75 Maui Travel Tips for a Dream Vacation! {What to Know BEFORE You Go}

If you have a crush on Maui like I do, then you’ll love checking out these best Maui Travel Tips!

Planning a trip to Maui??  Whether you’re planning a trip to Hawaii or just dreaming of your next getaway, check out these Maui Travel Tips to help you learn How to Visit Maui Without Breaking the Bank!

Let your dream Hawaiian vacation planning begin with this ultimate list of Maui Travel Tips and Tricks!

Best Maui Travel Tips

So you’re planning a trip to Maui?  Well let me tell you… you’re going to LOVE it!  With its gorgeous tropical beaches, swaying palms, epic waterfalls, and rugged mountain beauty unlike any other other island, it’s a sight to be seen.

Now are you ready to start planning your itinerary?  Let’s get started!

Related:

• How to Travel for Free or Cheap {20 Budget Travel Hacks}

Maui Hidden Gems and Must-Do Activities:

Now I’ve been to Maui several times, and it just never gets old.  Honestly, it’s just downright breathtaking!  Here are a few of my favorite things to see and do in Maui that you won’t want to miss…

Eat at Cheeseburger in Paradise in Lahaina.  I recommend going for dinner and asking for a seat near the water to enjoy the sunset!  The open air atmosphere, ocean breezes, and epic views can’t be beat!

Enjoy the Best Snorkeling in Honolua Bay north of Kaanapali.  The fish there are AMAZING!  Make sure to take along a Waterproof Camera so you’ll remember your experience forever!  I loved using mine!

See the Sea Turtles playing in the wild by 5 Graves on Makena Road, just south of Poolenalena Park.  They often hang out here!  It’s one of the most amazing things you’ll see, and a pretty epic free experience! The Maui Sea Turtles are truly amazing…

Check out the Iao Needle in the Iao Valley State Park.  You’ll pay a small fee to park {around $5 or so}, and then you’ll be able to enjoy the gorgeous scenery and 0.6 mile paved botanical garden trail in the park.

Go to Makena Beach {also nicknamed ‘Big Beach’ to experience some huge waves.  Be careful when you’re out swimming, because these waves are seriously… BIG!

Drive south of Big Beach on Makena road to view the Old Lava Fields. We even spotted some wild goats here.  Aren’t they adorable?

Check out the Enormous Banyan Tree in Lahaina on Front Street.  Did I mention it’s ginormous?!?

Drive to Hana in the Spring and stop to enjoy the waterfalls all along the way.  Just brace yourself, because those road can get a little windy and narrow… but the views really are beyond breathtaking!

Drive up to Haleakala National Park!  You’ll be so high you just might feel like you’re up in the clouds… literally!

Visit the 7 Pools of Hana.  Enjoy walking on the trails through the lush island forest and enjoy the breathtaking views of the 7 beautiful pools.

Just beyond Hana, go to beautiful Koki Beach for a picnic.

Head to the Maui Golf & Sports Park for some Family Fun!  They’ve got Mini Golf, Bumper Boats, Rock Climbing, and more!

Visit the Maui Ocean Center for an up close aquarium experience!  We loved seeing the tropical living reef, sea turtle lagoon, and sharks up close!

Ready for more awesome Maui Travel Tips from your Frugal Friends??  Keep Reading…

Oksana writes: “I just noticed the other day that Costco has tickets to Maui Ocean Center… they’re way cheaper then buying them there. It’s a really fun place for kids to go.”

Angelique writes: “Go to a luau in Lahaina!  I Loved Maui!!!  I Wish I could live there… everything is open air, no need for screens! ENJOY!”

Heather writes: “Mt. Haleakala is beautiful. We descended from the summit on bikes and road back down to sea level. 28 miles, all down hill. Fantastic, breath taking views of Maui!”

Candace writes: “Haleakala before sunrise, zip lining, Grand Wailea Resort, Road to Hana, Kapalua Bay, the list is endless!”

Patti writes: “Going up to the top of Haleakala for sunrise was beautiful. Cold but beautiful. I also visited many of the beaches (be smart, don’t go alone) and of course visited all the cultural centers.  Mostly though, I enjoyed walking the beaches and enjoying the sun and surf.”

Katie writes: “If you’re going in January, do a whale watching tour”

Susan writes: “Rent your snorkel equipment for the week and go early in your trip. If you like it, go several times. We made the mistake of going snorkeling late in our trip so we didnt have time to go more than once. We snorkeled from the beach (it was free) and saw lots of sea life.”

