Three Perfect Days: A Trip to Maui

Maui is covered in breathtaking mountains—some more imposing than others. Surrounding each are thriving communities, full of unique things to discover. From national park tours on horseback to shopping in the upcountry, plan to spend a day in these mountains.

Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā (which means “the house of the sun”) can be seen from just about any place on the island. This massive volcano sits 10,023 feet above the Pacific Ocean and takes up three-quarters of Maui's 727 square miles. The oldest exposed lava here is said to be more than a million years old.

Spanning thousands of acres, the Haleakalā National Park lets you safely experience this unique ecosystem. We recommend visiting:

• The Haleakalā Visitor Center, one of three visitor centers in the park. If you want one of the most stunning views of the sunrise, you can make a reservation to park at the summit.
• The Haleakalā Crater, where you can walk around it’s volcanic rim and see the colorful formations up close.
• The Kīpahulu District, a remote area surrounded by lush rainforest, waterfalls and endangered wildlife. It’s also where you can view the seven freshwater pools known as the Pools of ʻOheʻo.

For the adventurous, you can also take a guided hike or horseback ride, try ziplining or paragliding and even camp on the separate campgrounds.

Shopping in Makawao

The Upcountry town of Makawao sits on the western slope of Haleakalā. A former Japanese and Portuguese settlement, it’s become a laid-back shopping hub while still holding on to a rich Paniolo (“Hawaiian Cowboy”) culture.

Another huge part of the culture is lei making. A lei is seen as a representation of life, memories and a connection to the land. At Haku Maui you can buy a traditional lei or participate in a lei making workshop. Once you’re done, stop in on these local shops:

• Komoda Store & Bakery, a mom-and-pop store famous for its guava malasadas (sugarcoated Portuguese donuts) and chocolate cream puffs.
• Pink by Nature, a high-end clothing boutique known for its modern, luxury pieces.
• Holoholo Surf, a white-walled shop that sells longboards, breezy caftans and swimwear designed by owner Julie Stone.

If you’re hungry, check out the Hali’imaile General Store for locally sourced veggies and a crunchy fried chicken sandwich. Another great option is Kiawe Outdoor, for smoked fish and charred octopus.

West Maui

The Western part of the island has been through a lot. But its warmth, beauty and local culture has ensured it remains one of the top places to visit. With that in mind, here are some of the areas, restaurants and attractions we suggest visiting in West Maui.

Māʻalaea:

• Māʻalaea Harbor has a variety of boat tours, restaurants and shopping options. It’s a great spot to take photos and relax with the family.
• If you love seeing marine life and learning about conservation, stop at the Maui Ocean Center. There are interactive exhibits, touch pools and an immersive underground tunnel. They also have whale watching on the harbor when it’s in season.
• Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop serves comfort food with a twist. Don’t leave here without trying one of their mini pies.

Kapalua:

• Kapalua Bay is great for beginner surfers and those who love a quiet atmosphere. Right on the beach is the Montage Kapalua Bay, a 24-acre luxury resort with an award-winning spa.
• From the beach, head right onto the Kapalua Coastal Trail. This beautiful hiking trail is easy to navigate, encourages wildlife photography and gives access to other coves like Napili Bay and Namalu Bay.

Ka’anapali:

• If you’re adventurous, go cliff-diving off black lava rock formations at Black Rock Beach.
• Book a reservation for the ‘lao Valley State Monument and visit the ethnobotanical garden.
• Spend time in Whaler’s Village, an oceanfront retail center where you can shop, eat and enjoy live cultural performances. Then go relax at the Hyatt Regency Maui resort and spa on Ka’anapali Beach next door.

Lahaina:

• Visit the Lahaina Cannery Mall to do some shopping in a fully enclosed, air-conditioned space. Depending on the day, you can expect to see a Hula show or an art demonstration from local artists.
• Mala Ocean Tavern is premier oceanfront dining. Eat and sip cocktails from breakfast until midnight.
• Go to Aloha Mixed Plate for that local comfort food everyone craves, including fried rice and coconut shrimp.
• Experience the best traditional food, music and dancing at the famous Old Lāhainā Lūʻau.