Use this as a quick “go-to” when looking for simple answers regarding your Maui vacation. Here are answers to 5 common questions visitors ask before arriving to Maui.
What are the best beaches?
Every side of the island has its own unique beaches. If you enjoy swimming and sunbathing, try the south or the west sides. If you’re staying in South Maui, any of the Kamaole Beaches are nice. Keawakapu Beach is great for swimming or walking. Big Beach is a popular spot for locals and young people. Baldwin Beach in Paia is along stretch of beach with facilities. Anywhere on Kaanapali Beach is good for swimming. Kapalua Bay and Napili Bay on the west side are always favorites of visitors and residents alike.
What should I pack for everyday?
Pack light – that’s my opinion. I’ve always said, “there’s no fashion here,” and there really isn’t. Bring lightweight clothing and maybe a sweater or sweatshirt. If you’re going up to Haleakala, bring warm pants. Many or even most people wear flip-flops (rubber slippers) here year round. For a nice dinner, consider a casual or polo shirt for men, sundress or casual wear for women. Bring a hat and a reef-friendly sunscreen, and hiking sandals if you plan on doing that. Anything you forget, you can pick up at a big box store. There’s a Walmart and a Target. No need to bring beach towels. Mostly all accommodations provide those.
Do I need to rent a car on Maui?
Yes. You’ll miss out on most of the island if you rely on taxi/public transportation/Uber. And for what you’ll pay in taxi and Uber fees, you can probably rent a car for the same price. What’s the point in spending a lot of money and time travelling to the island if you’re going to stay at a resort the entire visit? It’s worth getting a car.
What are the best dining options on Maui?
There are a lot of places to eat here. Since 2020, Maui has also gotten a lot of food trucks. What are you looking for? If you want to eat local-style, loco moco, poke, and plate lunches would fit the bill. For the fine dining, I would recommend making reservations in advance – maybe even before you get here. Some of the most popular are Morimotos (in the Wailea Andaz), Mama’s Fish House in Paia, and Fleetwood’s on Front Street in Lahaina. For cheap eats, try the Costco food court (you need your membership card), ABC Market Deli (called the Island Gourmet in Wailea), or Safeway Deli.
Where should I Stay on Maui?
The most popular visitor areas are West Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali Beach, and Kapalua) and South Maui (Kihei, Wailea). Both sides of the island are oceanfront and have beautiful beaches. They both also have beautiful resort communities. You can still visit all the beaches if you don’t stay in an oceanfront resort, as they all have public access. I see people asking question on forums regarding VRBO’s and Airbnb’s, and being warned by others. I would simply advise you to pay attention to the listing’s reviews, and make sure the rental has the permit number in the listing. I’ve stayed in several quality, well-run vacation rentals on Maui, all permitted. Hawaii requires a permit from the county Planning Department for vacation rentals.