Christine writes: “Visit Makena State Beach.  It has amazing shore break waves.  It is such a beautiful area.”

Kimberly writes: “Whatever you do, make reservations for meals and national parks and excursions. Highly recommend ATV trail driving, Star tours on Haleakala, and road to Hana (but some of the food places close after lunch)”

Aimee writes: “Do a helicopter tour of the island!! And do the Road to Hana!”

Karen writes: “Rent a convertible… drive to Hana wearing bathing suits. Stop at the Seven Sacred Pools… it is heaven!!!! Hana is beautiful!”

Score a Deal on your Maui Car Rental!  There are so many beautiful spots to explore on Maui, so you’ll definitely want that rental car.  However, there are a few Rental Car Hacks to slash your costs that you’ll want to take advantage of!  Here are my favorite tricks to save BIG on car rentals…

20 Ways to Save Money on Rental Cars

Michele writes: “As the above ladies said, Road to Hana and Haleakala. Also, try and stop at any of the little road side stands for seafood or pineapple whips – fabulous! The little town of Lahaina is very cute.”

Megan writes: “I got married in Maui, LOVE it there. Everybody is suggesting the road to Hana and I am going to say the same. We loved it so much it’s our baby girl’s middle name. ♥ Snorkeling at Molokini is awesome too.  Have fun!”

Laura writes: “Went just last month for first time.  Hike Maui was hands down my favorite. Can also recommend Red Line Tours for snorkeling Molokini & Mendes Ranch for horseback.  For scuba, Tim from Tiny Bubbles is excellent with families.  Lahaina Luau was outstanding.”

Donna writes: “Check out the Snorkel Store for snorkeling!”

Lori writes: “On Maui, having a massage at the spa at the Grand Wailea Hotel is fabulous!”

Charity writes: “One of the most awesome guidebooks is “Maui Revealed“…make sure you get the most recent edition. It directs you to hidden waterfalls (i.e. 6/10 of a mile past the 6th mile marker on Road to Hana, there is a break in the forest. Pull over, follow trail to beautiful falls!!) All the inside info. Made our trip!! And do Haleakala the first day at 3am BEFORE you adjust to the time change lol!”

Deborah writes: “I traveled there on my honeymoon about six years ago. We also had the “Maui Revealed” book and traveled the entire island. You have to be careful though… the locals sometimes do not like people going to of the places revealed in the book!”

Jeanine writes: “Dragon’s Teeth is a great Free place and Nakalekee Blow Hole is a great hike as well.”

Liz writes: “Little known fact: If you rent a car on Maui, you can’t take it all around the island past Hana (but people do anyway). Be sure to take a submarine tour, go surfing, wake boarding, chase some dolphins on one of the small catamarans, and shop at Whalers Village!”

Laura writes: “Take a helicopter ride over the volcano and Jurasic Waterfalls – beautiful! And the road to Hana is fun to do – crazy drivers, but the black rock beaches are really cool! The Pineapple Plantation tour was kinda interesting as well and the pineapple was to die for!!”

Betsy writes: “Helicopter tour was amazing, the views were magnificent! Something I will never forget.”

Erin writes: “Gotta kayak. There is an amazing little market in Paia that is so good. Do the road to Hana but keep going all the way around the south end of the island. People just drive there and back….do the entire route….it is uh mazing!”

Patti writes: “Going up to the top of Haleakala for sunrise was beautiful. Cold but beautiful. I also visited many of he beaches (be smart, don’t go alone) and of course visited all the cultural centers. Mostly though, I enjoyed walking the beaches and enjoying the sun and surf. Did some type of a whaling expedition but ended up seeing more whales from a condo’s balcony at on Kauai.”

Debbie writes: “Do Haleakala the day after you get there.  You are used to being up early anyway.  Bring a packable coat and the blankets from your hotel.  It will be cold!  Road to Hana – leave early!  If you are not staying overnight, make sure you have enough time to get back before nightfall.  So much more!  My daughter livers there – it’s wonderful!!”

Jen writes: “Just got back from Maui. Kapalua Beach is another AMAZING place to snorkel with Sea Turtles and at least 20 different varieties of fish and it is a public beach, so get their early. AND every sunset is free too!  It was magical!”

Melinda writes: “Like everyone says, the Road to Hana is a beautiful adventure and Haleakala is wonder to behold, but we also really liked the little town of Paia on the North Shore. It’s a great little town with a very laid back vibe, and a great place to hang out that’s away from the main tourist areas, big hotels, etc. When we go back, that is where we will be staying.”

