Stress-free Departure Day: What to do before a late flight out of Maui
Your flight home isn’t until late but checkout is at 10 am, and you’re not ready to say goodbye to paradise just yet. What should you do with those precious extra hours on Maui before heading to the airport? Here are three smart ways seasoned travelers make the most of their last day without feeling rushed, sandy, or stressed.
1. Book an extra night and end on a relaxed note
A surprisingly common solution? Book your accommodation for one extra night.
It might seem like an unnecessary expense, but frequent visitors swear it’s worth every penny. They like the fact that they can wake up at their own pace and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. They can pack up when they are ready, and use the room to shower after a morning beach trip or swim in the hotel pool.
If your flight isn’t until 9 or 10 pm, booking the extra night can turn your departure day into one more vacation day.
2. Check out late, use hotel facilities, or store luggage
If an extra night isn’t an option, and you'd rather save on the accommodation costs then most hotels and resorts offer alternatives:
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Ask for late checkout: Even an extra hour or two can make a difference.
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Use the hotel’s amenities after checkout: Many hotels let you leave your bags in storage at reception and continue to use the pool, beach chairs, and gym.
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Take advantage of hotel showers: Some resorts have locker rooms or fitness centers where you can rinse off and change before your flight.
If your accommodation doesn’t offer luggage storage, services like Bounce provide secure short-term storage near Kahului Airport so you can explore freely without worrying about your bags.
Avoid leaving valuables or visible luggage in your car. Break-ins do happen, even in popular tourist spots and parking lots near the airport.
3. Explore attractions close to the airport
Prefer not to deal with sand, damp swimsuits, or post-beach showers on your final day? There are plenty of fun, dry ways to enjoy your last few hours on Maui and all within reasonable distance of the airport.
Here are some top ideas:
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Maui Ocean Center: A beautiful aquarium that’s perfect for families or couples. Great food options nearby too.
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Maui Tropical Plantation: Take a leisurely walk through the gardens, browse the shops, or enjoy lunch with mountain views.
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Upcountry adventures: Visit the lavender farm, or stop at a vineyard for a tasting tour and scenic drive.
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Paia or Makawao: Stroll through local boutiques, grab coffee or dinner, and soak in the island charm.
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Iao Valley State Park: A quick, lush nature walk just minutes from Wailuku and Kahului.
These activities let you experience Maui’s beauty without needing a post-beach cleanup, and they’re all convenient enough to get you to the airport on time.
What to Avoid:
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It's common sense but don’t risk long drives to remote beaches or hikes on your departure day. You don't need the stress.
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Don’t underestimate traffic on Highway 30, especially from West Maui.
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Whatever you choose to do, don’t cut it too close, aim to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
Aloha until next time
Leaving Maui is always bittersweet, but a little planning can turn departure day from stressful to serene. Whether you book that extra night, make use of hotel amenities, or explore Maui’s dry-side attractions, you can soak up every last moment of paradise, right up until boarding time.
Whale Watching 101: How To See Maui's Giants Up Close
Every winter, thousands of humpback whales make an incredible journey from the cold waters of Alaska to the warm, shallow seas of Hawaii. Maui is one of the very best places in the world to see these gentle giants.
In this ‘Whale Watching 101’ we cover:
1. Why do whales come to Maui?
Humpback whales travel over 3,000 miles to Hawaii every year. While Alaska provides the nutrient-rich feeding grounds they need in summer, Maui’s calm, warm waters are perfect for breeding, giving birth, and nursing calves. You won’t see them feeding here, in fact, adult humpbacks go the whole season without eating! But, you can see amazing behaviors like breaching (leaping out of the water), tail slaps, and mothers teaching their calves how to swim and dive.
2. When is the best time to see whales in Maui?
Each year, the first humpback whale-sighting is a big deal. It can be as early as October. But, with over 10,000 whales making their way to Hawaii, the official whale-watching season begins in December and runs through to April, with peak season considered January to March. During these months, sightings are extremely common and on some days you can even see whales from the beach. If you want to get up close to these magnificent creatures then booking a boat tour is the best option.
3. Which is the best whale-watching cruise?
This will vary depending on your personal taste but here are some pointers to help you make a good choice:
- Boat size: Smaller rafts and catamarans offer a more intimate, adventurous experience. Some of the rafts can go fast! Larger vessels provide more space and a little more luxury but may be slower to get to a whale-sighting.
- Tour length: Most tours last 2–3 hours, which is plenty of time to find whales and watch them in action.
