A Detailed 7-Day Maui Itinerary & Maui Guide
I’d been dreaming of visiting Hawaii for what felt like forever and Maui was the dream that came true. After hearing countless recommendations, we decided to dedicate our entire trip to this beautiful island instead of island-hopping. And honestly? I’m so glad we did. Maui had the perfect mix of adventure and downtime.
In this 7-day Maui itinerary, I’ll cover everything from how to get to Maui, the best places to stay, where to eat, what to pack, and all the memorable activities I’d recommend.
Where is Maui?
Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, located in the Pacific Ocean between O‘ahu and the Big Island. With over 727 square miles of dramatic coastline, volcanoes, and lush forests, it’s a perfect place to spend a full week.
When is the Best Time to Visit Maui?
There’s really no bad time to visit Maui each season has its own unique appeal. That said, your ideal time to visit will depend on what kind of experience you’re looking for: fewer crowds, better deals, or specific seasonal activities like whale watching.
- Least crowded: April, May, and September through mid-November tend to see fewer tourists. These months are considered Maui’s shoulder seasons, offering lower accommodation prices, great weather, and a more relaxed vibe. It’s a great time to visit if you prefer emptier beaches and shorter wait times at restaurants.
- Peak season: June through August brings summer vacationers, and December through March is popular with travelers escaping winter. Expect higher prices on flights and lodging, and book activities well in advance. However, winter is also the best time for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters from December to early April.
- Weather-wise: Maui’s weather is generally pleasant year-round, with temperatures averaging between 75 -85°F (24 -29°C). Rain is more common in the winter months, especially in East Maui, but showers are usually brief.
We visited in late June through early July. It was definitely the busy season, but still totally manageable. We just made sure to reserve Haleakalā sunrise permits, snorkeling tours, and a few popular restaurants ahead of time.
How To Get To Maui
The main airport is Kahului Airport (OGG). Most mainland U.S. cities offer direct flights. I flew from Oakland to Maui using Southwest points. There were a few layovers, but the savings made it worth it!
If you’re traveling with points or using companion passes, check if it’s more affordable to break up your trip.
Transportation in Maui
You’ll absolutely need a rental car for this itinerary. I booked through Costco Travel, which offered the best deal and included a free additional driver. If you’re not a member, try rental comparison tools like Kayak or AutoSlash.
Just know that while Maui looks small, the drives are slow-going thanks to one-lane roads, curves, and scenic stops. Allow buffer time between each activity.
Where To Stay in Maui
West Maui – Lahaina & Ka‘anapali
This area is lively and built up, with lots of beachfront resorts, restaurants, and shops.
Top picks:
- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort: Oceanfront luxury with tons of amenities
- Montage Kapalua Bay: Upscale and quiet, ideal for honeymoons
- Napili Sunset Beachfront Resort: Cozy condos near the beach
South Maui – Kihei & Wailea
I stayed in Kihei, and it was perfect, less crowded, walkable, and budget-friendly. Wailea is more upscale and romantic.
Where I stayed:
- Maui Vista Condo: Affordable, centrally located, and had basic amenities (though it lacked A/C)
Other options:
- Mana Kai Maui: Stylish beachfront stay near Wailea
- Wailea Beach Resort: For those wanting a luxe, tranquil experience
- Andaz Maui or Hotel Wailea: Perfect for luxury seekers and couples
East Maui – Hana (for Road to Hana overnight)
If you want to explore the Road to Hana slowly, consider staying one night near Hana.
Recommendation:
- Hana-Maui Resort: Boutique property surrounded by tropical beauty
Maui Packing List
Your packing list may look a little different depending on your travel style, but here’s what I packed for our 7 days in Maui. Since our Airbnb had a washer and dryer, I was able to rewear a lot of items and stick to just a carry-on!
Women’s Packing List for Maui
- Swimsuits (2 – 4): I always bring at least two so I have a dry one ready each day.
- Beach Cover-up (1 – 2): Perfect for going from beach to town.
- Shoes (3 pairs): Flip flops, sandals, and either hiking shoes or tennis shoes.
