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Maui Residents to Visitors: Come, but With Care and Respect

Following catastrophic wildfires that leveled the western maui town of lāhainā, the island’s residents grapple with the slow return of tourism..

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the back of a person in a burgundy hoody with a flower on it looking out across the ocean with a faint rainbow in the distance

When visitors do come, locals ask that they be mindful of the trauma and devastation the island has been through since early August.

Courtesy of Unsplash

This week, Maui mayor Richard Bissen announced the next phase of the reopening of West Maui to tourism following horrific wildfires that blazed through areas of the islands of Hawai‘i and Maui in early August, completely leveling the town of Lāhainā in western Maui. On November 1, the areas of West Maui north of Lāhainā, from Kahana to Kā‘anapali, will reopen, as officials and residents focus on recovery and rebuilding efforts, including a campaign to encourage travelers to return to Maui, albeit respectfully and with compassion. The phased reopening of West Maui began on October 8.

“Here’s the reality, as much as people don’t like it, we are driven by the visitor industry,” says Tim Lara of Hawaiian Paddle Sports , a certified B-Corp in Maui that offers surf lessons, kayak tours, canoe tours, and stand-up paddleboard lessons. “If all of a sudden everyone stops coming, which they did . . . it’s going to create a bigger economic collapse. And more people are going to need assistance. Whereas if the visitor industry keeps going, not only can we sustain ourselves, but we can help with relief on the west side.”

Lara lives in Kula in Maui’s Upcountry, which experienced wildfires as well—19 houses were lost in Kula, including 10 within a mile of Lara’s house. Lara and his neighbors spent the days after the fires working together to extinguish new hot spots, cut back green waste to create fire breaks, and clear trees that had fallen onto properties. A donation center was established in the community where people could pick up bottled water, in addition to supplies and food.

In the first 10 days or so following the wildfires, Lara’s business was essentially put on pause. “I just didn’t have the headspace to deal with it,” he says. But, he adds, “We’re back [in business] now.”

A map that indicates the reopening progress in West Maui

Hawai‘i tourism officials have released a map that indicates the reopening progress in West Maui.

Courtesy of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority

The losses due to the wildfires in Maui were staggering. Authorities reported that 97 people died, more than 6,600 acres burned, and approximately 2,403 residences were destroyed.

In the initial hours following the August 8 fires, as blazes were still burning, as rescue efforts were still underway, and as losses were still mounting, the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority issued a statement that “non-essential travel to Maui is strongly discouraged at this time. Visitors who have travel plans to West Maui in the coming weeks are encouraged to consider rescheduling their travel plans for a later time.” Unfortunately, the distinction between West Maui, where Lāhainā is located, and the rest of Maui, which remained open to visitors, got lost in the chaos and communication efforts.

Several celebrities jumped in to reinforce that message, including Hawaiian-born actor Jason Momoa, who has 17.2 million followers on Instagram and posted to the platform on August 11, “Do not travel to Maui . . . if you were planning on traveling to Maui in the near future, cancel your trip.” (He has since posted numerous updates , including detailed clarifications about what remains open now—the vast majority of Maui—and the area around Lāhainā that had been closed.)

And many people did cancel their trips. Prior to August 8, Maui’s domestic passenger count ranged from between 4,000 and more than 8,000 visitors each day. In the weeks following the wildfires, they dipped down to between 1,800 and 3,000 daily and have finally climbed back up to above 4,000 daily visitors on most days, according to data provided by Hawai‘i’s Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism.

Graph showing drop in number of domestic passengers flying to Maui since the wildfires

The number of domestic passengers flying to Maui has dropped drastically since the wildfires.

Courtesy of Hawaii’s Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism

It’s estimated that the current economic loss is as much as $9 million per day due to the drop in travelers, according to the Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism.

“There was a lot of talk in the beginning that ‘Maui is closed. Visitors need to leave. Don’t come to Maui,’ ” says Lara, adding that more recently, there’s been a welcome adjustment in the communication. “Now people are saying, ‘Maui is open. Please come.’ ”

In September, the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority approved a $2.6 million recovery plan to restore demand for travel to Maui, which includes a new Mālama Maui campaign that promotes a responsible return in tourism to Maui .

“After listening to the Maui community and visitor industry, the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority is supporting residents who work in the hospitality industry and business owners who count on visitor spending by ensuring that visitors return to Maui,” Ilihia Gionson, public affairs officer at Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, tells AFAR. “We are asking for respectful, compassionate, responsible travel to the island at this time. Visitation is welcome and encouraged to the many open areas of Maui, now more than ever.”

Is it OK to visit Maui now?

So, what does “respectful, compassionate, responsible” travel to Maui look like?

Britney Alejo-Fishell, owner of Haku Maui in Maui’s Upcountry, a small business that makes traditional Hawaiian leis and teaches lei-making workshops, says she wants to spread the message that “it’s OK to come.”

But, she adds, “I know that people love to come to Maui to heal. You come here, and you find your healing in this beautiful place. But this is where people come from. We live here, this is what we’re made of. Come right, come respectfully. The people that come and just stay at the hotels, I get it, it’s helping the hotel. Come with the openness that you are going to travel and to explore and see what Maui has to offer and meet the people and talk to them and not just shelter in place.”

In addition to getting off the resort compound and supporting local businesses, reaching out to aid organizations that are contributing to relief efforts on Maui, and donating time and money to help (see below), Alejo-Fishell says that conscious travelers should also be aware of how severe the trauma that many residents have experienced has been.

Aerial view of a pool and palm trees at a Maui beach resort

Now, more than ever, residents are asking visitors to shop and buy local when they visit Maui to help support small businesses and their families.

Courtesy of Lo Sarno/Unsplash

Alejo-Fishell recalls that “the very first week, we were getting supplies, taking them directly to Lāhainā, and you can hear tourists complaining in the stores, saying ‘Why is there nothing on the shelves? What are we supposed to do?’ People have nothing, they just survived [this disaster], they may have lost their loved ones. Come on. Just be aware that you may be in line and there may be someone behind you in line that lost everything.”

Lesley Texeira, owner of Aloha Missions , which creates customized give-back experiences for people in Maui, says that following the wildfires, it felt like the COVID-19 pandemic all over again in Maui with rental cars piling up on empty lots around the airport and a dearth of visitors.

The difference this time around is that Maui residents experienced something so sudden and so shocking—and they are, quite frankly, still processing it all.

“If you are coming here . . . [you should be] leaving our island better than you found it. That’s how you should do anything, but especially right now. We are so fragile, and we are so emotional that you have to come here and you have to be mindful,” says Texeira. “The whole island is traumatized.”

Texeira says that for those visitors who want to reach out to local communities and volunteer or provide services and resources while they are in Maui, Aloha Missions can help make those connections between visitors and support efforts.

Says Lara of Hawaiian Paddle Sports, “Just by simply coming and spending money as you normally would, you are helping the situation because you’re stopping that many more families from needing assistance. But then—extra credit—make a charitable donation while you’re here.”

Charred cars and buildings line the waterfront in western Maui town of Lāhainā, destroyed by wildfires in early August 2023

The road to recovery and eventually rebuilding will be a long one for the western Maui town of Lāhainā.

Courtesy of the Office of Hawai‘i Governor Josh Green

How to help Maui

For travelers wondering how they can help, several organizations have jumped in to provide aid and assistance.

American Red Cross

To donate: redcross.org

The Red Cross is providing assistance to thousands of displaced residents in Maui and Oahu.

Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement

To donate: memberplanet.com

This nonprofit organization that supports Native Hawaiians is raising support “for ‘ohana impacted by the devastating wildfires on Maui.”

Maui Food Bank

To donate: mauifoodbank.org

The Maui Food Bank, which distributes food to the hungry in Maui County, is raising money to help feed residents of Maui who have been displaced by the fires.

Maui Strong Fund

To donate: hawaiicommunityfoundation.org

The Hawai‘i Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization that focuses on creating an equitable and vibrant Hawai‘i, has developed the Maui Strong Fund to provide shelter, food, financial assistance, and other services to residents.

Maui United Way

To donate: ignite.stratuslive.com/auw/get-involved/donate/mauirelief

Community aid organization Maui United Way has created a Maui Fire Disaster Relief Fund that will assist victims of the fires.

Malibu Creek State Park

Lincoln Travel Co

Maui Travel Tips: START HERE If You’re Planning a Trip to Maui

In early August 2023 devastating wildfires swept through the historic town of Lahaina in West Maui.

Here’s what you need to know: 1) Lahaina is almost completely gone and the area is 100% off limits to visitors. 2) The resort areas of West Maui north of Lahaina (Ka’anapali, Napili & Kapalua) are undamaged from the fires but are still slow to reopen to tourism. Reopening is happening in phases (already underway) and likely to still take several months. 3) The rest (majority) of the island is unaffected and open to visitors. 4) Locals on the island (both those personally affected and not) are grieving this tragedy and likely will be for a long time to come. Even though the return of tourism for the economy is largely necessary, your compassion and kindness during your interactions go a long way. 

I’ll keep this updated as the situation progresses. Right now, all of the information on this site either remains unaffected or has been updated. 

They say “Maui No Ka Oi” (Hawaiian for “Maui is the best”), and honestly…they’d be right ; ) 

travel to maui

Don’t tell the other islands, but Maui is my favorite. It was the first Hawaiian Island I ever visited, I spent some time living there, and it’s still my favorite place to travel. 

It’s a BIG island with a lot going on…natural wonders, luxury resorts, local towns, and I’ve written quite a bit about it. 

Seriously, I’ve got over 20 posts on this blog just about Maui, but this is the best place to start. 

travel to maui

Maui Travel Tips

Here’s a quick “table of contents” for what’s in this post:

When to Go to Maui

How many days to spend on maui.

  • Flying to Maui (Which Airport)
  • Lay of the Is(land)

Where to Stay on Maui

  • Things You Can ONLY Do on Maui

Maui Itineraries

  • Do You Need a Rental Car?
  • When to Book Activities

What to Pack

Good news…there’s never a bad time to go to Maui! The weather is pretty much consistent within a few degrees (air and water temperature) all year round. 

The seasons follow the seasons in the northern hemisphere (mainland US) and “winter” means more rain and slightly cooler temperatures. Summer means less rain and slightly warmer temperatures. August/September is when it’s the muggiest/most humid but this is Hawaii and humidity is pretty much nonexistent compared to places like Florida. 

Locals are very attuned to subtle shifts in weather/temperatures but whether it’s winter or summer, most resort areas are built on parts of the island that are sunny and dry 90% of the time. 

Whale season is December through April with peak season being February. 

travel to maui

Any time kids are out of school is high season. The winter holidays (mid December through New Years) are obscenely expensive and book out FAR in advance. Summer is the high season. 

January through mid March is technically less crowded and not “high high” season, but it’s still the optimal time to leave cold weather on the mainland to head for warmer weather so it’s not inexpensive. 

Generally speaking, I’ve found April/May and September/October to be the best months to find deals.

September/October is my personal favorite time to visit because it’s when I find the best deals on resorts and there are fewer kids/people in general on island since the kids have just gone back to school. They call it “couples season” for a reason. 

August through October is also technically hurricane season, but they’re pretty rare. Again, it’s not like Florida. 

travel to maui

Well, you’ve only got however many days you’ve got, but if you’re wanting the best overall vacation, I wouldn’t suggest less than one week (probably 6 full days, but you could do a lot in 5 full days too). 

If you’re short on time (doing a quick long weekend getaway from the west coast), you can still have a great trip just as long as your expectations are more about resting and relaxing. And if you’ve got weeks to spend, you’ll find plenty on Maui to keep you busy. 

But in general, if you’re wanting to explore the island and still feel like you’ve had a relaxing vacation, you’ll want at least 6 full days. I also don’t recommend splitting up a one week vacation between two different islands. Just stick to one and really experience it. 

travel to maui

Flying to Maui

Maui’s main airport is the Kahului Airport (OGG). This is where you’ll fly in coming from the mainland and on 99% of interisland flights. 

From Kahului, it’s about a 25 minute drive to the Kihei/Wailea area (South Maui) and about a 40 minute drive to the Kaanapali/Kapalua are (West Maui). 

There is a small airport in Kapalua on the west side and an even tinier airport in Hana on the east side but they are for very very tiny planes. 

travel to maui

Lay of the (Is)land

Maui is a BIG island. 

Most people either stay on the west side (Lahaina, Ka’anapali, Kapalua, Napili) or the south side (Wailea, Kihei, Ma’alaea). Central Maui (Kahului) is where you’ll fly into and do your grocery shopping. The north shore (Paia, Haiku) has a local, surfer town vibe. Upcountry (Makawao, Pukalani, Kula) is where the farm/ranch land and Haleakala National Park are. And East Maui (Hana) is basically the jungle. It’s where all the waterfalls are, the black and red sand beaches, etc. Most people visit as a day trip driving the “Road to Hana.”

travel to maui

For me, this is where it all starts whenever I’m planning a trip. 

Like I said before, you’ll likely either stay in south or west Maui where the two main resort areas are (Wailea and Kihei in the south and Ka’anapali and Kapalua on the west side) because that’s where the majority of resorts, hotels, and condos are. 

The west side seems to be more popular and has some of the best beaches on the island, but I prefer the south side because it’s quieter, a little more upscale (Wailea, not Kihei), and more centrally located. But you won’t go wrong with either. 

One of the best posts on my site is a full breakdown of Wailea vs Kaanapali . 

travel to maui

The other post you need to read is Where to Stay on Maui . It’s got specific recommendations for resorts, hotels, and condos in all price ranges on all different parts of the island so you can find exactly what works best for you. 

And then I’ve got EVEN MORE DETAILS FOR YOU…

If you’ve narrowed down your search to the Wailea area, good news. I’ve stayed at all the big beach resorts in Wailea and I’ve ranked them in this post >> The Best Resorts in Wailea

travel to maui

Plus I’ve got these detailed resort reviews:

Four Seasons Maui

Fairmont Kea Lani  

Wailea Beach Resort

And a few comparison posts too:

Four Seasons vs Andaz Maui

Andaz Maui vs Wailea Beach Resort

travel to maui

Things You can ONLY Do on Maui

If you’re in the early planning stages (even trying to figure out if Maui is the island for you), I think the best way to figure it out is by looking into the things that you can ONLY do on Maui. 

So many things (beaches, snorkeling, golf, zipline, surfing, luaus, etc) you can do on every island. I mean seriously, whatever your “dream version” of a Hawaii trip is…you can get it on any of the main Hawaiian islands. 

So to break it down, here are the things you can ONLY do on Maui (plus a few that I think are must dos even if there’s something similar on another island):

travel to maui

Road to Hana

Driving the road to Hana (from Paia to Hana on the east side of Maui) is easily the #1 must do thing on Maui. Block out an entire day and drive the 50 or so miles along the winding road to Hana. 

Spend the day hiking through bamboo forests, waterfall spotting, and gazing at black and red sand beaches. I’ve got several posts specifically about driving the Road to Hana including the best stops, which ones to skip, when you should start out on the road, if it’s safe to drive the whole road around, driving etiquette and more. 

travel to maui

But here are a couple of things worth mentioning twice. Since March 2021, you now NEED RESERVATIONS TO STOP AT THE BLACK SAND BEACH. That’s Waianapanapa State Park, and you can make reservations 14 days in advance here . 

Also, while driving along this BEAUTIFUL road is considered one of Maui’s top attractions, it’s still an actual road and there are people that live in these remote communities that use it everyday. They’re driving to work, taking their kids to school, going to doctor appointments, etc. They’re not on vacation. And while they’re very welcoming, they’re getting increasingly frustrated at the huge numbers of visitors coming to Maui (and the current infrastructure’s inability to handle them). 

travel to maui

So a few simple rules: Don’t trespass on private property. Even if you’ve read about a waterfall that you think you should be able to access or heard about a pond to swim in. If there’s a sign and you have to climb around a gate, don’t do it. Don’t park illegally on the road. There are now MANY signs making it clear where you can’t park. Don’t stop in the middle of the road to take a picture of a waterfall, a rainbow eucalyptus tree, a gorge, an ocean view, a mongoose, a rainbow, or anything else. If you’re driving slowly and there’s a local behind you, pull over and let them pass. They have somewhere to be. 

Road to Hana posts: 

My Favorite Road to Hana Itinerary

Tips for Driving the Road to Hana

Should You Drive the Backside of the Road to Hana? 

Haleakala National Park

Visiting Haleakala National Park is without a doubt the most unique experience you’ll have on Maui. It’s completely unexpected. When you’re up at the summit/crater, you’ll feel more like you’re on Mars than Maui. 

