Maui, Hawaii’s second-largest island, is a tourist haven known for its gorgeous tropical beaches, unique cultural attractions, and breathtaking natural scenery.
With so much to offer, we have put together this Maui 4-day Itinerary to help your schedule your visit to the island.
Maui 4-day Itinerary
Maui is a blend of urban and upcountry, offering plenty of indoor and outdoor activities for all ages.
Whether flying solo, on a romantic getaway, or seeking the perfect family vacation, Maui is the place to be.
We have divided the best things to do in Maui into two categories, the family and the adults’ option, to help you plan the trip efficiently.
Day 1
On our first day, we visit the island’s most iconic attractions around Central Maui to get a feeling of what the island has to offer before exploring the Haleakala.
Family Option
Indulge in exploring family-friendly cultural and educational sites before breezing the evening away in an all-you-can-do park.
10:00 am – 1:00 pm: Explore Hale Ho’ike’ike at the Bailey House
Maui’s Historical Society runs the museum, and is the best place to learn about the rich history of Maui and ancient Hawaii.
Explore the numerous cultural artifacts and photographs on display while learning about the efforts to conserve and protect the Maui ecosystem.
Bailey House is open only for 3 hours (10–1 pm) on Tuesday and Thursday, so you should get there early.
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Visit Maui Ocean Center
The center is an excellent destination for the whole family for an afternoon adventure.
Witness over 300 species of marine life floating in tidepools and huge tunnel aquariums.
You will also discover the lifestyle of the Hawaiian humpbacks in a 3D virtual experience.
Besides, learn more about the Hawaiian culture by participating in the local programs that run all day long at the Ocean Centre.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Picnic at Kihei’s Kalama Beach Park
Kalama Park is renowned for its incredible beach, glorious sunsets, and reliable surf conditions all year.
Pitch in the large green lawns shaded by palm trees or stroll the beach for quality family time.
Besides, explore the beachfront’s skate park, sports courts, BBQ grills, surf spots, and a playground for younger kids for a wholesome family experience.
Adult Option
Prepare for an energy-intensive day since our activities revolve around Haleakala National Park.
6:00 am – 11:00 am: Go hiking on the Sliding Sands Trail
There is no better place to start outdoor adventures than the Sliding Sands Trail.
The trail to the Haleakala Crater is famous for its terrain resembling Mars’s surface dotted with cinder cones and silverswords, which flower once in their 90-year lifespan.
While the trail is demanding, the spectacular views at the top are worth the sweat. Start the hike early to catch the gleaming sunrise.
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Tour the Haleakala Summit
Can you imagine staring down at a city from a 10,023 feet watchtower?
These are the stunning views of Maui’s landscape from Red Hill, Haleakala’s tallest peak.
The summit is higher than most clouds, a sight to behold at daybreak and a stargazing paradise at night.
Close by is the Haleakala Observatory, a world-class astronomical research center with giant, high-tech telescopes, but it has yet to be opened to the public.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Ride Down The Haleakala Volcano
What goes up must go down!
A bike ride down Hawaii’s highest peak slopes is a thrilling but scenic adventure. The path is well maintained to make descent faster bar for the turns and curves on it.
The sunset over the hilly outcrops of Haleakala, Maui’s Central Valley, and the West Maui Mountains offer the most beautiful sights as you go downhill.
You can also opt to drive if you want something less challenging to close your first day.
Day 2
On day 2, we take a road trip to the town of Hana.
The beauty of the Road to Hana is the astonishingly beautiful landscapes you’ll encounter while on the way.
Leave early to explore most of the scenic attractions along the 130-mile round trip, and remember to bring your camera!
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Family Option
This day promises a flurry of fun for the entire family.
10:00 am – 11:00 am: Enjoy Banana Bread at Aunt Sandy’s
Tasting fresh banana bread is one of the most anticipated activities along the road to Hana.
Located in Keanae Peninsula, Aunt Sandy’s serves delicious, fresh banana bread. The bread only costs $7, and the shop is a convenient stopover for the family.
Further down the road is a scenic lookout area with sweeping oceans and old lava flows along the coast, which you can stop by before getting back on the highway.
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Explore the Ancient Ruins at Waianpanapa State Park
The park has over 30 sites showcasing the traditional dwellings of pre-contact Hawaiians.
This includes; battered shelter walls, caves, house platforms, and burial sites, to mention a few.
The Kihaapiilani Trail offers the best access to most of the ruins making for a fun 2-hour hike for the entire family.