- Dresses (3 – 4): Loose, breezy cotton dresses were my favorite to throw on.
- Skirts (2): I paired these with simple tanks or crop tops.
- Shorts (1 – 2): I brought one pair of denim shorts, but feel free to pack more if you prefer them over skirts.
- Shirts (3 – 4): Crop tops and tanks to pair with skirts or shorts.
- Athletic Wear: Two pairs of leggings, one pair of athletic shorts, and a few t-shirts for hiking or lounging.
- Sweatshirt (1): Essential for chilly mornings at Haleakalā. I paired mine with leggings and socks, plus used a beach towel as a wrap!
Men’s Packing List for Maui
- Pants (1): For dressier dinners or cool evenings.
- Shorts (3 – 4): Comfortable shorts that can double as casual wear and hike gear.
- Swimsuits (2 – 3): Enough to rotate between beach days.
- Shoes (3 pairs): Flip flops, tennis/hiking shoes, and a nicer pair for evenings.
- T-Shirts (4 – 5): Breathable cotton shirts for everyday wear.
- Sweatshirt (1): It gets surprisingly cold at higher elevations and at night.
Other Items to Pack for Maui
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Kokua and Raw Elements are great brands.
- Aloe Vera Gel: For quick relief in case of sunburn.
- Beach Bag or Day Backpack
- Sun Hat & Sunglasses
- Costco Card: For cheap gas and groceries if you have a kitchen.
- Motion Sickness Pills: Super helpful for snorkeling tours or the Road to Hana.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Many beaches and parks have refill stations.
- Reusable Grocery Bag: Plastic bags are banned in most stores.
- Underwater Camera or GoPro: Great for snorkeling or beach shots.
- Portable Phone Charger: Keep your battery full during long days out.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: A lifesaver for long flights or beach lounging.
Key Things To Know Before Visiting Maui
- Wildlife: Sea turtles, monk seals, and tropical fish are common sights while snorkeling or relaxing on the beach. It’s tempting to get close, but it’s illegal and harmful to touch, chase, or disturb them. Always admire from a safe distance and follow posted signs or local advice.
- Respect Sacred Places: Many of Maui’s most beautiful sites, including waterfalls and forest trails, are located on private or sacred Hawaiian land. Respect signage, avoid trespassing, and do not cross into areas marked kapu (forbidden). These places often carry deep cultural or spiritual significance.
- Leave Nature Intact: It’s illegal to remove sand, shells, rocks, or coral from beaches and national parks in Hawaii. Plus, there’s a local legend that says bad luck follows anyone who takes natural elements from the islands. Snap photos, not souvenirs!
- Drive Time & Road Conditions: While Maui isn’t large, travel times can be long due to winding roads, one-lane bridges, and slow speed limits. The Road to Hana and West Maui loop are especially slow-going. Always allow extra buffer time between stops and don’t rely too heavily on your GPS it can be spotty in remote areas.
Places to Eat in Maui
Paia
- Paia Bowls: Açaí bowls & smoothies
- Flatbread Company: Organic wood-fired pizza
- Paia Fish Market: Fresh catch plates at a reasonable price
- Mama’s Fish House: Pricey but legendary (book early!)
Kahului
- Maui Coffee Roasters: Great stop before your flight
- Tin Roof: Local-style takeout
- Geste Shrimp Truck: Flavor-packed shrimp plates
Lahaina
- Gazebo Restaurant: Macadamia nut pancakes = worth the wait
- Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop: Try the key lime or coconut cream pie
- Aloha Mixed Plate: Laid-back meals with ocean views
- Merriman’s: Upscale dining with beachside ambiance
Kihei
- Sugar Beach Bake Shop: Pastries and coffee
- Wow Wow Hawaiian Lemonade: Creative lemonades + acai bowls
- Three’s Bar & Grill: Happy hour cocktails + pupus
- Maui Brewing Co.: Craft beer, burgers, and pizza
- Ululani’s Shave Ice: A must-have dessert
Wailea
- Monkeypod Kitchen: Lobster deviled eggs + Mai Tai with lilikoi foam
- Gannon’s: Great food and panoramic views
- Lappert’s Hawaii: Creative island-inspired ice cream
7-Day Maui Itinerary
Traveling to Maui
After months of planning and anticipation, the moment had finally arrived we were off to Maui! Depending on your flight time, you might land with enough daylight to squeeze in a sunset beach walk or a casual dinner.