Sunrise is by far the most popular time to visit the park and seeing the sun rise through the clouds at the summit of Haleakala is a moving experience for many people. 

travel to maui

But you need to be prepared. It is COLD! Think 20-30 degrees with a strong wind. Bring winter clothes and take blankets. Also, drink plenty of water and have snacks as the quick 23-mile drive from sea level to summit has been known to give some people (ahem, me) altitude sickness. You’ll also need to make reservations to enter the national park for sunrise (3AM-7AM) 60 days in advance here . 

Read more about sunrise and sunset at Haleakala here . 

Whale Watching

Whales can be seen throughout all of the Hawaiian Islands in season, but they’re most prevalent in the shallow waters between Maui and Lanai and Molokai. Whale season is officially December 15 through May 15, but these whales rarely carry a calendar with them. February is HIGH SEASON though so if you’re a super whale fan, that’s when you want to go. You’ll be able to see them from many of the beaches.

travel to maui

All islands have some form of whale watching tours you can go on, but it seems like for every one whale you’ll see on another island, you’ll see 5-10 on Maui. So if you’re visiting multiple islands, definitely go whale watching on Maui. 

Snorkeling Molokini Crater

Maui’s most popular snorkeling spot is a partially submerged volcanic crater that’s home to not only amazing species of fish but also some of the best visibility in Hawaii. 

travel to maui

The slopes of Haleakala are home to an area called the “upcountry.” It’s by far the largest area of Maui, it’s a predominantly local area, and if you couldn’t look out and see the ocean you’d probably think you where in the Texas Hill Country or Colorado high meadows instead of Hawaii. The lava rock has created super fertile soil and that combined with the moderate climate make for spectacular agricultural conditions. You’ll find every type of farm tour you can think of here. 

travel to maui

On my “don’t miss” list is the Ali’i Lavender Farm, Maui Wine, and Maui Pineapple Tour. 

Read all about my favorite things to do upcountry here . I really can’t say just how much I loved the Maui Pineapple Tour. I don’t think it’s talked about nearly enough, but I would say it’s a “don’t miss.” Skip that tourist trap at the Dole Plantation on Oahu and come here instead. 

Old Lahaina Luau

Not only my favorite luau on Maui, but my favorite luau in HAWAII. While I don’t think a luau is necessarily a don’t miss item (you know whether or not it is for you), IF you’re going to do one, this is the one to do. And if you’re going to multiple islands and trying to decide which island to do the luau on, make it the Old Lahaina Luau. 

travel to maui

Dinner at Mama’s Fish House

As funny as it sounds, this is pretty much the only thing I do EVERY TIME I’m on Maui ; ) By far the most popular restaurant in Hawaii, if you tell 10 people you’re going to Maui that have been there before I bet the first thing 9 of them will tell you to do is make reservations at Mama’s Fish House. It’s not cheap, but it never disappoints. Read my full review here . 

Okay, that’s the quick rundown…read my full post about things you can ONLY do on Maui with way more details here >> Things You Can ONLY Do on Maui  

I’ve noticed that people either seem to book their airfare and hotel first and then figure the rest out, or they want to lay out an itinerary and then decide how to book their flights (how long to stay) and where to stay. 

Either way, having a solid itinerary (even if it’s just a lot of built in relaxation time peppered with some activities) can make your vacation sooooo much better. 

I’m working on a whole suite of Maui itinerary options for different lengths and interests, but for now check out this one:

4 Day Maui Itinerary

travel to maui

Do You Need a Rental Car on Maui?

You absolutely will need a rental car. Hawaii is not an all-inclusive destination where you’ll arrive by shuttle and never leave your resort (I mean you could do that…but it’s pretty expensive just to get to Hawaii so most people want to actually see Hawaii. If you want a cheaper resort only vacation, just go to Mexico). 

travel to maui

It’s a pretty large island, and it can take a while to get around. Driving from Wailea to Lahaina can take around 40 minutes. Kahului to Lahaina can take around 30-40 minutes, and Kahului to Wailea can take around 30 minutes. And that’s not to mention destinations on the north shore, upcountry, or towards Hana. So taking Ubers and Lyfts if you’re going from place to place isn’t really feasible (you’re probably talking $100 one way). Maui also does not have a very good bus system.

So you’ll most definitely want a rental car for your stay even if you’re staying in a resort area. I always book through Discount Hawaii Car Rentals . They’re seriously the only company I ever use. They’ll give you the very best prices, you don’t have to reserve with a credit card or pay until you show up, you can cancel and re-book anytime if you find a better rate, and they usually have a special that adds additional drivers for no fee. It’s a no brainer. Click here to check rates for your trip.

travel to maui

When to Book Activities?

One of the top questions I get asked is when the best time to book activities/tours/excursions is. Honestly, if there’s something you know you want to do for sure…you should book it as soon as you can. 

There’s no advantage to waiting until the last minute. You won’t find better deals and more than likely you’ll end up missing out because things sell out. In the post COVID landscape, so many activities and tours in Hawaii (luaus, snorkeling tours, ziplining, atv rides, even RESTAURANTS) are fully booked 2-4 months in advance. 

travel to maui

You’ll want the usual beach vacation clothes, but a trip to Maui also means a lot of exploring and there are some odd/specialty things you won’t want to forget (do you really need a fleece jacket? Yes ; ) 

Read my full Hawaii packing list plus tips on what to wear here . 

travel to maui

More Posts about Maui

Besides everything above, I’ve got even MORE info on Maui. Check out these posts: 

Best Restaurants in Wailea

Best Beaches in Wailea & Kihei

P.S. Thanks for sticking around and reading this whole post! If you have ANY questions about planning your trip to Hawaii, you can join my free Facebook group here . I’m there answering questions every day and there are 7500+ other friends who have a ton of Hawaii information to share!

Also, if you want to follow along on my travel adventures in real time, you can follow me on Instagram (@ caitylincoln ). My post captions are full of travel tips and I have a ton of story highlights and videos with great info. And please share my account with your friends that are headed to Hawaii! Your support really helps me keep this blog running!

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31 of the BEST Things To Do On Maui (2024 Update)

travel to maui

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

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After living on Maui for three years and exploring the island as part of our job (see our YouTube Channel ), we are finally sharing the best things to do on Maui. Therefore, getting this list down to the best 33 things to do on Maui was challenging.

Pack your bags for Hawaii and come on over to the Valley Isle. The Road to Hana , black sand beaches, waterfall swims, snorkeling with sea turtles, and the best beaches in Hawaii await you. Learning about Hawaiian history and culture is also a must, so we have you covered. You can plan your Maui bucket list with this article!

Welcome to the best things to do on Maui list on the internet. We break down what to do by geographic area of Maui to help with your itinerary planning. We are all about making your Hawaii vacation planning as easy as possible .

Plus, most of these things to do are free. We share our favorite tours and activities, but this list is mainly free things to do on Maui.

Explore more of Maui in our Maui travel guide section .

Pssst: if you’re visiting more islands than Maui, make sure you check out our full list of the best things to do in Hawaii.

Things to Do on Maui Videos

Our passion is writing about Hawaii and Maui trip planning but we also make some pretty good Hawaii travel videos. To get the feel of the trade winds blowing through your hair and then diving into turquoise waters, watch the videos below for more things to do on Maui.

For those Maui couples celebrating their honeymoon, anniversary, or special occasion, see our things to do on Maui for your honeymoon video below. Then read our Maui vs Kauai for your honeymoon to see if visiting two islands is worth it ( Hawaii island-hopping guide ). 

We have a collection of Road to Hana videos as there is so much to see and do on the way to Hana and on East Maui. My favorite Road to Hana video is below with 11 stops over two days while we camped in a 1989 VW Westfalia Camper Van.

Things to Do on Maui by Location

Maui is a large island. At 727 square miles, Maui is the second largest Hawaiian Island after the Big Island. Two volcanoes divide Maui into West and East Maui, they make navigating the island time-consuming. 

To help you understand where these things to do on Maui are located, this list is organized by the main geographic areas of Maui. See the Maui map below for reference. 

things to do on maui map

Most visitors to Maui stay in South Maui or West Maui. See our Kaanapali vs Wailea review for details if you’re deciding where to stay. Our Best Family Resorts on Maui article is also helpful.

Regardless of where you stay in Maui, you will find a lot of things to keep you entertained. Here is a collection of our things to do on Maui lists.

  • 68 Things to Do on Maui with Kids
  • 15 Amazing Things to Do in Upcountry Maui
  • Our Favorite Maui Tours and Activities
  • Handicap Accessible Things to Do on Maui

Let’s start our things to do on Maui in West Maui. The area we still like to call home.

Things to Do in West Maui

West Maui is well known for Kaanapali Beach Resorts, a line of beachfront hotels, and historic Lahaina Town. Lahaina was the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii from 1802 to 1845. Lahaina suffered a devastating fire in August 2023 and remains closed. While you cannot go to Lahaina, there are a lot of other things to do and see on West Maui.

Let us show you the best things to do in West Maui. See the Google map below for the location of each. We are starting in Northwest Maui and working our way south.

1. Nakalele Blowhole

Maui’s Nakalele blowhole is a geological formation in West Maui that erupts every few minutes with over 50-foot geyser-like water spouts. The Nakalele blowhole is located 30-minutes north of Ka’anapali. One can view the blowhole from above or hike a quarter-mile down a steep hillside for a closer look. 

See our Nakalele Blowhole article for details on the best time to view, parking, and safety items.

nakalele blowhole west Maui thing to do

My whole family enjoys seeing the blowhole from up on the cliff. Two safety recommendations on the Nakalele Blowhole: 

  • The blowhole is best viewed from above or stay on the dry rocks. People have been swept into the ocean by waves or into the blowhole. 
  • Second, we don’t recommend driving further down Kahekili Highway as the road gets dangerous, with one lane on a cliff in spots, and local residents prefer their solitude.

Directions: Nakalele Blowhole Poelua Bay, Wailuku, HI 96793

Grab some banana bread from the stand in the parking lot and drive back to Honolua Bay or the best beach on Maui, our next thing to do on Maui.

2. Best Beach on Maui: Kapalua Bay

Kapalua Beach at Kapalua Bay is our favorite beach on Maui. The small, crescent-shaped bay has excellent snorkeling, standup paddleboard rentals at the beach, and a coastal walking trail. 

Kapalua Bay is a good spot to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles from shore or when snorkeling around the edges of the bay. The bay has gotten more popular in recent years so the public parking lot fills up fast. There is some street parking and paid parking at the tennis club.

Want more Maui snorkel spots with turtles? See our 11 Best Snorkel Spots on Maui .

Directions: Kapalua Bay Public Parking Lot, 99 Coconut Grove Ln, Lahaina, HI 96761

things to do on maui kapalua bay beach

3. Swim with Sea Turtles at Napili Bay

Next to Kapalua Bay is Napili Bay, another gem of a beach on Maui (see all our 17 best Maui beaches plus parking directions ).

Napili Bay has a large golden sand beach (erosion is getting worse though) on a crescent-shaped bay. The swimming and snorkeling are both excellent here.

Children can explore the tidepools for shells and fish on the south side of the Bay. Parents will enjoy the two restaurants that flank the bay. Sea House is best for lunch and dinner. They have a good happy hour, live music, and a good spot for sunset. The Gazebo is a famous breakfast spot on the island. There is a long line that is worth the wait or call for take-out.

Directions: Napili Bay Parking 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Rd F248, Lahaina, HI 96761

Kapalua Bay and Napili Bay are in northwest Maui. This part of West Maui is lush and green due to more rain, even during the summer. During the winter, you may experience wind, rain, and rough surf at times. Swim with caution during the winter as there are no lifeguards on duty at these beaches.

4. Snorkel at Kahekili Beach Park

A lesser-known beach (depends on who you ask!), Kahekili Beach is referred to as Airport Beach as the beach park used to be the end of a runway. 

This beach has a large, shaded parking area, showers, and public restrooms. The beach is connected to the Kaanapali Beach Boardwalk. 

At Kahekili Beach, you can find a large sand beach with good snorkeling out front. The beach is also a great place to see whales during whale season (December – March) and hear their songs underwater. See our Airport Beach on Maui: The Full Guide for details on visiting.

Directions: 65 Kai Ala Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761

things to do on Maui snorkeling airport beach

5. Kaanapali Beach

West Maui is known for its beaches, hence there are a lot of beaches on this list. Kaanapali Beach is so much more than a beach though. 

If you’re looking for a unique thing to do on Maui, check out our favorite Maui farm tours .

Kaanapali Beach is a 3-mile-long beach lined with resorts and condo high rises. This is a great place to stay on Maui for families, couples, and adventure seekers. 

Kaanapali Beach has Black Rock Beach on the north end, famous for snorkeling and rock jumping. Both are dangerous so see our Black Rock article for tips. 

Snorkel tours and sunset sail cruises leave directly from Kaanapali Beach. Visit the beach, go shopping at Whalers Village, walk the boardwalk, and have dinner at the many restaurants along the beach. There are small public parking lots along the beach. Validated parking is available at Whalers Village Shopping Center.

Directions: Kaanapali Beach

maui things to do kaanapali Beach.jpg

6. Best Luaus on Maui

West Maui has some amazing luaus! They are authentic, have great entertainment, and have good food. 

Explore our 5 recommended Maui luaus for more ideas, plus if a luau is worth visiting!

maui things to do Lahaina

7. Whale Watching from West Maui

If you’re heading to Maui in the winter, you’re in luck. That’s the prime time to witness an estimated 10,000 whales that migrate from Alaska to Hawaii each year . And Maui is truly the best Hawaiian island for whale watching. 

You can see them from shore or head out on a whale-watching tour. We cover all you need to know about whale season in our Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching on Maui . Then explore our 7 recommended whale tours on Maui . Many of the tours have our exclusive HVG coupons .

8. Day Trip to Lanai

One of the great things about visiting Maui is its proximity to Lanai. After a quick 45-minute ferry ride, you can find yourself landing on a different island. A private island owned by a billionaire.

Explore Hulopoe Beach (one of the best in Hawaii), head to Lanai City for galleries and lunch, or hop in a Jeep to get to Shipwreck Beach. Lanai is worth a day trip . Our favorite 21 things to do Lanai will show you how to explore the island.

The ferry to Lanai leaves from Ma’alaea Harbor. Get a round-trip ticket and off you go!

Currently, the ferry to Lanai is the only operating ferry between Hawaiian islands. See our Hawaii Island-Hopping Guide for tips on exploring more islands during your trip.

things to do maui island of lanai shipwreck beach

9. Olowalu Snorkeling

The reef in front of the historic village of Olowalu is home to sea turtles, monk seals, large fish, and a pristine reef. If you’re looking for a unique place to snorkel on Maui, head to Olowalu. You can walk in from Olowalu Beach but we prefer to do a kayak snorkeling tour . 

The kayak and snorkeling tour will take you further out in the reef to see the best spots. The kayak tour is also a fun whale-watching experience during whale season.

Olowalu snorkeling thing to do on maui

Tip: Maui is working to revitalize the reefs around the island. You can help by wearing sun protective clothing, mineral-based sunscreen, and not stepping on the reef. See our Hawaii Travel Gear section for details.

Explore more of the Best Snorkeling Spots in West Maui for beach-access snorkeling or the 8 Best Snorkel Tours on Maui for a boat experience.

Things to Do in South Maui

Onto another popular place to stay on Maui, South Maui. From Kihei to Makena, we have you covered with the best things to do on Maui.

Beaches, restaurants, and surf spots will keep you busy in South Maui. But, South Maui is best for being a launching pad to explore Maui, like Central and Upcountry Maui. 

Check out the Google Map below for the best things to do in South Maui. 

If this list is feeling overwhelming, then let us plan your perfect Hawaii vacation. In our Maui Wayfinder Itinerary, choose from 8 excursion days that have these things to do on Maui, plus many more. Learn more below.

travel to maui

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the maui itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Maui.

10. South Maui Gardens

Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere. South Maui Gardens is a full-scale plant nursery and community garden space on 7 tropical acres in the heart of Kihei.

Visit the Thursday Farmer’s Market, sit by the butterfly garden, or meet George the tortoise. We like to visit the coffee shop and the lunch trucks. See our video below as South Maui Gardens made our Unique Maui Food Experiences list.

Directions: 35 Auhana Rd, Kihei, HI 96753

11. Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Visitor Center

The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center is an education center, art gallery, and research facility. 

This place is worth your time during whale season as it is an excellent place to view the whales from shore and participate in discussions about the humpback whales who visit Maui every year. 

Directions: 726 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753

things to do on Maui: whale visitor center in Kihei, South Maui

12. Learn to Surf

Cove Beach Park in Kihei is a great place to learn how to surf. The slow rolling waves make this an ideal place for locals and first-time surfers to learn the ancient Hawaiian tradition. 

Rent a board across the street from the cove or sign up for a surf lesson . 

Directions: Cove Beach Park 2126 Iliili Rd, Kihei, HI 96753

13. Kamaole Beach III

Kihei has a 1.5-mile stretch of sandy beach that spreads down the coast that is divided into three beach parks. 

