Maui, often called the Valley Isle, is a dream destination that seamlessly blends breathtaking natural beauty, rich Hawaiian culture, and endless opportunities for adventure. From dramatic volcanic landscapes and lush waterfalls to pristine beaches and vibrant local towns, this island truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or on a solo adventure, five days in Maui is the perfect amount of time to immerse yourself in its magic.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ultimate 5-day Maui itinerary designed to help you make the most of your time. Get ready for jaw-dropping sunrises, unforgettable road trips, cultural experiences, and plenty of time to relax and soak up the aloha spirit.

Day 1: Arrival, Beach Time & Sunset at Kaanapali

Morning / Afternoon: Arrival in Maui
Most visitors fly into Kahului Airport (OGG), the island’s main hub. Once you arrive, pick up your rental car, it’s essential for exploring Maui at your own pace. Depending on your arrival time, check into your accommodation. The popular areas to stay are:

West Maui (Kaanapali, Lahaina, Kapalua): Great for resorts, stunning beaches, and lively dining.
South Maui (Kihei, Wailea): Known for luxury resorts and family-friendly beaches.

Afternoon: Relax at the Beach
Ease into island life by spending your first afternoon unwinding on one of Maui’s world-famous beaches. Two great options are:

Kaanapali Beach: Known for its golden sand, calm waters, and iconic Black Rock, where you can snorkel with tropical fish and sea turtles.
Wailea Beach: Perfect for families or couples, with gentle waves and luxury resort views.

Evening: Sunset & Dinner
Nothing says “welcome to Maui” like a spectacular sunset. Head to Kaanapali Beach or Lahaina Harbor to watch the sky turn brilliant shades of pink and orange. For dinner, try:

Duke’s Beach House (Kaanapali): Oceanfront dining with Hawaiian-inspired cuisine.
Lahaina Fish Co. (Lahaina): Fresh seafood and harbor views.

Pro Tip: Book a Hawaiian luau for your first night, such as Old Lahaina Luau or Feast at Lele, for an immersive introduction to Hawaiian food, music, and hula.

Day 2: Road to Hana Adventure

The Road to Hana is one of Maui’s most iconic experiences, a winding 64-mile drive along the island’s northeast coast, filled with waterfalls, rainforests, and dramatic coastal views.

Morning: Start Early
Begin your journey at sunrise to maximize your day. Pack snacks, water, and a swimsuit, and download an offline guide app like GyPSy Guide to navigate the stops.

Must-See Stops Along the Road to Hana:

Twin Falls: Easy-access waterfalls and swimming holes.
Garden of Eden Arboretum: Botanical gardens with panoramic views.
Wailua Valley State Wayside: Overlooks taro fields and the Ke‘anae Peninsula.
Ke‘anae Peninsula: A historic Hawaiian village known for banana bread (stop at Aunty Sandy’s).
Wailua Falls: A 120-foot waterfall right off the road.
Waiʻānapanapa State Park: Famous black sand beach and lava tube caves. Reservations required!
Hana Town: A peaceful stop for food or rest.

Afternoon: Beyond Hana
If time allows, continue past Hana to ʻOheʻo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) and Pipiwai Trail, a 4-mile hike through bamboo forests leading to the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

Evening: Return Drive
The road is just as scenic on the way back, but drive carefully as it gets dark. Many travelers spend the night in Hana, but if you’re returning to West or South Maui, expect a long but rewarding day.

Pro Tip: Bring cash for roadside fruit stands and banana bread, Maui’s best road-trip snacks!

Day 3: Haleakalā National Park Sunrise & Upcountry Exploration

Early Morning: Sunrise at Haleakalā Crater
Witnessing the sunrise from Haleakalā National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Standing above the clouds at 10,023 feet, you’ll see colors you never imagined.

Reservations: Required for sunrise (book in advance online).
What to Bring: Warm clothes (it’s freezing at the summit), blankets, and a thermos of coffee.