Once we touched down at Kahului Airport, our first stop was the rental car counter. Having your own vehicle in Maui is pretty much a must, especially if you’re following a flexible itinerary like this one.
If you’ve got some energy left after the flight, consider making a quick grocery run. We stopped by Costco and Safeway to pick up basics like bottled water, local fruits, sandwich ingredients, and snacks. It helped us save money and eat lighter when we didn’t feel like dining out.
After that, we checked into our Airbnb, settled in, and walked around the neighborhood to get our bearings. Even just grabbing a casual dinner and catching the sunset felt like the perfect way to ease into island life.
Day 1: Sunrise at Haleakalā + Beach Day in Kihei
Sunrise at Haleakalā
I’ll be honest, waking up at 3 am is not usually my idea of a good time. But watching the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park? Completely worth it. If you’re flying in from the mainland, jet lag might actually work in your favor here.
We left our Airbnb around 3:15 am, drove in the dark along winding roads, and made it to the summit in time to snag a spot before the crowds thickened. Even in the parking lot, the stars were amazing, and once the sun started to rise above the clouds, the entire crater lit up in glowing pinks and golds. It’s truly one of those moments you never forget.
Pro Tips:
- Reserve your sunrise pass on the NPS site up to 60 days in advance
- Dress in layers it’s often 30 -40°F at the summit
- Bring snacks and water, there’s nothing for sale up top
- Plan 1.5 -2 hours drive time each way
- Keep your park receipt to use again at the Kipahulu entrance near the Road to Hana (within 3 days)
Breakfast: Grandma’s Coffeehouse (or Nearby Alternatives)
After sunrise, we drove down to Grandma’s Coffeehouse in Kula for breakfast. It’s a cozy roadside spot with hearty portions, fresh coffee, and beautiful views if you can snag a seat on the patio.
Favorites:
- Coconut-crusted French toast
- Weekend-only eggs benedict
- Fresh fruit juices + their signature coffee
Address: 9232 Kula Hwy, Kula 96790
Hours: 7 am – 2 pm
Alternatives in the Area:
- Kula Lodge Restaurant – pricier, but panoramic views
- Alba’s Cuban Coladas – quick Cuban coffee & pastries
Midday Beach Time: Kamaole Beach I (Kihei)
After catching up on sleep and breakfast, we headed back to Kihei for a slower pace. Kamaole Beach I was just a short walk from our rental, and it was the perfect spot to unwind after such an early start.
The beach has soft sand, gentle waves, and clear water. We brought towels, a few snacks, and just soaked in the Maui sun.
Other South Maui Beaches to Consider:
- Charley Young Beach – right before Kamaole I, good for sunbathing
- Po‘olenalena Beach – felt more secluded, a mix of sand and grass for lounging
- Keawakapu Beach – quiet and scenic, great sunset option
If you haven’t gone grocery shopping yet, now’s a great time to visit Foodland, Safeway, or Costco before stores close.
Evening: Kihei Kalama Village + Dinner at Three’s Bar & Grill
Before dinner, we stopped by Kihei Kalama Village, a lively shopping area filled with local boutiques and souvenir stalls. You’ll probably spot a few free-roaming chickens too!
Then we headed to Three’s Bar & Grill for happy hour and dinner, which came highly recommended by a local friend. The cocktails were fun, and the pupus (Hawaiian appetizers) were some of our favorites of the trip.
Our Order:
- Three’s House Mai Tai
- Kalua Pork Nachos
- Coconut Crusted Fish Tacos
- Hurricane Fries (furikake, sriracha aioli, and mochi crunch)
Location: 1945 S Kihei Rd, Kihei (inside Kalama Village)
Sunset at Kamaole Beach III
If you have energy left after dinner, I highly recommend heading back to the beach for sunset. We walked over to Kamaole III, which offers a beautiful view with soft, golden lighting that makes everything feel dreamy.