Kamaole Beach III is our favorite for snorkeling, swimming, swings for our son, and restroom facilities. There is also a large grassy area with shade trees and lifeguards on duty. 

Directions: Kamaole Beach III S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753

In our experience, Kihei can get windy in the afternoon, more than West Maui, as the trade winds pick up. We recommend hitting the beach in Kihei in the morning and early afternoon.

maui things to do Kamaole Beach III

14. Makena Landing for Sea Turtles

Makena Landing is a small beach park that is popular with scuba tours. It is also known as Turtle Town.

You can walk from the beach into the water for great snorkeling with sea turtles. Head left around the point or right to find the turtles. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles are an endangered species so it is against the law to touch them. Stay 10 feet away when in the water.

Directions: 5083 Makena Rd, Kihei, HI 96753

Turtle Town is also a popular site for tour boats. Many tours go to Molokini Crater and then Turtle Town as Molokini doesn’t have turtles. Our favorite Molokini Crater and Turtle Town tour leaves directly from Maluaka Beach, south of Wailea.

15. Secret Cove Beach (Makena Cove)

Secret Cove is the place to go for sunset, engagements, and wedding vow renewal in South Maui. This picture-perfect cove can be found through a narrow opening in a lava rock wall. 

We like to visit for sunset, family pictures, and whale watching in the winter. Find a reason to go to Makena Cove during your Maui vacation.

Directions: Makena Cove off Makena Road

Maui things to do Makena Cove

Video of Things to Do on South Maui

Things to Do in Central Maui

Central Maui isn’t known for things to do on Maui but perhaps it deserves your attention. Here are our favorite activities in Central Maui. At a minimum, don’t skip the food trucks!

16. `Iao Valley State Monument

‘Iao Valley State Monument is home to the ‘Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot erosional feature in a magnificent valley. Come to walk the 0.6 miles to the observation deck, see waterfalls, explore the botanical garden, and learn the history of the decisive Hawaiian battle that made the river turn red. Confirm their opening hours and entrance fees here .

Directions: 54 S High St, Wailuku, HI 96793

‘Iao Valley made our list of the best easy hikes on Maui .

iao valley state monument maui thing to do

17. Costco Food Truck Park

Many visitors flock to Costco to fill their vacation rental upon arrival in Maui, or their gas tank when leaving Maui. We recommend going to Costco for the food trucks. 

There are two food truck parks located across the street from Costco. They feature some of the best chef’s on Maui, the freshest ingredients, and something for the whole family.

Our Ultimate Maui Food Truck Guide will show you how to find all the best food truck parks on Maui. We also have a Kauai Food Truck Guide if you’re thinking of island-hopping .

18. Farm-to-Table Cafe

The small town of Wailuku in Central Maui has a lot of great restaurants but our favorite is a food truck and fruit stand on the way to Waihe’e Ridge Trail . Ula’Ula Cafe has a large menu of Hawaiian and local dishes.

The staff is super friendly, the picnic tables are in the shade, and you will have a hard time deciding what to eat. Most of the ingredients are sourced from the local farm, the remainder is from the island. 

Directions: Ula’Ula Cafe 1765 Kahekili Hwy, Wailuku, HI 96793

Ulu ulu cafe maui places to eat

19. Waihe’e Ridge Trail

Waihe’e Ridge Trail is one of our favorite moderate hikes on Maui. The 4 mile out and back hike takes you up a steep ridgeline to 1,600 feet. The trail can get muddy and slippery as you are now on the wet side of the island.

Enjoy the impressive views of the West Maui Mountains and the ocean as you make the climb. 

Directions: Waihe’e Ridge Trailhead

Things to Do in North Maui

North Shore Maui is known for Mama’s Fish House and big wave surfing at Pe’ahi or Jaws. Many people drive right through here as they start the Road to Hana but let’s show you things to do on Maui here.

20. Historic Paia Town

Home to celebrities, yogis, and local families, Paia is an old surfing and plantation town on Maui’s North Shore. We enjoy walking the town to check out the stores, restaurants, and shave ice. Below are some of our favorites worth checking out.

  • Paia Fish Market – fish sandwiches and fish plates
  • Mana Foods – grocery store with deli
  • Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
  • Paia Bay Coffee Bar
  • Mele Ukulele

Directions: Paia, Maui

Paia is small but has a rush hour due to the Road to Hana. It is best to avoid the town in the late morning and late afternoon. 

21. Sea Turtles Resting on the Beach

A hidden gem of a beach is Kaulahao Beach just past Paia Town. Come here for a large beach without the crowds. We come to see the sea turtles climb onto the beach for some rest and sunshine. 

Please stay 30 feet away from the turtles onshore as they need their rest. 

Directions: Kaulahao Beach  

maui hawaii things to do sea turtles

22. Ho’okipa Beach

Famous for sea turtles and windsurfing, Ho’okipa Beach Park makes for a nice day at the beach or come at sunset to see the sea turtles. After a long day on the Road to Hana, this is the place to unwind at sunset.

There is also Ho’okipa Lookout at the park. The lookout has sweeping views of the North Shore coastline, surfers down below, and windsurfers out on the deeper break.

Directions: Hookipa Beach Park 179 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779

23. Waterfall Swim at Twin Falls

Twin Falls at Wailele Farms is a private waterfall hike along a stream. The stream has three major waterfalls that are all great swimming holes. The famous Twin Falls is the last one on the short hike. 

waterfall swim things to do on maui hawaii.jpg

Wailele Farms manages and maintains the property. They also host a fruit stand with the best banana bread on Maui. To care for the ‘aina (land), they charge $10 for parking. It is best to visit mid-day when you can miss the Road to Hana crowds.

Directions: 6300 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708

We have a full day dedicated to North Shore Maui in our Maui Wayfinder Itinerary. We will take you on a perfect day out as part of our 8 excursion days. Learn more below.

Things to Do in Upcountry Maui

Upcountry Maui is the place to escape the crowds along the coast. Cool off on the slopes of Haleakala for the day. Explore our 15 Amazing Things to Do in Upcountry for more ideas!

Upcountry is a residential area of Maui. Be considerate on the roads by driving the speed limit and parking legally.

24. Historic Makawao Town

After Lahaina, Makawao is our place to be. The historic cowboy (paniolo in Hawaiian) town has art galleries, coffee shops, and the best donuts on a stick on Maui at Komoda Store and Bakery. 

Park the car and walk this small town before you start your day in Upcountry Maui. Here are places worth exploring.

  • Espresso Mafia
  • Komoda Store and Bakery – malasadas and donuts
  • The Maui Cookie Lady
  • Rodeo General Store
  • Makawao Marketplace – food trucks and crafts

Directions: Makawao, Maui

things to do on Maui Makawao town

25. Haleakalā National Park

Maui erupted out of the sea from two volcanoes over a million years ago. Today, no trip to Maui is complete without seeing the summit of the dormant volcano Haleakala (House of the Sun). 

Haleakala National Park is best known for its sunrise tour (which lives up to the hype) but the National Park is also worth a day trip to see the endangered state bird the Nene, stand on the 10,023-foot summit, or hike into the crater for the adventurous travelers. You can check out all of our favorite Haleakala sunrise tours here .

Haleakala Sunrise or Sunset: When Should I Go?

Save 10% on a Haleakala Sunrise Guided Tour here .

maui things to do haleakala national park

26. Maui Wine Tasting

MauiWine started making wine on the Ulupalakua Ranch in 1974. As the vines were ripening, they started making sparkling pineapple wine. It was a hit and today you can taste a selection of wines from The King’s Cottage tasting room.

Located at the end of Upcountry, we like to pair MauiWine with the farm-to-table cafe at the Ulupalakua Ranch Store. After a long day of exploring Upcountry Maui , grab a burger or sandwich from the ranch store and then head across the street for wine tasting.

Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Directions: MauiWine 14815 Piilani Hwy, Kula, HI 96790

Things to Do on the Road to Hana

I hope I haven’t kept you waiting. The Road to Hana is one of the most popular things to do on Maui. We share our perfect day for exploring the Road to Hana in our Maui itineraries . But, we can’t help but share some of our favorite stops below. 

You can do the Road to Hana in one day with our tips , stay the night in Hana , drive straight to Hana and then do the stops on the way back, or drive the backway to Hana (video) . 

The only wrong way to do the Road to Hana is to park illegally, swim on private property, and not let locals pass. Yes, there is a Road to Hana etiquette as the road gets busy. We want this beautiful drive to stay open for years to come so stay safe out there.

Here is another one of our Road to Hana videos, this one showcases eight stops.

We have driven the Road to Hana numerous times but my favorite time was when someone else did the driving for me. 

A guided tour will secure the reservations at the black sand beach, take you for a waterfall swim, and stop at the best stops based on the time of year. Save 10% on our recommended, local Road to Hana tour guide .

27. Keanae Peninsula

Located on an ancient lava field that was converted to taro fields by ancient Hawaiians, Keanae Peninsula is a beautiful stop to stretch your legs. Take in the views of the coastline, walk the lava field, and have some banana bread.

Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread is a local favorite. You will be hungry so make sure you stop. She is closed on Sundays, so go to Halfway to Hana roadside stand just down the road from Keanae Peninsula.

Directions: Aunty Sandy’s 210 Keanae Rd, Ke‘Anae, HI 96708

28. Road to Hana Waterfall Swim

This is our favorite waterfall swim on the Road to Hana. As we describe in our Road to Hana Waterfall Swim video , diving into a waterfall is dangerous. Flash floods, changing water depths, weather, and private property make waterfall swims risky. 

Hence, we usually go to Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park. While swimming here is still risky, especially during the rainy season in the winter, the water hole, the three waterfalls, and the park make this a wonderful stop.

Directions: Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708

29. Maui’s Best Black Sand Beach

Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach is the best black sand beach on Maui. Located just before Hana Town, the Wai’anapanapa State Park has a blowhole, black sand beach, lava cave, short hiking trails, and camping in tents or cabins . The park is a welcome retreat on the Hana Highway and one of those only in Hawaii-type places.

maui road to hana things to do black sand beach.jpg

Reservations are now required to enter so plan in advance or book a guided tour . 

Directions: Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach

30. Pipiwai Trail with the Bamboo Forest

The Pipiwai Trail is famous on social media for the pictures of the boardwalk through the bamboo forest. The trail is part of the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. 

maui things to do road to hana pipiwai trail.jpg

Located 10 miles (35 minutes) past Hana, the park is home to the Pipiwai Trail, Waimoku Falls, ‘Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools), and camping. Plan about 2 hours to hike the easy to moderate Pipiwai Trail. The waterfall views and the walks through the bamboo forest are out of this world.

If you visited Haleakala National Park then keep your receipt as you can visit the Kipahulu District within three days.

31. Things to Do on Maui — The Ideal Itinerary

Researching a trip to Hawaii can be stressful. You may have an Excel file open, feel overwhelmed on what to do, and have no idea where to stay. Vacationing in Hawaii is our job, let us help you out.

Our Hawaiian Island Itineraries are the easy way to plan your Hawaii dream vacation. 

We highly recommend Jordan and Erica’s itineraries and suggestions for everything you’ll need to make your trip to the Hawaiian islands spectacular! Use their links for excursions – they really know the best companies to book tours with. Carolyn A.

Visiting Maui FAQs

How many days should you spend on maui.

The average visitor spends 8.1 days on Maui, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority. And that number feels right. While you can spend as few as five days here if you’re island hopping, we think you need at least a full week to really enjoy this island.

Read more about how long you should plan to stay on Maui and what factors should influence your decision. 

What is Maui best known for?

Maui is our favorite Hawaiian island (which is why we lived there for three years) and there is no shortage of things to do there. Some of the things Maui is best known for include: 

  • The Road to Hana: 600+ remote hairpin turns take you to the remote east side of the island. Enjoy waterfalls, lush scenery, and the beautiful coastline on this drive. 
  • Whale watching: you can whale watch on any of the Hawaiian islands, but Maui is the best. With most of the 10,000 + whales that travel down to Hawaii each year ending up in the warm waters of the ‘Au ‘au channel off the coast of Maui, this is the place to head for seeing the majestic humpback whales. Read our full whale watching guide. 
  • Molokini Crater snorkeling: Just three miles off the coast of Maui is Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic crater. This is a very popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. These are our favorite tours

Read more about what makes Maui so famous and worth a visit (or more). 

Things to do on Maui for kids?

Having spent three years on Maui with our toddler, we searched far and wide to find the best things to do on Maui with kids. We have a full list of 68 things to do on Maui with kids (organized by age, from baby to teen). Some ideas to get you started include: 

  • Head to baby beach : have some younger swimmers? This beach is made for you!
  • Visit Maui Tropical Plantation: see how some of your kids favorite foods are grown and stop inside for some baked goods.
  • Feed the Alpacas: for a unique tour kids (and parents) love, head to Maui Alpaca Farm . 

Things to do on Maui for couples?

While we love spending time on Maui with our kids, it’s also such a romantic place to visit! There is no shortage of things to do, whether you’re on a honeymoon, an anniversary trip, or just a fabulous vacation with the person you love. 

Some of our favorite romantic things to do on Maui include: 

  • Farm to table lunch: Head to O’o Farm in upcountry to enjoy a true farm to table lunch. Start the day by taking a tour of the farm then head up to the tables for a view and a multi-course lunch. Bring a bottle of wine and enjoy the laid back dining experience. 
  • Stay at an adults-only resort: Enjoy your vacation at the only adults only hotel in Hawaii, Hotel Wailea . (If you’re looking for more places to stay, visit our Where to Stay database for reviews!)
  • Sunset cruise: Take to the ocean for a sunset cruise. During our babymoon, we enjoyed this adventure sunset cruise . We had a beautiful sunset, great pupus, and fun live music. 
  • Book a beachfront dinner: Book a beachfront or private dinner for a romantic night out. See our list of the best private dining and beachfront restaurants . 
  • Take a private cruise: Sunset sail, snorkeling trip, or whale watching gets that much more special when it’s on a private boat. Treat yourself to a private charter sailboat and design your day out. 

Things to do in Maui on a budget?

There is so much you can do on Maui if you’re on a budget. Some of the best things to do on Maui are free or low-cost. Some budget friendly ideas to get you started include: 

  • Hiking: while most of the hiking on Maui isn’t through a lush rainforest, there are still some wonderful trails. Check out ‘Iao Valley State Park for a short walk, Pipiwai Trail in the Kipahulu District, or Sliding Sands Trail in Haleakala National Park. 
  • Feast at the Food Trucks: Maui has some of the best food in Hawaii and some of the best food on Maui can be found at the food trucks. Check out our food truck article for our top picks. 
  • Maui Wine: cruise through beautiful upcountry Maui and grab a burger at Ulupalakua Ranch General Store and then head across the street to Maui Wine for a glass of pineapple wine. We have a full list of more things to do in upcountry Maui . 
  • Hit the beach: Maui has some of the best beaches in the world and a beach day is either free or very low cost (depending on if you need to pay for parking). Check out our list of the best beaches on Maui and pick your favorite for a low-cost beach day. 

What Should You Not Do on Maui?

There are a few things you should avoid doing when you visit Maui or any of the Hawaiian islands:

  • Don’t crowd sea turtles or monk seals : Both of these amazing animals are protected marine life, so it’s illegal to get too close or harass them. Admire them from afar and let them have their space. 
  • Don’t venture past ‘do not enter’ signs: These signs are there for a reason, but we often see people disregarding them. The signs are either keeping you off private property or warning you that danger exists beyond the sign. 
  • Don’t use any old sunscreen: Protecting the coral reef is a high priority in Hawaii, so make sure you’re wearing the right sunscreen. Mineral based sunscreen is the only type permitted on Maui. If you’re not sure you’re bringing the right sunscreen, just wait and buy when you arrive. They only sell sunscreen that is legal to use in Hawaii. 
  • Don’t forget to make reservations: Heading up Haleakala for sunrise ? Or hoping to sink your feet into the sand at Waianapanapa? Better have your reservation ready! This also goes for going out to eat at some of the island’s most popular restaurants (including Mama’s ). Don’t worry, we also make sure to tell you when reservations are required in our itinerary . 
  • Don’t assume ocean conditions are the same day to day: the Pacific Ocean is incredibly strong and the waves and currents on Maui can get fierce (and dangerous). Make sure you check ocean conditions before you head out and check lifeguard flags altering you to any warnings. Hawaii Beach Safety shares real-time ocean conditions on some popular beaches. 
  • Don’t rush your vacation: Slow down, this isn’t the mainland! I know you are so excited to experience all that Maui has to offer, but make sure you give yourself time to breathe. Slow down, watch the sunset (and the sunrise!), take a walk, listen to the very vocal birds. This is such a special place and you are making memories that will last a lifetime. Sometimes it’s the smallest things that will imprint in your brain — so stop and take it all in!

travel to maui

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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How to adjust your travel plans for Hawaii during the wildfires

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The Hawaiian island of Maui is asking visitors to stay away as it tries to recover from devastating wildfires.

