How to plan a trip to Maui?
Shimmering, pearlesque beaches, ancient sacred valleys and rugged lava landscapes of the world’s largest dormant volcano are just some of the reasons why Maui has been voted the ‘Best Island’ by the readers of Conde Nast Traveller for the past two decades. Although Maui is the second largest Hawaiian island in the chain, it is home to a smaller population that expected, adding to its irresistible charm. Known as the ‘Valley Isle’, the island is dotted with quaint towns, eclectic artist communities, and local favorites that have been around for generations. Savour local homemade delicacies in Wailuku or enjoy a taste of Maui’s famed farm-to-table cuisine in Lahaina as you watch humpback whales breach in the bay.
Home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Maui’s west coast is fringed with golden, sandy beaches and gin-clear waters where snorkeling and diving the colorful reefs is the order of the day, while the rugged east coast boasts world-class conditions for anything that involves a wave. Kayak with dolphins, snorkel with sea turtles, or fly along warm sea breezes on a windsurfer and end the day with a spectacular sunset on the beaches of Haleakala.
Weather in Maui during September to November
The best time to visit Maui is between September and November, when the shoulder seasons of spring and fall produce magnificent weather – pleasant and mild, with bright, sunny skies and less crowds than in the summer and winter months. The waters are slightly cooler at this time too, making for beautiful open water swimming, snorkelling and diving, and prices are considerably cheaper than in the high season of summer and winter, when crowds flock to the shores to surf.
What clothes to pack for Maui during September, October and November
- Casual clothing for daytime sightseeing, e.g. shorts, T-shirts, sundresses, skirts.
- Semi-casual ‘resort wear’ for dinners – Men can wear dress-shorts or khaki trousers and a collared shirt, while ladies can wear sun dresses, Capri pants, dress shorts, skirts, etc.
- Lightweight long pants (preferably quick-drying) for activities, such as hiking, horse-back riding, zip lining etc.
- A light jacket or sweater for the evenings as it can sometimes become cool.
- A lightweight, waterproof jacket in case it rains.
- At least two swimsuits so that you always have a dry one to wear.
- Swimsuit cover-up, such as a sarong for ladies and loose shirt for men.
- Flip-flops for beach and pool wear and hiking boots for outdoor activities.
- Sunglasses, ideally polarized for the glare off the ocean.
- Hat and/or visor, sunscreen, camera, binoculars
Things to see and do in Maui
The magical island of Maui has myriad attractions to enjoy, ranging from beautiful beaches with pristine waters, hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, historic and cultural sites and parks, and a fantastic Ocean Center and Aquarium.
Maui’s Top Ten Attractions
1. Haleakala National Park- Home to the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala’s summit stands more than 10,000 feet above sea level and sees more than a million tourists annually.
2. Road to Hana– The Road to Hana is one of the best ways to see and experience the island, with popular attractions along the way, Wainapanapa State Park, Twin Falls, Black Sand Beach, the Garden of Eden, the Bamboo Forest, and the Seven Sacred Pools.
3. Old Lahaina Luau- This ancient Hawaiian tradition is one of the most popular things to do on Maui. Enjoy award-winning hula and fire-dancing skills, whilst feasting on Hawaiian specialties.
4. Kaanapali Beach- Stretching for three miles across the island’s northwest coast, Kaanapali Beach is one of Maui’s most popular beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkel ling.
5. Waianapanapa State Park- Translating to “glistening waters” in Hawaiian, Waianapanapa State Park is not only famous for its beautiful waters, but for its jet black volcanic sands, which fringe the shoreline – a stark contrast to the azure waters and verdant jungles.
6. Ho’okipa Beach Park- Ho’okipa Beach Park is one of the most famous beaches in Hawaii with a world-renowned reputation for having some of the best conditions for professional surfing and windsurfing.
7. Iao Valley State Park- Home to one of Maui’s most distinct natural and historical landmarks, the 1,200-foot high “Iao Needle,” Iao Valley State Park encompasses 4,000 acres are lush rain forest and tropical vegetation.
8. Banyan Tree Park- This park is home to the 137-year old Lahaina’s Banyan Tree, which spreads across an almost complete 1-acre of downtown Lahaina.
9. Maui Ocean Center– Explore the wonders of the deep at the Maui Ocean Center, which is home to a plethora of sea creatures, from hundreds of fish species to sharks, turtles and more.
10. Ohe’o Gulch Pools– The Ohe’o Gulch Pools, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools, is an area of extreme natural beauty, with a network of waterfalls and crystal clear pools cascading from East Maui Mountain valleys to the blue Pacific Ocean coastline.
