Maui had always been at the top of my bucket list. I mean, who doesn’t dream of lush rainforests, jaw-dropping volcanoes, and beaches that seem straight out of a postcard? It’s the kind of place that promises a little bit of everything—whether you’re up for an adventure or just some serious relaxation. So, when the chance finally came to experience it for myself, I grabbed my bags, my sunscreen, and my carefully planned 5-day Maui itinerary, and off I went! Spoiler alert: It was even better than I imagined.
Before diving into all the fun, let’s take a quick peek at a map of Maui. This way, you’ll get a feel for where I went on this epic trip, and trust me, there’s a lot to cover. Ready? Let’s go!
Map of Maui
Day 1: West Maui Bliss
Touching down at Kahului Airport (OGG), I felt the excitement building. After picking up my rental car, I headed straight for my luxurious home for the next few nights: the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa in Ka’anapali. This place was incredible! With stunning ocean views, multiple pools (including one with a waterslide!), and a renowned luau, I knew I’d be living the good life.
The afternoon was all about soaking in the beauty of West Maui. I strolled along the pristine sands of Ka’anapali Beach, the gentle waves lapping at my feet. The turquoise water was irresistible, and I spent hours swimming and basking in the warm Hawaiian sun.
As the day drew to a close, I headed to Merriman’s Kapalua for dinner. This beachfront restaurant was the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Savoring fresh, local seafood while the sky transformed into a canvas of fiery hues was the perfect ending to my first day in paradise. I ordered the Macadamia Nut-Crusted Fresh Catch Of The Day, which was to die for! The ambiance was romantic, and the farm-to-table cuisine was exquisite.
After dinner, I was completely wiped out and ready to crash. I headed straight back to my room, eager to get some sleep. Day 1 of my Maui itinerary was complete. Tomorrow was going to be an epic day—I had a snorkeling adventure lined up with Maui Snorkeling Lani Kai, and I couldn’t wait!
Day 2: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town Snorkeling Adventure
Today was all about exploring Maui’s underwater world! About a 30-minute drive to Ma’alaea Harbor from my hotel, I joined Maui Snorkeling’s 5-Hour Morning Tour, which promised encounters with vibrant coral reefs and marine life. It was an early start, but the moment I saw that stunning sunrise, I knew it was totally worth it from the get-go!
Our first stop was the iconic Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic caldera swarming with colorful fish. Once we arrived at Molokini, I jumped into the clear waters and was immediately surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and a variety of tropical fish. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of this unique geological formation was an unforgettable experience!
Next, we headed to Turtle Town, a spot known for its resident Hawaiian green sea turtles. Swimming alongside these gentle creatures was a truly special moment. I was amazed by their grace and beauty. If you love marine life, this is a must-do on your Maui travel itinerary. They also inflated their 25-ft waterslide! I was shocked at how much I loved going down it!
During the 5-hour tour with Maui Snorkeling, they really took care of us! We started the day with a yummy continental breakfast—I had a blueberry muffin and some fresh fruit to kick things off. For lunch, they served up a tasty turkey and cheese sandwich, and as if that wasn’t enough, they surprised us with homemade cookies! Oh, and there were plenty of drinks on board to keep us refreshed the whole time.
I’ll admit, I was a bit nervous about snorkeling since I don’t have much experience, but the captain and crew made sure we were in good hands! They gave us a quick training session and made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable the whole time. The boat and gear were in great condition, too, which definitely put me at ease. And get this—I totally forgot to pack sunscreen, but luckily they had reef-safe sunscreen on board for us to use. Crisis averted!
Back on dry land, I spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing at Makena Beach, also known as Big Beach. This beach is famous for its long, wide stretches of golden sand and stunning views of Molokini in the distance.
For dinner, I went to South Maui Fish Company in Kihei, where I indulged in some of the best poke bowls on the island. Fresh, locally sourced, and packed with flavor, it was the perfect way to end the day. After a 45-minute drive back to my Maui hotel, I was ready for bed! Day 2 of my Maui itinerary was complete!
Day 3: Road to Hana – A Journey Through Paradise
No Maui 5 day itinerary is complete without tackling the legendary Road to Hana, and let me tell you, it’s as magical as everyone says! This winding coastal road is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with every twist and turn revealing something new and awe-inspiring. With my sense of adventure fully awakened, I set off early, knowing there would be plenty to discover.
Twin Falls: The Perfect Start
My first stop was Twin Falls, which is one of the first major attractions along the road. It’s a bit of a hidden gem—just a short, easy hike through tropical greenery leads to a stunning waterfall cascading into refreshing pools. The early morning light shimmered on the water, making it the perfect spot to take a quick dip and wake up to the day’s adventures. Swimming under the falls, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush jungle, felt like stepping into a Hawaiian postcard.
The Garden of Eden Arboretum: Nature’s Masterpiece
After the waterfall swim, I continued the drive and made my way to the Garden of Eden Arboretum. This place was like something out of a fairytale! The diverse plant life was absolutely stunning—lush tropical flowers, towering eucalyptus trees, and even vibrant peacocks wandering the grounds. The panoramic views here are unbeatable, with sweeping vistas of the coastline and waterfalls tucked into the distance. I spent time just soaking in the tranquility, feeling completely immersed in nature. It’s one of those places that makes you stop, take a deep breath, and appreciate how beautiful the world is.
Savoring Local Flavors: Banana Bread and Fresh Smoothies
One of the best parts of the Road to Hana is the roadside food stands scattered along the route. They’re hard to resist! I made sure to stop at a couple of these charming local spots. First up, some fresh-baked banana bread—warm, moist, and bursting with flavor. Seriously, this banana bread is famous for a reason. A little later, I grabbed a fresh fruit smoothie, packed with tropical flavors like mango and pineapple, which was the perfect refreshment as I continued winding through the lush scenery.
