Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
Beautiful Maui’s Best Beaches, Waterfalls, Eats and Things to Do
47
items Maui, where I’m from, is full of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and a vibe that’s all its own. I’m excited to share some of my favorite places and experiences from this island. Whether you're lounging on the pristine beaches, diving into loca...
Sections
5
Maui Beaches
Best places to grab a bite while exploring Maui
I ALWAYS go Chasing Waterfalls
Best shopping in Maui
Maui Adventures: Unforgettable Things to Do
Maui Beaches
Maui is a true island paradise with its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and cute towns
Map of Maui's Beaches
Maui Top 25+ Beaches To Visit + Map & Directions
Makena Beach, also known as "Big Beach," is one of Maui’s most beautiful, unspoiled stretches of sand. With its golden sands, crystal-clear water, and stunning views, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing day in the sun. It’s less crowded than other b...
Makena Beach State Park (Big Beach) Maui - Go Hawaii
Baldwin Beach is a hidden gem on Maui, known for its peaceful, wide stretch of sand and calm waters perfect for swimming and picnicking. The scenery is beautiful, with the lush backdrop of West Maui mountains, and it’s often less crowded, giving you ...
HA Baldwin Beach Park
Baby Beach in Maui is a calm, shallow beach perfect for little ones or anyone looking to relax by the water. The gentle waves and protective reef create a safe, peaceful swimming area, making it a great spot for families.
Baby Beach
Hookipa Beach is one of those spots where you can just relax and take in the natural beauty. It’s famous for great surf, but even if you’re not into that, it’s a wonderful place to watch the waves and enjoy the view. The sunsets here are absolutely g...
Ho'okipa Beach Park
Black Sands Beach in Maui is such a unique spot! The dark volcanic sand contrasts so beautifully with the turquoise water—it’s really something to see. If you do visit, just a reminder to be mindful of the land and respect the environment. It's a sac...
Honokalani Black Sand Beach
Red Sands Beach is one of my all-time favorites! I’ve been going there since I was a kid, and it always feels like a little slice of paradise. The reddish sand and secluded vibe make it super special, and it was one of those hidden gems that not too ...
Red Sand Beach - Kaihalulu Beach
Great place to windsurf, with beautiful views and lots of shade. Be careful on really windy days because the sand starts blowing hard.
Spreckelsville Beach | Maui Guidebook
One of my favorite beaches on Maui! The sand is super soft, the water is gorgeous, and there’s plenty of space to relax. It’s a great spot for swimming, snorkeling (especially near Black Rock), or just hanging out and enjoying the view.
Kaanapali Beach
Spent so much time here as a kid. The waves are big enough to have fun, but not too big for the average person to handle
Keawakapu Beach
A quiet, more hidden spot if you’re looking to escape the crowds. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but that’s what makes it special. The waves can be strong, so it’s more of a place to enjoy the scenery than to swim, but it’s definitely a peaceful spo...
The Maui Expert — Punalau Beach
Best places to grab a bite while exploring Maui
Maui has so many good places to eat! Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, a cozy café vibe, or just a quick bite before the beach, these are some of my favorites. Definitely worth checking out!
If you’re ever in Paia, you have to check out Mama’s Fish House! The seafood is incredible, and the ocean view makes it even better. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed, tasty meal with a local vibe. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Mama's Fish House
The Fish Market is perfect for grabbing a fresh seafood lunch to take on your road to Hana! Quick, tasty, and the fish is always fresh—perfect for a little roadside picnic.
Paia Fish Market Restaurant
This spot is a MUST if you’re in Kahului! Chef Sheldon Simeon (from Top Chef) runs it, and their mochiko chicken is seriously unreal. Super casual, just grab and go, but SO good. The garlic noodles are another fave—just get there early because they s...
Tin Roof Maui
If you’re craving pizza, Flatbread is the place! They make wood-fired pies with fresh, local ingredients, and it’s super chill. Perfect spot to grab a bite after exploring the town.
Flatbread Company
If you’re in the mood for some yummy Mediterranean food, Café des Amis is the spot. Their crepes and falafel are sooo good, and the vibe is super chill.
Café des Amis
A cozy spot with delicious Italian dishes, from fresh pasta to wood-fired pizzas. It’s a great place for a relaxed meal with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Casanova Italian Restaurant
If you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, Makawao Steakhouse is the place to go. They serve up juicy steaks and seafood, and it’s a great spot for a casual dinner after exploring the area.
Makawao Public House
A cozy little coffee shop where you can grab a great cup of coffee, enjoy a pastry, or hang out for a bit. It’s a nice chill spot to take a break.
Espresso Mafia
This place is great for a chill meal. They’ve got awesome pizzas, fresh fish, and the Mai Tai is definitely a standout. It’s the kind of spot you go for a relaxed vibe and good food. Definitely worth checking out if you’re in Wailea!
Monkeypod Kitchen
If you’re in the mood for something a bit fancier with amazing views, Spago’s the place. The food is top-notch, and the vibe is perfect for a nice night out. It’s at the Four Seasons, so you know the setting’s gorgeous!
Spago
If you’re craving an açaí bowl, this is the place! They serve them in a pineapple half, and it’s basically the most refreshing thing ever. The homemade açaí is next level, and everything’s fresh and local—perfect for a snack after the beach! Just a h...
Acai & Fruit Bowls, Tropical Sorbet | Maui Fruit Ninja | Lahaina, HI
This place is GORGEOUS. It’s on a plantation, so you get amazing views with your meal. The fish dishes here are a solid bet, and the macadamia nut-crusted mahi mahi is the way to go. If you want a nice dinner spot that’s not crazy expensive, this is ...