The paved stone path has a smooth incline, so kids will have no problem keeping up with the pace.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Bask at the Black Sand Beach
You have visited white sandy beaches, but what about one with black sand?
Pa’iloa, or Black Sand beach, is one of the most unique beaches you can visit. For one, it has intriguing hidden caves.
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It also has beautiful scenery with black sand from volcanic activity, contrasting the blue ocean and surrounding green plants. Sit back, and bask on the beach as you enjoy the cool breeze.
If you want to go into the water, be wary of rip currents and the quick drop-off as the beach is quite deep.
Adult Option
Embark on a road trip to witness some of Maui’s most incredible attractions and roadside landscapes.
9:00 am – 12:00 pm: Hike Pipiwai Trail
Pipiwai’s 4-mile round trip goes through a dense bamboo forest culminating at the Waimoku Falls.
Diverse scenery, streams, and thunderous waterfalls line up the trail starting with the magnificent banyan tree near the Makahiku Falls.
Start early to avoid crowds, and bring proper hiking shoes with decent traction, as it can get slippery and muddy after a tropical shower.
Pick one
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Tour the Hana Lava Tube
If you are interested in learning about Maui’s volcanic landscape, you’ll find a stop at the Hana Lava Tube intriguing.
The reception provides flashlights, and there are informational signs along the way to guide you along.
Marvel at golden ceilings and lava flow lines that carved out this beauty. Remarkably, for a pitch-black cave, it is free of mosquitoes and bats.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: 45-feet Jump into the Waioka Pond (Venus Pool)
Venus Pool is a hidden gem off mile marker 48 on the Hana Highway.
It is a daredevil’s paradise as you jump off a cliff into the deep blue waters of the Pacific.
While the pool is around 50 feet deep, the circulating water as the waves crash into the boulders gives it an infinity pool appearance.
It is rarely crowded and perfect for a romantic and scenic getaway with your partner.
Day 3
After yesterday’s excursions, today we will do fewer hours on the road exploring sites in and around Kaanapali and Lahaina, both in West Maui.
Family Option
Look forward to enjoying the local culinary cuisines on either side of intriguing educational and marine activities.
10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Check Out the Hawaii Wildlife Discovery Center
The HWDC (Hawaii Wildlife Discovery Center) in Kaanapali showcases the importance of conserving the Hawaiian ecosystem.
Explore the educational and captivating exhibits, including a multi-media immersive theatre which is fans’ favorite.
The kids’ area is an absolute gem with lots of learning aids and fantastic staff. You can also learn about the local culture, learn how to play the ukulele, or take part in weaving classes.
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Dine at Whalers Village
Whalers Village is home to Hula Grill, one of the best restaurants in Maui.
It is a local and tourist favorite as every cuisine served is made from local ingredients.
From the fish and spices to the vegetables and fruits, it is fresh and sourced from the local fishermen and farmers.
After lunch, stroll the quaint oceanfront complex for the magnificent antiques and souvenirs from all over the island.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Explore Maui’s Reefs on a Submarine
If your family wants to stay dry, opt for submarine tours in Lahaina that offer voyages around the tropical reefs.
The Atlantis Submarine tour is the star attraction where you explore a sunken ship that is now home to a variety of marine life.
If you are on a budget, opt for the Reef Dancer Semi-Submarine. It charges $20 to $45 for a 75-minute plunge into the depths of the Pacific Ocean.
Adults Option
Today’s excursions involve high-octane fun, cultural and educational activities.
8:00 am – 11:00 am: Explore the Molokini Volcanic Crater
An early morning boat tour from Lahaina to Molokini crater presents one of the most exciting experiences in Maui.
The crescent-shaped crater is partially submerged, forming an island, and is a popular spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and whale watching during winter.
Besides, explore the area, which doubles as a bird sanctuary and Marine Life Conservation District with over 250 tropical fish species domiciling in the reefs around the 18-acre island.
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Kaanapali Zipline Adventure
If you are an adrenaline junkie, you are in for a treat.
Soar the skies at thrilling speeds while enjoying unmatched views of the remote coastal areas along the Pacific and rugged West Maui Mountains.
View the tropical lagoons, dense jungle, and deep valleys from 150 feet in the air.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Witness the Majestic Lahaina Banyan Tree
After your late lunch, head to the Lahaina courthouse to see this iconic banyan tree. It is impossible to miss since it spans an entire city block.
