This week, we’re taking you to Maui, Hawaii. Ready to feel the island breeze, dip your toes into turquoise water, and explore jaw-dropping natural beauty?

Planning an international trip can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be.

How?

You just need a plan for your plan.

It’s important to prepare with enough time for things like:

Welcome to Maui, one of Hawaii’s most beloved islands…where epic road trips, volcanic sunrises, and world-class beaches await.

We were inspired here because its landscapes felt like a dream brought to life…from the beauty of Haleakalā to waterfalls hidden deep along the Road to Hana.

The island’s deep-rooted Hawaiian culture, warm aloha spirit, and connection to nature gave us the chance to appreciate life's simple beauty. Maui reminds you to slow down and truly be present whether you’re whale watching or walking barefoot on golden sand.

This 64-mile coastal drive is legendary for a reason. The Road to Hana features:

Start early, drive slow, and stop often because the adventure is in the journey, not the destination. You will need to allow an entire day for this road trip so you can take the time to stop and enjoy the sites along the way.

🗻 Haleakalā National Park
Standing at over 10,000 feet (3,055 meters) above sea level, the summit of Haleakalā ("House of the Sun") offers breathtaking sunrises above a sea of clouds.

*This experience is very popular. Reservations are required for sunrise access.

🐠 Molokini Crater & Turtle Town
Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of this crescent-shaped volcanic crater, or swim alongside sea turtles in one of Maui’s most beloved snorkeling spots.

🌊 Kaanapali & Napili Bay
These areas offer gorgeous beaches, luxury resorts, and incredible sunset views along the west coast.

Kaanapali Beach is also great for paddleboarding and beachside dining.

🌆 Historic Lahaina Town
While parts of Lahaina are recovering from the wildfires, the spirit of this town remains strong.

Check local guidance and consider supporting nearby areas or local businesses still operating.

🌴 Iao Valley State Monument
A quick drive from Kahului, this lush valley is home to the famous Iao Needle, a towering green spire surrounded by rainforest. Great for a short, peaceful hike.

🍍 Upcountry Maui
Explore farms, art studios, and panoramic views on the slopes of Haleakalā.

Don’t miss a visit to Surfing Goat Dairy, a working goat dairy, or MauiWine for something truly unique.

📅 Best Time to Go:

It all depends on what you want.

April–June or September–November for fewer crowds and perfect weather.

Whale watching season takes place between November-May, which is incredible. Humpback whales migrate here for the warmer months.

Boat tours will give you the chance to spot these majestic creatures.

The best way to get to Maui is by flying into Kahului Airport (OGG), which is the island’s main airport and receives direct flights from major cities on the U.S. mainland like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, and Phoenix, as well as inter-island flights from Oʻahu, Kauaʻi, and the Big Island.

If you're already in Hawaii, island-hopping flights from Honolulu (HNL) to Maui are quick (about 30–45 minutes) and frequent, making for an easy transfer. Once on Maui, renting a car is highly recommended to explore the island freely, especially for adventures like the Road to Hana or Haleakalā sunrise.

Here are some of our recommendations for Maui:

Polo Beach CoralTree Residence - An entire apartment that sleeps 6 people

AEI at Maui Banyan - laundry facilities and easy beach access

Grand Wailea Maui - a resort right on the beach

Modern and Tropical Oceanside Vistas - condo with a full kitchen, sleeps 4 people

Airbnb- entire condo in Kihei

Poke - Fresh cubes of raw fish (usually ahi tuna) marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices. Try it from local spots or even grocery stores.

Haupia - a traditional Hawaiian coconut pudding often served as a dessert or as a layer in cakes and pies

Huli Huli Chicken - Grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Often found at roadside stands and food trucks.

Loco Moco - a hearty local dish that consists of white rice topped with hamburger patty, fried egg, and brown gravy

Banana Bread - especially famous along the Road to Hana, try it warm from roadside stands like Aunty Sandy’s in Ke-anae

Garlic Shrimp - popular on all Hawaiian islands, shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, often served with rice.

Shaved Ice - A refreshing treat made from finely shaved ice, topped with tropical syrups (like lilikoi, guava, or coconut) — don’t forget the scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk on top!

Here are a few things to help you when at Preikestolen.

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob