around the island
a lush, Coastal Escape
Maui is a world of contrast, golden beaches, lush slopes, and the soaring summit of Haleakalā. From the tranquil coves of Wailea to the wild surf of Makena, each stretch of coastline reveals its own rhythm and charm. A short drive around the island offers an unfolding showcase of breathtaking scenery, cascading waterfalls, volcanic cliffs, and crystal-clear bays. Let the island’s quiet beauty draw you in, and you’ll understand why so many return to Maui time and again.
Wailea Beach
Soft golden sand, gentle waves, and turquoise waters define Wailea Beach, the crown jewel of South Maui. Steps from the Andaz Wailea Resort, it’s ideal for morning swims, paddleboarding, or simply soaking in a sunset framed by neighboring islands. Whether you stroll the scenic Wailea Beach Path or relax beneath a swaying palm, Wailea’s calm, resort-lined shoreline embodies island leisure at its finest.
Makena “Big Beach”
Just south of Wailea, Makena Beach, known locally as “Big Beach”, stretches wide and wild beneath rugged lava hills. Its sheer size and unspoiled feel make it one of Maui’s most photogenic spots. Come early for peaceful walks and pastel skies, or stay to watch the sun dip behind Kahoʻolawe. Strong shorebreaks keep swimmers cautious, but the setting alone is unforgettable, raw, untamed Maui at its most dramatic.
Keawakapu Beach
A local favorite between Kihei and Wailea, Keawakapu blends the best of both worlds: family-friendly swimming and stellar snorkeling. Gentle waves lap at a long, sandy shoreline framed by tide pools and lava rocks teeming with life. As dusk settles, it’s one of South Maui’s prime sunset vantage points, perfect for an evening stroll after dinner.
Molokini Crater
A crescent-shaped volcanic islet just offshore, Molokini offers some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii. Beneath the surface, coral gardens thrive with vibrant marine life. from parrotfish to sea turtles gliding through crystal-clear water. Morning boat tours depart minutes from Wailea, promising calm seas and postcard-perfect views back toward Haleakalā’s slopes.
Haleakalā National Park
No Maui journey is complete without greeting the sunrise from 10,000 feet above the sea. Haleakalā, the “House of the Sun,” reveals a volcanic landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth, cinder cones glowing in dawn’s light, clouds rolling below the summit. After your early ascent, explore Upcountry Maui’s lavender farms, local markets, and paniolo (cowboy) heritage towns.
destinations
