Epic Day Trip to Maui Itinerary for the Adventurous
Catherine Xu
Looking to maximize your experience in Maui, Hawaii in just a single day?
In this article, I’ve curated an action-packed Maui day trip, drawing inspiration from the best experiences I had during a short visit amidst a longer month-long Hawaiian adventure in 2020. It’s also one of the first family vacations I ever ever had and the first time I ever surfed. (Not that I’m much better at it now.)
Most people do choose to spend a week on on Hawaii’s second-largest island. Although, you will just be scratching the surface of things to do by choosing to spend just a day on this tropical island, it can certainly be done!
With the huge volcanoes of the Valley Isle but also the wonderful seaside adventures, Maui is an epic adventure experience in a place that feels and looks like paradise on Earth.
Whether you’re squeezing in a visit between island hops or looking to maximize a day trip to Maui, this guide will help you make the most of your time on this beautiful island. I’ll also share tips for must-visit locales and advice to streamline your trip planning.
Sample One Day in Maui Itinerary
To keep it all at your fingertips, here’s a densely packed itinerary all in one scroll.
While this itinerary could be considered fast-paced, it includes spots from several parts of the island to get a full taste of what Maui is all about in just one day.
It’s much easier to rent a car so that you can go at your own pace throughout the island, and because public transport is not reliable nor offered in many parts of Maui. You can easily find car rentals from Kahului Airport- the primary international airport on the island.
However, Uber and Lyft are readily available, and you should have no issue catching a ride through these platforms.
We start off the day with a must-see hike that will give you panoramic views of the vast vegetation and geography of the island, followed by some time on the water to appreciate all the marine life surrounding Maui.
Morning
- Sunrise hike the epic Waihee Ridge Trail Hike
- Alternative: Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park
- Eat traditional Hawaiian breakfast items
- Take a short hike in Iao Valley State Park
Afternoon
- Try your luck on a whale watching tour (best from December to April)
- Alternative: Go for a snorkel tour
- Alternative: Get gnarly surfing on some waves.
- Watch the sunset at Po’olenalena Beach.
Evening
- Chill out with a Luau to learn more about the Polynesian culture
Recommended Places to Stay in Maui: Kaanapali Beach Area (Lahaina recovering from recent wildfires)
- 📍Luxury: Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa
- 📍Mid-Range: Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort
- 📍Budget: Howitz Hostel (Wailuku)
Quick Facts about Visiting Maui
Did you know that Maui is not only the second-largest Hawaiian island but also home to the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakalā? Get ready to explore an island that’s gifted with 81 beautiful beaches across 120 miles of coastline. Spend your days chasing waterfalls on the Road to Hana or snorkeling with sea turtles in the clear blue waters of Molokini Crater.
| Quick Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Northwest of Hawaii’s main island |
| Best Time to Visit | April to May & September to November December to April for whale watching |
| Where to Stay | West Maui (most popular) |
| Best Hotels | 📍Luxury: Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa 📍Mid-Range: Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort 📍Budget: Howitz Hostel |
| Famous For | Pristine beaches, Road to Hāna, Haleakalā National Park, snorkeling & whale watching |
| Population | Approximately 167,000 |
| Time Zone | Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HAST) |
| How to Get Around | Renting a car is the best option to explore freely. Use DiscoverCars to find rental car deals. Public buses are available but limited. |
| City Airports | Kahului Airport (OGG) – Main airport, around 3 miles from Kahului Use Expedia to find the best flight prices. |
| Don’t Forget! | Get an Annual National Park pass if you plan to go to more than two national parks this year! |
What to Do on a Day Trip to Maui
Waihee Ridge Trail Hike
If you’re gearing up to tackle the Waihee Ridge Trail Hike during your day trip to Maui, you’re in for an epic dose of nature and some seriously jaw-dropping views. Catch views of the dramatic Waihe’e Valley and west Maui mountains at the climax of this hike.
This 4 mile out-and-back trail is one of the best hikes on Maui, and an essential addition to your itinerary if you only have a little time on the island.
The hike itself is considered moderately difficult, and it took me a little over 2 and a half hours to complete, with a few breaks and time spent admiring the view at the top.
The hike opens at 7 am, and it’s best to get started early to miss the peak sunlight hours. The trailhead is located at the end of a residential area and can be easy to miss, so make sure you look out for Mendes Park, which can be found across the road.
Tip: The trail can be quite muddy and slippery, especially after rain, so wearing good hiking boots is a smart move.
Alternative: Haleakalā National Park
For those who don’t want to do an intense hike or want to collect another stamp at an American National Park, head to Haleakalā National Park for the sunrise. Towering over Maui at an impressive 10,023 feet, Haleakalā is a dormant volcano that holds a deep spiritual significance to the Hawaiian people.