Dale writes: “Maui Travel Tips?  Haleakala is fun, and go very north of Lahaina, or far south to Makena, and that’s very cool. The Luau in Lahaina would seem to be touristy and it is, but it is also very worth it as well. Whale watching out of Maalaea is a must do. We liked the ethics of the Pacific Whale Foundation trip. Snorkeling in the crowded Molokini isn’t bad, and there are lots of other good-to-great snorkeling options. You can visit the megaresorts, or overpay for a beautiful morning of golf, but there are also a lot of very affordable options. We liked leasing an apartment north of Lahaina, and buying fish at the local market to grill by the pool.”

Where to Eat in Maui:

Kelli writes: “Stay in a condo with a full kitchen and eat breakfast and dinner there. Lunch is usually cheaper and we are usually out so we will eat lunch out but really try to do the other meals at the condo.”

Pamela writes: “Hit Costco right as you’re leaving the airport for food, etc”

Valerie writes: “If you’re able to cook, buy your produce at the Farmer’s Market.”

Shauna writes: “There’s also a REALLY great pizza place that’s inexpensive called Prison Street Pizza right in Lahaina!

Candace writes: “Guri Guri Ice Cream in Kahului”

Erin writes: “Cafe O Lei is my fave restaurant in Kihei.”

Amanda writes: “Lahaina Grill”

John writes: “Coconut’s Fish Cafe in Kihei had the best fish tacos I have ever eaten. I also highly recommend the pancakes at The Gazebo Restaurant in Lahaina. For great shave ice, go to Ululani’s in Kihei.”

Kristin writes: “Star Noodle in Lahaina”

Sarah writes: “Star Noodle for food, and Sansei for the best sushi I’ve ever had.  Mama’s Fish House for a wonderful meal, too.”

Lisa writes: “Miso Phat and Sansei’s are my favorite sushi restaurants. CoolCat is always good, too.”

Kristal writes: “Miso Phat Sushi, and stop anywhere they have acai bowls.”

Patricia writes: “Eat at Mama’s Fish House. Great location and drinks.”

Cindy writes: “The best place we visited was Mama’s Fish House! One of the top 10 restaurants in the world (at the time) pricey but worth it!”

Jen writes: “If you go inland, Colleen’s at the Cannery in Haiku is an amazing place to eat”

Megan writes: “Visit Eskimo candy (seafood shop in Kihei), grab a grill and enjoy at the beach. Multiple meals were spent that way.”

Karen writes: “Slappy cakes is so fun to eat at if you have kids, and Ululanis for shave ice.”

Jim writes: “Look on Diners Drive-ins & Dives map for great spots to eat!”

How to Get FREE Coffee at Starbucks in Maui!  With all the fresh air, sunshine, and snorkel time… you just might be needing a caffeine fix!  I sure did!  There are lots of Starbucks locations on Maui, and I made several visits there to refuel!  Free Starbucks gift cards make the deal even sweeter!  Check this out…

Starbucks Money Saving Hacks

Maui Budget Guide:

To keep the trip frugal you’ll need to do a little planning, and one of the first things you’ll want to do is start stashing extra cash away for your  ‘Maui Trip Fund’.  Need to increase your travel fund stash?  Make extra money on the side in your free time!  Here’s my favorite tricks for ramping up the vacation budget…

25+ Side Hustles Ideas

How to Save on Lodging in Maui:

Wondering how to plan the perfect hotel stay for your next beach vacation?  It’s so much easier than you think!  Don’t book your next hotel without knowing these secrets shared by Hotel Staff and Frequent Travelers…

75 Hotel Hacks Everyone Should Know

In addition to hotels, I also recommend staying at a VRBO on Maui to save BIG on your trip.  They have so many vacation rentals listed by owner all of the island, and they’re such a great way to find nice lodging that is way less expensive than the resorts.  I’ve personally stayed at multiple lovely condo complexes in Hawaii through VRBO.  Not only were they often significantly cheaper than the nearby hotels, they also came fully stocked with beach towels, beach chairs, boogie boards, and an in-room kitchen.  One even had in-room laundry!  These amenities alone saved us SO much money!  Plus… as a bonus there was free parking, no resort fees, gorgeous pools and hot tubs, and excellent customer service!  Such a perfect home away from home!