Officials said Thursday morning that two of the three fires on Maui were largely contained. But the damage to portions of the island is extensive, particularly in the tourism-heavy region of West Maui, where fire appears to have incinerated much of the historic town of Lahaina .

The Kahului Airport on Maui remains open, at least in part because of all the people being evacuated (officials have asked all visitors on “non-essential” trips to leave). With the wildfires causing more than 50 deaths and an estimated $8 billion to $10 billion in damage and economic losses, the Hawaiian government is strongly discouraging tourists from coming to the island.

If you had a vacation planned, this is what you need to know.

World & Nation

Mapping how the Maui fires destroyed Lahaina

The Lahaina fire in West Maui ignited as firefighters focused on the Upcountry fire. What happened next — the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century — left the historic town in ashes.

Aug. 14, 2023

Should I cancel my trip to Hawaii?

The state tourism authority emphasized that most parts of Hawaii continue to welcome visitors. “Travel to Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi” and parts of Hawaiʻi Island other than the Mauna Kea resort area “are not affected at this time,” the authority said on its website Wednesday. By Thursday, the Mauna Kea Resort on the big island was open again after three fires in the area were brought under control, the authority said.

Maui, and particularly West Maui, is a different story. The tourism authority said Wednesday night that visitors bound for West Maui in the coming weeks “are encouraged to consider rescheduling their travel plans for a later time.”

“In the days and weeks ahead, our collective resources and attention must be focused on the recovery of residents and communities that were forced to evacuate their homes and businesses,” the authority said.

Lahaina, Maui, Thursday, August 11, 2023 - A man stands among the wreckage downtown. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times)

Death toll in Maui fires rises to 67: ‘We have not yet searched’ buildings

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green says the fires are probably the state’s deadliest natural disaster in decades.

Aug. 11, 2023

What can I do about my flight to Hawaii?

Some major airlines offer customers the ability to obtain refunds for travel to Maui in the coming weeks, as well as the option to reschedule their flights. The exact terms depend on the airline.

At United Airlines , if you had paid for a flight to Kahului Airport between Aug. 11 and Aug. 31, you can cancel and get a refund, according to the United website. You can also reschedule your trip and the change fees and fare differences will be waived under certain circumstances.

If your new trip is after Aug. 31 or is to a destination outside Hawaii, United will still waive any change fees, but you may have to pay a fare difference, depending on the flight.

At Delta Air Lines , customers who can’t reschedule their trips to Maui may cancel their reservations and apply the ticket cost to the purchase of new flight — but that flight has to be booked no more than a year after the Maui ticket was purchased, the airline’s website says.

If you schedule a new flight on or before Aug. 18 at the same level of service as the Maui flight, Delta’s website says it will waive the change fee and any difference in fare. After that, only the change fee will be waived.

The American Airlines site suggests that refunds are possible for flights to or through Maui if you cancel by Aug. 13. You can apply for one on the airline’s website .

If you want to reschedule your flight, American will waive the change fee if you rebook by Aug. 13, but you may have to pay any difference in the fare. To see if your flight is eligible for a refund or fee waiver, use the “ Find your trip ” tool on the airline’s website. If you can’t change your trip online, call Reservations for help.

At Alaska Airlines , if you’d purchased a ticket to or from Maui by Aug. 9, you can obtain a refund as long as you cancel before the original flight’s departure date, the airline’s website says. You can also reschedule onto a new flight to or from Maui or three other Hawaiian airports through Aug. 31 at the same fare if you stay in the same cabin. But you have to exchange their tickets prior to the departure of their original flight.

Hawaiian Airlines is allowing customers to cancel their flights in exchange for a refund or a credit for future flights, or to change their flights to a different island, its website says. To change or cancel your flight, call the airline’s reservations line at 800-367-5320.

A spokesperson for the airline said, “We ask guests with non-urgent inquiries to please call back later so that we can assist travelers with immediate needs. Guests traveling through Kahului should continue to check their flight status on our website or app before coming to the airport.”

Wildfire wreckage is shown Thursday, Aug. 10, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. The search of the wildfire wreckage on the Hawaiian island of Maui on Thursday revealed a wasteland of burned out homes and obliterated communities as firefighters battled the stubborn blaze making it the deadliest in the U.S. in recent years. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

How to help Maui residents displaced by the devastating wildfires

Wildfires on the Hawaiian island of Maui have killed at least 36 people, displaced thousands of residents and destroyed hundreds of structures, including homes, businesses and a school, prompting President Biden to declare a “major disaster.”

Aug. 10, 2023

Will my hotel charge me a fee to cancel my stay in Maui?

Under normal circumstances, many hotels penalize last-minute cancellations by charging fees that can be considerable. Some in West Maui are waiving those fees at the moment, but figuring out the policy at the hotel you’ve booked can be a challenge — the closer it is to the fire, the more likely that its power and phone lines are down.

The Hyatt family of hotels is waiving cancellation fees for arrivals “in the coming days,” the company said in a statement. It suggested that guests with reservations call its customer support line at 800-233-1234 “for additional details and assistance in alternate accommodations.” It also noted, however, that canceled reservations made through online booking sites and other third parties may be governed by those sites’ policies.

An Expedia spokesperson told The Times in an email that it is working with hotels that book through Expedia and Hotels.com to institute a “flex policy” for reservations on the full island of Maui through Aug. 31. “This means that travelers with upcoming bookings in the impacted area can change or cancel their hotel booking without penalty,” she said. “The flex policy can be accessed when you engage with a virtual agent once you log into your account or provide your itinerary number to the virtual agent.”

Expedia and Hotels.com ’s customer service agents are available 24 hours a day by phone or online to help with travel arrangements.

According to a spokesperson for Marriott hotels, the Westin Maui Resort & Spa in Ka’anapali, the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa and the Ritz-Carlton Maui in Kapalua have been evacuated and will close temporarily due to extended power outages. Cancellation fees at the three hotels have been waived through Aug. 31. She advised travelers to the area to follow the news and MauiCounty.gov for local situation updates. To adjust reservations, guests should visit Marriott.com or the Marriott app.

If you’re headed for other parts of Maui or the Mauna Kea resort area on the island of Hawaii, the state tourism authority says, you should talk to the hotel you booked for updates about how you might be affected.

Hotels in Maui may still be taking reservations, and some are providing refunds up to the date of travel. For example, you could book a room for next week at the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort on Thursday afternoon, even though the power and phone lines at the resort were out, according to a reservation agent.

CORRECTS DATE TO AUG. 8 - People watch as smoke and flames fill the air from raging wildfires on Front Street in downtown Lahaina, Maui on Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023. Maui officials say wildfire in the historic town has burned parts of one of the most popular tourist areas in Hawaii. County of Maui spokesperson Mahina Martin said in a phone interview early Wednesday says fire was widespread in Lahaina, including Front Street, an area of the town popular with tourists. (Alan Dickar via AP)

‘Gone forever’: Fire devastates historic Lahaina, former capital of the Hawaiian kingdom

The wildfire that ripped through Maui devastated Lahaina, a town boasting centuries of history and that was once the capital of the Hawaiian kingdom.

Can I cancel my Vrbo or Airbnb?

Expedia Group, which owns Vrbo, said in a statement that it is “applying an extenuating circumstances exception for eligible Vrbo reservations in Maui where travelers will be able to get a full refund.” It added, “We will continue to work with our Vrbo hosts who have upcoming bookings in impacted areas to make sure all of our travelers are treated fairly.”

Airbnb customer service says that they will provide penalty-free cancellations in parts of Maui for hosts and guests who request them. However, people need to call the site’s customer service line at (844) 234-2500 to make sure that they are eligible.

Travelers whose accommodations aren’t directly affected by the fires may have a harder time obtaining a refund.

One reader told The Times that he and his wife wanted to heed the government’s request and cancel their trip to Maui, but their Airbnb host declined to give them even a partial refund on their $2,000 stay. According to Airbnb’s site, cancellations and refunds are up to the hosts , not Airbnb.

Will travel insurance cover me?

According to the insurance comparison site Insuremytrip.com , “If a wildfire that affects your trip is known before you purchase a plan, your coverage may be extremely limited.” So if you are thinking of purchasing travel insurance now for a trip in the coming weeks, don’t bother.

What you can do is see if wildfires fall under the definition of “natural disaster” on your travel insurance policy. You may also be eligible for coverage under “trip delay” if your flight is canceled, “trip interruption” if your accommodations or primary residence are damaged, or “trip cancellation” if your destination has been evacuated, Insuremytrip says.

About The Times Utility Journalism Team

This article is from The Times’ Utility Journalism Team. Our mission is to be essential to the lives of Southern Californians by publishing information that solves problems, answers questions and helps with decision making . We serve audiences in and around Los Angeles — including current Times subscribers and diverse communities that haven’t historically had their needs met by our coverage. How can we be useful to you and your community? Email utility (at) latimes.com or one of our journalists: Jon Healey , Ada Tseng , Jessica Roy and Karen Garcia .

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Christiane Keyhani, program coordinator of Hui O Ka Wai Ola, fills up the bucket to test water quality at the Mala Wharf on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024, in Lahaina, Hawaii. (AP Photo/Mengshin Lin)

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FILE - A worker walks through a destroyed property, Friday, Dec. 8, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. The day after the deadliest U.S. wildfire in a century destroyed a seaside community on Maui, the barrage of 911 calls didn't stop: Reports of missing people, stranded family members and confused tourists trapped without food or water lit up the emergency lines every few minutes, interspersed with reports of new fires starting and older ones flaring back up. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, File)

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Tourists get off of a Trilogy Excursions boat arriving on Kaanapali Beach in front of a flag of Hawaii planted in the sand, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in Lahaina, Hawaii. Residents and survivors still dealing with the aftermath of the August wildfires in Lahaina have mixed feelings as tourists begin to return to the west side of Maui. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Maui’s economy needs tourists. Can they visit without compounding wildfire trauma?

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Emma Fox was a 2023 summer intern on the Utility Journalism team at the Los Angeles Times. A student at Loyola Marymount University, she majors in journalism with a Chicano/Latino studies minor and was the arts and culture editor at the on-campus publication, the Lion. Fox is the president of her school’s chapters of the National Assn. of Hispanic Journalists and the Society of Professional Journalists and previously was an intern for the San Diego Voice and Viewpoint.

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Best Time to Visit Maui

Maui tips for when to visit.

Wondering when is the best time to visit Maui? If you've already narrowed down your choices of islands and Maui is the winner, you're probably wondering what time of year to visit the island.

The best time to visit Maui, taking into consideration the weather, demand for accommodations, and how crowded, or not, the island is, are the month(s) of April, May, August, September, and early October. Some call these Maui's 'off-season periods' or the 'shoulder months.' If you're coming specifically to see the whales, a popular attraction on Maui in particular, try to visit in January near their peak migration period.

There's more to cover on this topic before you make a final decision. Below we'll cover visitor arrivals, Maui's weather and climate, accommodations, rates, and what to expect on a visit during each season on Maui.

— article continued below —

2024 Maui Visitor Guides

Visiting Maui soon? Be sure to grab your copy of one of our updated Maui Visitor Guides .

~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~

Pipiwai Trail at Oheo Gulch in Kipahulu

Pipiwai Trail at Oheo Gulch in Kipahulu

Maui Visitors Arrivals

Typical Maui Visitor Arrivals (2019 & 2022) - Click to Enlarge

Typical Maui Visitor Arrivals (2019 & 2022) - Click to Enlarge

Garden of Eden along Hana Highway

Garden of Eden along Hana Highway

What to Expect on Maui in 2024

Post-pandemic inflation will continue to  impact flight costs, the costs associated with rental vehicles,  and  potentially Maui accommodation rates  due to increases in local electricity costs (Hawaii generates a significant amount of its electricity from petroleum fuels). Already we've seen 30-40% increases in fares over pre-pandemic (2019) rates on Maui. 

The Maui Wildfires that occurred in August 2023 also have had a devastating effect on local tourism in Maui; occupancy rates are hovering well below their average as of late 2023. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, now is the time to visit Maui!

Visiting Hawaii within the next few years, between 2024 and 2025, means you'll avoid the increased crowds projected to return by 2026 and beyond. So, if you're visiting Maui soon, you've selected a great time!

Please remember to be mindful and respectful of Maui residents as they continue to heal from the August 2023 wildfires.

We'll keep you posted... this article will be updated accordingly as things change.

Maui Weather & Climate

Weather-wise, you'll be happy to know that Maui's warm tropical climate is fairly consistent year-round with daytime highs from 75-85°F (23-29°C) during the summer and winter, respectively. At the many coastal resorts that dot the island at sea level, temperatures rarely dip below 60°F (15°C) during the coldest of winter. The weather on Maui is typically great for visitors year-round. The only time Maui's weather is unpleasant is if a winter storm blankets the island with clouds and rain, but those are infrequent and shouldn't be too much of a concern.

The majority of the rain that Maui receives falls in the winter months, from November through March. Rain showers are typically short and are quickly followed by more sunshine, and, if you're lucky, rainbows. Rainbows are always said to be a sign of good luck in the islands, meaning you'll return one day if you spot one.

Below we've included two graphics that should help you gauge what the weather will be like during your visit. Please remember that weather conditions can be drastically different depending on the geography of the island.

For more information about Maui's weather, be sure to also check out our in-depth article on Maui Weather .

Hurricane Season

Hurricane and tropical storms are historically rare events on Maui, but it’s still important to be prepared for storms if you visit during Hawaii hurricane season  - June through November. The last few years have seen increased activity around the islands, so it’s important to monitor accordingly when planning and taking your trip to Maui.

Average Maui Temperature and Precipitation Charts

Kahului Average Temperature

Kahului Average Temperature

Kahului Average Precipitation

Kahului Average Precipitation

Maui Accommodations & Rates

If you're looking for the best deals on accommodations, spring and fall are the cheapest months to visit the island because demand is down. This means the island is less crowded as well, which is another benefit of visiting during these months. Our personal preference is April - May .

If you plan to come during the holidays, especially Christmas, you can typically expect large crowds of people - and prices will reflect the increased demand. Learn more on our Where to Stay on Maui article.

Below, we'll cover our Maui Seasonal Expectations on visiting during each season of the year.

Maui Accommodation Rate Averages (click to enlarge)

Maui Accommodation Rate Averages (click to enlarge)

Horseback tour inside Haleakala National Park

Horseback tour inside Haleakala National Park

Maui Seasonal Expectations

Events updated for 2023 - 2024.

We've included the dates and months that most Maui events are typically held below, but please be aware that currently, things are subject to change.

Visiting Maui in January, February, or March

These winter months will be a bit cooler on Maui, and rainstorms are not uncommon during this time of year, especially on the windward (northeast) side of the island. One positive to extra precipitation is that this rain typically enhances the Road to Hana waterfalls. This is also the best time for Whale Watching ; Maui has some of the best opportunities for whale watching in the entire state. Many visitors specifically pick Maui during this time of year because they hope to catch a glimpse of the majestic creatures that call the warm, sheltered waters near Maui home- the humpback whales. Each January - March, they migrate down from Alaskan waters to mate, calve, and birth their young.

Maui Winter Events:

  • PGA Tour Sentry Tournament of Champions (January) - Each year, visitors will find some of the best golfers in the world taking part in the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Kapalua.

Be sure to also regularly check our Maui current event pages for:

  • January Maui Events
  • February Maui Events 
  • March Maui Events

Visiting Maui in April, May, or June

These Spring months are in our opinion, the best months to visit Maui . The weather is ideal, crowds are lower than during the summer months, and pricing on accommodations and flights are often the lowest you’ll find all year. Crowds and temperatures will both tick upwards toward the start of June.

Maui Spring Events:

  • East Maui Taro Festival (April) - Celebrate taro, one of Hawaii’s most important crops, with a farmers market, poi pounding, music, food, art, and more.
  • Maui Steel Guitar Festival (May/October) -  This free, three-day festival includes a series of performances, presentations, instructional workshops, and more.
  • Maui Onion Festival (May)
  • Maui Film Festival (June-July) - Typically in late June. This unique festival attracts movie fans globally. Visitors can attend an open-air film festival at the Wailea Resort, complete with both world-class films and plenty of celebrity guests.
  • Kapalua Wine & Food Festival (June)- The Kapalua Wine & Food Festival features wine tastings, seminars, cooking demonstrations, and local entertainment.
  • April Maui Events
  • May Maui Events
  • June Maui Events

Visiting Maui in July, August, or September

The summer months of July and early August will be the warmest and some of the busiest on Maui. Families often visit during this portion of the year because school is out on most of the mainland. September, by contrast, is a great time to visit if you want to avoid crowds.