A classic Maui experience, there are many tours to choose from when planning a visit to this infamous volcano. The sunrise was the most popular, but I opted for a bike ride down the mountain (only down, of course, the ride up would be like a marathon).
This is not the largest park, but there is over 30 miles of hiking trails that wander through otherworldly landscapes from tropical rainforests to stark, barren deserts. The Sliding Sands trail is a must-do for an experience into the crater.
Iao Valley State Park
In between the ridge hike and Haleakalā, the Iao Valley State Park of West Maui is where the Battle of Kepaniwai took place in 1790, a pivotal moment in Hawaiian history. But history aside, the park is downright breathtaking.
One of the park’s highlights is the Iao Needle, a towering, green-mantled rock pinnacle that rises from the valley floor about 1200 feet tall. It’s completely covered in tropical vegetation, but it’s easy to access thanks to the well-maintained walking trails and viewing platforms.
Admission to the park is minimal, and it’s open all year round, from 7 am to 6 pm.
Whale Watching Tour
Maui is the best Hawaiian island to spot whales if you are visiting between December and April.
The shallow channel that runs between Maui, Moloka’i, and Lana’i attracts tons of humpback whales to the waters surrounding Maui who put on a great show for whale watchers!
PacWhale Eco Adventures is the best company to go out with, as their tour directly funds the nonprofit Pacific Whale Foundation, which actively works to protect a declining humpback population from global threats.
The crew here runs a very educating and inspiring tour that makes it easy to see why they are a top-rated whale-watching tour company. They offer several different tours, from a small group watch to an evening watch tour complete with cocktails to enjoy while the sun sets on the water.
If you’re planning your trip outside of whale season, they also have snorkel tours year-round that also go toward the nonprofit! The Molokini Crater and dolphin-watching tours are other signature attractions.
Alternative: Surfing
If you’re not looking to hop on a boat, you can also try out one of Hawai’i’s best-known experiences: surfing!
Hawaii was the place where I first picked up a surfboard, and I’ve been obsessed since, even though I loathe the paddling out. You can find the best surf spots, shops, and essentials for planning your trip in my ultimate guide to surfing in Hawaii!
Maui has tons of beaches that are perfect for beginner surfers, but you’ll likely find the best waves at Honolua Bay.
Never surfed before? No problem! There are plenty of lessons available in the surf-dominated towns of Lahaina and Paia like this one here, and experienced instructors will take you out to a beginner-friendly beach to learn the ropes.
If you have some experience, look to the north shore for the best surfing! Swells rise in the winter and springtime for more wild waves, and you must be confident in your experience level before heading out here.
Maui Tropix Company is a homegrown surf shop with locations in Kahului, Kihei, and Lahaina offering surfboards for rent in all the best surf spots of Maui. For lessons or rentals in Lahaina, Maui Surf Culture truly made me feel like part of their Ohana, and they have excellent instructors for even the novice surfer.
Po’olenalena Beach for Sunset
What better way to finish off a perfect day in Maui than by admiring a sunset from a magnificent Maui beach? Po’olenalena is a great spot to relax after a long day of adventuring throughout the island, with a long stretch of golden sand and mellow waves.
While it’s sometimes crowded during the day, it’s typically not busy in the evenings, and you’re likely to get an uninterrupted view of the beach.
When the waters are calm, you can go for some evening snorkeling here and take in the last of the Hawaiian sun.
You can also have a sunset meal at nearby Ferrero’s Restaurant & Bar, which is oceanside and has great meals, but I like to hit nearby Kihei Kalama Village after the sun goes down. You can find tons of little shops and restaurants here to pick up any souvenirs and enjoy the Maui nightlife!
Places to Visit with More Time
Other Things to Do in Maui
- Road to Hana: Arguably one of the most beautiful routes in the world, the Hana Highway is a must-see if you have more time in Maui. Even though you could technically do it in a day or join a tour, it’s worth it to spend a night in Hana.
- Turtle Town: Just like the name implies, you’re bound to see tons of turtles in this part of Maui, and the most popular spot for snorkeling is Maluaka Beach. Book a tour here
- Day Trip to Lana’i and Moloka’i: Check more Hawaiian islands off your list by visiting the nearby islands! It’s fairly easy to get to them by boat from the western end of the island.
- Waianapanapa State Park: Famous for its black sand beach, sea arches, and freshwater caves.
- Makawao Town: A historic paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town, great for experiencing upcountry Maui culture and artisan shopping.
- Molokini Crater: Offers some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving spots in Hawaii.
- Makena State Park: Includes Big Beach, one of Maui’s largest beaches known for its golden sands, and Little Beach, a secluded spot known for drum circles and fire dancing on Sundays.
- Baldwin Beach Park: A favorite for locals, offering long white sandy beaches and great conditions for swimming and picnicking.
