Getaway Maui: Adventure on the Valley Isle

Maui became known as the Valley Isle based on its sweeping expanse of grassy lowlands that stretch between dormant volcano Haleakala (“House of the Sun"), which looms over the eastern side of the island, and the lush West Maui Mountains. The island's 120 miles of coastline include more than 30 miles of sandy beaches, perfect for water activities including kite- and wind-surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing and surfing.

Maui also boasts a mix of luxury resorts and casual condo rentals, as well as chic dining spots alongside places serving tasty, local plate lunch fare.

West Maui offers up no-holds-barred luxury resorts, tropical beaches, world-renowned golf courses, and top-notch restaurants, shopping and nightlife.

The ranching and farming culture of upcountry Maui is coupled with a mellow vibe and cool weather. You'll find the beautiful and remote town of Hana—where time seems to stand still—at the end of long, winding Hana Highway. The journey to get there winds through thick rainforests, around hairpin turns and past waterfalls before reaching the island's easternmost point.

Chances are, whatever you're looking for in a Hawaii staycation, you'll probably find it on Maui. Getting your flight covered to Maui will definitely make your future staycation even better. And getting that flight covered by purchasing everyday items...well, that's icing on the cake.

Want to visit? There's no need to wait! Your everyday purchases can help you take flight faster than ever. With the Hawaiian Airlines® Bank of Hawaii World Elite Mastercard® or the Bankoh Hawaiian Airlines® Visa® Debit Card, every purchase earns you HawaiianMiles®—which never expire. Even better? You can often earn bonus miles when you sign up—making that dream trip a reality even sooner.

So while you are dreaming of your future staycation on the island Condé Nast Traveler readers have voted Best Island in the U.S. for more than 20 years, here are some recommendations to help you plan.

Where to Shop

For a local shopping experience, visit Haku Maui, where you can find beautifully handcrafted lei and floral arrangements that capture the essence of the garden island. Each piece is a work of art, showcasing the beauty of Maui’s native flora. Waiwaolani is an online must-visit, offering clothing and products inspired by Hawaii’s rich culture and natural beauty. Shopping here not only supports local artisans but also contributes to conservation efforts that protect the island’s native species and ecosystems.

Where to Stay

While in the spirit of getting away from it all, you might want to treat yourself to some real luxury along the way. Check out the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria® resort set amidst 40 acres of tropical gardens, flanked by Wailea Beach and Wailea Blue Golf Course. The resort's amenities include nine pools, a lazy river with water slides and waterfalls, a 262-foot lava tube slide, and even a water elevator—yes, you read that correctly. It's a small, self-contained swimming pool that lifts passengers between lower and higher levels of the pool. The resort offers a range of ocean adventure, too, including guided kayak and stand up paddling excursions, Hawaiian outboard canoeing, and scuba lessons.

Where to Eat

Merriman’s is a must-visit for anyone who loves fine dining with a local twist. Known for its farm-to-table philosophy, Merriman’s serves dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients, offering a true taste of Maui’s bounty.

Kalei’s Lunch Box offers a more casual experience. A family-owned business located in Wailuku, Kalei’s Lunch Box is a hidden gem beloved by locals for its hearty plate lunches and authentic Hawaiian flavors.

Heading to Lahaina? Aloha Mixed Plate serves some of Hawaii’s favorite food with gorgeous ocean views. And you can’t  leave the island without stopping at Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop, where you can indulge in a wide variety of savory and sweet pies made from scratch. For a cultural experience, the Old Lahaina Luau offers an authentic Hawaiian feast accompanied by traditional hula performances.

Where to Adventure

For those interested in wildlife, Advance Wildlife Education offers an immersive experience where you can learn about Hawaii’s unique fauna and wildlife. Their coloring books, clothing, stickers, and temporary tattoos provide valuable insights into the community’s wildlife conservation efforts.

If you love fresh produce, a visit to Kumu Farms is a must. This organic farm not only offers fresh, locally-grown produce but also provides an opportunity to connect with the land and learn about sustainable farming practices on Maui. It’s a great way to support local agriculture while enjoying the island’s natural beauty.

Ready to island hop? There's no need to wait! Your everyday purchases can help you earn HawaiianMiles faster, making that dream trip to the Valley Isle a reality even sooner! With the Hawaiian Airlines® Bank of Hawaii World Elite Mastercard® or the Bankoh Hawaiian Airlines® Visa® Debit Card, every purchase earns you HawaiianMiles—which never expire. Discover our full list of must-see places to stay, eat, adventure, and shop below!

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