Maui Summer Events:

  • Aloha Festivals (September) - Honors Native Hawaiian culture and traditions.
  • Maui Ukelele Festival (July/September) - The annual Maui Ukulele Festival is a full afternoon of ukulele music at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center.

Be sure also regularly to check our Maui current event pages for:

  • July Maui Events
  • August Maui Events
  • September Maui Events

Visiting Maui in October, November, or December

The months leading into fall, specifically October and early November, can be a good time to visit . Prices are lower than in peak periods, demand is down, and the weather is often cooperative until mid-November, when it can begin to get wetter again. Most of December also fits this slower trend, except for the weeks around Christmas and New Year; they can be exceptionally busy on Maui, and prices and rates will reflect the increased demand. Avoid the holidays if you're looking to save money and skip the crowds.

Maui Fall Events:

  • Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (October-December) - Celebrated statewide, this three-week-long event is something not to miss while visiting Maui.
  • Made in Maui Festival (November) - The Made in Maui Festival features over one hundred vendors selling locally made arts, crafts, food, and souvenirs.
  • XTERRA World Championship (November/December) - The world championship of off-roading attracts 800 racers each year, both amateurs and professionals alike. This event is held on the northwestern coast of Maui
  • October Maui Events
  • November Maui Events
  • December Maui Events

Maui Transportation Options

Transportation on Maui is diverse, allowing visitors to choose based on their preferences and the nature of their itinerary.

  • Car Rentals : Renting a car is a popular choice (we recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental ), allowing you to explore the island at your own pace. Maui's attractions are spread out, making a car a convenient choice.
  • Public Buses : Maui Bus operates a public transit system that covers various parts of the island. It's an economical choice, though it may be less convenient due to its schedule and route limitations.
  • Shuttle Services : Some resorts offer shuttle services to popular destinations, providing a hassle-free option for guests.
  • Bicycling : Maui's picturesque landscapes make biking a delightful experience, and bike rentals are available in several areas.
  • Taxis and Ride-Shares : Taxis and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft operate on Maui, offering a convenient option for short distances or if you prefer not to drive.
  • Walking : In more compact areas like Ka'anapali and Wailea, walking is a feasible way to get around, enjoy the scenery, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

Considering the transportation options in advance can help visitors make the most of their Maui experience, whether they prefer the flexibility of a rental car, the eco-friendliness of biking, or the convenience of public transit.

Local Maui Customs and Visitor Etiquette

Understanding and adhering to local customs and etiquette is a crucial part of immersing oneself in the Hawaiian culture, which is deeply rooted in respect, tradition, and the spirit of 'ohana (family). When visiting Maui or any part of Hawaii, it's important to show respect for the land (‘āina) and local residents.

  • Greetings : It's customary to greet others with a friendly "Aloha" which means hello, goodbye, and love.
  • Shoes Off Indoors : It’s a common practice to remove one’s shoes before entering someone’s home.
  • Respect the 'Aina : Show respect to the land by not littering, staying on marked trails, and not taking anything from natural sites.
  • Don’t Rush : The pace of life is slower in Hawaii; embrace the relaxed pace and don’t rush.
  • Respect Sacred Sites : Many areas in Hawaii are considered sacred; obey posted signs and keep a respectful distance.
  • Driving Etiquette : Drive with aloha; let others merge, and wave a thank-you (or practice your best 'shaka' sign ) if someone lets you in.

By adhering to these simple yet significant customs and practices, visitors can contribute to preserving the local culture and enjoy a more authentic and welcoming experience during their stay in Maui.

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Article Published/Updated: 10-29-2023

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What to do if you have a trip planned for Hawaii

Becky Blaine

Maui was hit hard by devastating wildfires fueled by hurricane-force winds. The fires caused catastrophic damage. Heartbreakingly, they are the deadliest the U.S. has experienced in many years.

The worst fires occurred in West Maui, as the historic area of Lahaina was completely destroyed by flames that are still only 90% contained. According to the Maui Emergency Management Agency's most recent alert Monday, a fire in the Upcountry area of Kula is still only 85% contained.

President Joe Biden signed an emergency disaster declaration for the state of Hawaii, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency is coordinating recovery operations. On Monday, the president and Jill Biden traveled to Maui to survey the damage firsthand.

During the president's visit and joint press conference, Hawaii Gov. Josh Green again addressed the growing community concern about ensuring the economic well-being of Maui and the state, emphasizing the importance of travel.

"No one can travel to West Maui right now. We will share when that is possible again. Only returning residents and authorized emergency relief workers should come here now. But all of the other areas of Maui ... and the rest of Hawai'i are safe," Green said. "When you come, you will support our local economy and help speed the recovery of the people that are suffering right now."

A statement from the Hawaii Tourism Authority said that Green's sixth emergency proclamation , issued Aug. 19, remains in place, with all nonessential travel to West Maui being strongly discouraged for the duration of the proclamation (through Oct. 17).

Daily update videos on the disaster recovery are also being posted to the governor's Facebook page .

Given Maui's popularity as a vacation destination, numerous would-be tourists likely have upcoming trips scheduled. Given the scale of the disaster on the island, they now need to make some decisions about their upcoming plans to visit to allow the island to focus on recovery efforts.

Here's what to know if you have an upcoming trip to Maui.

Is it safe to travel to Maui right now?

travel to maui

It is currently not safe to travel to West Maui due to the multiple uncontained wildfires and evacuation orders that are in place.

Still, the governor has declared other areas of Maui safe and open for travel.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority released an updated travel advisory after Green's press conference, along with a map of the affected and restricted areas.

In alignment with Governor Green, the Hawai'i Tourism Authority urges visitors to refrain from going to West Maui (including Lahaina, Nāpili, Kāʻanapali, and Kapalua) as a means of respect to the people and places that have been lost in Lahaina during this devastating tragedy. The impacted area of Lahaina remains off limits to the public as the search and recovery efforts continue.
We encourage travelers to consider visiting other areas of Maui (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia and Hāna), as well as the other Hawaiian Islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island.

Even when it is safe to travel to West Maui again, that part of the island will have limited resources and infrastructure.

Residents and visitors with upcoming travel bookings are encouraged to check with their airline for any flight changes and cancellations, or assistance with rebooking.

When might it be OK to travel to Maui?

At this time, it is unclear when West Maui will reopen, but the devastation to historic Lahaina is very substantial. As a result, disaster recovery operations will likely be very lengthy.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority released a statement last week that included a section devoted to common questions and answers and appears to be updated on a regular basis.

At this time, hotels in West Maui have temporarily stopped accepting bookings of future reservations and are housing their employees and families, evacuees, and first responders working on disaster recovery – well over 1,000 people so far with more to come.
Other areas on Maui (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia and Hāna), as well as the other Hawaiian Islands of Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island remain unaffected. We urge visitors to be especially mindful and respectful in our island home as our community continues through this tragedy.

Based on the updated information shared by the governor and the statement released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, they are encouraging travelers to consider visiting other areas of Maui. Such areas include Kahului, Wailuku, Kihei, Wailea, Makena, Paia and Hana.

travel to maui

Some hotels in other parts of the island, such as the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, have posted regularly updated statements on their websites.

It has been over a week now since wildfires decimated the historic town of Lahaina. Disaster recovery efforts are ongoing in West Maui, and supplies are flowing into the affected areas on a regular basis. And while the restoration of the land and community will take years, we know that Maui's tight-knit community will get through this together. We are grateful that the Wailea region of South Maui was not impacted and that all of our team members are safe and accounted for. Grand Wailea continues to welcome guests with aloha.
As we look toward the future of our island, it is more important now than ever that guests and groups continue to visit Maui. In a statement, the HLTA [Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association] noted, "Yes, we must be sensitive to the plight of those suffering from the wildfires. But bear in mind that so many of the victims and their families depend on the visitor industry for their jobs and futures. While they may have lost their homes and more, losing their incomes would only add to the pain and hardship of their situation. That's why it's important to keep tourism functioning to keep our economy alive and give our people hope and the ability to rebuild their lives." Governor Green shared in his daily briefing that, "what we're saying now is travel should not be to West Maui. But the other parts of Maui are safe."

Is it safe to travel to the other Hawaiian islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai and Hawaii?

Travel to the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai and Lanai and parts of the Big Island is not affected at this time in terms of safety. However, there may be some near-term capacity issues with so many tourists trying to relocate from Maui and even Maui residents seeking shelter on the other islands.

If you have a trip planned to another Hawaiian island, operations are likely currently unaffected. However, contact your hotel or check its website or social media channels for any updates should the situation change.

Additionally, be aware that while statements from officials say other Hawaiian islands are open and available for tourism, there is a sentiment among some Hawaiian residents that now may not be the time to vacation in the state. The area is grappling with this tragedy and working to support Maui with the resources and infrastructure that it needs.

Airlines allowing changes to Maui flights

travel to maui

A previous update from the Hawaii Tourism Authority stated that 46,000 residents and visitors have already been flown off the island since the fires began. If you have a flight to Maui booked in August or September that you wish to change, you are encouraged to contact your airline and revise your travel plans if needed. The airlines have all updated their travel waiver policies, with some extending dates into September or November.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines has instituted a flexible travel policy for guests who would like to change or cancel flights to or from Maui. Currently, it is processing changes if your ticket was purchased prior to Aug. 11 and your plans are between now and Sept. 16.

American Airlines

American Airlines passengers can change their origin or destination to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) or Lihue Airport (LIH) at no cost for tickets bought by Aug. 9 for travel originally scheduled through Sept. 16.

New flights must be booked for travel by Nov. 18 for the same cabin. Alternatively, passengers can cancel their originally scheduled trips and request a refund. This only applies to flight changes made by Sept. 16 for travel completed within one year of the original ticket date.

Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines has issued a change policy specific to flights in or out of OGG, HNL, KOA, LIH.

The fare difference will be waived when rebooked travel occurs on or before Nov. 18 in the same cabin of service as originally booked. A fare difference may apply when the waiver is class-to-class restrictive and the original booking class is not maintained in the rebooked itinerary. There are additional conditions and restrictions listed as well.

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines travelers can reschedule their flights at no cost for flights in and out of OGG between Aug. 9 and Dec. 15 to new dates. There will be no change fees or fare differences on the same city pair and the same cabin of service.

Tickets can be booked for new travel to or from the following airports: OGG, Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), Hilo International Airport (ITO), Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and Lihue Airport (LIH). However, tickets must be rebooked into the same compartment (Main Cabin or Business Cabin) by Sept. 1; travel must occur between Aug. 9 and Nov. 16 or between Nov. 29 and Dec. 15. The airline notes that itineraries with travel outside these periods would not be eligible for a waiver of a fare difference.

Alternatively, these travelers can cancel their flights in exchange for a future flight credit, expiring one year from the original date of purchase. Those with flights booked to or from OGG between Aug. 9 and Sept. 15 can also request a refund . The request must be submitted by Sept. 1.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines customers with reservations to, from or through OGG between Aug. 9 and Oct. 17 can rebook in the original class of service or travel standby for free; this is as long as the new travel falls within 14 days of the original date of travel between the original city pairs.

Additionally, these customers can change their original departure or arrival flight to any of the below Hawaii airports without charge:

United Airlines

United Airlines is allowing travelers to reschedule trips and will waive change fees and fare differences for trips originally scheduled into Maui through Sept. 16. You can then alter your plans to travel by Nov. 18 at no additional cost to one of these airports:

If your new trip is after August 10, 2024, or is to a different destination, United will still waive any change fees, but you might have to pay a fare difference depending on the flight. Alternatively, if you cancel or don't take your trip, you can request a full refund .

What to do if you have a hotel or an Airbnb booked in Maui

Most of West Maui is still without power and has limited phone service, so you may not be able to contact your hotel directly to cancel your reservation. It is recommended to call the central reservations number for your hotel company. If you are unable to reach the hotel, your next best option is to monitor your specific hotel's social media channels and websites for any updates.

According to the latest statement released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority , hotels in West Maui have temporarily stopped accepting bookings of future reservations. Hotels are being used to house their employees and families, evacuees and first responders working on disaster recovery — more than 1,000 people so far, with more to come.

Additionally, vacation rental owners and operators and anyone with available space are encouraged to make these accommodations available to temporarily house displaced West Maui residents. Since Aug. 14, the state has offered a referral program to make those connections possible to support West Maui residents in need of housing, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority statement.

Hotels in the Kaanapali area have now updated their websites with further guidance. The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa added an alert that the hotel is temporarily closed and that cancellation fees will be waived through Sept. 15. The Hyatt Vacation Club at Ka'anapali Beach posted that all reservations through Sept. 3 have been canceled, and the hotel is allowing guests beyond that date to cancel or reschedule by contacting them. Any deposits and prepayments for canceled stays between now and Sept. 30 will be refunded.

If you booked a chain hotel directly, you can work with the corporate 1-800 number to alter your plans. If you booked through a third-party online travel agency or aggregator like Expedia or Travelocity, it's important to understand the cancellation policy. The OTA still owns your reservation prior to your travel , so contacting the hotel directly will likely result in you being referred back to the OTA or travel portal for assistance.

For those travelers who booked accommodations with Airbnb, the company has activated its " Extenuating Circumstances Policy " for parts of Maui. Eligible guests with reservations will receive a full refund, and both hosts and guests can cancel bookings penalty-free, the company said on Wednesday.

Will your credit card or trip insurance cover changes?

Generally, trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance will cover nonrefundable expenses, such as airfare, accommodation and activities, if you need to cancel your trip (or the remainder of your trip) due to a natural disaster like the wildfires. However, credit card insurance policies can vary, so check the benefits guide for the card you used to book your airfare for specific exclusions.

Also, note that you must have booked your trip before the natural disaster starts in order to be covered. This means that if you booked a new trip today, it likely wouldn't be covered due to the wildfires already being labeled a declared emergency.

If you need to file a trip cancellation or interruption claim:

  • Check your credit card's benefits guide to see if you are eligible for coverage and what the limits are.
  • Call your credit card's benefits administrator, or start a claim online.
  • Determine which documents you need to collect.
  • Submit the documents within the required timeline.

"Many travel insurance policies can cover travelers who need to cancel or interrupt their trip due to a natural disaster, such as the Hawaii wildfires," Steven Benna, marketing manager for Squaremouth Travel Insurance, told TPG. "This can include cancellation coverage for travelers who are unable to travel because their destination is uninhabitable or under a mandatory evacuation due to the fires, as well as interruption coverage for travelers whose trips are cut short."

"However, travel insurance is designed to cover unforeseen events," he added. "In order for coverage to be available, the traveler must have bought their policy before the fires began."

Depending on the needs of your trip, sites like InsureMyTrip and Squaremouth allow you to shop for plans that may fit your travel needs and compare coverage and pricing for multiple policy options at once.

Various membership associations, such as USAA, AAA and Costco, also offer travel insurance policies for purchase. Typically, these organizations partner with a specific provider, so you may want to compare the policies offered through the organization with other policies to get the best coverage for any future trips.

There's also a type of coverage referred to as "cancel for any reason" coverage . You might only get 75% of the trip cost back, so depending on the trip, it might not be worth the hefty premium.

Related: 4 times your credit card's travel insurance can help with travel woes, and 7 times it won't

What to do if you have a cruise to Hawaii

travel to maui

For cruise passengers, it's important to understand the cancellation or rebooking policy for the specific cruise line you will be traveling on.

Cruise lines might reroute to avoid Maui and affected areas. Per the terms of the cruise contract to which you consent before sailing, cruise lines do not owe you compensation if they alter your itinerary. If changes are made, you will be refunded for any shore excursions you booked through the cruise line that were to take place in the ports you're skipping. (Check with your tour provider directly if you've booked a third-party excursion.)

TPG's guide on what happens if a cruise gets canceled is the next place to refer to for guidance if you receive notice that your cruise is canceled.

A spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Line shared this statement with TPG regarding Pride of America, its Hawaii-based cruise ship that sails weekly on a seven-night all-Hawaii cruise from Honolulu:

We are deeply saddened to hear about the wildfires currently impacting the town of Lahaina in Maui. We have a very special relationship with the people and islands of Hawaii as we sail to the beautiful state year-round. It is a magical destination and one that is highly sought out by our guests for its natural beauty, culture and unparalleled experiences. We are closely monitoring the situation in Maui, impacting the west side of the island, opposite the Kahului Harbor, where we call. At this time, there is no impact on our scheduled itineraries. As always, our top priority is the safety and security of our guests and crew. We will communicate further updates as appropriate.

Princess Cruises offered the following statement:

Given the severity of these fires and their significant strain on local resources, Emerald Princess will cancel her scheduled call to Maui (Lahaina) on Monday, August 14, and will instead call to Kona.
As we continue to monitor the situation, we are actively reviewing the itineraries of our upcoming voyages. If any adjustments need to be made to our published itineraries, we will advise guests and our Travel Advisor partners.

Related: What happens if my cruise line changes my itinerary or ship?