- Kapalua Coastal Trail: Kapalua Bay ocean views, volcanic rock formations, and access to several bays and beaches along the northwest coast of Maui.
- Pineapple Plantation Tour in Haliimaile (1 hour 10 minutes): Learn about the history of pineapple in Hawaii and taste fresh pineapples.
Where to Stay in Maui
The West Maui area is a perfect spot to set off from as you’ll find the best beaches here and lots to do in this area of the island. Lahaina is a popular long-standing town that was actually once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii.
Grab a dole whip and stroll through downtown Lahaina to discover adorable gift shops and appreciate a beautiful sunset on the west end of the island. You’ll also find tons of experiences leaving the Lahaina docks, which are easily accessible from this hippie-esque town.
Since Lahaina has recently been under construction as a result of the 2023 Maui wildfires, I’ve included places to stay in nearby Kaanapali while the town recovers. You should also consider sustainable accommodation options when choosing where to stay in Maui to keep the island beautiful for many years to come.
It’s difficult to find budget accommodation in Maui, so opting for a stay in Central Maui at the Howitz Hostel is your best bet if you’re looking for a cheap place to spend the night.
Kihei is a bit more centrally located on the southwestern side of the island, and the area is known for its gorgeous, sunny beaches. If you choose to stay closer to the airport, Kahului is found on the northern central side of Maui and has wonderful restaurant selections- this is where the locals go to eat!
Best Hotels near Lahaina, Maui
| Hotel Name | Benefits |
|---|---|
| 📍Luxury: Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa | – Prime beachfront location – Luxury ocean view rooms with a focus on sustainability – Full-service spa and fitness center – Water playground with pools and slides |
| 📍Mid-Range: Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort | – Direct access to Napili Bay Beach – Condo-style rooms complete with full kitchen (refrigerator, oven, stove, microwave, and dishwasher) – Outdoor swimming pool – Close proximity to golf courses and snorkeling spots |
| 📍Budget: Howitz Hostel | – Affordable accommodations – Communal kitchen and lounge areas – Central location with easy access to public transportation – Social atmosphere to meet other travelers |
Is 1 Day Enough for Maui
The simple answer is no; one day is truly not enough. Ideally, allocating a minimum of three to five days is best, although most opt to stay for a week, including travel days. From its beaches and mountains to its Hawaiian culture and cuisine, you’ll really only be able to stay on the west side with a day trip.
With more time, you could drive more to the center or east of the island and discover lesser-known gems. You could also take your time exploring popular attractions like Haleakala National Park or the scenic Road to Hana rather than trying to cram them into one day.
However, if you only have one day in Maui, it’s still possible to see and experience some of its highlights. Just make sure to prioritize which activities and sights are most important to you.
Best Time To Visit
The weather in Hawaii is great all year round, but there is a best time for different activities.
If you’re after the best beach vibes and want to dive into Maui’s outdoor fun, hitting up the island between April to May or September to November is your best bet. These times are less crowded, so you can really enjoy the warm weather and get easy access to all the cool spots.
September to November is the quieter season, when you can score some sweet deals on places to stay and cheaper flights.
If festivals and getting into the local scene are more your thing, summer’s buzzing from June to August. But, it’s pricier and more packed.
And finally, December to March is whale watching season. This will be your best chance for catching the migrating humpback whales, and it’s pretty awesome.
How to Get Here
The primary gateway to Maui is through Kahului Airport (OGG), which is centrally located near the northern edge of the island. For international travelers, Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu is often the first stop, where you can catch a short, approximately 40-minute interisland flight to Maui. Score the best flight prices using Expedia.
If you’re coming from within the United States, direct flights to Maui are available from several major cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and even New York, making the island accessible from both the West and East Coasts.
From a sea-bound voyage, Maui is also a popular destination for cruise ships, with Lahaina being a common port of call.
Once on the island, renting a car is highly recommended. Public transportation exists but is limited in coverage and frequency. Find great rental car deals with DiscoverCars.
Final Thoughts: Day Trip in Maui
Maui was the first Hawaiian island that I went to, but certainly wasn’t the last. There’s still so much to explore like I still have yet to do the Road to Hana, and I don’t think I’ll ever be too sick of Poke.
Craving more Hawaiian escapades? Check out our other guides across the Aloha State right here.
Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in Hawaii?
Hawaii may have been the site of a family vacation when I was twelve, but having gone back for a month as an adult is even better. If you’re looking for other places in Hawaii too, check out these other posts I have on the archipelago.
- Perfect One Day In Volcano National Park Itinerary
- Perfect Day Trip to Big Island Itinerary: Hawaii Guide
- Epic Day Trip to Maui Itinerary for the Adventurous
| MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES |
✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures. |
