Expect romantic sunsets, white-sand beaches, and whale sightings on the Valley Isle.
Hawaii’s second-largest island has it all—miles of powder-soft sands, soaring volcanic peaks, and spectacular sunrises. Throw in a scenic road trip, several national and state parks, a few waterfalls, and a windsurfing hot spot, and Maui is an obvious choice for adventurers. Campers can enjoy plenty of variety, from drive-in mountain campsites and beachside state campgrounds to hike-in wilderness cabins and primitive campsites in the heart of the rainforest. Maui’s tropical climate brings in the crowds year-round, whether you come for the balmy temperatures and calm waters in summer or make the most of the warm winter weather to go whale-watching.
Maui’s sunkissed northwest coast is peppered with sandy beaches, luxe resorts, and golf courses, but you can hop between beaches along the Honoapiilani Highway, tuck into farm-to-table cuisine in Kaanapali and Kapalua, or head inland to marvel over the natural wonders of the Iao Valley State Park. Winter campers take note—Maui’s west coast is Hawaii’s most renowned whale-watching destination, and the annual migration takes place from December through April.
Maui’s windy North Shore is a hotspot for windsurfing, with rugged cliffs and undeveloped beaches providing a dramatic backdrop. Head to Hookipa, Kanaha, and Spreckelsville beaches to watch the pros in action, check out the surfers at the notorious "Jaws" surf spot, or soak up the laid-back surf town vibes in Paia.
Rolling hills lead inland from Maui’s sandy shores, climbing up to the 10,023-foot Haleakala volcano, the island’s highest peak. This mountainous region is a hiker’s paradise, and Haleakala National Park has a network of trails, along with hike-in wilderness cabins and tent sites. Set your alarm early to avoid missing the legendary sunrise over the Haleakala crater.
The Road to Hana (Highway 360) winds its way from Kahului along the northeast coast to Hana, a thrilling road trip complete with hairpin bends, rainforest-cloaked mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Stop along the way to see Wailua Falls, camp by the black-sand beaches of Waianapanapa State Park, or relax on the shores of Hamoa Beach.