How to help support Maui's recovery efforts

travel to maui

In collaboration with the Hawaii Community Foundation, state leaders and nonprofits, the Maui Strong Fund is accepting donations to assist with recovery and relief efforts.

"The Maui Strong Fund was created to provide community resilience with resources for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery," according to the Hawaii Community Foundation. "The fund is currently being used to support communities affected by the wildfires on Maui," with 100% of funds being distributed for community needs.

TPG and Lonely Planet have teamed up to donate $25,000 to the Maui Strong Fund, and if you also want to help, you can learn more about the organization and donate here .

Aloha United Way has established a Maui Fire Relief Fund on its website , and 100% of the proceeds are directed to Maui United Way. The organization's partner agencies — such as the Maui Food Bank, the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army — are distributing relief funds according to the community's most urgent needs.

Donating miles or cash via airlines

Hawaiian Airlines has updated its website with a message allowing loyalty members to donate HawaiianMiles, which will be used to transport volunteers and staff to Maui. Up to 30 million miles in donations will be matched by the airline for the month of August. You must log in to your account to donate.

American Airlines is also supporting the American Red Cross' disaster relief efforts, and American Airlines AAdvantage members can earn 10 AAdvantage bonus miles for every dollar donated to the Red Cross via its microsite . (Note there's a minimum donation amount of $25.)

Alaska Airlines has contributed 5 million miles to Kanu Hawaii and Maui Rapid Response, which are leading the efforts to relocate displaced Maui residents while they work to rebuild. Alaska Airlines will match the first 1 million miles donated by Mileage Plan members through Aug. 31. Donate miles to Kanu Hawaii .

Bottom line

This is a devastating, life-altering event for the people of Maui. The most important things to consider right now are the safety of everyone on Maui and efforts to help those affected by the disaster, both by considering tangible donations and allowing space and time for relief and recovery efforts.

Now that local government officials have released updated travel guidance, only West Maui communities are off-limits. Other areas of Maui are open and accepting guests.

Based on the updated information shared by the Hawaiian governor and the statement released by the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the economy would suffer without tourism in the Hawaiian Islands. They are encouraging travelers to consider visiting other areas of Maui, including Kahului, Wailuku, Kihei, Wailea, Makena, Paia and Hana.

Related reading:

  • Hawaii declares emergency due to wildfires, discourages all nonessential travel to Maui
  • Your flight is delayed or canceled: Here's what to do next
  • 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
  • 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
  • The best credit cards that offer trip cancellation and interruption insurance

Additional reporting by Caroline Tanner, Matt Moffitt, Erica Silverstein and Meghna Maharishi.

Beat of Hawaii - Hawai`i Travel News

Updated: Baffling Maui Travel Advice Just Released By State of Hawaii

A Maui travel update received this week from Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) attempted to be less baffling than before but did not entirely succeed. The new directive adds information for South Maui travel, which had been omitted previously, and does not go beyond August for West Maui visitors.

We received an update from the state late yesterday, but there was no further clarification from Governor Green as had been expected last night. Thus at the moment, the latest is as follows:

“All non-essential travel to West Maui (including Lāhainā, Nāpili, Kāʻanapali, and Kapalua) is strongly discouraged through the month of August ,” Governor Josh Green said in his latest emergency proclamation. “But the other parts of Maui are safe.”

Guidance beyond August has not been provided thus far, and visitors for dates starting in two weeks have no word from the state. At the same time, the HTA said things including the following.

“Hotels in West Maui have temporarily stopped accepting bookings of future reservations. While efforts are underway to fully restore electrical power, municipal water, and communications, visitors are encouraged to refrain from attempting to reach West Maui accommodations for reservation adjustments until the situation stabilizes.”

“In alignment with Governor Green, the Hawaii Tourism Authority urges visitors to refrain from going to West Maui (including Lahaina, Napili, Kaanapali, and Kapalua) as a means of respect to the people and places that have been lost in Lahaina during this devastating tragedy.”

We are aware that at least some West Maui accommodations hope to reopen to visitors soon.

Update from HTA for visitors to Maui (other than West Maui).

The state said that “Visitors with travel plans to other parts of Maui (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, and Mākena) should reach out to their accommodations to ensure they can still be hosted.”

There is no guidance prohibiting or discouraging visiting the vast majority of Maui. The messaging from the HTA and the governor has switched to being pro-travel to the rest of Maui. But even then, there will be questions.

The most recent announcement from the Hawaii Tourism Authority on Maui travel planning followed the devastating wildfires earlier this month. That latest announcement provided some further clarification but also left many questions. Visitors remain uncertain about all Maui travel, as is reflected in hundreds of recent comments we’ve received. It has also been reported that travel to Maui may be down by as much as 80% following the fires. We will give you our best suggestions based on the current messaging and what we know.

All of our focus continues to remain on those killed and displaced in the still unfolding devastation of Lahaina. There are no words to adequately express the pain and suffering that continues to hang over Maui and all of Hawaii.

Access to West Maui as highway has been reopened.

After the prior road closure due to the fire, limited access for personnel, incuding resort, first responders, medical, utility, county, supply transport, and volunteers was implemented.

Then last Wednesday, the Honoapiilani Highway which provides access to West Maui from Maalaea was reopened. to all vehicles from 6 am until 10 pm daily. Gov. Green said on announcing the reopening, “Anyone will be able to travel that road.”.

Prior advice from HTA to avoid Maui travel entirely is gone.

Several days ago, the state’s Hawaii Tourism Authority said, “People with non-essential travel plans to Maui are strongly discouraged from traveling to Maui at this time. Visitors who have plans to travel to Maui in the coming weeks are being asked to reschedule their trip for a later time. The island’s resources need to be dedicated to emergency response.”

But in this latest directive , that changed, with only West Maui being mentioned for no travel.

“Visitors Urged to Forego Travel Plans to West Maui .” Hawaii Tourism Authority. 8/12/23.

HTA also said, “In the weeks ahead, the collective resources and attention of the federal, state, and county government, the West Maui community, and the travel industry must be focused on the recovery of residents who were forced to evacuate their homes and businesses.”

“Visitors with plans to stay in West Maui in the coming weeks and months are urged to consider rescheduling their travel plans for a later time when the overall situation has improved for area residents.” Hawaii Tourism Authority. 8/12/23.

What does the latest HTA directive mean?

Our sense from discussions with multiple sources regarding travel to West Maui is as follows: It would be best to consider placing travel plans for the later this year on hold, at least for now, pending further information, even though the latest release only mentions August.

While the state has continued to refer to “weeks and months” of work ahead, it will undoubtedly take much longer than envisioned to get West Maui going again. That, as we realize, the scope of the devastation has barely been revealed, with so much to come. And even after that happens, the infrastructure for visitors may not be restored soon.

The often considered to be repugnant Hawaii Tourism Authority continues to never be clear in its messaging. It is no wonder that much of the state of Hawaii has long been ready to eliminate the Hawaii Tourism Authority entirely, and we will be surprised if that doesn’t ultimately occur. Those Hawaii residents who rely on employment within the tourism industry could face serious consequences if the state doesn’t get clear soon regarding better messaging about South Maui’s critical travel industry. Hawaii residents and Hawaii visitors both want to know what the future holds.

West Maui hotels are no longer accepting reservations.

“Hotels in West Maui have temporarily stopped accepting bookings of future reservations,” said Hawaii Tourism.

As hotels return online, they must house employees, families, and others dislocated by the fires and those on Maui, including first responders and others providing the range of critical help needed.

Do not try to reach West Maui hotels and vacation rentals.

The HTA has said that, “While efforts are underway to restore basic services, like power and communications, visitors are encouraged to refrain from attempting to reach West Maui accommodations for reservation adjustments until the situation improves.” We suggest checking for updates on accommodation websites.

There is no additional time frame being discussed yet, as efforts remain focused on finding the bodies of those who perished in the fire first. That process is underway, with much work to do even well over a week after the fires.

travel to maui

Absence of communication regarding West Maui after August.

The Hawaii Tourism Authority is, at this time, no longer advising visitors on whether or not to travel to West Maui after August. That information will, by necessity, be forthcoming and perhaps quite soon. As for the rest of Maui, as mentioned previously, those residents who rely on employment within the tourism industry will face serious consequences if South Maui’s critical travel industry doesn’t resume. And both Hawaii residents and Hawaii visitors want to know what the future holds, as much as possible under these catastrophic circumstances.

Travel to the other Islands is not impacted.

Those visitors planning on coming to the Big Island, Kauai, and Oahu are not affected by the conditions on Maui. Having said that, two of your editors are currently on Oahu, and the evacuation of visitors from Maui to Oahu has resulted in very challenging travel conditions and overcrowding. That, however, should subside as those visitors return to the mainland.

Updated 8/19/23 10 am.

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241 thoughts on “Updated: Baffling Maui Travel Advice Just Released By State of Hawaii”

With much Disdain towards the Hawaiians that have been attempting to chase tourists and Vacationers away from all of the State of Hawaii, not only the Island County of Maui, has anyone actually considered that the online presence are only a tiny, immature, amount of Hawaiian Residents? Even those who are telling, even threatening at times, to Stay Away from Maui are probably not from Maui, rather the same people demanding tourists stop visiting Oahu or the Big Island. Maybe these people are some that have moved from Hawaii to Las Vegas, Oregon, or Washington State. How do we know for certain? I am a “Transplant” from where I initially was born and spent many years, our Family had well over 200 years in that area. I would Never attempt to keep people away from there so that I would Feel Better about it, or Ridiculous Fantasies of reclaiming it. There’s more afoot in all of this, for the Most Part pandering on the Suffering and Loss of those on Maui. I truly Pray for those of Maui, recovering from this will not be easy or enjoyable, satisfaction of rebuilding their lives is the thing that may bring them some joy and togetherness in the end. Let the Haters and Neighsayers play their games to the Detriment of Themselves!

AJ where did you stay? South Maui or West Maui? Thanks

We stayed in South Maui, in particular at a resort in Wailea.

There a few locals on this message board that continue to spew garbage and guilt for anyone planning to visit. My family and I are wrapping up our 10 day stay today. Maui residents and locals need tourist. My resort is down to 17% occupancy. Employees are loosing hours and in some cases being laid off altogether. No one was rude or otherwise during our stay. They treated us with all the respect and dignity we deserved. They were so happy that we made the trip. For all those reading, please don’t cancel your trips.

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What To Do In Maui, Hawaii: The Ultimate Guide

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With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and breathtaking scenery, Maui is often called the “Valley Isle” for good reason. If you’re looking for things to do in Maui, you’ll find endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and creating lifelong memories.

If you’re short on time, here are some top things to do in Maui: relax on beautiful beaches like Kaanapali and Kapalua; drive the famous Road to Hana for jaw-dropping scenery; watch the sunrise from atop Haleakala volcano; go snorkeling at Molokini crater; enjoy Hawaiian culture and history in Lahaina town .

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide an in-depth look at the very best attractions, activities, sights, and destinations that Maui has to offer. Read on to plan an unforgettable trip!

Scenic Drives

The road to hana.

The Road to Hana is a 64-mile long stretch along Maui’s northeastern coast, offering jaw-dropping scenery the whole way. This winding road takes you past rainforests, waterfalls, beaches, and scenic overlooks.

Top attractions along the drive include the Twin Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the pools below. The Garden of Eden Arboretum features over 500 species of plants and trees. Make sure to stop at Waianapanapa State Park to see the striking black sand beach and sea caves.

The road itself is an attraction, with over 600 twists and turns.

Haleakala Crater

A drive up to the summit of Haleakala Volcano is a can’t-miss experience. The road climbs nearly 10,000 feet in elevation before reaching the crater overlook. Early risers can catch a spectacular sunrise here before the clouds roll in.

The Mars-like terrain and panoramic views make it easy to see why this is such a popular destination. Make sure to layer up before heading up, as temperatures can drop below freezing. Stop at Leleiwi Overlook on your way back down to take in views of the crater, coastline, and neighboring islands.

Just be prepared for windy conditions at the summit.

West Maui Loop

A drive around West Maui offers stunning ocean vistas around every turn. Start by heading north on Honoapiilani Highway and taking it all the way to the seaside village of Kapalua. This resort area has great beaches and trails to explore. As you continue south, you’ll pass D.T.

Fleming Beach, known for excellent conditions for surfing and snorkeling. Stop at scenic lookouts like Wailele Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area and Waihe’e Ridge Trail for awesome elevated views. The loop continues through the bustling towns of Lahaina and Ka’anapali before returning inland.

With the road hugging the coast most of the way, you can’t go wrong choosing any stretch for a leisurely drive.

Kaanapali Beach

Stretching for over 3 miles along Maui’s western shore, the golden sands of Kaanapali Beach have made it one of the most popular beaches on the island. Its calm waters and gentle waves create perfect conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.

One of Kaanapali’s claims to fame is that it was once voted America’s Best Beach by Conde Nast Traveler readers.

The beach walk along Kaanapali offers gorgeous views of the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai. It’s lined with resorts, shops, and restaurants, so you’ll never be far from refreshments or entertainment.

Many of the resorts also host free events like lei making classes, ukulele lessons, and Hawaiian cultural activities. With its convenient location and amenities, it’s no wonder Kaanapali Beach draws over 1 million visitors per year.

Kapalua Bay

On Maui’s northwest coast lies the calm, crescent-shaped Kapalua Bay, renowned for its excellent snorkeling and swimming conditions. The bay features an offshore reef that protects it from strong waves and currents, making it suitable for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

Kapalua Bay’s clear waters offer visibility up to 100 feet, allowing snorkelers to take in the reef’s colorful sealife like sea turtles, parrotfish, and eels. Small, tropical fish can even be spotted in the bay’s shallows. On land, shady pine trees offer respite from the Hawaiian sun.

Because protective measures have been taken to prevent overcrowding and coral damage, Kapalua Bay feels peaceful and pristine.

In recent years, Kapalua Bay has been ranked among the world’s top beaches by renowned publications like Conde Nast Traveler. It continues to enchant visitors seeking a beautiful, tranquil setting in which to experience Maui’s natural aquatic wonders.

Wailea Beach

Nestled between two rocky points on Maui’s sun-drenched southern coast, Wailea Beach delights visitors with its golden sand, gentle surf, and upscale amenities. Its crescent shape frames the azure waters of the Pacific, offering picture-perfect views.

The southern end of Wailea Beach features a shallow, sandy-bottomed pool ideal for small children. The middle section appeals to families and recreational swimmers, with calmer waves. At the northernmost end, local surfers can often be spotted riding the reef break.

Well-trained lifeguards staff stations along the entire beach.

Wailea Beach’s lush tropical backdrop includes the Wailea Beach Resort, which has earned five diamond ratings for its luxury accommodations. Guests of the resort enjoy amenities like cabana rentals, frozen treats delivered beachside, and live Hawaiian music performances.

For its combination of natural and manmade beauty, Wailea Beach continues to top lists of Maui’s can’t-miss shorelines year after year.

Outdoor Activities

Snorkeling and scuba diving.

As an island surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life, Maui is a premier destination for snorkeling and scuba diving . Top snorkeling spots include Ka’anapali Beach, Kapalua Bay, Ulua Beach, and Ahihi Bay, which offer incredible visibility to see green sea turtles, manta rays, and colorful tropical fish.

For scuba, head to Molokini Crater or the Cathedrals on Lanai island to explore underwater cliffs and caverns teeming with octopuses, eels, and schools of butterflyfish.

There are many reputable companies offering guided snorkeling and diving tours, like Maui Activities , Scuba Maui , and Adventure In Hawaii , which provide all necessary gear and take you to the best locales.

Whether beginner or certified diver, Maui’s pristine waters promise an unforgettable experience.

With its perfectly peeling waves and idyllic surf conditions year-round, Maui draws surfers from across the globe looking to ride everything from gentle longboard breaks to powerful barrels reaching 15-20 feet!

From November to March, iconic spots like Honolua Bay and Jaws (Peʻahi) come alive with swell and offer legendary big wave surfing for experts only. Beginners should check out spots like Lahaina Harbor or Charley Young Beach, while intermediate surfers can try Hookipa Beach or 500 Peaks.

You can rent surfboards and take lessons from local instructors at beachfront surf shops all over the island. Watch the annual winter surf competitions unfold at Ho’okipa and find your inner wave-rider in Maui’s surfer’s paradise!

Hiking and Waterfalls

Lush valleys, soaring sea cliffs, and cascading waterfalls make Maui a hiker’s dream. For panoramic ocean views, tackle the Pīpīwai Trail leading up to the 400-foot Waimoku Falls or journey into the moon-like crater at Haleakalā National Park .

Family-friendly treks abound as well, like the bamboo forest walk to Twin Falls or the picturesque Kapalua Coastal Trail hugging golden beaches. Guided hikes can take you off the beaten path to swim beneath lesser-known falls.

