A Week on Maui

I've outlined the highlights of Maui for those who just have 7 days and want to see everything. Two things I suggest: First, spend 2 nights in Hana, a decision you will not regret, and second, take the Trilogy boat trip to Lanai for the day. I've designed this itinerary assuming you'll stay in West Maui for 5 days. If you are staying elsewhere (like Wailea or Kihei), allow extra driving time.

Day 1: Arrival & Kapalua Beach

Check into your hotel, and then head for Kapalua Beach. Don't overdo the sun on your first day. After an hour or two at the beach, drive to Lahaina and spend a couple of hours walking the historic old town. To really feel like you are in Hawaii, go to the Old Lahaina Luau at sunset to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture.

Day 2: Up a 10,000-Foot Dormant Volcano & Down Again

You'll likely wake up early on your first day in Hawaii, so take advantage of it and head up to the 10,000-foot (dormant) volcano, Haleakala. You can hike in the crater, speed down the mountain on a bicycle, or just wander about Haleakala National Park. You don't have to be at the top for sunrise; in fact, it has gotten so crowded and congested at sunrise you may not have quite the awe-inspiring experience you were hoping for if you are fighting the crowds. I'd suggest wandering up any time during the day. On your way back down, stop and tour Upcountry Maui, particularly the communities of Kula, Makawao, and Paia. Plan for a sunset dinner in Paia or Kuau.

Day 3: Hana Highway

Pack a lunch and spend the entire day driving the scenic Hana Highway. Pull over often and get out to take photos, smell the flowers, and jump in the mountain stream pools. Wave to everyone, move off the road for those speeding by, and breathe in Hawaii. Plan to spend at least 2 nights in Hana.

Day 4: A Day in Heavenly Hana

An entire day in paradise, so many things to do. Take an early-morning hike along the black sands of Waianapanapa State Park; then explore the tiny town of Hana. Be sure to see the Hana Museum Cultural Center, Hasegawa General Store, and Hana Coast Gallery. Get a picnic lunch and drive out to the Kipihulu end of Haleakala National Park at Oheo Gulch. Hike to the waterfalls and swim in the pools. Splurge on dinner at the dining room at the Hotel Hana-Maui. Spend another night in Hana.

Day 5: Wine, Food & (Hawaiian) Song

Check to see if the road past Hana is open (it closed after the 2006 earthquake); if it is, continue driving around the island, past Kaupo and up to the Ulupalakua Ranch and the Tedeschi Vineyards and Winery. Stop at Grandma's Coffee House for a cup of java and head down the mountain, with a stop for lunch at Haliimaile General Store. Spend the afternoon at the Maui Ocean Center in Maalaea checking out the marine life, especially the sharks. Plan a dinner in Lahaina and see the drama/dance/music show Ulalena. If the road past Hana is closed, go back along the Hana Highway the way you came, stopping for lunch at Haliimaile, and then follow the rest of the itinerary from there.

Day 6: Sailing to Lanai

Trilogy is the best sailing/snorkeling trip in Hawaii, so don't miss it. You'll spend the day (breakfast and lunch included) sailing to the island of Lanai, snorkeling, touring the island, and sailing back to Lahaina. Plus, you still have the afternoon to go shopping for souvenirs or take a nap.

Day 7: Relaxing & Shopping

Depending on how much time you have on your final day, you can choose from relaxing on the beach, being pampered in a spa, or shopping for souvenirs and bargains. Spa-goers have a range of terrific spas, and shopping aficionados should check out some of my favorite stores. If you have a late flight, you might want to check out Iao Valley.