The average length of a Maui vacation is 7-11 days. While that’s enough time to work on a tan and go snorkeling, scuba diving or surfing, it isn’t enough time to pick up on the island’s minutiae. Sure, a guidebook might point you to a “hidden” spot (which will be empty, of course — except for everyone with the same guidebook), but the real secret is how to sink into the pace of island life and expertly skank with its rhythms. Follow these 10 Maui insider tips for a hassle-free vacation, and you’ll have a leg up on other visitors.
Tradewinds Blow in the Afternoon
Afternoons bring windsurfers to Ho’okipa Beach Park. Photo: Kyle Ellison.
While the pace of life in Maui is slow, one of the times you don’t want to linger is when getting out on the water. A tradewind weather pattern persists on Maui about 80% of the year, which means mornings are beautifully clear and calm. As the day begins to progress, the tradewinds start picking up, and the pristine bay that was flat as glass is suddenly filled with whitecaps. The solution? Plan all of your snorkeling, diving and surfing for before 11 a.m. Lahaina is the only part of the island that remains out of the wind all day, while Kapalua, Napili, Kihei and Wailea will be windy by noon at the latest. To start the day like a local, hire a surfboard the evening before, and rise with the sun for “dawn patrol.”
Hana is Really a Multi-Day Trip
By staying the night in Hana, you can spend the morning at the Pools at Ohe’o before most people arrive.
Even though driving the Road to Hana is a highlight of visiting Maui, rarely will you ever find Maui locals visiting Hana for the day. That’s because locals take their time — either renting a bed and breakfast in Hana or camping in Kipahulu. With so many waterfalls and beaches to explore, Hana is a place that’s best experienced multiple days at a time.
Kona Winds Mean Cheaper Golf
Keep an eye on the wind forecast to save some money on golf. Photo: Kyle Ellison.
First off, Kona winds refer to winds blowing from the south. Much more common in winter than summer, Kona winds are generally lighter than the more consistent and stronger trades. On Kona wind days, places usually “blown out” by noon have barely a breath of breeze. So what does this have to do with golf? Since afternoons are usually windy (and thereby tougher for golf), green fees later in the day tend to be half of what they are in the morning. On days with Kona winds, however, when the breeze stays light all day, afternoons offer calm conditions at literally half the price.
Not Every Restaurant is Expensive
The Fish Market in Paia by Sonny Abesamis (CC BY 2.0)
Maui sometimes get a bad rap for its high cost of food — but this doesn’t mean every restaurant requires taking out a second mortgage. Sure, the food at resorts or along Front Street in Lahaina are expensive, but remember that $45 for a plate of freshly caught fish doesn’t just cover the food and chef who helped prepare it, but the cost of the oceanview table you’re basically renting for an hour. Rent prices here on Maui can be astronomically high, and it’s the ambiance, setting and food that combine to create higher prices at some of the nicer restaurants. To save yourself cash but still eat great food, look for restaurants located in buildings where the rent isn’t nearly as high. Think Paia Fish Market over Mama’s Fish House if you just want a quick fish sandwich. Restaurants Upcountry or in Kahului and Wailuku are outside the regular tourist zones, and menu prices are better suited for travelers on a budget.
Stay Out of the Ocean After Rain
Avoid the ocean when the water is brown, or immediately after a rain. Photo: Kyle Ellison.
Without mincing too many words, the ocean around Maui is murkier — and sharkier — in the aftermath of a storm. Heavy rains carry a lot of run-off and sediment into the ocean, which reduces visibility for activities like snorkeling and diving, as well as the visibility of Maui’s resident sharks. It’s a topic that isn’t discussed enough for obvious fear-based reasons, but educating more visitors on ocean conditions can help prevent an attack. The general rule is, if the water is brown and it’s rained in the past 24 hours, it’s better to find one of the many land-based things to do on Maui.
You Don’t Need a Car
Ride the Maui Bus to save on transport costs. Photo: Kyle Ellison.
Here’s the deal if you’re staying at a resort: Parking fees are expensive. If you plan to mostly stay and lounge in the environs, there’s no need to hire a rental car. Taxis on Maui are readily available and, if you’re on a budget and not in a rush, the Maui Bus is an affordable way to move around most of the island. That said, when you do feel the need to venture out on your own, you can either hire a rental car for the specific day you need it, or book a guided Maui tour, many of which include transportation.
Don’t Leave Valuables in Your Car
If you’re hiking or snorkeling, be sure to bring all your valuables with you. Photo: Kyle Ellison.
If you do end up getting a rental car, note that an unfortunate reality of life here in paradise is the surprising prevalence of petty theft. Rental cars are regularly targeted by unscrupulous individuals, and the simplest way to keep your valuables safe is to always take them with you. Be especially vigilant at hiking trailheads and snorkeling spots.
Find Your Own Adventure to Avoid Crowds
Take a hike on the Waihou Springs Trail to escape coastal crowds. Photo: Kyle Ellison.
As one of the world’s most visited islands, Maui can often get crowded at popular spots. To avoid the crowds, step off the well-worn tourist trail and find your own adventure. Instead of visiting Haleakala at sunrise, consider going for sunset. Go for a hike in Polipoli or a walk on Thompson Road, or take a shoreline stroll down a beach in Waihe’e. Pack a chair, umbrella and book for a day and find a beach in Spreckelsville — where there isn’t a condo, hotel or tourist in sight.
Give Respect, Get Respect
Respecting the land is one of the easiest ways to gain respect from locals. Photo: Kyle Ellison.
Hawaii’s setting, pace and way of life are likely different than what you’re used to back home. Its laid-back, friendly and welcoming culture is what draws visitors to the islands. So respect the local culture and go with the flow. This can mean everything from removing your shoes before you enter a home to slowing down when driving on the highway, and never honking your horn. Respect the signs that say kapu, or “keep out.” Make every effort to “live aloha,” pick up your trash and help take care of the land.
Many of the Best Moments Cost Nothing
A walk down the beach is completely free. Photo: Kyle Ellison.
Finally, while activities on Maui such as surfing or sailing help make it a great place to visit, many of the most memorable moments don’t cost anything at all. Enjoy the serenity of listening to waves roll gently ashore at sunset or a cool beach shower on a sunny day after a session of afternoon bodysurfing. Take a walk on a country road through the pastures of Keokea, or watch sea turtles come ashore at sunset at Ho’okipa. Revel in these simple, leisurely moments, and not only will you save some hard-earned cash, you’ll learn to love the island like you’ve been living here for years.
– Contributed by Kyle Ellison