Be sure to wear hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and check updated trail conditions for areas affected by past fires and floods. Respect any warning signs and take needed precautions when venturing out into Maui’s natural wonders.

Helicopter Tours

For unparalleled bird’s-eye views of lush valleys, cascading waterfalls and Maui’s entire sun-drenched coastline, seeing this stunning island from a helicopter is an absolute must! Companies like Blue Hawaiian Helicopters , Paragon Helicopters and Maui Helicopter Tours offer a variety of tours ranging from 30 minutes to over 2 hours.

Major highlights visible from the air include the sea cliffs of Molokai, bamboo forests, the Haleakala crater moonscape, and thundering waterfalls along the Road to Hana. Capture photographic memories sure to last a lifetime!

Towns and Villages

Nestled along Maui’s western shore, Lahaina is one of the most popular towns for visitors . Once serving as Hawaii’s early 19th century capital, Lahaina boasts a rich history and stunning ocean vistas . Take a stroll down Lahaina’s iconic Front Street to discover art galleries, shops, and restaurants set among historical buildings.

Don’t miss the giant Banyan tree in the town square that spans over an acre with its sprawling canopy of branches and roots. Also, be sure to check out top attractions like the ancient royal sites of Mokuʻula and Hale Piula.

Those looking to learn about Lahaina’s whaling past can visit the Whaling Museum of the Pacific . While, ocean lovers will enjoy snorkeling or diving at spots like Kaanapali and Napili Bay. Visitors can even spot humpback whales that frequent Maui’s waters from December to April during their annual migration.

When the sun sets, enjoy Lahaina’s lively nightlife with Hawaiian luaus and fun bars hosting live music.

The surfing town of Paia buzzes with an eclectic, bohemian vibe . Situated along Maui’s north shore with prime access to famous surf spots, Paia seduces wave riders and beach lovers. Yet, Paia also captures visitors with its quirky personality flaunting unusual boutiques, art galleries, and hip cafes lining Baldwin Avenue.

Be sure to pop into Paia Fish Market to try their famous fish tacos and indulge in Mandara gelato’s divine tropical flavors.

Paia serves as the gateway to the famed Road to Hana, a scenic coastal drive that snakes along towering sea cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The drive culminates at Waiʻānapanapa State Park, touting striking black sand beaches, freshwater caves to explore, and camping spots to overnight under the stars.

Paia also neighbors the historic town of Makawao, which lies upcountry and flaunts paniolo cowboy roots blended with new age artistry and yoga retreats.

With ranch lands cradling its outskirts and artsy boutiques at its core, Makawao charms visitors with its fusion of Hawaiian paniolo heritage and haute couture hub. Wander down Makawao’s main thoroughfare lined with upscale art galleries, jewelry stores, and clothing shops presenting the latest island fashions.

Make sure to also explore offshoot streets where you can discover glassblowing workshops, chocolate factories, and holistic spas.

Adventure seekers should visit Haleakalā National Park looming above Makawao. Here one can hike along volcanic crater trails, ride horseback through purple lupine fields, or even bike down the 10,000-foot summit.

Those craving to connect deeper with the land and its people can partake in volunteering programs at farms practicing ancient Hawaiian agricultural wisdom. From avantgarde artistry to off-the-grid sustainability, Makawao offers endless discoveries.

Luau and Hawaiian Culture

One of the best ways to experience authentic Hawaiian culture in Maui is by attending a luau. Luaus are traditional Hawaiian feasts featuring delicious local foods, captivating hula dances, and fun activities like lei making demonstrations. Here’s an overview of what to expect at a Maui luau:

Luaus showcase the diverse cuisines of the Hawaiian Islands. Expect to feast on dishes like:

  • Kālua pig – pork traditionally cooked in an underground oven
  • Poke – raw tuna salad
  • Lomi salmon – a tomato and salmon salad
  • Poi – a paste made from taro root
  • Haupia – a creamy coconut pudding

Washing it all down with some refreshing mai tais and Hawaiian beers, you’ll leave with a very happy belly!

Entertainment

In addition to the food, luaus feature captivating displays of Hawaiian culture through hula and music. Talented performers will regale you with various hula dances ranging from gentle, swaying motions to thrilling fire dances.

You’ll also be treated to live music featuring native Hawaiian instruments like the ipu drum, nose flute, and ukulele.

Luaus often include fun activity stations as well. At these stations, you can:

  • Learn to make flower leis and Hawaiian bracelets
  • Have temporary tribal tattoos painted on
  • See demos of how to open coconuts, climb palm trees, and more

Some luaus even offer additional entertainment like a show reenacting native Hawaiian games and traditions. With so much to see and do, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable cultural experience.

Popular Luaus in Maui

Maui offers luau options across the island to suit different tastes and budgets. Some top recommendations include:

  • Old Lahaina Luau – An award-winning luau praised for top-notch hula dances, lush oceanfront setting, and excellent food.
  • Feast at Lele – An intimate luau offering gourmet food stations and Polynesian entertainment from islands across the South Pacific.
  • Makao by Te Au Moana – A new oceanview luau with an open bar, Hawaiian feast, activities for kids and electric entertainment.

With celebrations steeped in lively music, dance, food and more, luaus let you connect with the heart of Hawaiian culture. Attending one promises an unforgettable night during your Maui vacation!

With its postcard-perfect beaches, dramatic landscapes, and wealth of activities, Maui truly offers something for every type of traveler. From surfing world-class waves to learning about Hawaiian history and culture, a trip to Maui is guaranteed to be unforgettable.

We hope this guide has given you plenty of inspiration to fill your itinerary for your upcoming Maui vacation. Now it’s time to start planning your trip and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime on the Valley Isle!

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Jane Smith is a Hawaii resident and author born and raised on the island of Oahu. Her Hawaiian heritage shines through in her writing, infusing it with the Aloha spirit and local flavor.

Jane draws inspiration from the tropical island lifestyle - outrigger canoeing at sunrise, beach picnics, hiking to hidden waterfalls. Her works immerse readers in the beauty and culture of Hawaii.

An avid surfer since childhood, Jane often wakes early to catch waves along the North Shore. She also enjoys practicing Hawaiian crafts like lei-making, lauhala weaving, and kapa cloth printing.

When not writing or adventuring outdoors, you can find Jane sipping mai tais at the local tiki bar, listening to ukulele music at the night market, or cooking up a big pot of stew at home.

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SheBuysTravel

Tips for Sustainable Travel to Maui and Around the World

S ustainable travel was already having a moment in the spotlight before the fires swept through west Maui. As the island reopens to visitors, the idea of tourists returning is a double-edged sword. The local people depend upon the dollars tourists bring to Maui. But they have been through an unfathomable loss — of their homes, their businesses and their loved ones — and they are hoping the tourists who return will understand and respect that.

You can read more about what Maui locals hope for as tourists return . But the fragile state of Maui is just one example of a place where tourists can support the local economy, local people and local customs. Choosing to travel sustainably is not that hard. Read on for some simple and cheerful tips, ready to be embraced by travelers of all ages visiting places around the world.

How to Travel Sustainably

Sure, I could quit flying to alleviate climate change. Or at least believe I was doing my part. But then how would I meet the women worshiping in a town square in Nepal? Or the children attending school in India? Or the healers preserving ancient traditions in Peru’s Amazon?

Could sustainable tourism allow me those experiences?

Thank goodness, the answer for world tourism is yes. Organizations digging deeply into responsible tourism are certifying trips and destinations with sustainable development goals. They’re researching the impact of hikes on natural resources. They examine shopping jaunts and culinary experiences for environmental impacts and influence on the local economy.

Tourism Activities Can Support Local Culture

Local communities mean everything in sustainable tourism.

“Who gets the money?” is a great question. Is the economic growth local?

Paying a proper price to the artisan selling handcrafted textiles – that’s sustainable tourism. When I respect the people of local communities, I support socio-cultural heritage. Confessing my old style of feeling clever just trying to get a bargain might help me change my habits.

Keys to Sustainable Tourism

“Sustainable travel” might seem a little stuffy, but the organizations and institutes passionate about people and places create friendly resources.

For instance, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council offers a straightforward guide to finding Certified Sustainable Destinations.

At the core: Never harm or overlook the essence of a place.

Just paying a little attention, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council says, can make a big difference. They share broad brushstrokes such as:

  • Sustainable management
  • Socioeconomic impacts
  • Cultural impacts
  • Environmental impacts

An added bonus to admiring ancient sites in India – meeting local school children. Photo credit: Christine Tibbetts

Seeing Sustainable Tourism Up Close

Visitors are an important source of income for many communities located in biodiverse and fragile areas like Maui.

In India, my guide on a hike was a former poacher. Thanks to sustainable tourism practices, he could now support his family without poaching; tourism to the forest supports the local economy.

In Mexico’s Yucatan, near the ancient Mayan site called Coba, I met a pottery teacher. He was helping a little community that had been clear-cutting their forests to sell the wood and earn a meager living. Instead, they were becoming artisans, selling lovely works to tourists. The forests can grow again. Sustainable development can be supported.

In Nepal, I spent the afternoon with multigenerational families, each age with a painting specialty to create ancient-tradition thangkas. Mine calls me daily to stare and contemplate the many Buddhas created with the tiniest of brushes by an abundance of relatives.

Create A Positive Circle Of Impact

Over-tourism gets a lot of negative buzz – too many visitors to the famous places. Impact Tourism is getting a new buzz throughout the tourism industry.

The World Tourism Day conference in Washington, D.C. in 2022 talked about “moving from tourist-centric marketing that aims to get more heads and beds and towards community-centered storytelling that aims to capture a destination’s sense of place and benefit the community in ways requested by the community.”

focused on volunteerism and impact on local communities. CREST is the resource to watch. That’s the Center for Responsible Travel. The focus of the conference was to highlight and promote collaboration and community-focused engagement. “Tourism done well can help protect these places. Done badly, it can help destroy them” the organization wrote in a summary of the conference.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Keep an eye out for impact becoming a good thing in sustainable tourism. Giving back to host communities is one concept.

Giving Back to the Kids

I love the idea of giving back to the kids whose lands I am fortunate enough to visit. But it’s hard to figure out how.

Buy A Trip, Give A Trip is the grand idea of Elevate Destinations , a luxury eco-tour company that asks its clients to “Travel to find greater meaning in the world.”

The company designs customized trips that support local conservation initiatives that rely on tourism funds. And then Elevate Destinations puts together trips for local kids who can’t afford such a thing. My sustainable travel will help underwrite travel for children in their own country.

Reducing Our Footprints Traveling With The Kids

Seems like a good match to me when families can make travel decisions with family-owned businesses.

That’s where Journeys International comes in. Robin Weber Pollak is chief adventure officer; her parents founded the company four decades ago. Their goal was and is to interact directly and respectfully with local people and natural environments.

Today, the Earth Preservation Fund shares the Journeys vision as their non-profit arm supporting small-scale, community-initiated travel experiences. Sustainability means everything and Executive Director (and husband) Joe Pollak shares simple tips as well as big pictures.

Struggling to limit single-use plastic? Pollak says eat ice cream in a cone. No plastic cups or spoons in his world. Easy sell for kids.

“In developing countries with questionable water sources, we take along a travel water purifier . I think our kids stay better hydrated when they use their familiar, take-to-school refillable water bottles.”

The Pollack family also chooses public transit as an eco way to travel. They pick up litter, too, and stay on trails when they hike.

“All kids can understand that different plants and animals live in different places,” says Joe Pollak. “I think developing an appreciation for different places and cultures helps them understand the potential impacts of the  choices they make at home.”

Read More: How to Do Voluntourism Right with Kids

Certification Means Putting Change In Place

As you plan your sustainable travel, look for hotels, destinations and tours that have been certified. Responsible travel operations receiving certification hone in on details such as:

  • Reducing negative impacts on the environment
  • Calculating carbon emissions and find ways to compensate
  • Rationally using water and energy
  • Promoting local ways of life
  • Preventing situations of damage like child labor, prostitution, sexual exploitation
  • Respecting human and labor rights
  • Protecting and respecting natural resources

Sustainable Tourism Questions To Ask

Do you have a sustainable tourism policy?

Don’t settle for a simple yes. If it’s really true, expect details and leads to resources and websites.

Do you have a special project supporting local communities and economic benefits?

And ask directly how you could support that project — before, during and after your trip — if it interests you.

Simple But Effective Ways to Travel Sustainably

So what’s a traveling family to ask? Rainforest Alliance embraces The Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s criteria and offers this list of ideas:

  • At the hotel : Ask about environmental policies and practices. Is the hotel enthusiastic and specific about sustainable tourism development? Does the hotel support community development or conservation projects?
  • Language : Learn some local language and use it. Developing countries offer opportunities to experience dialects outside of most travelers’ language studies.
  • Dress : Learn local manners and dress appropriately. Modest dress may be important. Local culture is a fashion experience.
  • Behavior : Be respectful of the locals’ privacy. Ask permission before entering sacred places, homes, or private lands. Social responsibility involves noticing how people do things in their places.
  • Photographs : Be sensitive to when and where you take photos/video of people. Always ask first. Local culture might have very different concepts about photography.
  • Environment : Never touch or harass wildlife. Always follow designated trails. Support conservation by paying entrance fees to parks and protected sites or making a donation.
  • Wildlife or forest products : Never purchase anything derived from protected or endangered wildlife or plant species. Think about the indigenous peoples living in or near that land.
  • Pay a fair price : Don’t engage in overly aggressive bargaining for souvenirs. Consider the well-being of those selling. You can affect their quality of life.
  • Tip generously:  Don’t short-change on tips for services. People working in the tourism business have had a rough few years thanks to the pandemic.
  • Buy local : Choose locally-owned lodges and hotels. Use local buses, car rental agencies, and airlines. Eat in local restaurants, shop in local markets, and attend local events. Notice the social impacts.
  • Hire local guides: Enrich your experience and support the local economy. Ask guides and tour operators if they are licensed and live nearby. Are they recommended by tour operators?

Read More: 6 Tips for Planning an African Safari with Kids

Sustainable travel was already having a moment in the spotlight before the fires swept through west Maui. As the island reopens to visitors, the idea of tourists returning is a double-edged sword. The local people depend upon the dollars tourists bring to Maui. But they have been through an unfathomable loss — of their homes, their businesses and their loved ones — and they are hoping the tourists who return will understand and respect that. You can read more about what Maui locals hope for as tourists return. But the fragile state of Maui is just one example of a...

Shaka Maui Audio Tour Guide 4+

Road to hana gps travel guide, shaka guide, designed for ipad.

  • 4.9 • 21.5K Ratings
  • Offers In-App Purchases

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Description.

The ultimate Road to Hana Audio Tour Guide with options for classic, loop or reverse! Updated 2024 stories about how to travel respectfully related to the Lahaina fires. Change the way you see Maui with Shaka Guide. Get all the benefits of a guided tour from an app! Along the way, you’ll get directions as you drive, hear stories about the places you’re visiting, and listen to Hawaiian music. The app features six GPS audio tours of the island, including three ROAD TO HANA tours — the Classic, Loop, and Reverse! Each Shaka Guide tour visits popular attractions, beaches, hikes, scenic spots, and cultural sites. All tours are made locally in Hawaii with hours of audio narration that plays automatically as your drive. The app works completely offline. This means that even in remote parts of the island without wifi or data, we’ll still get you where you need to go! Shaka Guide tours never expire — use them more than once or break them up into multiple days. Change the way you see Hawaii with Shaka Guide! Check out the Maui tours below. CLASSIC ROAD TO HANA TOUR *Most Popular Tour* 10+ hours, 32 stops Your Maui experience is not complete without Shaka Guide’s Classic Road to Hana Tour. Let this app guide you the entire 64+ miles of Hana Highway. On this epic journey you’ll discover: - Little-known waterfalls - Great hiking trails - Off-the-beaten-path swimming holes - Beautiful white, and black sand beaches - Enchanting stories about Hawaii Popular Stops: • Twin Falls • Waianapanapa State Park • Hana Town • Seven Sacred Pools aka the Pools at Oheo • Pipiwai Trail LOOP ROAD TO HANA TOUR & REVERSE ROAD TO HANA TOUR 10+ hours, 37 stops Similar to the Classic tour except these tours take you around the island allowing you to see the untamed backroad to Hana! The Loop and Reverse tours make the same stops, but start in opposite directions. Popular Stops: • Backroad to Hana • Waianapanapa State Park • Hana Town • Seven Sacred Pools aka the Pools at Oheo • Pipiwai Trail SUNRISE AT HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK & SUNSET & STARGAZING AT HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK 3+ hours, 10 stops These tours take you to the summit of Mount Haleakala and back stopping at the best viewpoints and hikes along the way. As you drive, listen to stories about the park's history and Hawaiian legends like Maui, da’ Hawaiian Superman! Popular Stops: • Red Hill Overlook - Haleakala Summit • Sliding Sands Trail • Leleiwi Overlook • Halemau'u Crater Hike • Makawao Town WEST MAUI COASTLINE TOUR 6+ hours, 17 stops Drive through the historic town of Lahaina and the famous resorts of Kaanapali and Kapalua before visiting an awesome blowhole! Then come with us as we wind around the West Maui Mountains along coastal cliffs, finishing the tour in the lush Iao Valley. Popular Stops: • Lahaina • Kaanapali Beach • Kapalua • Olowalu Petroglyphs • Nakalele Blowhole Check out a complete list of stops for each tour in the app! BUY THE ISLAND BUNDLE, GET ALL 6 MAUI TOURS When you buy the island bundle you’ll get ALL SIX Maui tours for more than 50% off the retail price. WHAT CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING - “Best Road to Hana tour app” - “Very enjoyable, cost-effective Maui tour guide” - “Best money ever spent!” - “Couldn't have navigated without it” - “Road to AMAZING!!” DOWNLOADING THE TOURS It’s important that you download the tours (preferably in wifi) before you go. Make sure the tour is completely downloaded and you’ll have no problem using the tours offline. BATTERY USAGE The app uses your GPS only when necessary. Please remember that continual use of your GPS can dramatically deplete your battery. Be sure to pack a car charger for your tour. IPAD NOTICE You can use an iPad to take the tour, however, wifi-only iPads without GPS capability will not work. ABOUT SHAKA GUIDE At Shaka Guide our goal is to connect people with places. We love Hawaii. Not just for its beauty, but also for its rich history and culture. We believe that every destination has a story and we want to tell it. In Hawaii, we have over 20 audio tours that do just that — share the stories of the islands.

