Four Days in Maui: How to See the Best of the Valley Isle

Maui is an island that captures the imagination from the moment you arrive, with its dramatic contrasts of emerald valleys, golden beaches, and rugged volcanic peaks. Often referred to as the Valley Isle, Maui is a place where the natural beauty feels endless. Whether you’re gazing out at the vast Pacific, wandering beneath towering waterfalls, or standing on ancient lava rock. Maui is a destination that begs to be explored at a deliberate pace. Whether you’re drawn to natural wonders, underwater adventures, or simply the joy of being outdoors, spending four days in Maui offers an array of unique experiences. 

While it would be beyond easy to spend a week or two enjoying alllll Maui has to offer; however, for those potentially trying to visit a couple islands in one trip, it’s certainly possible to capture the essence of Maui in a few days. Our best recommendation for a brief trip is spending the better part of three days exploring the island’s most unforgettable highlights, followed by a final, deliciously relaxing day. 

Time of Year to Visit 

Maui is a year-round destination, but tends to be busiest in the holiday months of December to March as well as the summer-loving months of June through August. While the winter months are the ‘wet season’ here, the leeward side of the island tends to remain pretty dry. This is true even in the rainier months. PLUS winter is when whales migrate down to Hawaii, which is always pretty special to see. 

If you have the flexibility to visit in late spring, you might be able to experience Maui in the presence of less tourists. We were most recently there in mid-June, and did not find the extent of fellow visitors to be egregious. That being said, it certainly did not feel like a sleepy little island.

Catch Some Zzzzz’s

On shorter trips, it’s often easiest to stay based out of one location, to minimize the stress of relocating. However, to make the most of your time here, we recommend spending a night in Kula, just outside the Summit District of Haleakalā National Park. 

We stayed at this Airbnb and can heartily attest to how amazing the location, property, and host were. 

For the other nights, there’s two general areas that people stay in: West Maui (i.e. Kaanapali and Lahaina) and South-ish Maui (i.e. Kihei and Wailea). You really can’t go wrong at either location. We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Maui on Kaanapali Beach and really enjoyed everything about it. We visited with our 18 month old toddler, and found it to be delightfully kid-friendly, while still very much being a spot we’d return to without kiddos in tow. 

If you have Hyatt points to spend, we felt the Hyatt Regency Maui was an excellent redemption. For a hotel with a nightly price that’s typically $500+/night, it’s always a little wild to know we wheeled and dealed our way in for freeee. 

DAY ONE

The Road to Hāna is one of Maui’s most iconic adventures, but to truly enjoy it without rushing, an early start is essential. Leaving from the general Kahului area, the drive to Hāna itself can take about 2-3 hours without stops; however, that’s rarely the case, since the journey is all about pulling over for waterfalls, scenic lookouts, banana bread stands, and short hikes.

By hitting the road by 7am-8am, you’ll beat more of the morning of traffic. Generally speaking, you’ll also have better luck finding parking at popular stops. It also just gives you plenty of time to explore without worrying about racing the sunset. The earlier you go, the more you’ll actually enjoy the rhythm of the road and the quiet of the surroundings before tour vans and other travelers pile in.

Mana Foods

Mana Foods in Pāʻia is the perfect first stop on the journey to Hāna—not because it’s flashy or touristy, but precisely because it isn’t. This beloved local grocery store is packed with fresh, organic, and island-made goods, making it a one-stop shop to fuel up for the long day ahead.

You can grab a hearty breakfast from the deli, stock up on car-friendly snacks like trail mix, fresh fruit, or banana bread, and pick up cold drinks or kombucha to keep you hydrated on the winding road. If you’ve brought a cooler, even better! Mana’s prepared foods, hot bar, and grab-and-go lunches are ideal for a picnic later on the drive. It sets an authentic grounded tone for the day!

Ho‘okipa Beach Park 

Just past mile marker 9 on the Hāna Highway, Hoʻokipa Beach Park is a legendary Maui landmark. It’s famous for its consistent trade‑wind powered surf and windsurfing— enticing enough to draw seasoned locals and pro athletes riding big, clean breakers right at the reef’s edge. For today, it’s a perfect spot to stop and spectate while you enjoy breakfast from one of the elevated lookout platforms or picnic areas. 

Ke’anae Peninsula

The Ke‘anae Peninsula is absolutely worth pulling over for. With its dramatic coastline of jagged black lava rock and crashing waves, the views here are raw and cinematic— a beautiful contrast to the surrounding greenery and taro fields. It’s quieter than many other stops, giving you a chance to breathe and really take in the natural beauty without the crowds. 

