Luxury holidays in Maui

A smattering of small towns separated by vast parks, volcanoes and pineapple plantations, Maui is far less developed than Oahu, Hawaii's glitziest island. Though most come for the beaches – be they gentle, snorkel-ready waters in Wailea south-west to giant white-capped surfing waves near Hana in the north-east – there is plenty to explore on land. Wake before dawn to catch the sunrise from Haleakala, the volcano at the heart of the eponymous national park, or head to Napili and Lahaina in the north-west to explore the island's exceptional culinary scene. Yes, Spam is a local delicacy, but visitors should also order cones of sweet, frosty shave ice, freshly hacked coconut milk and mugs of local Maui-grown coffee. It's the the best way to say mahalo in the morning.

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When to go

The weather is always warm in Maui, but the island is busiest between December and March, when residents of the continental US escape cold winter climates. April through August is a particularly nice time to visit.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Kahului International Airport is in the middle of the island, east of the West Maui Forest Reserve. The airport operates flights from throughout the West Cost, including Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle, as well as inter-island flights to Kona, Honolulu and Hoolehua. Hana Airport, in the south-eastern town of Hana, is a small regional airstrip that accommodates commuter aircrafts.

  • Automobiles

    A car is essential if you plan to explore Maui, and its many towns and natural wonders. There are plenty of rental kiosks at the airport, and most hotels offer valet parking.