Humpbacks
Each winter thousands of humpback whales fill the waters off Maui. When they arrive and the best ways to see them.
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Beaches · 7 min read
The Best Beaches in Maui, Coast by Coast
Gold sand in the west, snorkel coves in the south, and a hidden black-sand crescent out east. A guide to Maui's finest shores.
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Towns · 6 min read
Lahaina: History, Heart, and What to Know Today
Once the royal capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and a whaling port, Lahaina is a town in recovery. A respectful guide for visitors.
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Culture · 6 min read
Hawaiian Culture on Maui: Lu'au, Hula and the Spirit of Aloha
Beyond the beach, Maui is a living Hawaiian culture. A primer on lu'au, hula, and showing up as a respectful guest.
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Hikes · 5 min read
'Iao Valley and the West Maui Mountains
A green cathedral in the island's heart, crowned by a 1,200-foot pinnacle and layered with history. An easy half-day from anywhere on Maui.
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In the water · 6 min read
Surfing and Watersports on Maui: From Ho'okipa to Jaws
Beginner whitewater in Lahaina, world-class windsurfing at Ho'okipa, and the giant out at Pe'ahi. Maui's water, by skill level.
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Wildlife · 5 min read
Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu): Where and How to See Them
The honu is Maui's gentle celebrity. Where to find them, and the simple rules that keep both of you safe.
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Upcountry · 6 min read
Upcountry Maui: Kula, Farms and the Cool Side of the Island
Up the slopes of Haleakala the air turns cool and the land turns green. Lavender, paniolo towns, and the island's best produce.
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Towns · 5 min read
Kihei and South Maui: The Sunny-Side Guide
The driest, sunniest coast on the island, a string of easy beaches, and a relaxed base for a Maui trip. Why so many visitors stay here.
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