Ke‘anae isn’t just about the scenery—it’s also home to one of the most beloved banana bread stands on the island. There’s nothing quite like eating a warm slice (… or loaf) of banana bread from Aunty Sandy’s, while you watch the waves crash… the kind of simple but unforgettable experience that makes the Road to Hāna so special.

Waiʻānapanapa State Park

Just before you arrive in Hana, you’ll want to stop at Waiʻānapanapa State Park. This lush state park is home to the black-sand Pailoa Beach and spans around 122 acres— including short hiking loops and ancient trails. The rugged coastline park boasts sea arches, blowholes, lava tubes, anchialine pools, and native hala forests, making it an unforgettable highlight on the Road to Hāna. 

Waiʻānapanapa State Park does utilize a reservation system for non-residents to access the park. Entry tickets go on sale 30 days in advance, so if you know this is a stop you want to make, be sure to snag your park reservations in advance! You can do so here.

If you are a last-minute planner and entry tickets are sold out, Hamoa Beach makes for a beautiful back-up beach locale. 

Haleakalā — Kipahulu District 

The rest of the day’s adventures are dependent on two things: what time you start your road to Hana adventure and what time of year you’re visiting. Summer will lend itself to a bit longer daylight hours. If you have time, the Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park is about 45 minutes past Hana and has an awesome hike that’s worth going out of the way for. 

Optimally you’d be arriving at the Pipiwai Trailhead no later than 2pm. The hike to Waimoku Falls is one of Maui’s most rewarding adventures, offering a dramatic contrast to the summit district of Haleakalā National Park. You’re immersed in the lush, jungle-like scenery that defines East Maui. The trail winds past towering banyan trees, through bamboo forests, and alongside streams and smaller waterfalls before culminating at the breathtaking 400-foot cascade of Waimoku Falls. This microclimate feels worlds away from the nearby arid summit, showcasing just how diverse Maui’s environments can be. It’s a hike that captures the wild, tropical beauty of Maui’s rainforest landscapes

Don’t forget: if you go to the Haleakalā National Park in the Kipahulu district, be sure to keep your entry receipt. You can use it when you go up to the summit of Haleakala, which is the first item on the itinerary for day two! 

The Journey Back: option #1

As noted above, you do want to be mindful about timing, because driving back in the dark is not advised. If you return back the way you came, via the Road Hana, you’ll want to leave yourself about 2.5 hours to make it back to Paʻia. While the road certainly is not dangerous, it is rather winding, without streetlights, so not the best road for a tourist to endeavor upon in the night-time hours. It’s always better to be safe rather than sorry! 

THE JOURNEY BACK: OPTION #2

The day two itinerary kicks off at the Summit District of Haleakalā National Park, so we recommend spending the night in the Kula/Upcountry region. Now, there is a south road you can take to get up to Kula (i.e. not returning via the Road to Hana). Your rental car company may dissuade you from taking this route as there are a couple of “hairy” places where the road is steep and narrow, but really entirely doable and safe– as long as it’s not storming (this road can flood during heavy rain).

Before you embark on the southern road, you should know, there is a 45-ish minute stretch of dirt road. Once you are past this, you will find yourself on a smooth, paved road, with fabulous, sweeping vistas! Also, make sure you have your directions loaded up before you leave the national park as you’ll likely be without service for a stretch, until you reach the Ulapalakua area. 

Our Airbnb host is actually who recommended this alternative route to us, and she said, “if the road says “local traffic only”, tell them you’re going to your Auntie Pamelaʻs house, and you will be able to come that way!” 

Everyone’s driving abilities and comfortability differ, so only you make the decision about what’s safest for you… we’re just here to share an adventurous option. If you’re on the fence about what exactly this entails, you can check out this detailed post by MauiGuidebook. Safety first, safety always! 

Kula

Kula Bistro is a gem tucked into the upcountry town of Kula, and it makes for a fantastic dinner spot after a long day of exploring Maui. The menu is packed with hearty, flavorful options—from fresh seafood and pastas to generously portioned entrées that leave you more than satisfied. While it’s a bit on the spendier side compared to casual island eats, the quality of the food and the welcoming atmosphere make it a splurge well worth making. 

