Looking into Haleakalā crater, Maui

No. 11 25 Great Islands to Visit 2026

Maui

Hawaii, United States

Volcanic summit sunrises, the Road to Hana and whales in winter.

Photo: Robot rover, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands. Haleakalā, a huge dormant volcano, rises above the island's east side, and the west side has beaches and resort areas.

Visitors come for beaches, snorkelling, the winding Road to Hana and, in winter, humpback whale watching. Be respectful of local communities and follow any access rules.

Best time to visit

April to May and September to November have pleasant weather and fewer crowds. December to April is whale season.

Highlights

  • 1

    Haleakalā National Park

    The summit crater, famous at sunrise; sunrise entry needs a reservation.

  • 2

    Road to Hana

    A winding coastal road of waterfalls, bridges and rainforest.

  • 3

    Molokini

    A crescent-shaped crater offshore, visited on snorkel trips.

  • 4

    Whale watching

    Humpback whales visit from roughly December to April.

  • 5

    ʻĪao Valley

    A green valley with the ʻĪao Needle rock.

Getting there

Kahului Airport (OGG) has flights from the US mainland and Honolulu. A car is the easiest way to get around.

Practical tips

Opening & tickets
Opening times, ticket rules and transport timetables change, so check official information before you go.
Time needed
Five days to a week.

Official information: Go Hawaii: Maui (official tourism website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.

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