Maui Island sketch

🧭 Quick Trip Hawaii: 3 Days in Maui

Trip Concept:

  • Begin each day early, with time set aside in the late afternoon for relaxation, followed by dinner and a café stop to unwind.
  • Hotel in South Maui with a Rental Car
  • Day 1: West & South Maui (Beaches & Snorkeling)
  • Day 2: Haleakalā Volcano Sunrise & Upcountry
  • Day 3: Road to Hāna

🌴 Day 1 – West & South Maui (Snorkeling & Beach Relaxation)

Maui Itinerary Map - West & South Maui

Shared Google Map itinerary is here. Use it on your Phone.

TimeActivityLocation / Notes
7:00 AMDrive to Mākena LandingCalm early-morning waters ideal for snorkeling with turtles. Bring reef-safe sunscreen.
7:30 – 9:30 AMSnorkeling at Mākena Landing or Maluaka BeachExcellent visibility in the morning before winds pick up.
10:00 AMCoffee stop at Akamai Coffee Co.Grab a cold brew or acai bowl. 📍1325 S Kihei Rd
11:00 AM – 1:00 PMDrive north to Lahaina / KāʻanapaliStop along scenic lookouts; optional short visit to Lahaina Front Street shops.
1:00 PMLunch at Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie ShopFamous for fresh sandwiches and mini pies. 📍820 Olowalu Village Rd
2:30 PM – 5:30 PMRelaxation – Beach time at Wailea BeachSwim, read, or lounge with an afternoon cocktail.
6:00 PMDinner at Monkeypod KitchenExcellent mai tais and local seafood.
8:00 PMReturn to hotelOptional stroll along the beach under the stars. 🌙

🌋 Day 2 – Haleakala Sunrise

Maui Itinerary Map - Haleakala Sunrise

Shared Google Map itinerary is here. Use it on your Phone.

TimeActivityLocation / Notes
2:30 AMWake up & drive to Haleakalā National ParkSunrise reservations required (book online in advance). Bring warm layers!
5:45 AMSunrise at Haleakalā SummitWatch the clouds change color above 10,000 ft elevation. Magical experience.
7:00 AMExplore summit areaShort hike on Sliding Sands trail (optional 30 min loop).
8:30 AMDrive down from the summitTake your time descending the winding road.
9:30 AMBreakfast at Kula Lodge & RestaurantGreat views and fresh local produce. 📍15200 Haleakalā Hwy
11:00 AMVisit Aliʻi Kula Lavender FarmPeaceful gardens with light walking paths.
12:30 PMPick Lunch at Haliʻimaile General StoreModern Hawaiian cuisine in a historic pineapple-plantation building. 📍900 Haliʻimaile Rd
2:30 PM – 5:00 PMRelaxation – Head back to Kihei/Wailea areaNap, beach, or resort pool.
6:00 PMDinner at Nalu’s South Shore GrillNice for a comfortable dinner after the beach
8:00 PMUnwindOptional spa or stargazing on the beach. 🌌

🌿 Day 3 – The Road to Hana

Maui Itinerary Map - Road to Hana

Shared Google Map itinerary is here. Use it on your Phone.

TimeActivityLocation / Notes
6:00 AMBreakfast & Coffee at Island Fresh Café (Paʻia)Fuel up before the scenic drive. 📍381 Baldwin Ave
6:45 AMBegin Road to Hāna driveStart early to avoid traffic. Bring water, snacks, and swimsuit.
7:30 AMStop #1: Twin FallsShort hike + small waterfall for a refreshing dip.
9:00 AMStop #2: Ke‘anae PeninsulaGreat banana bread stand (Aunty Sandy’s) & dramatic lava coastline.
11:00 AMStop #3: Waiʻānapanapa State ParkFamous black-sand beach; reserve entry time in advance.
12:30 PMLunch at Hāna Farms Roadside CaféLocal pizza, smoothies, and fresh-baked bread. 📍1750 Hāna Hwy
2:00 PM – 4:00 PMOptional swim or rest at Hāmoa BeachCalm surf, great for relaxing before heading back.
4:00 PMStart drive back to PaʻiaTake it slow, enjoy the scenic return.
6:30 PMDinner at Mama’s Fish House (Paʻia)Iconic oceanfront dining—reserve weeks ahead.
8:30 PMReturn to accommodationRelax after a full day of adventure. 🌺

General Tips

  • Car: A rental car is essential for this itinerary.
  • Snorkel gear: Rent from Boss Frog’s or Snorkel Bob’s (available in Kihei or Lahaina).
  • Reservations: Required for Haleakalā sunrise and Waiʻānapanapa Park.
  • Packing list: Water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, light rain jacket, hat, and reusable water bottle.
  • Timing note: Maui mornings are calm and clear — ideal for water or summit activities. Winds pick up mid-afternoon.