Mid-Morning: Downcountry Breakfast
After sunrise, stop in Makawao or Kula for breakfast. Great spots include:

Grandma’s Coffee House (Kula): Known for hearty breakfasts and strong Maui-grown coffee.
La Provence (Kula): A charming French bakery and café.

Late Morning / Afternoon: Explore Upcountry Maui
Upcountry Maui offers a slower pace, rolling farmland, and unique attractions:

Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm: Wander through 45 varieties of lavender with stunning island views.
Surfing Goat Dairy: Tour the farm and sample artisan cheeses.
MauiWine (Ulupalakua): Taste pineapple and grape wines in a historic estate.

Evening: Relax & Dinner
Return to your hotel for some downtime. For dinner, consider:

Mama’s Fish House (Paia): Iconic fine dining with fresh catch (book weeks in advance).
Haliʻimaile General Store (Makawao): Upscale Hawaiian-inspired cuisine in a plantation setting.

Day 4: Snorkeling, Whale Watching & Lahaina Exploration

Morning: Snorkeling Adventure
Maui is home to some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii. Two excellent options:

Molokini Crater: A crescent-shaped volcanic atoll with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Many tour companies offer morning boat trips from Maʻalaea Harbor.
Turtle Town (Maluaka Beach): A famous spot for swimming alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Afternoon: Whale Watching (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting between December and April, don’t miss a whale-watching tour. The waters off Maui are the best place in Hawaii to see humpback whales breaching and playing.

Late Afternoon: Explore Lahaina Town
Spend a few hours wandering Front Street in historic Lahaina. Highlights include:

Banyan Tree Park: Home to one of the largest banyan trees in the U.S.
Local Shops & Galleries: Perfect for souvenirs and local art.
Lahaina Harbor: Stroll along the waterfront for ocean views.

Evening: Sunset Dinner Cruise
Cap off the day with a sunset sail from Lahaina or Maʻalaea Harbor. You’ll enjoy dinner, drinks, and live music as the sun dips below the horizon.

Day 5: Beach Day & Departure

Your last day in Maui is all about soaking up the sunshine and saying goodbye to paradise.

Morning: Relax on the Beach
Choose a beach close to your accommodation:

Napili Bay: Calm waters and great snorkeling.
Makena Beach (Big Beach): Stunning and expansive, though waves can be strong.
Kihei Beaches: Family-friendly with calm surf.

Optional Activities If Time Allows:

Iao Valley State Monument: Explore lush trails and see the iconic Iao Needle.
Shopping in Paia: A laid-back surf town with boutiques and cafes.
Spa Day: Treat yourself to a Hawaiian lomilomi massage before your flight.

Afternoon: Last-Minute Souvenirs & Departure
Stop at a local market for Hawaiian coffee, macadamia nuts, or handmade crafts to bring home. Return your rental car and head to the airport with unforgettable memories of Maui.

Tips for a Perfect Maui Vacation

Book Early: Popular activities like Haleakalā sunrise, snorkeling tours, and luaus fill up weeks in advance.
Pack Smart: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a light rain jacket.
Respect Nature & Culture: Don’t touch sea turtles or coral, and follow local etiquette when visiting cultural sites.
Drive Carefully: Maui roads can be narrow and winding, especially on the Road to Hana.
Stay Flexible: Weather can change quickly on the island, have backup plans for rainy days.

Final Thoughts

Five days in Maui offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From the breathtaking sunrise over Haleakalā to the lush waterfalls on the Road to Hana, and from snorkeling alongside sea turtles to enjoying fresh Hawaiian cuisine, every day brings a new unforgettable experience.

Maui isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling. The aloha spirit, the natural beauty, and the warmth of the people will stay with you long after your trip ends. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Maui always leaves you wanting more.

So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready for the ultimate Hawaiian getaway, because five days in Maui will truly change the way you see the world.

5 Days in Maui- The Ultimate Itinerary for an Unforgettable Hawaiian Getaway