Tip: Bring a beach blanket or chairs to sit and watch the sky change colors. You might even spot a sea turtle if you’re lucky!
Day 2: Road to Hana Day Trip
Today is a long but unforgettable journey through one of the most scenic drives in the world the Road to Hana. We left Kihei just after 6:00 AM to beat the crowds and give ourselves time to enjoy each stop without rushing.
Tips Before You Go:
- Start early. This is an all-day adventure.
- Download the Shaka Guide or GyPSy app for an audio tour that plays based on GPS location.
- Bring snacks and water. Food options are limited and spaced out.
- Pack cash for roadside stands and parking.
- Don’t block the road. Parking is limited at many stops, so move on if spots are full.
Notable Stops on the Road to Hana
- Twin Falls (Mile Marker 2): First quick stop for a waterfall view and fruit stand.
- Huelo Lookout (MM 4.5): Great for a quick smoothie or coconut candy snack.
- Waikamoi Ridge Trail (MM 9.5): Easy loops to stretch your legs with forest views.
- Ka Haku’s Smoke Shack (MM 10): Optional food stop with great reviews.
- Garden of Eden Arboretum (MM 10.5): Lush, peaceful botanical garden with panoramic views and the iconic Jurassic Park overlook.
- Ke’anae Lookout (~MM 16.5): Lava-rock coast with dramatic waves and great banana bread nearby.
- Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread (MM 17): Warm, just-baked banana bread don’t miss it.
- Wailua Valley State Wayside (Just before MM 19): Quick viewpoint with sweeping valley vistas.
- Upper Waikani Falls (MM 19): Known as “Three Bears Falls” a drive-by photo op only.
- Hanawi Falls (MM 24): One of the most beautiful waterfalls on the route.
- Nahiku Marketplace (MM 29): Food stalls, local crafts, fresh fruit, and espresso.
- Waiʻānapanapa State Park (MM 32): The black sand beach is absolutely stunning. Reservations are required.
Optional Stops in Hana
- Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach: A short but slippery trail leads to a secluded, rare red-sand cove. Hike at your own risk.
- Wailua Falls (MM 45): Iconic 80-foot roadside waterfall. Arrive early to find parking.
- Haleakalā National Park – Kipahulu (MM 42): Use your Day 1 receipt to reenter and hike the Pipiwai Trail to the bamboo forest and Waimoku Falls. The trail is 4 miles round trip and totally worth it if you have the energy.
Drive Back
Instead of turning around, we opted to take the southern back road after Kipahulu. It’s bumpier and less maintained, but has some of the most dramatic landscapes. Just be cautious rental companies often discourage this route, so check your policy.
Dinner (Takeout)
After 12+ hours out exploring, we didn’t feel like dining in. Here are two great takeout spots we tried:
- Da Kitchen: Local Hawaiian fare. We ordered the chicken katsu and fish tempura sandwich.
- Address: 2439 South Kihei Rd. #A107, Kihei
- Geste Shrimp Truck: Spicy shrimp plates or Hawaiian scampi near Kahului.
- Address: 2001 Kahului Beach Rd, Kahului
Pro tip: Grab something to go and enjoy your dinner with a sunset view back at your accommodation.
Day 4: Snorkeling and Beach Day in South Maui
By Day 4, we were craving some water time and sunshine, so we dedicated the day to snorkeling, beach-hopping, and oceanfront relaxation in South Maui.
Morning: Snorkeling at Maluaka Beach
We started the day at Maluaka Beach, one of the best, lesser-known snorkeling spots on the island. Located near the Makena area, it’s quiet and often has clearer water than busier beaches.
What we saw:
- Sea turtles (honus!)
- Schools of tropical fish
- Calm, swimmable conditions
Tips:
- Arrive early for parking and best water visibility
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard
- Swim along the rocks for the best snorkel spots
Gear Rental Tip
If you didn’t bring your own, you can rent snorkel sets from Snorkel Bob’s or Boss Frog’s in Kihei the night before or early that morning.
