Our Favorite Things in Maui for a Blissful Week in Paradise

Planning a trip to Maui? In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite places to stay, must-do activities like biking down a volcano and driving the Road to Hana, plus the best spots to eat along the way. From hidden waterfalls to unforgettable meals, this guide will help you make the most of your time on the island.

If Maui has been sitting on your travel bucket list… this is your sign.

We just got back from a recent trip, and while Hawaii always lives up to the hype, this one came with a LOT of rain. But even with a few unexpected indoor days, we still packed in so many highlights that are 100% worth sharing.

Whether you’re planning your trip now or just dreaming for later, here’s everything we loved!

Where We Stayed in Maui

Grand Wailea Maui

This was our first time staying at a resort in Maui—and honestly, it changed the experience in the best way.

We stayed in the Ho‘olei Villas, and here’s what stood out:

  • Full villa setup (think ~3,000 sq ft, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms)

  • Private lanai with ocean views

  • Access to a quieter, private pool + gym

  • Easy ~5-minute walk to the beach

Resort highlights:

  • Lazy river + water slides (yes, adults will love it too)

  • Tons of pools

  • Beachfront access

  • Multiple on-site restaurants

Good to know:

  • The Wailea area is beautifully manicured and walkable

  • Nearby shopping ranges from high-end (Gucci, Louis Vuitton) to casual (Lululemon, ABC Store)

  • Best for: Families, groups, or anyone wanting a mix of relaxation + convenience

Getting Around Maui

You’ll want a rental car. Maui is spread out, and many of the best experiences (like the Road to Hana) require driving.

Best Things to Do in Maui

Bike Down a Volcano

We went on a Haleakalā bike tour with Maui Sunriders (this was our third time… so that says something).

What it’s like:

  • Shuttle ride up the volcano

  • Coast down with insane views (no heavy pedaling)

  • Takes ~3–4 hours total

  • Great for ages ~12+ and confident riders

Why it’s worth it:

  • Unique experience you won’t get many places

  • Scenic, fun, and surprisingly easy

Drive the Road to Hana

It’s winding, long, and full of curves… and YES, it’s worth it! Tip: Start early (around 7 AM) to beat crowds.

If you don’t want to drive, tours are available (~$250/person), but we recommend doing it yourself if you can.

Our Favorite Stops:

📍 Mile 2 – Twin Falls

  • ~2-mile roundtrip hike

  • Swim under a waterfall 

  • 3 different waterfalls (the one at the end is by far the best)

  • Bring water shoes! This makes switching between hiking and swimming so much easier.

📍 Mile 16 – Aunt Sandy’s Banana Bread

  • Famous for a reason

  • Go early before they sell out

📍 Mile 16 – Ke‘Anae Point

  • Beautiful ocean views + lava rock

  • Public bathrooms make for a good pit stop 

📍 Mile 22.5 – Pua’a Ka’a Falls

  • Super short hike (0.1 miles)

  • Perfect swimming hole

  • Often less crowded

📍 Mile 27.5 – Coconut Joe’s

  • Vegan coconut milk ice cream

  • Try passion fruit + coconut combo

📍 Mile 31 – Hana Farms

  • Great pizza + outdoor seating

  • Unique banana bread flavors

📍 Mile 42 – Pipiwai Trail (Haleakalā National Park)

  • 4-mile hike through bamboo forest

  • Ends at a waterfall

  • One of the most stunning hikes on the island

Once you’re almost back to Paia, there’s a quick hidden gem to stop at!

📍 Ho’okipa Beach

  • At first glance, it looks like rocks… But look closer, it’s covered in sea turtles!

Where to Eat in Maui

Mama's Fish House

  • Book this months in advance (we booked 6 months ahead).

  • Oceanfront setting with palm trees + tiki torches

  • Incredible seafood (the curry was our favorite)

  • One of the most iconic dining experiences in Maui

Paia Fish Market

  • Best blackened mahi mahi

  • Super fresh, fast, casual

  • Multiple locations across Hawaii

Da Kitchen

  • Classic Hawaiian plates

  • Massive portions

  • Try kalua pork and teriyaki chicken


Resort Dining Highlights

Nobu Maui

  • 10/10 experience

  • Even if you think you don’t like raw fish, try it here!

  • Don’t skip the:

    • Black cod

    • Crispy onion dishes

    • Smoked purple sweet potatoes (exclusive to this location)

HUMUHUMUNUKUNUKUĀPUA'A

  • Elevated Hawaiian dining

  • Built over a lagoon with fish swimming below

  • Unique + beautiful setting

Loulu

  • Easy to-go options

  • Good pizza and burgers (for a quick stop)

  • Try the viral Love and Lava soft serve sundae! See us try it 👀

Easy Hikes in Maui

Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk

  • ~3 miles roundtrip

  • Paved + easy

  • Runs along the ocean past resorts

  • Perfect for morning walks

Makamakaole Stream Trail

  • Cross streams ~13 times

  • Ends at a waterfall

  • Wear water-friendly shoes

Waihee Ridge Trail (Advanced)

  • ~4 miles, 1,500 ft elevation

  • Panoramic ridge views

  • On our list for next time

Final Tips for Maui

  • Expect weather shifts (especially in March)

  • Pack:

    • Water shoes

    • Swimsuit for waterfall stops

    • Light rain layer

  • Use apps like AllTrails to find hikes + recent conditions

Lisa AndrewsComment