Every Turn Reveals a New Vista
What makes the Road to Hana so unique is that every turn offers something new—whether it’s a waterfall cascading down into the jungle, a hidden beach peeking through the trees, or a scenic viewpoint overlooking the sparkling Pacific Ocean. At one point, I stopped at Ke‘anae Peninsula, a rocky outcrop that juts into the ocean. The waves crashing against the jagged lava rocks were mesmerizing, and it was a great place to stretch my legs and take in the wild beauty of Maui’s coastline.
As I continued, I couldn’t resist making quick stops to explore hidden trails, leading to more waterfalls and secret swimming spots. Some of the roadsides are dotted with wild ginger flowers, and the air was filled with their sweet fragrance as I drove.
Arriving in Hana: A Hidden Gem
After an entire day of stopping, exploring, and just soaking in the beauty of the drive, I finally reached the small, charming town of Hana. This quiet little town feels like stepping back in time, far removed from the more touristy areas of Maui. It has a laid-back vibe, with cozy inns, beautiful beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it the perfect place to unwind after a full day of adventure.
I checked into a quaint accommodation, and after freshening up, I took a short stroll to Hana Bay to watch the sunset. The colors lit up the sky in shades of pink and gold, reflecting off the calm waters—an absolutely serene way to end the day. I grabbed a casual dinner from one of the local food trucks and called it an early night, excited for more exploration the next day. Hana’s quiet charm and the incredible journey to get there made it one of the highlights of my entire trip.
Day 4: Hana’s Hidden Gems and the Seven Sacred Pools
Day 4 was dedicated to exploring the treasures around Hana. I started with a hike to the Pools of Ohe’o (Seven Sacred Pools) in Haleakala National Park. The cascading waterfalls and emerald pools were an enchanting sight.
Next, I ventured to Waimoku Falls, a majestic waterfall hidden within a bamboo forest. The Pipiwai Trail leading to the falls was an adventure in itself, winding through lush greenery and across streams.
No trip to Hana is complete without a visit to Waianapanapa State Park. The black sand beach was unlike anything I’d ever seen, its dark volcanic sands contrasting beautifully with the turquoise water.
After a long, adventurous day exploring Hana, I had a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive back to the Hyatt. Even though it was a bit of a trek, I didn’t mind at all because I was looking forward to what was waiting for me that evening—the Drums of the Pacific Lu’au at the hotel! The anticipation kept me going as I cruised along Maui’s winding roads, with the views of the coastline and lush landscapes keeping me company.
The Drums of the Pacific Lu’au is one of the most renowned luaus on the island, and I had heard so many great things about it. I couldn’t wait to experience the lively music, traditional Hawaiian dances, and, of course, the mouthwatering feast. By the time I pulled up to the Hyatt, I was ready to immerse myself in the magic of the luau and celebrate the rich culture of the islands!
No Maui itinerary is complete without a lu’au; the lu’au was everything I had dreamed of and more! From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with a beautiful lei, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. The night was filled with mesmerizing hula performances, captivating Polynesian dances, and a feast of delicious Hawaiian cuisine. The grand finale—a breathtaking three-man fire dance—left the entire audience in awe. It was truly the perfect blend of culture, entertainment, and incredible food, making the night one I’ll never forget!
Day 5: Farewell with a Sunrise Spectacle
My final day in Maui began before dawn. I drove up the slopes of Haleakala volcano, eager to witness the sunrise from its summit. As the first rays of light peeked over the horizon, painting the sky in a symphony of colors, I was awestruck. The panoramic views of the crater and the surrounding island were simply breathtaking.
After descending from the summit, I spent the rest of the morning exploring the unique volcanic landscape of Haleakala National Park. Hiking through the otherworldly terrain, I felt a sense of wonder and gratitude for this incredible island.
As I headed back to the airport, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness. Maui had captured my heart with its beauty, adventure, and Aloha spirit. This Maui itinerary had been the perfect introduction to the island, and I knew I’d be back to explore more of its hidden gems.
Here are a Few Friendly Tips I Picked up During my Trip to Maui for your Maui Itinerary
• Book in Advance: Maui is super popular, so make sure to book your flights, rental car, and accommodations ahead of time—especially if you’re going during the busy season. Trust me, you don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute!
• Pack for Variety: The weather in Maui can surprise you! One minute, you’re soaking up the sun, and the next, you’re at a higher elevation where it’s cooler. Pack layers—having a light jacket for those breezy evenings or exploring places like Haleakalā really comes in handy.
• Embrace the Aloha Spirit: The people of Maui are incredibly warm and welcoming. Seriously, the Aloha spirit is real! Relax, take your time, and soak in the laid-back island vibe. It’ll make your trip so much more enjoyable.
• Respect the Environment: Maui’s natural beauty is something special. Be mindful of the environment—whether it’s using reef-safe sunscreen or sticking to marked trails. It’s important to help keep this paradise as pristine as possible for future visitors!
Conclusion of a Perfect 5 Day Maui Itinerary
Maui offers an endless array of adventures, and five days was just enough to scratch the surface of this incredible island. Whether you’re into outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing on the beach, this Maui itinerary covers a little bit of everything. If you’re looking to plan a Maui 5-day itinerary, I hope my experience inspires your own adventure in paradise. Mahalo for reading!
Best Snorkeling In Maui
Crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and encounters with sea turtles await! Book your snorkeling adventure today and experience the magic of Molokini Crater and Turtle Town!