- Time of day: Mornings are typically calmer on the water and you’ll find a lot of tours do leave early. However, afternoon tours can be just as rewarding in terms of whale sightings.
- Sighting guarantees: During peak season some tours will offer a guarantee. This is usually that if you don’t see a whale then you can go on the tour again for free.
Tips for a great experience
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Book ahead: If you have a fixed schedule or you’re a large group then it’s best to book a tour ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Individuals or couples on a flexible schedule may be able to find a last minute seat on a tour. If you find yourself looking last minute then get in touch and we can do a quick check on availability across different tour providers.
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Bring weather protection: Hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen are a must. If it looks wet then bring a light raincoat! See individual activity descriptions for further guidance on what you can and can’t bring aboard.
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Pack a camera: You’ll want to capture those unforgettable moments!
Enjoy nature at its best!
Witnessing one of nature’s greatest migrations up close is an incredible privilege and a delight. If you’re traveling to Maui during whale watching season, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy seeing Maui’s giants up close.
The Solo Guide to Maui: Top Tips for Traveling on Your Own
Traveling on your own can be one of the most rewarding experiences. As a solo traveler to Maui, you'll have time to explore the island at your own pace, set your own agenda and meet new people along the way. We've gathered advice from travelers who have experienced Maui by themselves, and their tips make the perfect guide for anyone planning to visit paradise this way.
Where to Stay as a Solo Traveler on Maui
- Kihei comes up again and again as a favorite. Solo travelers love it for its central location, walkability, and local vibe. You can stroll to beaches, restaurants, and bars, and it’s easy to meet other travelers. South Kihei, in particular, feels friendly and relaxed, with places like the Maui Coast Hotel offering great pools and nearby beaches.
- Kaanapali is another solid option, especially if you want resort-style amenities. Condos like Honua Kai and resorts near Whaler’s Village give you both comfort and access to shopping, dining, and evening activities.
- Napili or Kapalua: If you prefer something quieter, check out Napili or Kapalua for a slower pace and peaceful beaches.
- Makawao: For a unique experience, some travelers recommend staying upcountry in Makawao, a quaint and historic cowboy town. Booking a bed & breakfast here enables you to meet people from all over the world and enjoy the cool mountain air before heading down for a day at the beach.
Eating & Shopping on Maui
- Paia Fish Market – Not in fact a market, but a restaurant serving flavorful fish dishes. The original restaurant based in Paia is just a few miles from the airport, an ideal spot for arrival or departure day.
- Kihei Caffe – Whether you stay in Kihei or not, you'll want to visit its golden beaches and Kihei Caffe is perfectly positioned for a hearty breakfast before a day at the beach.
- Whalers Village, Kaanapali – If shopping is on your list, this is your spot for clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Cafe O’Lei – Known for beautiful views, fresh food, and a lush tropical setting.
- Papi’s Ohana, West Maui – The cinnamon rolls here are legendary and huge. Get them early in the day before they sell out!
Things To Do Solo on Maui
- Snorkeling: A trip to Molokini Crater to see the stunning coral reef and marine life is a must. Excursions are social by nature, so they’re great for solo travelers. Choose a smaller boat if you enjoy the social atmosphere, and get to know the crew.
- Sunrise or Sunset at Haleakalā: Watching the sun, rise or set from 10,000 feet is unforgettable. Wear layers, it's cold at the summit.
- Road to Hāna: You can drive it yourself, and take stops on the way, or book yourself on a small group tour and enjoy the view without the pressure of driving those hairpin bends. Stop off at waterfalls and visit Black Sand Beach.
- Surf or SUP Lessons: With instructors offering private or small group lessons, it’s a safe and exciting way to try something new.
- Ho‘okipa Beach (Paia): Seeing the turtles resting on the sand is a special sight, and enjoy watching the windsurfers carving up the waves.
- Īao Valley State Monument: Located in central Maui, this state park offers an extremely picturesque walk in the foothills of the West Maui Mountains.
Maui Travel
- Rent a car. While you could make Maui work without a car, nearly everyone insists renting a car is the better options. It gives you freedom to explore beyond your hotel and makes it easier to experience all that Maui has to offer.
- There are alternatives if you don't drive or don't want to rent a car. Uber and Lyft operate on the island and there are a network of public buses you could use if you are willing to plan ahead with timings.
- When booking activities with Best of Maui, feel free to call our agents if you have any concerns about how to get to and from your chosen activity. They know the island intimately so can make suggestions which may work for you.