Hana Hot Takes 

1. Popular experiences, such as this one, can be both amazingly iconic but also have some logistical snafus. For example, nearly every ‘Road to Hana Itinerary’ recommends visiting Twin Falls; however, we found it to be crowded and, honestly, not worth the hype. The waterfalls there were underwhelming at best and felt more like a traffic jam than a nature spot. Everyone will have their own experience, but perhaps temper your expectations a bit for some of the stops— especially if you’re visiting in the high season. 
2. While the Road to Hāna is often romanticized as a coastal drive, in reality, much of the route winds through dense rainforest and bamboo groves. It’s lush and green, yes—but you’ll only catch glimpses of the ocean here and there. If you go in expecting more jungle than seaside cliffs, you’re less likely to be disappointed. 
3. Either drive all the way out to Hana or skip this adventure. You’ll find some people recommend just doing half of the Road to Hāna, as an alternate option for those traveling with young(er) kids or those without time to make a full day of it. This is mediocre advice!! As mentioned above, you’ll be driving through a fairly dense rainforest, so it’s not like jaw-dropping views are abounding. At the halfway point, you will have a pretty sweet viewpoint, but I’d be hard-pressed to argue that it’s worth the hour-long drive on winding roads. All or nothing!!! 

DAY TWO

Another day on Maui filled with a completely different array of sweeping landscapes and local flavor— plus an unforgettable sunset. Start your morning early with a drive up to Haleakalā National Park to witness the otherworldly beauty of the volcanic summit. After descending from the clouds, sample the local cuisine and beer before heading to ʻĪao Valley State Monument for a peaceful stroll through lush rainforest and towering emerald peaks. As the afternoon winds down, make your way to the west side for a relaxing evening on Kāʻanapali Beach. 

Haleakalā National Park

Spending about a half day here allows you to take in some of the park’s most iconic sights — including scenic overlooks, high-elevation trails, and panoramic views stretching all the way to the Big Island on a clear day. For those with a bit more time or no qualms about an early bird start to the day, there are awesome opportunities to catch the sunrise and hike into the volcanic crater. The beauty and quiet power of Haleakalā make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Maui— even if you make it to the Kipahulu region of the park, the summit district is unlike anything else on the island! 

We actually have a whole separate Haleakalā National Park blog post, detailing the key stops and things to do in the summit district. The spark notes? 

1. The sunrise is amazing but does require advanced registration. 
2. Hiking even part of the Sliding Sands Trail down into the crater is beyond worth the time and effort. 
3. Drive all the way up to the summit of the summit district and take in the views from above the clouds. 

Mahalo Aleworks

By the time you come down from Haleakalā, you will have likely worked up an appetite… and you might just need your thirst quenched as well. Mahalo Aleworks is a perfect spot for a well-deserved local craft beer. While the beer was worth stopping in for, their food was just okay, BUT there are actually a bunch of other options in a 1-2 block radius. 

Crema Maui is a very cute coffee shop, just around the corner, housed in an old trolley… talk about fun, quirky character!! There’s also ‘Oko’a Farms, which is a small market for local goods– primarily produce but they have some gorgeous flower arrangements as well. You can also find a handful of different food truck cuisine options just across the road. We both got a burger and would go back again in a heartbeat!

Iao Valley State Monument

As you leave the upcountry and head west, the ʻĪao Valley State Monument is the next stop. It’s a lush, sacred gem nestled in the heart of central Maui, dominated by the iconic ʻĪao Needle—a striking green-covered rock pinnacle rising 1,200 feet from the valley floor. Beyond its jaw-dropping scenery, ʻĪao Valley is also a place of great historical significance, once the site of the pivotal 1790 Battle of Kepaniwai, where King Kamehameha I fought to unify the Hawaiian Islands. 

There’s a short, easy hike that winds through botanical gardens with mist-draped cliffs towering above. Whether you’re drawn by the dramatic landscape, the history, or simply a peaceful pause in nature, ʻĪao Valley is a worthy and accessible stop for any Maui itinerary.

Non-residents (i.e. tourists) do require timed-reservations. They can be made online here. 

Kaanapali Beach

We stayed on the west side of Maui in Kaanapali at the Hyatt Regency in Maui. We really enjoyed our stay (especially considering we booked our stay with Hyatt points, making it freeee). The resort is right along the beach, which makes for a delightfully relaxing way to end the day. Whether you stay here or elsewhere, watching the sun set on Kaanapali Beach is a must!

DAY THREE

Is it a crime to visit Maui and not go snorkeling? No but maybe it should be! While this might be a smidge dramatic, the aquatic wildlife here is truly amazing— not to mention, you have a pretty solid chance of seeing sea turtles as well! Whether you’re looking to splurge on a tour or hit some of the shoreline snorkel spots, it’s sure to be a memorable experience. 