Version 8.3.1

Bug fixes for CarPlay

Ratings and Reviews

21.5K Ratings

AMAZING TOUR GUIDE!

I found this app while searching for travel safe app for our trip to Hawaii and really enjoyed reading the raving reviews. I downloaded this app and told my partner all about it and right when I bought the Road to Hana tour while in Maui, he said “you shouldn’t have bought it, it’s a waste of money.” What a turnaround it turned out to be after listening to our tour guide navigate us on the road to Hana! We had lots of laughs, enjoyed our tour guide’s humor, and felt like we had another buddy on our trip. The recommendations on activities to skip or do were very helpful because we were short on time since instead of starting at 8am, we started at 12pm! Shaka Guide kept us company during a tough time during our drive home at NIGHT! We started the tour a little late and even when the sun was starting to set, we still pushed on full speed ahead! So even when driving on the winding and rollercoaster ride of a road out of Hana to reach civilization in the dead of night. We were extremely informed by the interesting legend stories and legendary history. The music playing along the road made us feel so at ease; it was very soothing and relaxing to drive to 🤗 You know how you wish there was a theme song for your life and every moment of your life? That’s what this tour did for us. It really set the mood for the day and helped us enjoy this trip to the fullest. Thank you, SHAKA GUIDE! 🤙

Developer Response ,

Mahalo for the awesome review. We're very happy and grateful to hear how Shaka Guide helped you and your family have an amazing and memorable vacation. Don't forget to tell all your friends about Shaka guide and let them know they are missing out on the best Aloha experience 🤙😍🤙

Excellent guide!!!

I debated between signing up for a tour or doing the drive myself since I have a car. I though buying a tour would be safer for a female lone traveler like myself but the tours are so expensive! I decided to download the app & took the reverse route for a fraction of money that tours are charging . I made the best decision in doing that! The app. goes over a lot of details esp. safety and timing . I had my own private guide in the car with me along the way. I even took a few wrong turns and it brought be back on track. It kept me on track with the time too, making me decide which stops to make or not . I left Paia at 8:00 am and was back safely before 6:00 , plenty of daylight! I have to tell you though , the guide is very concerned about your safety and the first part of the tour will warn you about driving through unpaved roads as the rental agencies strongly discourages it! I had to pull over and ask a tour bus driver (parked in one of their stops) if he thinks I’ll make it with the car I have. A regular 4 door sedan. Driver said don’t worry I’ll be ok. Well, I went through those roads with a sedan and did just fine ! I highly recommend this app for anyone doing the road to Hana! I learned so much about the history of Hawaii along the way and the music they played in between points are impeccable! I had the best day in Maui today ! Thanks Shaka app for a stress free, and VERY economical way to the road to Hana!
So happy to hear you enjoyed your Shaka Guide tour. Mahalo for your review and hope to see you on more Shaka Guide adventures! 🤙🤙🤙
We were recommended to this app by a friend, and we did the Road to Hana, Maui. It was scary! The music did get annoying on the way back so we would pause it, and then the tour guide would start back up again automatically. You should preview the spots on the tour 2 days before you plan to go, and make your reservations. Also, do your research—certain days of the week may be less crowded. If we knew that we would preview the spots on the listing ahead of time the night before, perhaps we would have booked the black sand park reservation ahead of time. Unfortunately, we passed the black sand park and did not have a reservation, but felt frightened enough of the road that we did not go back. We went all the way past Hana and did not reach the seven springs. We appreciated the reminder to turn around, providing us a time estimate for the way back. We were able to visit a public waterfall that people were swimming in. It was very far to get there. Heading back west toward the OGG airport on the road to Hana, was tricky since the stop sign for the one way roads favored the East bound traffic as they could come closer to the stop. It is dangerous to go in reverse. Overall, we survived thankfully and mostly in part a great thanks to the tips on tracking time and ensuring we have enough drive time for the journey back.
Mahalo for your review! Please recommend Shaka Guide to all of your friends, and don't hesitate to shoot us a note at [email protected] if you have any questions or suggestions.

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The developer, Shaka Guide , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

  • Contact Info
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  • Diagnostics

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Information

  • Classic Road to Hana Tour $19.99
  • Maui Full-Island Tour Bundle $29.99
  • Loop Road to Hana Driving Tour $19.99
  • "Reverse" Road to Hana Tour $19.99
  • Haleakala Volcano Driving Tour $19.99
  • Maui 6 Driving Tour Bundle $29.99
  • West Maui Coastline Tour $19.99
  • Sunset & Stargazing Haleakala $19.99
  • Road to Hana & Haleakala Tours $13.99
  • Wailuku to Iao Valley MiniTour $0.00
  • Developer Website
  • App Support
  • Privacy Policy

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Some in‑app purchases, including subscriptions, may be shareable with your family group when family sharing is enabled., more by this developer.

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10 Beach Destinations for Your Next Girls Trip

These beach destinations in the United States and around the world are perfect for your next girls getaway.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

travel to maui

Starting to toss out ideas for your next girls getaway ? A beach trip is a no-brainer for fun in the sun, but then comes the question of which coastal community to visit. It’s hard to beat the tropical charisma of Maui or Ko Phi Phi Lee . Then again, Comporta oozes off-the-beaten-path charm that’s so enticing for been-there-done-that types. Just want to steal away for the weekend? Consider a seaside idyll that’s a direct flight from many major U.S. airports (ahem, the Bahamas ). Or, maybe it’s time to try something new and go somewhere unexpected like Bocas del Toro Town. 

Here are our top picks for a sun-splashed escape with your pals. 

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The mid-Atlantic archipelago of Bermuda , 640 miles off the coast of North Carolina, is endowed with photogenic pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and golf courses. Its culture blends British and American influences, and its proximity to the United States makes for an easy girls weekend, especially for East Coasters. Book a room at the luxurious Rosewood Bermuda to sip rum swizzles and watch the sailboats gliding past. 

2. Maui, Hawaii

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Active friend groups will love the myriad adventures that await in Maui . Warm, crystalline waters are perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. For hiking, there’s no better spot than Haleakalā National Park with its lush forests, streams, terraced pools, cascades, and a 10,023-foot dormant volcano. Of course, you could spend the entire trip sipping mai tais at the pool at the Montage Kapalua Bay and be very happy with that decision. 

3. Comporta, Portugal 

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Drive about an hour south of Lisbon and you’ll reach Comporta , an idyllic coastal village with pristine beaches, windswept dunes, and expansive rice fields. Unassuming in a hypnotic way, its relaxed vibe seems to induce a sense of calm in everyone who visits — groups of gal pals included. Perched on the sands of Praia Comporta, Ilha do Arroz is a laid-back spot to share octopus rice and a bottle of vinho verde with your besties. 

4. Manhattan Beach, California 

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Located just 20 miles from downtown Los Angeles , Manhattan Beach is the ideal destination to kick back with your squad. Whether you’re into sunning, surfing, selfies, or shopping, this low-key Southern California community delivers. Enjoy a stroll along the Strand, hang ten (or just watch from the sand), snap a few photos with the ladies on the Manhattan Beach Pier, and buy matching bracelets at one of the souvenir shops. 

5. Ko Phi Phi Lee, Thailand 

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A girls trip to one of the prettiest spots in Thailand ? Absolutely! Uninhabited — save daytrippers and overnight resort guests — Ko Phi Phi Lee is a cinematic island in Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi Marine National Park that you might recognize as the setting from a Leonardo DiCaprio film . Of course, the natural beauty of its limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and world-famous beaches speaks for itself.  

6. Grand Cayman

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As far as beach destinations go, few hold a candle to Grand Cayman , the Caribbean island that counts crescent-shaped Seven Mile Beach among its draws. You’ll have lots of quality time while laying out on the sun loungers at Palm Heights . The oh-so-chic hotel is also the perfect excuse to bust out a stylish new vacation outfit (who better to bring the fashion for than your friends, right?) for sunset cocktails and fresh-caught seafood. 

7. Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica

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Perched on the north Pacific coast of Costa Rica , Peninsula Papagayo is a hub of ecotourism that’s also home to stunning beaches and the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo . All this allows pals to customize their itineraries to include a little bit of everything — bird watching, horseback riding, spa sessions, mixology classes, hitting the links, paddle boarding in the bay, and catching rays by the pool.  

8. Bocas del Toro Town, Panama 

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Situated at the southern tip of Isla Colón, Bocas del Toro Town offers just the right mix of adventure and relaxation for a girls getaway that won’t be boring (but will have plenty of leisure time). Allocate the morning hours to surf lessons or peeping rare red-billed tropicbirds and the afternoon to chilling on the sand with a fruity cocktail.  Wondering what to do in the evening? Go dancing or hit one of the breezy beach bars.

9. St. Augustine, Florida 

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If your crew digs beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches, delicious food, and history, St. Augustine , on the northeast coast of Florida, is the perfect place to hang out for a few days. Because frame-worthy photos are the most memorable souvenirs, the oldest city in the continental United States also has centuries-old foundations, grand homes, and the 17th-century Castillo de San Marcos for Instagrammable backdrops. 

10. Paradise Island, Bahamas

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Connected by two bridges to the bustling Bahamian capital, the aptly named Paradise Island is the ultimate stress-free escape for friends who like to relax at a resort where blue skies, sunshine, and average temps in the high 70s are all but guaranteed. More geared towards grown-up vacationers, The Cove at Atlantis features 600 luxury suites with ocean views and an adults-only pool with private cabanas. Guests also have access to the water park, casino, and tons of different restaurants.

Moscow   Travel Guide

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7 Best Things To Do in Moscow

Updated February 11, 2021

Art, museums and history reign supreme in Moscow, one of the most pristinely and magnificently preserved cities. This beautiful walking city is also recommended for couples. Here you can stroll through 15th-century cathedrals, explore Russian

  • All Things To Do

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Red Square Red Square free

One of the world's most famous public squares, the Red Square sits at the physical center of Moscow and is considered the symbolic center of all of Russia. Bluntly speaking, Red Square is a must-see in the city. Allot a decent amount of time to take in the views, capture them on your camera and to just soak in the atmosphere of the place.

You'll find the Red Square is bordered by the massive GUM shopping mall on the east, St. Basil's Cathedral on the south, the State Historical Museum on the north and Lenin's Mausoleum on the west.

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Tretyakov Gallery Tretyakov Gallery

Many say the Tretyakov Gallery features the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. This museum is filled to the brim with masterpieces ranging from the 11th century to the 20th century. The gallery is actually comprised of two buildings, often referred to as the "Old Tretyakov" and the "New Tretyakov."

If you make time for only one museum in Moscow, make sure it's this one. Frommer's says, "This collection of masterpieces awes both newcomers to Russian art and connoisseurs." With works from Russian icons like Vrubel and Kadinsky dotted throughout the museum, you could easily find yourself whiling away the whole day here.

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St. Basil's Cathedral St. Basil's Cathedral

St. Basil's Cathedral, also known by its much longer title as the Cathedral of Intercession of Theotokos on the Moat , is the most iconic landmark in Russia. It's located in Red Square , immediately recognizable by its unique bonfire-style design.

Built in the mid-16th century under the orders of Ivan the Terrible himself, (a popular legend says he had the architect blinded to prevent him from duplicating the beauty) St. Basil's Cathedral is most known for its vibrantly colored onion domes. Frommer's says the cathedral is "essentially a union of nine different churches and styles, and nine different chapels, beneath nine domes, each unique in size, form, and color."

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Cathedral of Christ the Savior Cathedral of Christ the Savior free

The Cathedral of Christ the Savior is located along the bank of the Moscow River and only a few blocks away from the Kremlin . Tourists come to the cathedral for its impressive architecture and design, as well as for its equally impressive (and strange) history.

The cathedral was originally built to commemorate the Russian victory over Napoleon in 1812 and to honor the soldiers who gave their lives fighting him. Then in 1931, Stalin had the structure dynamited to make room for his Palace of the Soviets project -- an ambitious skyscraper (it would have been the tallest structure in the world) that never materialized. Instead, the site was transformed in 1958 into the Moscow Pool, one of the largest public swimming pools in the world. The pool closed in 1994 and the cathedral was rebuilt in its place in 1997.

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Moscow Kremlin Moscow Kremlin

Often referred to simply as "The Kremlin," this fortress is located in the center of Moscow, off of the Red Square . It is the most well known of the Kremlins (Russian citadels) and serves as the official residence of the Russian President. The Kremlin encompasses four cathedrals, four palaces and a number of towers.

One of the major highlights here is the Armory Palace, one of the city's oldest museums. The Armory Palace was originally the royal Russian arsenal where weapons were produced and stored. It wasn't until the early 1800s that it was converted into a museum. Now, it showcases Western European, Asian and Russian weapons and armor, as well as several collections of work from goldsmiths, silversmiths and jewelers. Don't miss the Fabergé egg exhibit. 

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Lenin's Mausoleum Lenin's Mausoleum free

Lenin's Mausoleum is located in Red Square and is probably one of the stranger tourist attractions you'll ever come across. It contains the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin, a disturbing site that has been on display almost every day since his death in 1924.

Lonely Planet says, "Whether for the creepiness value or an interest in mummification, the granite tomb of Lenin is a must-see, especially since (if some people get their way) the former leader may eventually end up beside his mum in St Petersburg." Apparently, the Bolsheviks leader made a specific request to be buried alongside his mother before he died.

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Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts is located on Volkhonka Street across from the Cathedral of Christ the Savior . It houses the largest collection of European art in Moscow, and it was named in honor of one of Russia's premier poets, Alexander Pushkin.

You don't go here to read sonnets, though. Instead, you should look to find art spanning a wide range of eras and movements, from ancient Greece to the Renaissance to French Impressionism. Masterpieces from the likes of Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso and Van Gogh easily make this museum deserving of a visit.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

when to visit moscow

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

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With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

where to stay in moscow

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

moscow itinerary

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

moscow itinerary

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

moscow itinerary

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

  • Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
  • Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
  • Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The Red Square

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

  • Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
  • Cost: USD $15.00
  • Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The Moscow Kremlin

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

  • Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
  • Cost: Free!
  • Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Lenins Mausoleum

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

  • Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
  • Cost: USD $8.00
  • Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

St. Basils Cathedral

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

  • Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
  • Cost: Free to enter
  • Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

GUM Department Store

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

  • Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
  • Cost: USD $5.00
  • Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Novodevichy Convent

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

  • Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
  • Cost: Free! 
  • Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

  • Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
  • Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The State Tretyakov Gallery

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

  • Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
  • Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

All Russian Exhibition Center

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

  • Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
  • Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
  • Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Bolshoi Theater

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

  • Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

  • Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
  • This museum is fun for both adults and children!
  • Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

  • A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
  • Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
  • The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

The Alexander Garden

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

  • Television and radio tower in Moscow
  • Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
  • Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

Ostankino Television Tower

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

  • The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
  • Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
  • Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Izmaylovo District

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

  • Closed on Mondays
  • Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
  • The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

Sergiev Posad Golden Ring

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

Trip to Kolomna - Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Alya and Campbell

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Guía turística de Moscow

Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

  • General Information
  • What to see
  • How to get to Moscow
  • Where to stay
  • Where to eat

Why visit Moscow?

Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.

The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful  St Basil's Cathedral . 

Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people,"  as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the  All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?

Introducing Moscow is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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