Practical Tips for Solo Travelers
- Plan but don’t over schedule. Maui has endless things to do, but the magic often happens in the in-between moments: chatting with locals at a café, stumbling upon a food truck, or watching the sunset with your toes in the sand.
- Safety First. When traveling alone safety is a priority. At beaches always pay attention to signs as swells can be stronger than they look. Book excursions if you're trying activities you're not confident in like snorkeling and surfing, then the crew and instructors can look out for you and offer guidance.
Enjoy!
Whether you’re in bustling Kihei, resort-style Kaanapali, or quiet upcountry Makawao, Maui is one of the easiest places to travel solo. You’ll find it welcoming, safe, and full of ways to connect with others, or to simply enjoy time to yourself in one of the world’s most beautiful settings.
And ... Relax: The 4 Best Maui Experiences to Help You Unwind
Whether you’re coming off a busy season or just need a break from the everyday, Hawaii is the perfect place for deep relaxation. Its dreamy blue waters, colorful sunsets and dramatic scenery create an atmosphere so calm you’ll feel your stress melting away!
But we know it can take a little while to unwind and switch off from the everyday, and when you’re on your precious time-off you don’t want to waste a second. So, we’ve rounded up our 4 best Maui experiences to help you truly unwind and set you up for a relaxing time on the island.
Plus, at the end we’ve included 3 more activity ideas that are completely free!
1) Sail Away on a Sunset Dinner Cruise
What better way to end a day in Maui than out on the water? As the sun sets, the island’s coastline glows and the sky erupts in colour. A sunset dinner cruise offers front-row seats to the show with great food, drinks, and that gorgeous island breeze.
You can choose from luxurious adults-only sailings to larger catamarans with music and a fun atmosphere. Either way, you’ll be treated to stunning views and a memorable evening on the Pacific.
2) Find Peace and Quiet on Horseback
Horseback riding in Maui offers a completely different way to experience the island. These guided rides take you off the beaten path through open pastures, along ridgelines, and sometimes all the way down to the beach. Being outdoors in nature, and riding along at a gentle pace gives you a chance to slow down, clear your head, and appreciate the beauty of Maui in a new way.
3) Soar Above it all on a Helicopter Tour
If you want to see Maui from a fresh perspective, hop into a helicopter. Discover the island’s dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes.
These tours give you access to places you can’t easily reach on foot: rainforests, remote coastlines, and soaring sea cliffs. It’s a breathtaking way to explore Maui’s untapped beauty, and gives you the gift of incredible memories for years to come.
4) Get Caught Up in Culture at a Hawaiian Luau
A luau isn’t just dinner and a show, it’s a full cultural experience. From the welcoming leis to the traditional music, storytelling, and dance, you’ll be immersed in the rich heritage of Hawaii. Dinner is a feast, with local specialties and tropical cocktails served up alongside ocean views. Whether it’s your first luau or your fifth, it’s always a night to remember.
Bonus Activities: Beach Walks, Hiking Trails and Scenic Upcountry Drives
Not everything on Maui needs to cost, so here are a few activity ideas we think you’ll enjoy that are completely free.
- Take a walk along Wailea Beach or Napili Bay at sunrise or sunset.
- Hike the Iao Valley State Monument or the Kapalua Coastal Trail for scenic views and fresh air.
- Take a drive to upcountry Maui and enjoy the open countryside, and panoramic views across the island.
We hope these ideas help you to relax and make the most of your time on Maui!
Why Snorkeling at Molokini Should Be on Your Bucket List
Picture this: you’re swimming through warm, crystal-clear waters with visibility of over 100ft (30+ metres).
All around you are vibrant tropical fish. Above you, the crescent shaped Molokini Crater rises dramatically from the ocean. Welcome to snorkeling at Molokini, a truly bucket-list-worthy experience.
Read on to discover what makes this destination so special and how to choose the perfect tour for you.
Why is Molokini Crater a good snorkel spot?
With so many good snorkel spots on Maui's shoreline that are free to access you might be asking why you would pay for a tour out to Molokini Crater. Is snorkeling at Molokini really worth it? We think it is! Here are three things that set Molokini apart from the rest and make it an excellent snorkeling destination, worthy of your bucket list.
1. Breathtaking Visibility:
Thanks to its location in the middle of the Pacific and the absence of sand runoff, the waters around Molokini are famously clear. Visibility can reach up to 150ft on calm days. It really is breathtaking to behold and makes it a very different experience to snorkeling along Maui's shoreline.
