Whether you’re here for a few days or a lifetime, Maui reveals herself best through small moments; early morning surf checks, market stalls buzzing with color, the hush of a forest trail, or the sound of kids laughing over tidepools. This guide reflects life lived with aloha: grounded in safety, uplifted by nature, and meant to be shared.
As a longtime Maui resident and founder of Swell Health, I’ve gathered some of my favorite spots across the island—from the sunny South Shore to the misty trails of Upcountry and beyond. Think of this as your friendly, easy-to-follow island companion, helping you explore Maui with mindfulness and wonder, one region at a time.
SOUTHSIDE
The Cove A beginner-friendly surf spot in Kihei. Take an Intro to Surfing with Swell to learn how to read the weather, understand ocean safety, and turn beach time into a fun, empowering family activity. Always scope out the scene for 15 minutes before getting in the water. More on the area: Cove Beach Park
South Maui Gardens A lush oasis with tropical plants, tasty food trucks, occasional live music, and space for kids to roam. A hidden gem for a relaxed afternoon. South Maui Gardens Info
Charley Young Beach Soft sand, shallow entry, and a gentle shore break make this a great spot for families. Tidepools offer fun little discoveries for keiki. Charley Young Beach Info
Kihei Caffe A local favorite for casual, hearty breakfasts. Expect a line—it’s worth it. Kihei Caffe
Nalu’s South Shore Grill Order at the counter and enjoy locally sourced dishes in a breezy, casual setting. Nalu’s South Shore Grill
Island Gourmet Markets – Shops at Wailea Quick and convenient island-style breakfast, plus snacks and souvenirs. Island Gourmet Markets
Pita Paradise Open-air dining with a Mediterranean flair. Fresh, light, and flavorful. Pita Paradise
Ulua Beach A calm southside snorkel spot with easy access and clear water. Great for beginners. Ulua Beach Info
Polo Beach Gentle waves and a sandy bottom make this a peaceful beach day pick. Polo Beach Info
Makena State Park Not ideal for swimming due to strong rip currents, but the forest walk, and long stretch of silky sand are enchanting. Makena State Park
La Perouse Bay Lava rock terrain that feels like a glimpse of the Big Island. Wear closed-toe shoes and soak in the raw beauty. La Perouse Bay Info
UPCOUNTRY
Makawao Town A charming paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town with art galleries, unique eats, and local boutiques. A great place to stroll and soak in the upcountry spirit. Makawao Info
Makawao Forest Reserve Just outside town, this redwood forest offers a peaceful walking path, picnic tables, and cool shade—perfect for a midday reset. Makawao Forest Reserve
Sacred Garden of Maliko A serene botanical sanctuary with labyrinths, birds, and whimsical plant creations. A peaceful spot for reflection or a quiet wander. Sacred Garden of Maliko
Leilani Farm Sanctuary Tour or volunteer at this beautiful rescue farm and connect with animals in a meaningful way. Leilani Farm Sanctuary
Surfing Goat Dairy Feed the goats, sample award-winning cheeses, and enjoy a playful, educational farm experience. Surfing Goat Dairy
Upcountry Farmer’s Market Held Saturday mornings in Kula, this is a treasure trove of local produce, crafts, and community vibes. Upcountry Farmer’s Market
Kula Country Farms Pick up fresh produce, visit the animals, and take in sweeping views. Bring a picnic to enjoy across the street at Rice Park. Kula Country Farms
Ali‘i Kula Lavender Farm Fragrant lavender fields, tropical plants, and a cozy café with lavender-infused treats. A dreamy upcountry escape. Ali‘i Kula Lavender
Rainbow Acres Cactus & Succulent Farm A rare and quirky collection of high-altitude succulents and cacti. A must-see for plant lovers. Rainbow Acres Cactus Farm
Haleakalā for Sunset Skip the sunrise crowds and head up for sunset—just as magical, with fewer people and no reservation needed. Haleakalā National Park Info
Kula Bistro Family-friendly and beloved for its hearty meals and decadent desserts. BYOB and come hungry. Kula Bistro
CENTRAL
Maui Ocean Center A window into the underwater world of Hawaiʻi. Explore native marine life, learn about Old Hawai’i, and touch starfish. For something unique, try yoga with the sharks after hours. Maui Ocean Center
