Day 1- Arrival Day
Pick up rental car, check-in to the hotel, buy a few groceries at the nearest grocery store, grab a quick dinner, and enjoy the evening on the beach.
Day 2- Beach Day & Family Portraits
Take time to enjoy a family breakfast together, Maui has the best macadamia nut pancakes in the world (if you’re in the Kaanapali area I recommend The Gazebo). Take the rest of the day to spend some good quality time at the beach, maybe take a surf lesson, or just rent a boogie board from your hotel, build a sandcastle, or just sit and take it all in while the waves wash at your feet. Leave the beach in time to get ready for your family pictures. I always recommend scheduling family portraits on your first full day, everyone is still well rested and it gets it out of the way so you can enjoy the rest of your trip. After portraits, plan on eating dinner at a fun restaurant, in Kihei I really like Monkeypod Kitchen, for something a little fancier you can try Mama’s Fish House in Paia.
*Family Portraits will need to be booked in advance, the earlier the better. Also, I would check out the app Open Table to make reservations at any restaurant you plan on eating at while in Maui.
Day 3- Zipline & Haleakala
Sleep in! Make it a late morning, grab lunch on the way to your zipline adventure in upcountry. We loved ziplining with Skyline Eco Adventures. Once you finish with ziplining if you have time check out the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, and then finish your trek up to the top of Haleakala. Plan on packing a light dinner or snacks because there is not any food once you pass the Lavender Farm. If possible bring chairs & dress warm, it doesn’t matter what time of year it is, it will get chilly. Watch the sunset at 10,000 feet and then stay to stargaze. Trust me it does not disappoint, you can see the milky way without a telescope!
*You will need to book reservations in advance for Skyline Eco Adventures. There is a $25 entrance fee to Haleakala, credit cards are accepted.
Day 4- Snorkeling & Black Rock
Take an early snorkel cruise to Molokini Crater, most companies provide breakfast and lunch on the boat. Snorkel gear is usually included or you can take your own. Don’t forget your underwater camera, you’re going to want it. Spend the afternoon shopping in Wailuku, check out the Maui Ocean Center, or just relax by the pool. In the evening head to the Sheraton in Lahaina for the Black Rock Lighting of the Torch Ceremony.
*Reservations are need for most snorkel tours, book in advance.
Day 5- Road to Hana
Start your day super early, pick up donuts on a stick from Komoda Store & Bakery and prepare yourself for the Road to Hana. There are lots of snack stops along the way, however I would recommend taking your own bottled water, just to save a little. On the way back from Hana stop at Paia Fish Market located in downtown Paia for dinner. They have the best fish tacos on the island!
Day 6- Iao Valley & Old Lahaina Luau
Get up early, head north and take time to enjoy the amazing scenery in Iao Valley State Park. Pack a picnic lunch, hike a trail, visit the nature center, and don’t miss the Iao Needle. Afterwards, head north to check out the Nakalele Blowhole and heart shaped rock. You’re going to want lots of pictures. Don’t forget to pack water and snacks. Freshen up at the hotel, and then head to the Old Lahaina Luau. It’s a must while visiting the island, it’s the oldest luau in Maui and worth every penny!
*You will need to book reservations for the luau in advance. Old Lahaina seats on a first come first serve basis, book as early as possible.
Day 7- Shopping & Departure Day
I always like to book an evening flight so that we can enjoy the day, even though it’s our last. Plan on finishing up your souvenir shopping in Lahaina, play under the Historic Banyan Tree, eat lunch at Da Kitchen, or Lahaina Fish Co. Both are great choices but Lahaina Fish Co has open air seating that opens to the water, I’m a little partial to the atmosphere. Don’t forget to savor one more shaved ice from Ululani’s. Head back to the airport to return the rental car and catch your flight home… until next time!