2. There's loads to see:
You won't be disappointed! The crater is home to over 250 species of fish, many of which are found only in Hawaii, as well as vibrant coral reefs teeming with life. The crater and the area surrounding it is a designated Marine Life Conservation District which means the reef, fish and birds are all protected from fishing and collection, preserving this wonderful spot for years to come.
3. Fewer people:
Molokini, while one of the world’s most renowned snorkeling and diving sites, is accessible only by boat, making the experience naturally exclusive. Limited moorings protect the reef and keep crowds low, ensuring a more pristine environment for you to enjoy.
How to choose a Molokini snorkel tour
Here at Best of Maui Activities, we sell 14+ different tours to Molokini Crater - so there is quite a selection to choose from. Here is a quick guide to help you think through what you want out of your Molokini snorkel tour so you can pick the best experience for you.
What level of snorkeler and swimmer are you?
Molokini Crater offers great snorkeling for all skill levels. Beginner-friendly tours include snorkel instruction, while child-friendly options provide flotation devices and glass-bottom viewing. Keep in mind that snorkeling here means deep water with only the boat for support. If you feel unsure while on the tour, let the crew know—they're experienced and ready to help ensure your safety.
Where do you want to go?
Many of the tours will make multiple stops - not just stopping at the crater itself but at snorkel spots along the south shoreline. Popular spots include turtle town (a great place for seeing turtles) and the back wall of Molokini crater. If you're going between Dec-April, look out for tours that combine your snorkel trip with whale-watching.
What sort of experience onboard are you looking for?
Different tours offer unique vibes and experiences. If you're looking for a relaxing, luxurious outing, opt for a catamaran tour with ample deck space, shade, and food and drink included. For those seeking adventure, there are smaller, faster boats that can zip you to Molokini and other snorkel spots quickly, leaving more time for exploring!
How to Choose the Best Luau on Maui
Here at Best of Maui Activities, we love luaus! Attending a Hawaiian luau is more than just a dinner event—it's a window into Hawaii’s rich history, warm hospitality, and vibrant aloha spirit. There are many luaus on offer across Maui, each offering a blend of food, music, and Hawaiian traditions. While it is wonderful to have this choice, it can make picking the right one for your vacation more challenging! That's why we've put together this quick guide to help you choose the best luau on Maui.
What is a Luau?
Firstly, what actually is a Hawaiian luau?!
Typically held outside during early evening on well manicured lawns amongst plumeria bushes, a Hawaiian luau is a celebration of the islands’ rich culture from start to finish.
Luau guests are warmly welcomed with a fresh lei around their neck and a tropical cocktail to enjoy. Dinner is a traditional Hawaiian feast, with an array of delicious foods on offer. Then, for entertainment - live Hawaiian music and hula performances fill the air, creating a vibrant atmosphere. It's all set against the backdrop of a Maui sunset.
How do I choose the best luau on Maui?
There are so many to choose from, how can I make the right choice? It can be overwhelming when you're presented with lots of good options, so we are giving you just 3 tips which we think are useful to consider when making a choice about which luau to attend as part of your Maui vacation.
1. Personal taste
You’ll get brilliant food, music and dancing at all the luaus we offer on Maui but you will find some differences between them so go with what appeals to you! Some luaus offer cultural experiences as part of the evening such as witnessing the Kalua Pig unearthing in the Imu (underground oven) or participating in hula dancing. Other luaus offer unique finales like the cliff dive at the Maui Nui luau. Pick the experience to suit your tastes.
2. Budget
Luaus can range in price, starting from $150 per adult, so consider your budget for the evening. Typically you’ll find ticket prices for children will be less than adults.
If you are looking to make your experience extra special, most luaus offer an option to upgrade your ticket to premium or VIP seating. This usually means a front row seat to the performances and first-class table service for drinks. Benefits do vary so take a look at the individual luau descriptions.
3. Location
One practical thing when choosing a luau is location. As they are typically early evening events it might be most convenient for you to pick a luau in the same area of Maui as your accommodation. Some hotels even run their own luaus.
There are many venues across Maui which host luaus but the majority are found on the West and South shores of the island. These tend to be the popular spots for tourists.
To make this easy for you, we’ve divided the luaus on our website into Kihei and Wailea luaus in South Maui and Kaanapali and Lahaina luaus in West Maui.
If you have any questions about which luau is the one for you then our friendly agents are always happy to help. You can use the live chat on our website or call us on 1-808-867-9000.
We hope you take time to enjoy a luau on your Maui vacation. They really are the perfect activity to do with family and friends to create lasting memories.
Lahaina Fires: A heartfelt update about our Island Home of Maui
This is a personal update from us, Alvaro and Silvana of Best of Maui Activities, following the devastating fires in Lahaina, Maui. We share our own reflections on this tragedy and the aftermath, as well as warmly invite you to be part of Maui's healing journey by continuing to visit our beautiful island home.
What Happened to Our Island Home on August 8, 2023
As you probably already know, on the morning of August 8, Maui suffered the deadliest wildfire in the U.S. in one hundred years and by far the most devastating catastrophe in Hawaii's history. The fire was fueled by West Maui's hillsides' severe drought and winds that surpassed 80 miles per hour. Its aftermath was devastating destruction that burned over 2,000 acres of land, decimated the historic town of Lahaina, and claimed 115 lives.
We Honor Our Heroes
On August 8, our local heroes at the Maui Police, the Maui Fire Department, and the U.S. Coast Guard came into action, risking their lives and some ignoring the destruction of their own homes so that they could save people. Our son and nephew, Officer Noah Feitosa, a recent Maui Police Academy graduate, braved the fire to bring dozens of residents to safety. He was only one of many, many others.
And our First Responders were not the only ones; Lahaina residents risked their own lives to save their neighbors. Some, like my dear friend Joe Schilling, AKA "Uncle Joe," after saving two elderly neighbors, died in the fire as he attempted to save five others. Uncle Joe was loved by so many here in Maui, so we honor Uncle Joe and all our neighbors, family, and friends who gave their lives or lost loved ones in this tragedy that has forever changed our lives.
Our Loving Community Came Together
Within hours, our Maui community started working to help those who lost everything in the fire. Two main camps were opened in West Maui, where we brought donations of food, clothes, and other necessities. Many of us volunteered to cook meals and care for our "Keiki" (kids) so parents could better navigate the first days and hours after the fire.
Some businesses chose to stay open to feed their neighbors free of charge, which was the case with our friends at Papi's Ohana in Honokowai, only a few miles from the epicenter of the Lahaina fires. When you come to Maui, be sure to stop by to say "aloha" to Papi's Ohana. Witnessing the Aloha spirit of solidarity and compassion at work during such difficult times touched us deeply.
Picking Up the Pieces and Grabbing onto Hope
After several days and weeks of feeling as if we were living in a bad dream, with God's help and the help of our loved ones, we have begun the process of rebuilding our lives the best we can. Just as green shoots started to unfurl around the trunk of our badly burned Lahaina Banyan Tree, we have faith our community will recover from this tragedy and come out on the other side as a more vigorous, stronger, and loving one another much better than before.
Maui is Open for Business
Our community is working hard to return to a "new normal." Except for the Lahaina area devastated by the fire, Maui remains open for business. Our beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and trails are as welcoming as ever. From Kapalua to Kaanapali, Kihei to Makena, and Hana to Haleakala, Maui is waiting for our visitors to come back and experience all it has in store.
Some areas close to Lahaina town were initially closed to the public following the fires but from the 1st of this month (November 2023) the Maui Mayor has declared the rest of West Maui - except Lahaina - to be open for tourism once more. For further information about travelling to Maui at this time see Maui travel FAQs here.
You Can Be Part of Our Healing and Recovery
Reading this article to this point means you already love Maui or are looking to come to Maui and fall in love with it, and that means the world to us! Since August 8, we have received several calls from guests concerned about coming to Maui after hearing they should not come to respect our feelings. It is true that some residents felt uncomfortable about visitors having fun on vacation whilst they were still hurting. As time moves on most of us share the view that we cannot sink into sorrow and take on a victim identity, but we must take courage and make the best of each day we are given. It is essential we revitalise our economy so we may provide for our families.
Seeing our visitors return gives us hope and encourages us to get up every day and be productive for ourselves, our families, and our community. The bottom line is we don't just "want" you to come to Maui; we “would love” you to! We appreciate you and hope you will come to be part of our rebirth as soon as possible!
If you feel led to offer monetary support, here are a few reputable organizations we know actively support immediate and long-term recovery efforts. You can visit their websites and find the one that best meets your giving criteria: Feed My Sheep, Maui Strong Fund, Hawaii’s Salvation Army, or Samaritan's Purse.
A Big Mahalo
Our Best of Maui Activities Ohana would like to say "mahalo" to you for visiting our website and considering us as your Maui concierges. We appreciate the opportunity and look forward to getting to know you and sharing our love for our forever-island home. If you have any questions about visiting Maui at this time then please don't hesitate to reach out to us, we'd love to hear from you.
Blessings to you and your loved ones!
Alvaro & Silvana