Midday: Lunch at Island Gourmet Market (Wailea)
We dried off and made our way over to Island Gourmet Market in the Shops at Wailea. It’s part grocery, part deli, and has an outdoor seating area perfect for a laid-back lunch.
Lunch picks:
- Poke bowls
- Chicken katsu plate
- Fresh fruit smoothies
Address: 3750 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753
Afternoon: Wailea Beach + Hotel Walk
After lunch, we parked at Wailea Beach and strolled along the beachfront path that connects several of the area’s resorts. It’s a beautiful walk with manicured gardens, scenic overlooks, and optional detours for ice cream or drinks.
Stops along the way:
- Grand Wailea (famous for its pools)
- Andaz Maui (modern design + beach access)
- Four Seasons Maui (classic luxury)
We spent the afternoon lounging on Wailea Beach, swimming, and people-watching. The sand is powder-soft, and the waves were mellow enough for floating and soaking in the sun.
Sunset: Po‘olenalena Beach
On our way back to Kihei, we made a stop at Po‘olenalena Beach, a more secluded stretch of sand with grassy areas and lava rock formations. It ended up being our favorite sunset spot of the day.
Tip: Arrive 20 -30 minutes before sunset to grab a spot and enjoy the golden glow over the water.
Dinner: Monkeypod Kitchen (Wailea)
To end the day, we treated ourselves to dinner at Monkeypod Kitchen, one of Wailea’s most popular farm-to-table restaurants.
What we loved:
- Mai Tai with lilikoi foam (iconic!)
- Lobster deviled eggs
- Kalua pork pizza
Address: 10 Wailea Gateway Place, Wailea, HI 96753
Tip: Make a reservation in advance the wait can be long, especially during dinner hours.
Day 5: West Maui Road Trip + Lahaina Town
Today we set out to explore West Maui, looping around the island’s rugged northwest coast before ending the day in Lahaina for dinner and some island history. This part of Maui offers cliffs, blowholes, tide pools, and views that rival the Road to Hana without the jungle.
Morning: Nakalele Blowhole + Olivine Pools
We left Kihei around 7:00 AM to beat traffic on the way north. Our first major stop was the Nakalele Blowhole, a natural geyser-like ocean feature that shoots water 20 -50 feet into the air depending on the tides.
Tips:
- Park at the second pull-off lot for a shorter hike down
- Wear sturdy shoes the rocks are sharp and slippery
- Keep a safe distance; the area near the blowhole is dangerous
Just before Nakalele, we made a quick detour to the Olivine Pools, a set of tide pools that are accessible by a short but steep trail. They’re beautiful, but conditions can be rough don’t enter the water if the waves are high.
Scenic Drive: West Maui Loop
The drive from Nakalele to Lahaina winds through remote cliffside landscapes with little to no guardrails and one-lane sections. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the views are worth it.
Tips:
- Drive slowly and yield to locals
- Avoid this route if it’s been raining recently
- There are few services, so fill up in advance
Optional scenic stops:
- Honolua Bay Overlook – Gorgeous viewpoint
- Kahakuloa Village – Stop for banana bread or a look at remote local life
Midday: Lunch in Lahaina
After the scenic drive, we arrived in Lahaina just in time for lunch. We chose Paia Fish Market Lahaina for something casual, fresh, and quick.
What we ordered:
- Cajun-grilled Mahi Mahi tacos
- Fish burger with pineapple slaw
- Local draft beer
Other options nearby:
- Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop (try the banana cream or key lime pie)
- Cool Cat Cafe (classic diner vibes + ocean view)
Afternoon: Lahaina Historic Trail + Shopping
We spent the afternoon walking off lunch along the Lahaina Historic Trail, which includes over a dozen landmarks like the Baldwin Home Museum, old courthouse, and the famous Banyan Tree.
While much of Lahaina was impacted by wildfires, several shops and areas have reopened as part of the community recovery. Please be mindful and respectful when visiting.