Cafe O'lei At The Plantation
Legit some of the best tacos on the island. Super fresh ingredients, and their al pastor tacos are a must-try. It’s just a tiny takeout spot, but SO worth it if you’re craving good Mexican food on Maui.
Tight Tacos Maui (@tighttacosmaui) - Instagram
If you can’t decide what you’re in the mood for, hit up this food truck park in Lahaina. There’s a mix of everything—poke, barbecue, Thai food—you name it. The portions are solid, and it’s a great spot to grab food after a beach day!
Guide to the Kaanapali Lower Honoapiilani Food Truck Park
I ALWAYS go Chasing Waterfalls
Maui has some seriously dreamy waterfalls, and chasing them is half the fun! Whether it’s a quick stop off the road or a little hike to something magical, these are some of my favorites. Just remember to respect the land and leave it as beautiful as ...
A beautiful scenic waterfall with a swimming hole.
Wailua Falls
So many core childhood memories here. The rope swing, climbing up the stream with my sister as far as we could. Finding natures “water slides” as we went. The people who bought the land have a wonderful farm stand, so grab a refreshment before you hi...
Twin Falls Farm Stand
This place is special….or it used to be. We used to camp at the field above. It is now paved with bathrooms and tours 💔. But these waterfalls have one swimming hole after another leading right into the ocean. Nature is amazing.
‘Ohe‘o Gulch
Beautiful waterfall on the way to Hana
Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside Park | Tips for the Road to Hana - Maui …
A dreamy and lush swimming spot.
Upper Waikani Falls | Also known as Three Bears Waterfalls in ...
Best shopping in Maui
Maui has so many cute boutiques and fun shops to explore! Whether you’re looking for locally made goodies, beachy fashion, or unique finds, these are some of my favorites.
The cutest little boutique in upcountry Maui with a wide range of apparel, gifts, and jewelry.
Holiday & Company Maui
Such a cute little boutique in Paia! They have a great mix of clothing, jewelry, and unique finds. Perfect place to browse if you’re looking for something stylish or a fun souvenir.
Nuage Bleu
Such a cute boutique in Makawao! They have a great mix of stylish, effortless pieces, plus some really pretty jewelry and accessories. It’s the kind of place where you walk in just to browse and end up finding something you love.
pink by nature
Such a cool little shop in Wailuku! They have the cutest vintage-inspired pieces, plus lots of locally made jewelry, home goods, and gifts. It’s one of those places where you pop in just to look and end up leaving with something unique. Definitely wo...
Paradise Now Clothing
If you’re in the Wailea area and want to do a little shopping (or just grab some good food), this place is perfect. It’s a mix of high-end stores (think Gucci and Tiffany) and more local shops with cute beachy stuff. Even if you’re just window shoppi...
Directory - The Shops at Wailea
This one’s a gem! Local art, jewelry, and home goods—it’s perfect for finding unique gifts or something cool to take home
Maui Hands
If you want some stylish resort wear or accessories, this place has you covered. Think high-quality Hawaiian prints and comfy beachy vibes.
Tori Richard
Oh, you have to check out Biasa Rose! It’s this super cute boutique with unique, stylish clothing and accessories. You’ll find a mix of boho and beachy vibes, plus some really fun, one-of-a-kind pieces. Perfect for picking up something special, wheth...
Biasa Rose Boutique
If you’re into high-end, trendy pieces. It’s a boutique with a mix of luxury resort wear, accessories, and cool finds that’ll make you feel like you’re living the island dream. Definitely a place to grab something chic and special for your Maui wardr...
The Monarch Collective Maui
Maui Adventures: Unforgettable Things to Do
Looking for adventure? Watch the sunrise from Haleakalā, snorkel at Molokini Crater, or zipline through lush landscapes. In winter, take a whale-watching tour, or for epic views year-round, try a helicopter tour over Maui’s stunning cliffs and valley...
Waking up at 3 AM is rough, but watching the sun rise above the clouds? Totally worth it. The summit feels otherworldly—like you’ve landed on Mars with its red and black volcanic rock. It gets cold up there, so bring layers! And don’t skip the visito...
Haleakalā National Park
Seeing humpback whales up close is unreal! If you’re here from December to April, this is a must. One top-rated option is Ultimate Whale Watch & Snorkel; their smaller boats get you closer to the action, and their guides are super knowledgeable.
Ultimate Whale Watch
This place feels straight out of a movie. As you walk through the towering bamboo, the wind makes the stalks clatter together, almost like nature’s own wind chime. The trail itself is gorgeous, leading you over footbridges and through lush scenery be...
Pipiwai Trail
Because fresh pineapple in Hawaii just hits different! You get to see how they’re grown and taste them straight from the farm.
Maui Pineapple Tour
A super cool underground cave formed by lava—bring a flashlight and prepare for total darkness!
Hana Lava Tube
Some of the clearest water and best snorkeling ever. The marine life is insane, and since it’s a crater, the water stays super calm. If you’re into snorkeling, this is a no-brainer.
Molokini Crater Snorkeling Guide in Maui, Hawaii - 2025
If you want to zip over lush valleys with crazy ocean views, Kapalua Ziplines is the way to go. Their side-by-side ziplining is fun if you want to race someone! It’s such a rush flying over Maui’s landscape.
Kapalua Ziplines
If you want to see parts of Maui you can’t get to by car, Air Maui Helicopter Tours is incredible. They even have doors-off flights (which is insane but so cool) where you can get the best views of waterfalls, cliffs, and the coastline.
Air Maui Helicopter Tours