A Snorkeling Tour to Remember 

If you’re looking for a paid snorkeling adventure that feels truly unforgettable, we recommend going with the sunrise Molokini Crater tour through Kai Kanani. Departing directly from Maluaka Beach, it affords the opportunity to be on the water before the crowds and in the crater at its calmest— when the visibility is crystal clear and the marine life is most active.

The early start means you have the rare chance to snorkel in peace, surrounded only by the vibrant coral and schools of tropical fish instead of a sea of other boats. If you’re going to pay for a snorkeling adventure, you might as well wake up early and actually get to have the slice of nature to yourself for a bit! To our knowledge, this is the only snorkeling tour company that is positioned to offer this first-thing-in-the-morning experience, so it’s an easy choice! 

Shoreline Snorkeling 

If you’d prefer to stick to the shoreline, Maui offers some truly outstanding snorkeling spots, each with its own character. Honolua Bay usually tops the list, thanks to its protected waters and reef teeming with colorful fish, coral, and even the occasional turtle—though it does require a short walk from the parking area to reach the shoreline. Kapalua Beach is another strong contender— a crescent-shaped shoreline with calm waters that make it especially beginner-friendly while still offering plenty of marine life along the rocky edges. Close behind is Napili Bay, a scenic, sandy beach where the snorkeling is best near the rocks on either side of the bay.

These three bay areas showcase the variety of Maui’s snorkeling, from vibrant wildlife from easy-access beaches. These are all great options for anyone wanting to explore straight from shore. Oftentimes the simplest deciding factor in where to go is simply where the conditions are best! We highly recommend checking the snorkel report in the morning, before you head out! The Snorkel Store provides a rating (out of 10) of various snorkeling regions around the island to help inform eager snorkelers. 

Relaxation Station

In the midst of an activity-filled itinerary, it’s important to carve out a pocket of downtime to simply unwind—whether that means lounging by the pool (Mai Tai optional) or stretching out on the sand as the waves roll in. With so many adventures packed into just three days, the constant go-go-go can easily become overwhelming, and allowing yourself a pause is just as valuable as chasing the next sight. Sometimes the most memorable moments aren’t the big excursions, but the simple pleasure of being present with loved ones… or taking the space for yourself! 

DAY FOUR

Day four on Maui is all about slowing the pace and savoring the island’s beauty in a more relaxed way. Begin the morning with a coastal nature walk and the rest of the day is intentional space to unwind—whether that means sinking into a lounge chair by the pool, enjoying the soft sand and surf of a nearby beach, or simply soaking up the laid-back rhythm that makes Maui so unforgettable.

Kapalua Coastal Trail 

Beginning your morning with a walk along the Kapalua Coastal Trail is a refreshing way to ease into your final day on Maui. The path meanders along the shoreline, offering sweeping views of the Pacific, dramatic lava rock formations, and quiet stretches of golden sand—all while the air is still cool and the light is soft. It’s a relatively easy walk, yet it still feels rewarding thanks to the stunning scenery and the possibility of spotting sea turtles. Starting your day here sets a peaceful tone, giving you a chance to start your day by soaking in the staggering beauty of Maui’s coastline. 

Relaxation Station: Round 2

There’s some inherent flexibility in every itinerary… you could alternatively finish day three with the Kapalua Coastal Trail, and spend your entire fourth day relaxing peacefully. We are still getting used to traveling with a toddler, and while we typically pride ourselves in getting out of the resort and truly exploring a given area, life continues to provide humbling opportunities. Regardless if you’re single, visiting with the love of your life, or wrangling a few kiddos, it’s ALWAYS nice to have a little space to slow down and relax. 

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Spending four days in Maui flies by, but that’s usually the case when you’re having a jam-packed, good time. Each of the Hawaiʻian islands has its own unique identity and charm— Maui is somehow both adventurous while also being laid-back… luxury abounds while still holding space for both nature and local tradition. We hope you have the most amazing time exploring for yourself!

If you’re planning to visit any other islands in the Hawaiʻian archipelago, our personal favorite might just have to be Kaui. It’s hard to choose though! Dana and McKenna both had the opportunity to live on Big Island for 4 months, so that holds a special place in their heart (either a 4-day or one week itinerary).

Regardless of where your adventures take you, we so hope you enjoy the journey. Happy travels!

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