Maui Tropical Plantation Open-air beauty with sweeping views, tropical gardens, and a charming coffee shop. Great for a stroll or a relaxed lunch. Maui Tropical Plantation
Cat Café Maui – Queen Kaʻahumanu Center A cozy indoor break from the sun where you can sip coffee and cuddle adoptable cats. Cat Café Maui
Maui Trampoline Park Let the keiki bounce off their energy in this indoor play space—perfect for rainy days or midday breaks. Maui Trampoline Park
ʻĪao Theater Catch a live performance in this historic venue and experience the heart of Maui’s performing arts scene. ʻĪao Theater – Maui OnStage
Maui Historical Society – Hale Hōʻikeʻike Step into Maui’s past with guided tours and exhibits housed in a historic Wailuku home. Maui Historical Society
The Parlay A relaxed, stylish spot for lunch or dinner in Wailuku. Great for a casual date or catching up with friends. The Parlay
808 on Main A local favorite for sandwiches, salads, and bistro-style eats in the heart of old Wailuku. 808 on Main
C.U.T. Market A curated secondhand boutique offering stylish finds and sustainable fashion. C.U.T. Market
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens Explore Native Hawaiian plants on a self-guided tour ($10 admission), or volunteer on Wednesday mornings (ages 8+). Maui Nui Botanical Gardens
WESTSIDE
Kapalua Bay One of the island’s safest and most stunning snorkel spots. Calm waters, vibrant marine life, and stand-up paddle rentals (traditional and pedal-powered) available right on the beach. Kapalua Bay Info
Napili Bay A picturesque crescent beach with gentle waves and golden sand. Grab a bite at the Sea House Restaurant just steps from the shore. Napili Bay Info
Napili Market – Napili Plaza Pick up a fresh poke bowl that locals rave about—quick, delicious, and full of flavor. Napili Market
A‘a Roots – Napili Plaza A plant-based café serving up vibrant smoothies, bowls, and more. A refreshing stop after the beach. A‘a Roots
Maui Escape Rooms – Whalers Village A fun indoor adventure for families or groups—solve puzzles and race the clock in themed escape rooms. Maui Escape Rooms
Jet Ski Rentals (Summer Only) For a thrill on the water, rent a jet ski from Jet Ski Maui.
Whale Watching (Winter Only) Hop aboard for a morning whale watch tour—prime time for spotting humpbacks in season.
Maui Gift & Craft Fair – Sundays, 9–2 at Lahaina Gateway Support local artisans and find one-of-a-kind treasures, from jewelry to handmade soaps. Maui Gift & Craft Fair
Old Lāhainā Lūʻau An iconic oceanside lūʻau with traditional Hawaiian food, music, and hula. A cultural must. Old Lāhainā Lūʻau
Maui Chocolate Tour Taste your way through the chocolate-making process on this delicious and educational farm tour. Maui Chocolate Tour
Maui Dragon Fruit Farm A family-friendly spot with ziplining, aqua ball rides, and fruit and tea tastings on a scenic organic farm. Maui Dragon Fruit Farm
Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop Known for their pies—savory pot pies, cream pies, you name it. Some of Coach Nia’s favorites include the chicken pot pie, banana cream pie, coconut cream pie, and the mouthwatering pastrami sandwich. It’s a great last stop on your way out of Lahaina—perfect for taking a break or grabbing something to enjoy back at your spot. Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop
Volunteer Opportunities West Maui is still healing from the devastating wildfires. Even though it was two years ago, it still feels like yesterday. If you’re able, consider donating time or resources. Volunteer or donate – Maui Nui Strong
Maui isn’t just a destination—it’s a living, breathing ʻāina full of story, resilience, and connection. Whether you’re floating in a quiet bay, wandering an upcountry path, or sharing poke on the tailgate of your rental car, I hope this guide helps you experience the island more deeply, more mindfully, and with aloha in your every step.
Please travel with curiosity and care, support local, and leave things better than you found them. And if your journey includes time in the ocean, at the pool, or anywhere near the water, we’d love to meet you through Swell Health—where we empower individuals and families through surf coaching, swim confidence, and comprehensive water safety for all ages and stages.
This article was written by Nia of Swell Health, drawing on her deep love for Maui and passion for connecting people to the island in meaningful ways.
June 15, 2025