Shopping stops we liked:
- Local art galleries
- Handmade soaps & tropical-scented candles
- Hawaiian quilts and textiles
Sunset: Baby Beach
Just north of Lahaina is Baby Beach, a calm, reef-protected beach perfect for a peaceful sunset swim or simply watching the light fade over the water. It’s family-friendly, quiet, and ideal for relaxing after a full day.
Tip: There’s limited parking, so go early or walk from a nearby lot.
Dinner: Lahaina Takeout or Return to Kihei
Since we’d been out all day, we kept dinner simple. We grabbed poke bowls and plate lunches from Tin Roof near Kahului on the drive back south.
Address: 360 Papa Pl, Kahului, HI 96732
Alternatively, if you’re staying near Lahaina, check out:
- Aloha Mixed Plate – Sunset view and traditional Hawaiian dishes
- Star Noodle – Asian fusion favorites in a laid-back setting
Day 6: Cultural Sites, Local Eats, and a Laid-Back Afternoon
For Day 6, we wanted to slow things down a bit, soak in more local culture, and enjoy some great eats without overcommitting to a packed itinerary. It turned out to be one of the most relaxed and rewarding days of the trip.
Morning: Visit Iao Valley State Park
We started the day with a scenic drive to ʻĪao Valley State Park, located just west of Wailuku. It’s home to the iconic ʻĪao Needle, a lush, towering rock formation surrounded by rainforest and history.
What to know:
- There’s a small entry fee + parking fee for non-residents
- The walk to the ʻĪao Needle viewpoint is short and paved
- Learn about the Battle of Kepaniwai, which took place here in 1790
Tip: Arrive early for cooler temps and fewer crowds
Midday: Explore Wailuku Town
After exploring the valley, we stopped in Wailuku, a charming local town with historic buildings, art murals, and boutique shops. We browsed vintage stores, grabbed iced coffee, and admired the old-school storefronts.
Favorite stops:
- Wailuku Coffee Company for a refreshing cold brew
- Native Intelligence for unique Hawaiian-made crafts
- Maui Thing for local clothing and gifts
Lunch: Aloha Mixed Plate or Tante’s Island Cuisine
For lunch, we headed toward Lahaina again and grabbed food at Aloha Mixed Plate a staple for island-style combo plates right on the water.
What we tried:
- Loco Moco
- Fried Saimin with Spam
- Kalua Pork with cabbage
Alternative: If you’re staying closer to Kahului or Wailuku, Tante’s Island Cuisine is another solid option for local food with Filipino and Hawaiian flavors.
Afternoon: Relaxation + Optional Spa Time
After lunch, we returned to the south side and spent the afternoon just relaxing. Some ideas depending on your mood:
- Lounge at Kamaole III or Keawakapu Beach
- Grab a treat from Lappert’s Hawaii or Ululani’s Shave Ice
- Book a massage or spa treatment at one of Wailea’s resorts (we eyed the Grand Wailea Spa but ended up just enjoying the beach!)
Dinner: Humble Market Kitchin by Roy Yamaguchi
For our final dinner splurge, we made reservations at Humble Market Kitchin, located in the Wailea Beach Resort. It offers sweeping ocean views and a modern take on Hawaiian cuisine.
What we loved:
- Island beet salad with goat cheese
- Macadamia nut-crusted mahi mahi
- Pineapple upside-down cake
Address: 3700 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753
Tip: Reserve a table around sunset for an unforgettable view.
Day 7: Chill Day, Shopping, and One Last Sunset
Our final day on Maui was all about soaking in the last few moments of paradise. We didn’t pack in too much just our favorite comforts and views to end the trip on a high note.
Morning: Akamai Coffee Co. + Morning Walk
We started slow with a relaxed breakfast and coffee from Akamai Coffee Co. Their signature cold brews and fresh pastries are some of the best on the island, and we took our drinks to go for a peaceful morning walk near the beach.
Tip: Try the coconut cold brew or macadamia nut latte.
Midday: Souvenir Shopping + Maui Swap Meet (Saturdays only)
If your trip overlaps with a Saturday, don’t miss the Maui Swap Meet in Kahului. It’s the best spot for handmade jewelry, local art, tropical soaps, and gifts that don’t feel mass-produced.
