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Golden crescent beach and turquoise water beneath the green West Maui mountains

Travel Guide

Maui Travel Guide — Where to Stay, Getting Around & Tips

Everything you need to plan a Maui trip: the best areas to stay, how to get there and get around, how long to visit and practical tips.

Maui · Hawaii, USA

Maui Travel Guide — Where to Stay, Getting Around & Tips

Everything you need to plan a Maui trip: the best areas to stay, how to get there and get around, how long to visit and practical tips.

Updated October 2026 · Editor's Research Guide

Golden crescent beach and turquoise water beneath the green West Maui mountains

Best for

Beaches, couples, families, nature & adventure

Ideal trip length

5 to 7 nights

Planning example used on this site

7 days / 6 nights

Best time to visit

April, May, September & October

Known for

Haleakalā, Road to Hāna, beaches & snorkeling

Getting there

Fly into Kahului Airport (OGG)

Why Visit Maui?

Maui combines golden and white-sand beaches, the volcanic summit of Haleakalā, the rainforest scenery of the Road to Hāna and some of Hawaiʻi's best snorkeling and winter whale watching.

Where Should You Stay?

Wailea suits travelers who want luxury resorts and polished beaches. Kāʻanapali / West Maui offers resort convenience, sunsets and family-friendly beaches. Kīhei is a more casual base with condos, restaurants and easy access to South Maui.

Getting There

Most visitors fly into Kahului Airport (OGG), with nonstop flights from many West Coast cities and connections through Honolulu.

Getting Around

A rental car gives travelers the most flexibility for exploring Maui, although some visitors may not need one every day. Book early for peak seasons.

How Long Should You Stay?

Most travelers stay 5–7 nights. The planning example used on this site is 7 days / 6 nights for two travelers.

Is Maui Expensive?

Maui is one of Hawaiʻi's pricier islands. Lodging, airfare and a rental car are usually the largest costs; see our Maui cost guide for planning estimates.

Practical Tips

  • Use reef-safe sunscreen and give sea turtles plenty of space.
  • Reserve a Haleakalā sunrise permit in advance.
  • Start the Road to Hāna early and leave time for stops.
  • Respect local communities, including areas still rebuilding in Lahaina.

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