4 Days in Maui

Question

Hi. We are planning on visiting Maui and the Big Island. This is what we are considering for our Itinerary.: Day 1 Fly in to Maui, check in to hotel and enjoy the beach. Day 2 Haleakala Sunrise Volcano tour, Day 3: Open, ? snorkeling tour, ?see Sea Turtles Day4 Drive to Road to Hana and stay overnight, Day 5 Drive back Road to Hana , visit Waianapanapa State Park. Does this sound like a good itenerary? And where would you recommend snorkeling? Day 6. Fly to the Big Island. Thanks, Maureen

Answer

Your itinerary for Maui sounds fantastic! You've already packed in many of the island's highlights, so you're on the right track. I’ll go over your itinerary with some suggestions to make sure you don’t miss any must-see spots and provide some tips for snorkeling and other activities.

Day 1: Arrival in Maui

Arriving in Maui and getting settled at your hotel sounds like a great way to start. Depending on the time you arrive, it’s good to enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of Maui’s stunning beaches, such as Wailea Beach, Kaanapali Beach, or Makena Beach. All these are great for a casual beach day, with options for swimming, lounging, or grabbing some local food.

Day 2: Haleakalā Sunrise Volcano Tour

The sunrise at Haleakalā Crater is an unforgettable experience, so definitely don’t miss this. It’s a bit of an early start (you’ll need to leave your hotel before dawn), but the view from the summit is worth it. I recommend booking a guided tour for the Haleakalā sunrise, as they can provide you with insights about the park and its unique environment. If you plan on hiking after the sunrise, the Sliding Sands Trail is a great option to explore the crater floor.

Day 3: Snorkeling and Sea Turtles

For a day of snorkeling, I’d recommend heading to either Molokini Crater or Honolua Bay:

Molokini Crater: A crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic caldera that offers clear water and abundant marine life, including sea turtles. There are plenty of boat tours that will take you out to Molokini, and it's a must-do for snorkeling.
Honolua Bay: This marine preserve is another great snorkeling spot, known for its clear water and sea turtles. It’s a more secluded spot compared to Molokini but can be just as rewarding, especially for those looking for a quieter experience.

Both spots are fantastic for snorkeling, so you could either choose one of them or even do a combination if you have the time. If you’re specifically interested in seeing sea turtles, both locations are known for turtle sightings.

Day 4: Road to Hana

Driving the Road to Hana is one of Maui’s most iconic experiences, and it’s great that you’re planning to spend the night in Hana. This gives you more time to explore without rushing. Some key stops along the way include:

Twin Falls: A great place for a quick hike to see some beautiful waterfalls.
Wailua Falls: A picturesque waterfall right off the road.
Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa State Park: A must-see stop to enjoy the unique volcanic black sand and stunning coastal views.

On the way back the next day, you can visit Waianapanapa State Park (if you didn’t stop already) and take time to explore the beautiful sea arches, caves, and tide pools. You can also hike the short coastal trail here for some great views.

Day 5: Drive back on the Road to Hana

As you return from Hana, make sure to stop at any of the waterfalls or beaches you missed on the way in. You can also take the scenic detour to Ke'anae Peninsula and explore the rugged coastline and taro fields there. The drive back can take some time, so plan on stopping for breaks along the way.

Day 6: Fly to the Big Island

Your day of travel to the Big Island will probably be a bit of a rest day after all the activity in Maui. But if you have time before your flight, you might want to explore the shops or relax at the beach before heading to the airport.

Additional Snorkeling Recommendations: While you’ve got great snorkeling options planned, if you’re looking for even more spots, consider these:

Black Rock Beach (Kaanapali): Excellent for snorkeling, especially in the mornings when the waters are calm. It’s also a great spot for seeing turtles.
La Perouse Bay (South Maui): Known for its crystal-clear waters, this area is great for snorkelers looking for a quiet spot to see vibrant fish and sea turtles.

General Tips:

Be sure to wear sunscreen (reef-safe) and bring water shoes for rocky areas during your snorkel adventures.
If you’re not comfortable with long drives, you might consider breaking up the Hana trip over two days and taking a tour.
Make sure to plan for meals while on the Road to Hana – options are limited, so pack snacks or lunch ahead of time.

It sounds like you’ve planned a really exciting trip! This itinerary strikes a great balance of outdoor adventure, nature, and relaxation. Enjoy your time on Maui and the Big Island!

4 Days in Maui

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