Now do you want to know my favorite tips and tricks for saving BIG on a VRBO?  These little known hacks will save you SO much money!  Check this out…

How to Slash The Cost of Your Next Trip Using VRBO

Julianna said: “If you have a large family, VRBO is the way to go when traveling. Forget hotels!  If you book at the last minute you can get up to 30-40% off.  Make sure to negotiate.  It’s going to be you or nothing for that owner.  Say you are shopping for deals and you want their best price (disregard the listed price).  When they get back to you, counter offer 10-15% below their offer.  If they are not booked, they will jump on this.  You have to have faith that you will find something even if you don’t book 6 months in advance… you will!  If you are adventurous and an independent traveler, you can save TONS!”

More Fun Places to Stay in Maui Hawaii:

Amy writes: “We stay at Royal Lahaina. It’s beautiful.”

Cindy writes: “We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Hotel and Spa and loved seeing the turtles and penguins everyday!  The penguins are adorable they have times they come out at the hotel!”

How to Get Cheap Flights to Maui:

Wondering how to get cheap flights?  My favorite trick is to load up on free mileage points and airline gift cards, then use them to dramatically cut the cost on airfare!  I’ve scored so many free flights this way!  Are you ready to start earning your free airlines miles and gift cards?  Here’s what you need to do…

Best Travel Credit Cards! {How to Get FREE Flights and Hotel Nights}

Tiffany writes: “We just came home from visiting Maui a few days ago!! Loved Hawaii!  We spent $3k for 4 people for 9 days (food, drinks, souvenirs and excursions)  We saved $12k by travel hacking.  Southwest flights free, Hyatt regency resort free and 9 day car rental free.  Travel hack and see the world!”

35+ Southwest Airlines Hacks! {Tips To Know Before You Fly}

25 American Airlines Flight Hacks {Weird Tricks Everyone Should Know}

23 Delta Airlines Travel Hacks {Savvy Travel Hacking Ideas}

How to Save Money on Food In Hawaii…  Maui Grocery Stores + Food Prices: {+ How to Eat on a Budget}

Are you wondering how to save money on food in Hawaii?  Here are a few of my favorite tricks…

1st Stop ~ Load up on Food and Beach Supplies at Walmart.  We flew into the Kahului Airport on Maui, and our first stop was Walmart.  I know, I know… not the most exciting first stop on your tropical vacation, but it was a HUGE money-saver!  We loaded up on full-size sunscreen, food and snacks for our condo, and any beach gear we hadn’t already packed {like buckets and shovels for the kids, etc}.  Walmart is less than 10 minutes from the airport, and a great first stop before you head to your hotel or condo.  The stores right around the hotels are significantly more expensive, so you’ll thank yourself later that you loaded up on deals at Walmart. Want to sweeten the deal even more?  Use these tips for Walmart Grocery Deals to save even more…

Walmart Grocery Deals {20 Secret Tips}

More Frugal Maui Travel Tips:

How To Save On Gas {20 Genius Hacks}

How to Travel for Free or Cheap {20 Budget Travel Hacks}

What To Pack for Maui:

Need some easy reading on the plane?  Take along Maui Revealed for more fun tips, maps, and ideas!

New Luggage

19 Carry On Must Haves for your next flight

34 Ways To Entertain Kids On A Trip

17 Beach Bag Essentials

Be sure to leave extra room in your suitcase to bring home some souvenirs!  {The ABC stores are a fun spot to hit for budget-friendly souvenirs}

Want a frugal souvenir idea?  Here’s a fun and frugal way to capture some of your favorite beach memories…

Beach Memory Jar! {DIY Vacation Souvenir}

Now that you’ve loaded up on Maui Travel Tips, check this out!  Are you planning on visiting more than one Hawaiian Island and doing some island hopping on your trip?  Check out more Frugal Travel Tips below…

75 Kauai Travel Tips {What To Know Before You Go}

75 Oahu Travel Tips and Tricks

Hawaii Travel Tips – 22 Best Big Island Tips

How to Remove Sand from Feet at Beach! {2 Easy Tricks}

Top 10 Romantic Honeymoon Destinations

101 Frugal Travel Tips and Best Kept Secrets

Now that you’ve scored these Maui Travel Tips… don’t Miss Anything!!  Check out all the latest Frugal Girls Travel Tips, Recipes + More…

So… have YOU every been to Maui before? 

What are some of your Best Maui Travel Tips, favorite places to see, beaches to visit, etc?

Share with us in the comments below!