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What's your MUST DO and your MUST NOT DO on Maui?

There were some ruffled feathers recently over an often polarizing place: Mama's Fish House. For the 12 plus years I've been posting here, any time Mama's gets mentioned there often follows a "do or don't" string of strong opinions. Sometimes, I'm one of them, LOL.

Like I quoted Teri S saying, "Isn't it great we don't all like the same things?" So I thought it would be fun to post a thread asking people for their top "must do" and top "must NOT do" items on Maui. Maybe two or three of each?

I know that newbies can feel so overwhelmed with all the tours, activities, drives, restaurants, shops and more-not to mention feel like Maui is all about money. Maybe by people posting their favs and not favs, we can help them enjoy Maui more!

I'll start:

Must do:

1. Haleakala, preferably in the early morning to avoid crowds, reservations, and enjoy the scenery in daylight.

2. Sunset facing due West from my house (ok, cheating a little, LOL)--or anywhere facing due West.

3. A helicopter tour over the West Maui Mountains and Moloka'i.

Must NOT do:

1. The Road to Hana.

2. A commercial luau.

3. A snorkel trip to Molokini.

What are yours?

Have fun and live aloha!

SW

Such a fun idea for a thread! Maui truly offers so much to explore, and everyone has their own take on what’s worth doing (or avoiding). I’ll share my “must do” and “must not do” picks, though I totally agree with Teri S. — what makes it fun is that everyone’s experiences differ!

Must Do:

  • 1. Sunrise at Haleakalā: This is hands down one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have on Maui. The early morning drive up to the summit is magical, especially with the sunrise painting the sky in every color imaginable. The cool morning air and the view from the top are worth every early wake-up call.
  • 2. The beaches of Wailea: Wailea has some of the most gorgeous beaches on the island, with soft sand and clear water. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing by the shore. It’s less crowded than the beaches in Kaanapali and Lahaina, so you get that peaceful, serene vibe.
  • 3. Explore Upcountry Maui: Whether it’s a visit to the Kula Botanical Garden, the surfing goats at O'o Farm, or the stunning panoramic views from the slopes of Haleakalā, Upcountry offers a totally different side of Maui. It’s less touristy, with charming towns like Makawao, where you can experience a more laid-back, authentic vibe.

Must NOT Do:

  • 1. Drive the Road to Hana without a plan: The Road to Hana is stunning, but it’s also long, winding, and can be a bit exhausting if you don’t plan well. It's not so much the road itself but the unpredictability of stops, crowds, and the time it takes to complete the journey. If you want to enjoy it, do some research ahead of time, choose a few key stops, and avoid rushing the trip.
  • 2. Resort restaurants with high markups: While there are some amazing dining experiences at high-end resorts, don’t fall for the trap of over-priced, underwhelming food. Many resort restaurants have inflated prices for average meals, and they don’t always deliver the authentic local flavors. Consider venturing into local spots instead.
  • 3. Get caught in a tourist trap in Lahaina: Lahaina is a historic town with plenty to offer, but it can also be filled with high-priced shops selling souvenirs that aren’t really reflective of Maui’s culture. Avoid the gimmicky shops and focus on the genuine local art galleries, restaurants, or the historic sites like the Baldwin Home Museum.

Honorable Mentions (if you have time):

  • Moloka’i Day Trip: If you’re up for an adventure, a trip to Moloka’i is like stepping back in time. The island is much quieter, with untouched landscapes and a strong sense of Hawaiian culture. It’s a peaceful escape if you want something slower-paced.
  • Snorkel the Lanai Cathedrals: For an alternative to Molokini, the Lanai Cathedrals are incredible. It's a bit of a trek, but the underwater lava formations, tunnels, and crystal-clear waters are worth the effort.

Maui is a place where you can create memories based on your own vibe. Whether it’s adventuring up the volcano or chilling at a hidden beach, it’s all about finding what resonates with you. Aloha!

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