Other souvenir shopping spots:
- Kihei Kalama Village – Boutique shops & fun stalls
- Shops at Wailea – More upscale options
- ABC Stores – Great for last-minute trinkets and snacks
Afternoon: Final Beach Time at Big Beach (Makena Beach)
We chose to spend our final beach hours at Big Beach (Oneloa Beach), a wide, golden stretch of sand with crashing waves and incredible views. It’s a dramatic and gorgeous place to soak it all in before heading home.
Caution: The shore break can be rough, so swim only if conditions are calm and you’re confident in the water.
Tip: Bring snacks and enjoy one last beach picnic under the sun.
Dinner: Final Meal at Monkeypod (Or Your Favorite Spot Revisited)
Since we loved it so much earlier in the week, we returned to Monkeypod Kitchen for one last meal. The vibe, the flavors, and that sunset made it feel like the perfect way to say goodbye to Maui.
Other options:
- Return to a favorite poke spot for something casual
- Grab takeout and enjoy it on the beach
- Treat yourself to dessert from Lappert’s Hawaii one more time
Sunset: Keawakapu or Po‘olenalena Beach
We wrapped up our final day watching the sunset with toes in the sand and hearts full. Keawakapu Beach and Po‘olenalena are both wonderful choices for a quiet, scenic farewell.
Tip: Don’t forget to take a group photo or selfie to remember your trip.
Day 8: Fly Home
Depending on your flight time, you might have a few final hours to enjoy Maui. We had a late afternoon departure, so we treated ourselves to one last açaí bowl and walked the beach before heading to the airport.
Final Tips:
- Costco is usually the cheapest spot to fuel up your rental car before returning it.
- OGG Airport Tip: You’ll pass through two unique security checks one for checked luggage and another for carry-on food or agricultural items. Give yourself a little extra time.
Take one last deep breath of that ocean air. It’ll stay with you.
Other Things to Do in Maui
Got extra time or planning an extended trip? Here are a few bonus ideas worth checking out:
Surfing Goat Dairy (Kula)
Award-winning goat cheese, adorable goats, and hands-on tours. You can even learn to milk a goat!
- Address: 3651 Omaopio Rd, Kula
Piiholo Ranch Zipline (Makawao)
If you’re craving an adrenaline boost, zipline above forest canopies and waterfall valleys.
- Address: 799 Piiholo Rd, Makawao
MauiWine (Kula)
Visit Maui’s only winery to try pineapple and estate wines in a scenic, historic setting.
- Address: 14815 Piilani Hwy, Kula
Helicopter Tour of Maui
We missed out because we waited too long to book, but everyone says it’s jaw-dropping. See hidden waterfalls, lush valleys, and the coastlines from the sky.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Maui
- Book early: Reserve car rentals, Haleakalā sunrise, and Black Sand Beach permits in advance.
- Stay sun-safe: Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
- Respect the land: Avoid trespassing, leave no trace, and support local.
- Drive carefully: Many scenic roads are narrow and winding.
- Budget tip: Eat lunch from food trucks and shop at local markets to save.
Final Thoughts on This 7 Day Maui Itinerary
Every day on Maui brought something new epic hikes, calm beaches, and delicious food. This 7 day Maui itinerary mixes adventure with downtime and gives you a taste of all the island has to offer. If I had more time, I’d add a boat tour or try windsurfing next!
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FAQs: 7 Day Maui Itinerary
How many days do you really need in Maui?
Seven days is the perfect amount to explore all sides of the island without feeling rushed.
Is the Road to Hana worth a full day?
Absolutely. You’ll want time to stop, hike, snack, and enjoy the views. Don’t try to rush it.
Can you do Haleakalā sunrise on your own?
Yes, but you need a reservation. Go early, dress warm, and bring snacks.
Where’s the best place to snorkel in Maui?
I loved Maluaka Beach for its calm waters and sea turtles, but Molokini Crater is great too if you take a tour.
Should I stay in West or South Maui?
Both are great, but I preferred South Maui (Kihei/Wailea) for easier access to beaches and fewer crowds.