Native to India, this fig tree is one of the largest banyans in the world and the oldest in Maui (150 years).
Breeze the evening away in its massive shade or explore the local exhibitions that regularly happen underneath the tree.
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Attend a Luau at Old Lahaina
Whatever you choose to do, don’t leave the city before attending this oceanfront Luau.
Luau is an ancient Hawaiian celebratory feast featuring live music and traditional cuisine with many outdoor activities and entertainment.
Join in on the hula dances and storytelling sessions or sit back and watch the gorgeous Maui sunset as you gulp down on a tropical beverage.
Day 4
To wind up our 4-day stay in Maui, we explore easily accessible attractions and engage in energy-efficient activities to minimize exhaustion on the return journey.
Family Option
Take one last dip into the Pacific Ocean before heading to the malls for window shopping and to pick up some souvenirs.
9:00 am – 11:00 am: Boat Ride at Maalaea Harbour
The harbor is a popular departure point for exciting ocean rides around the island’s coastline. It is relatively slow in the morning, and boat rides cost significantly less.
Explore the local marine life and the Kealia Pond Sanctuary, which has a bustling population of endemic Hawaiian and migratory Eurasian bird species.
If you are visiting during winter, you can whale watch from a chartered boat or right from the boardwalk on the shore.
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Snorkel at Coral Gardens
The garden in Wailuku is an excellent snorkeling destination for the family, with cliffs protecting the area against harsh winds.
The waters are calmer and clear (40 feet of visibility), so even children can confidently explore the coral reefs with hawk-eyed guides on standby.
Green sea turtles and brightly-colored fish are abundant in these reefs adding to the exhilarating experience for your kids.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Go Shopping at Queen Kaahumanu Centre
QKC is Maui’s most prominent shopping center, with over 100 outlets.
Come prepared since you will shop till you drop into the shopping area teeming with cute boutiques.
Besides the local stores, national luxury outlets such as Victoria’s Secret and Macy’s are also in the mall.
If you have some time to spare before your flight, take the family to a movie or community event in the theatre.
Adult Option
Visit the lush golfing fairways, and check in on the turtles before having a bird’s eye view of the island.
9:00 am – 11:00 am: Play Golf at Kapalua Plantation Course
While Maui has 14 golf courses, the Kapalua stands tallest. The 18-hole golf course hosts the PGA Tour’s Sentry Tournament of Champions each January.
Like the elite golfers, you get to experience the beautiful but challenging course on the backdrop of Kapalua Bay and the West Maui Mountains.
It has a scenic view, but gusty breezes from the sea, especially in the afternoon, can mess up your shots.
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Swim with Sea Turtles at Turtle Town
The town along Maluaka Beach draws its name from the abundance of Hawaiian green sea turtles in the area.
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Swim amongst the endangered turtle species, which is a one-of-a-kind experience.
The water is relatively calm, with gorgeous coral reefs making it a hotspot for snorkeling enthusiasts.
Besides, the beach is rarely crowded and is perfect if couples are in the mood for a beach stroll.
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Take a Helicopter Tour of the Island
If you’re traveling with your significant other, there is no better way to end your visit to Maui.
A helicopter tour over the island offers a romantic and picturesque experience to last a lifetime.
Enjoy panoramic views of the lush green upcountry, tropical rainforest, cascading waterfalls, and scenic shorelines.
If you are brave enough, try the doors-off helicopter tours or jaw-breaking cliffside landings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apart from knowing which places to visit, it is also important to know the best time to visit the island and how to get around it.
How To Get Around Maui
Public transportation and taxis work best for nearby attractions. With the places spread out across the island, you’ll need a car to get around without sticking to a fixed schedule.
If you are a first-time visitor, opt for a local adventure company to have a unique Maui experience. Most guides speak English and know the best places to visit and ideal routes to get to your attractions.
What’s The Best Month To Visit Maui?
April to May and September to November are the best months to visit Maui. The weather is pleasant, the sea calmer, and the rates are affordable.
While the summer (June to August) offers the best temperatures and exhilarating summer events, the beaches and accommodations are crowded. The winter months are best for whale and bird watching, but brace for high rates.
Final Thoughts
Maui is a truly unique city that should be on your Hawaii bucket list. This Maui 4-day itinerary will help you have an amazing time.
It is meant to suit everyone, whether you want to sunbathe on a tropical beach, surf the Pacific, or explore mother nature on a laid-back getaway.
